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This Stray Wouldn’t Trust Me Until I Tried This… And It Worked!

Rocky Kanaka |

Nov 8, 2023

A Silent Plea for Help

I remember the first time I saw her, tucked away in the corner of the shelter. This Jack Russell Terrier mix was a silent figure of neglect and fear. “She was a stray, a nameless soul in a sea of abandoned pets,” I recall thinking to myself. Her story was a blank slate, with no information to shed light on her past. It’s a common scene here, but it never gets easier to witness.

The Struggle to Connect

Approaching her, I could see the signs of a hard life etched into her thin frame. Bites and wounds around her hips, and her spine was all too visible beneath her fur. “She’s got kind of some bites or wounds on her hip… she’s definitely skinny,” I told Alexis, my voice heavy with concern. She was the embodiment of distress, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and alertness. It’s a look I’ve come to know well in my time working with rescue animals.

The First Breakthrough

I decided to start with something simple: a treat. It’s a small gesture, but it’s often the first step in building trust. I avoided eye contact, knowing it could be seen as a threat. “I don’t want to make eye contact. I also don’t want her to bite my finger off,” I joked, trying to keep the mood light. I wanted her to see me as an ally, not another challenge to overcome. When she showed a flicker of interest in the treat, it was a victory. “That’s good. That’s good. Okay. That makes me happy,” I whispered, feeling the first thread of connection forming between us.

???? These Are The Treats I Use

A Name to Call Her Own

As I spent more time with her, I realized how vital a name could be. It’s more than just a label; it’s an identity, a chance for a fresh start. “A name is really a gateway to allow people to love you, for you to build friends and family,” I mused aloud. I pondered over what to call her, knowing that this name would be the first word of her new story.

The Journey Ahead

She’s still wary, trembling at the slightest touch, but there’s a glimmer of hope in her eyes now. “You did not deserve it, and I’m here to help,” I promised her softly. It’s a promise I intend to keep. I’ve assured her that things will get better, that there’s a loving family out there waiting to give her the life she deserves.

A New Chapter Begins

As I look at her now, I see more than just a stray; I see a survivor. “It’s only going to get better from here,” I tell her, and I believe it with all my heart. She’s a testament to the resilience of these animals and the power of a little kindness. I don’t know what her future holds, but I do know one thing: her journey to healing has just begun, and I’ll be there with her every step of the way. “We’re going to get you a loving family,” I promise again, “And they’re going to give you treats. Maybe they’ll even have a backyard.”