Trolley has undergone an amazing transformation over the last several months. He came to us after spending several months living in a bush feet off an active trolley track. He was likely struck at one point based on his face and head scars. He would run from people, was often seen crossing the tracks from one bush to another and had grabbed the heart of the neighborhood where he roamed. When we responded to the plea for help our first order of business was putting a halt to the leftover meals and home made dinners everyone would bring over to put in his bush for him when he was gone to find when he returned.
Once humanely trapped it was clear he bore not just physical scars but trauma emotionally. He would stare at you wide eyed and tense at any attempt to interact. He was guarded but never showed a sign of aggression. After several weeks of very slow progress and concerns for his rehab we made a choice to flood him with activity by watching us with other dogs. The change was almost instantaneous. He watched the dogs and immediately his behavior changed. He started to grab toys and in fact to this day has to grab his "baby" when he greets you. He began to embrace and invite touch so his journey began.
His fear of the world, noise, stimulation and people was intense. We were not sure he'd ever leave our care. Regardless, we pushed and balanced his fear with building confidence. He started to enjoy his walks on property rather than end them in panic. He now requires careful handling because he's huge and thinks walks are all about zoomies so training has replaced rehab. (that is a good thing) He would attend intial events quaking behind the table buried in the other dogs just wanting his favorite person to soothe him. He now rushes forward to greet kids, takes treats and rolls over for belly rubs. His pack walks used to consist of controlled panic and now start with a body shake off the van and tail wag when he gets back. It's finally time for him to fly the coop. His transition will be tough and require someone to be patient while he adjusts. We are hear to help and visiits to start would be best until he feels safe. He is great with dogs but underestimates his size and power in play so should not be left with other dogs unsupervised but would do best with another confident dog in the home. He is big and strong, will always be prone to unexpected panic so requires a strong handler. His heart is HUGE and when he lets you in you'll drown in it.
Because of my Flight Risk I cannot be left unattended in a yard, crate training is a must when you are gone, tight grip on the leash is a must on adventures and my new family must be aware of open doors and windows. NO offleash activities in unfenced areas for life.
To adopt: https://petstablished.com/adoption_form/37765/generic
To foster: https://petstablished.com/foster_form/37764/generic
Email: awayhomefordogs@gmail.com
##1383052##
