Friday, March 12, 2010

Update on Annie.

It's only been a little over 18 hours so I know things will get better eventually. As of now she is at least eating and drinking but she is the most timid dog I have ever seen. Not one sound has come from her. Not a whine or a bark. I know I'll just have to build the trust between us and give her time and love.

Thanks all for the sweet words of encouragement!


Ok, back to babysitiing...

2 comments:

Tom Barrett said...

Congrats on your new family member.

Our dog is the opposite. We got her because she was so excited when we got to her cage, and she seemed like a good pick.

Little did we know how hyper she would be in the beginning. However, we have had her for about 1 year, and it is amazing the difference in her behavior. She is becoming a great addition to our family.

Best of luck with Annie!

Alicia PadrĂ³n said...

Hi Phyllis,

Hope you don't mind me butting in. But I have a suggestion for you.

The best thing you can do to get her out of her shell and bond real quickly with her is this:

1- Walk her a lot. Several times a day. Short walks is fine doesn't have to be long.

2- And speak to her all the time while you walk her.
Happy tone, say her name a lot an look at her from time t time while you speak.

Believe me this works.

I used to do this with all the time with shy dogs at the shelter and it was beautiful to see them come out of their shells. I then had to coach the new owners when the dogs got adopted and helped the dog bond with the them as well.

Sometimes dogs are fear aggressive and that is something you have to watch out for. If you don't know much about the history of Annie you just have to be a little cautious that's all. Signs are not direct eye contact ever. Getting VERY stiff is someone gets near them and suddenly they can snap.

She will not do this, I'm pretty sure but I thought I would just let you know in case you see some behavior like this one.

It takes them a while to connect and open up to their new place, specially if it's a dog with a shy temperament. But believe me a shelter dog does open up it will be the strongest bond ever!

Lets us know how it goes ok?

And if you feel like chatting more about this please feel free to email me. I love dogs, have tons of experience with them and I know what you are going through.

xo
Ali