This Mama Pittie Was So Frightened in Shelter Until This Happened…

Rocky Kanaka |

Oct 3, 2023

As I walked the kennel rows, a particular face caught my attention. She sat there, her eyes pleading for a moment of solace. I couldn’t resist; I had to sit with her in her kennel. At first glance, she seemed eager for affection, but as I got closer, I noticed the subtle signs of anxiety. It’s not uncommon, especially in unfamiliar environments.

Avoid Direct Eye Contact

One trick I’ve learned over the years is to avoid direct eye contact. It might seem counterintuitive to us humans, as we rely heavily on eye contact for communication. But with dogs, especially the nervous ones, it can make a world of difference. A few sidelong glances are okay, of course. It’s essential to gauge their body language, but the primary goal is to earn their trust.

I offered her a treat, and she hesitated for just a moment before accepting it. That small gesture, that tiny act of trust, warmed my heart.

Her Backstory

Curious about her backstory, I asked around. The details were a bit hazy. She was reportedly found near a freeway, but the specifics were unclear. It’s not uncommon for people to fabricate stories when surrendering their pets. Instead of admitting they can’t or won’t care for their animal anymore, they say they found the animal as a stray. The reason is likely financial. If a person surrenders their dog, there’s a fee. But if you’re a good samaritan who found a stray dog, the fee would not apply. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s a reality in the rescue world.

The Rising Issue of Pet Surrenders Due to Homelessness and Financial Hardships

Pit Bulls In Shelters

The plight of pit bulls in shelters is a topic very close to my heart. They’re often the last to be adopted, despite being one of the most common breeds in shelters. The misconceptions surrounding them are staggering. If you ever find yourself at a shelter, take a moment to see which breed is most prevalent. If it’s pit bulls, consider giving one a forever home.

Learn More About Sierra

This Girl Is A Mama

As I looked at her, I could see the telltale signs of motherhood. I couldn’t help but wonder about her past, the hardships she might have faced. But I was determined to ensure her future was bright. We didn’t know her name, so I thought of a temporary one: Sierra. A fresh name for a fresh start. “I think every dog deserves a name, a sense of identity.”

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The Transformation

The transformation in Sierra was evident. Her once anxious demeanor had shifted to one of contentment. Moments like these can make all the difference in getting a dog adopted. A relaxed and happy face can draw potential adopters in, increasing the chances of finding a forever home.

It’s hard to fathom how a gentle soul like Sierra ends up in a shelter. But I’m grateful for every moment I get to spend with these animals, advocating for their well-being. Sharing their stories can lead to adoptions, and every share counts.

Sierra is currently available for adoption at Animal Friends of the Valleys in Wildomar, California.