Chance is a male Shih Tzu mix who is approximately six years old and weighs less than 10 lbs. He was found abandoned in a house 30 days after the owners left. Coming into foster care he is very frightened and very snarly. He aggressively grabs treats, and toys and runs back into his kennel to protect his stash. He growls and tries to bite when he thinks someone is trying to steal his possessions or eat his food. He’s in survival mode. Each day he’s gaining confidence and learning that he’s safe and protected.  But it takes time. 

 

Chance is bravely venturing out of his kennel a little further each day. He can go up stairs but hasn’t conquered going down so he’s carried outside routinely for potty breaks. Day 5 he actually came out of his pen and was scratching at the door to go outside. He’s potty trained…I think. Being outside too long frightens him. He wants to go inside to the safety of his kennel. Most days his kennel and/or bed is brought outside and placed on the deck. From there, he intently watches the other dogs running and playing in the yard. He watches but hasn’t yet interacted in their play. We are hoping he’ll soon get up the courage to join in the fun. That will be a major milestone in his life. He does bark when he hears loud or unfamiliar noises or when other dogs are barking. A few barks and he settles down. In the short time he has been in foster care, it’s encouraging to see a calmer demeanor emerge and the beginnings of happy tail wagging. It’s gratifying watching his progress as he changes from a frightened little dog to a confident happy one enjoying life.  Chance is food motivated which entices him to be brave and step out of his comfort zone to get a treat. He sits on command. Stuffed toys bring him comfort. He has a ways to go before going on walks or for car rides, but that too will come. The best environment for Chance is a home where adults and older children have the patience and the time to encourage and reward his good behavior. He’d be ideal for apartment life. He’s still unpredictably snarly so it’s best he’s not around small children. Chance’s cautious but curious nature signals he wants to belong and to get along. He needs a guiding hand to show him what’s expected and help to make it happen.