Bringing a rescue pup into your abode might present difficulties initially, but once the “adjustment” period concludes – you’re rewarded with nothing but sheer happiness!
The vast majority of these fluffy companions have a sorrowful history, and that’s precisely why they’re often marginalized.
Consider Harvey, for instance! This American Staffy mix had been disregarded numerous times in the past due to his past trauma.
For some unknown reason, this robust lad was terrified of men and consistently exhibited anxiety around them. Given no opportunity for change, Harvey appeared to be a lost case until, unexpectedly, an unannounced visitor entered his life and transformed everything!
Harvey’s Heartbreaking History
Abby Schulte, a canine trainer and ardent dog enthusiast from Austin, Texas, encountered Harvey in 2017 following Hurricane Harvey’s devastation in Houston, Texas (hence, his name). By that time, he had no stable home and was taken to a doggy daycare by his foster caregiver.
“I was enamored with him when his foster brought him into the doggy daycare I worked at, and we’ve been inseparable ever since,” Abby shares.
Prior to meeting Abby, Harvey had been adopted and returned to a shelter multiple times due to “excessive anxiety and fear of separation.”
Clearly distressed, and for some reason, uneasy around men, Harvey required someone to comprehend him – and Abby instinctively knew how to help!
Rediscovering Trust
She took her time, as Harvey was not the type of dog who would leap into a new individual’s lap or greet everyone with exuberance.
He faced numerous challenges adapting to unfamiliar settings, meeting new individuals, and even going on routine walks.
Yet, with an abundance of positive reinforcement training and substantial patience – Abby succeeded in making Harvey feel as secure as possible, and he gradually began to trust again, but one hurdle remained.
Abby was uncertain regarding how this American Staffy mix would respond to her boyfriend, aware of his past experiences with men and his innate distrust, but then, surprisingly, Harvey astonished her!
His Dad Is His Most Cherished Individual
Before long, he welcomed his dad with all his love and his fears dissipated! He even permitted his dad to hold him – and from that moment forward, he never let go!
“They’re simply the best of buddies and it fills my heart with joy,” Abby posted on Instagram.
Abby’s boyfriend became Harvey’s closest companion in the universe. He shared his sleeping space, meals, and moments of affection – and even took him for walks to work and visited during breaks.
“Harvey always gets more thrilled for dad when I’m the one who takes him for a walk, feeds him, pays for everything, or even lets him share the bed, etc. But dad is always number one,” Abby shares.
It was his dad’s nurturing demeanor that entirely shifted Harvey’s perspective towards men – and Abby cherished it! He was no longer a fearful pup, and he savored every moment spent with his dad.
Today, this extraordinary pair is thriving more than ever, and with Abby’s expertise – there’s no doubt that Harvey will triumph over all the obstacles ahead!