Meeting Belinda

I got to the Fair Lakes Petsmart very early today to wait for my new foster Belinda to arrive from the LDCRF ranch. They told me that she was a very shy little one who needed a lot of socialization, so I wanted to be the first one to open the van door and sweep her away to a quiet corner where we could get acquainted. When I peeked in the van, her beautiful brown eyes where looking out at me. She was very scared, but away we went. I cautiously picked up her leash and she looked at me apprehensively, but sweetly. She didn't have an once of aggression, but she was definitely nervous about this new and scary place. After about thirty minutes she ventured out of the crate and under the adoption table. She surveyed the store from her hiding place and smelled my fingers. I could even sneak in a quick pet under the chin here and there. She wanted affection, but she just wasn't sure yet...

At the end of the adoption event, I opened up her crate and she ran right back in. I gently loaded her into my car and away we went to meet my boyfriend and my pack of pups - a bossy terrier, a shy shepherd, and a goofy pit bull. I opened the crate and coaxed Belinda outside. She was very curious about the dogs watching her from the other side of the baby gate. First, she meet Mamah, our terrier, who instantly loved her and kissed her on the nose. Then, Lucia, our shepherd, came over to sniff and gave her approval. Finally, Apollo, our pit bull, gently approached and laid down next to her. And there it was, Belinda was accepted and part of the pack. She also met our kitties and was a very good girl!

Belinda explored the den a little and then settled in to take a well deserved nap. She also enjoyed a yummy dinner and ventured outside on her extra long training lead. She happily follows the other dogs wherever they go, but we still make her nervous so we are giving her lots of space to get comfortable. Belinda would not take treats at the event, but we finally found a treat in our cabinet that she can't resist... gourmet turkey liver biscuits! This little lady has good taste! 

Belinda is going to take some time to settle in and get comfortable, but I know that with a little extra patience and love she will come out of her shell soon. She wants love, she just needs the confidence and trust to accept it.