This is the Most Nervous Dog at the Shelter—But Watch Her Transformation When She Feels Safe

Arugula — a 3-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix — holds the record as the most nervous dog at the Humane Society of Broward County. Unlike the many dogs at the shelter that get up to enthusiastically greet anyone who peeps into their kennel, Arugula simply lays in her bed when potential adopters pass by just so they don’t witness her nervousness up close. 

Arugula’s first impression puts off visitors, and it’s the reason why she’s having a hard time finding a forever home. But this sweet-faced pup has a valid reason why you should find it in your heart to give her a chance: she’s a work in progress and a different dog when not locked in her kennel. 

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A Sucker for Human Companionship

According to the shelter, Arugula’s shyness is magnified when she’s all alone in her kennel. Whenever she’s let out, though — even for a brief moment — her demeanor shifts entirely. She runs with joy in the hallways and often wants to be next to her human friends. Because of this, staff members have made it a habit to bring her into their office every morning so they pamper her with affection and make her feel loved. 

Arugula is the type of dog who’ll not want to leave your side once she gets to know you and feels safe around you. Staff and volunteers at the shelter have experienced this first-hand, which is why they have no doubts that she is well-deserving of a home. 

Slow But Steady Progress 

Before coming to the Humane Society, Arugula had been a resident in more than one shelter. 

When she arrived at the Humane Society, her nervousness was on a whole new level, so much so that she’d cower at the back of his kennel and not want to interact with anyone. But thanks to the hard work of staff at the shelter, Arugula has since made admirable progress as far as coming out of her shell is concerned. She’s demonstrated her love for spending quality time with people she feels comfortable with and her ability to show off her real personality once she lowers her guard. A big round of applause for Arugula, please?

Could You Give Arugula a Chance? 

Arugula is not perfect, but hey, who is? Even in her nervous state, all she desires is to be part of a loving, patient family that will give her a little extra TLC and carry on with what the shelter began: building her confidence.

Arugula has great potential to blossom into a fully confident pup based on how much progress she’s made so far. Truth be told, she’s as sweet as maple syrup; a gentle soul who simply wants to love and be loved right back. While she may not warm up to you instantly, best believe that when she does, she won’t waste any chance to bond with you.

If you’d love to give Arugula a forever home, please visit the Humane Society of Broward County’s website for details on her adoption process. 

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