A multitude of stray dogs arrive at shelters as anxious and responsive creatures, frightened by almost everything. Poor street conditions and past trauma are generally the primary factors for this, yet “Arizona” illustrates how extraordinary of a success they can become!
This wonderful Boxer Pit mix girl didn’t just conquer her fears – she evolved into the shelter’s beloved sweetheart!
Here is her uplifting tale!
Arizona’s Radiant Character
Arizona initially came to the Humane Educational Society from Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 2021 as a highly reactive dog. She faced numerous challenges, including her anxiety around humans, disliking other dogs, and destroying every toy she received.
The team understood that even with her unfavorable conduct, a loving dog was hidden beneath her chaotic demeanor. Instead of surrendering her, they embraced her – and provided her with a wonderful life!
In just a few months, Arizona became a completely transformed dog. With the assistance of her behavioral trainers, she emerged as a star pupil in obedience and reactivity training.
Now she strolls on a leash like a champion, perfectly responds to commands, and most importantly, she has finally found comfort around other individuals and dogs.
“She is an EXCEPTIONAL dog – obedient, affectionate, amusing, athletic, and incredibly intelligent,” the HES team stated on Facebook.
Shortly after completing her training, Arizona was blessed with a wonderful foster mom, Krista Stein, who offered her a nurturing home and endless joy. For the first time in her existence, Arizona felt at ease, and her authentic personality shone through.
Regrettably, Krista could not retain her for long, and Arizona had to be brought back to HES, marking what turned out to be one of the longest shelter journeys for a single dog.
A Remarkable Achievement
Despite her shining personality, Arizona continued to be overlooked at the shelter. She witnessed dogs arriving and leaving every day, but her lifelong companion never appeared.
Before long, she became the Tennessee shelter’s longest resident, achieving a 1,000-day milestone, and the team chose not to view this as a negative occurrence. Rather than lamenting her unsuccessful quest for a home, they aimed to throw Arizona a memorable celebration!
The team gathered Arizona’s favorite items, including her cherished toys – jolly balls, pup cups, and a splendid peanut butter cake crafted just for her.
The HES staff ensured she celebrated her 1,000th day like royalty! She even enjoyed a field trip to a lake where she had a delightful swim.
“Arizona is the longest canine resident at HES. She’s more than ready to discover her forever home – we eagerly anticipate bidding her goodbye when she finally departs with her lifelong family,” her caregivers highlighted in a Facebook post.
Although she has yet to find her permanent home, Arizona’s caregivers diligently ensure that she feels cherished and appreciated, not for a moment.
Within her temporary HES environment, she is surrounded by an entire community of individuals who genuinely adore her!
We genuinely hope that her perseverance and charming spirit will soon be rewarded with what can only be considered the ideal home.
And, when the moment arrives, we are confident that she will greet her forever family with a beaming smile and continue to be the happiest girl around!