AboutReverend S. Abbott Expertise I am the owner of 4AnimalCare.org, a rescue, rehab and behavior modification network with volunteers across the country ready to help contribute time, effort and knowledge for animal welfare.
We have re-homed dogs, countless cats and are growing our activities in exotic bird care.
I’d like to provide the answers to your questions and concerns about how to recognize animals in need, what you can do in your area and contribute to supporting you through the initial adjustment time after adopting a previously neglected animal.
If I don’t have the answers, I’ll do whatever I can to find someone who does!
Experience Endangered/Protected species caretaker working with state veterinarians more than 25 years.
Exotic bird care, macaws a specialty, working with breeders, researchers and veterinarians (ongoing)
Cats (40 years), rodents and marsupials
Publications United Media Syndicate (weekly column); United Press International/Associated Press (daily); Bird Talk Magazine; various others
Awards and Honors Listed in 3 Who's Who publications for outstanding accomplishment in field
Expert: Reverend S. Abbott Date: 4/20/2008 Subject: Extremely Fearful Dog
Question Hello, Rev. Abbott;
My son (28 yrs) adopted a Lab/Boxer mix from Pet Rescue in Sept.'07. He knew she had been abused at some level. She now lives with my wife, myself and our son. The dog has come a long way, and is a little more trusting than in the beginning. She loves my wife, but is still scared of men. Here is the current situation: She will jump onto the bed in the morning with me (she'll do the same with my son), cuddle close and even rest her head on my chest. But when I am standing, or sitting in my recliner, she is too timid to come close. If I get out of my chair, she runs. If I walk across the room, she runs. She will come to me when it's time to go outside, and will let me put her leash on, but as soon as we're back inside and the leash is off, she goes back to being scared. She will come close enough for a treat, but not let me reach out to pet her. It's almost as if she thinks I'm two different men! We have 2 other dogs, one who was also adopted from Pet Rescue, who are well adjusted. It is frustrating that she remains so tentative after 6 months. So, my questions are: Will she eventually totally trust me, or is this the best it will be? Should I be doing something to gain her trust? She did go through an obedience course, and will respond to some of the commands, but her fear always wins out! Thanks for your time!
-Mike
Answer Hi Mike, I'm so pleased to hear that you and your son are willing to invest the time and effort to make this girl's life a good one.
It's so sad to see an animal like this having been hurt or frightened - especially when they are so forgiving of us.
Since your wife is apparently a bonded pack mate to her, your wife is a key to the trust. Exaggerated physical interactions between you, your son and this dominant female of the den, in front of the dog and to include the dog, will reach her on a level her instinct understands.
As you are standing at some different area of the room, have your wife interact with the dog with a toy, praise and whatever else they both enjoy. Then your wife approaches you - still enthusiastic and playing (it's best you remain relatively still and quiet, but have a special treat in your hand, or even peanut butter on your fingers).
When your wife reaches you, keep your head down and avoid lingering eye contact with the dog as your wife touches or pets you like she's doing with your pet - exchange a toy back and forth - making sure wife passes it off to the dog now and then too.
Before the dog gets skittish, squat to her level and give her the treat or your fingers (obviously only if you know you'll get them back) and quietly praise her with the same words and tone as your wife uses.
If she leaves - let her go. Forcing her to do anything is only going to set her back.
If you have a moment to invest in this exercise even once a day, you might be surprised at how quickly it can make a difference.
As she warms up and lingers longer, add some movement (take a step back; to the side, etc., reserving a step forward in her direction for much later on).
I can't say whether or not she'll ever change. It's an individual personality issue; however, I never feel the effort is wasted. I've had some ornery birds, dogs and cats come to the rescue org and I've been convinced that this is just the way they are. The way that I am though is relentless - whether they cooperate or not, I'm going to be who I am and respect them for who they are.
I've had some remarkable surprises over the years, so you never know.
