While some canines only know love, others sadly do not have the chance to experience it.
Many dogs are not raised in a joyful and nurturing environment filled with caring humans. Instead, they may endure severe mistreatment, neglect, and at times, even cruelty. Because of this, numerous dogs become so terrified of people that they flinch at any abrupt movement that they observe.
It is our responsibility as passionate dog enthusiasts to reassure these pups that they are worthy of a life brimming with endless affection and joy, and fortuitously, that’s precisely what occurred with the courageous girl in today’s narrative.
Extremely Fearful Doggo
Upon her arrival at her foster home, Iris, a stunning rescue Pittie, was so terrified that she was reluctant to enter the house.
Regardless of whether it was a sunny day or a torrential downpour, Iris spent her time in a secluded spot in the backyard, hiding behind a planter and refusing to budge.
Her foster parents even chose to keep their back door open for an entire month, hoping that she might gather the bravery to step inside at her own speed.
“She would, you know, peek her head in, and then pull back out, repeating this around fifteen times,” Lauryn, her foster mother, shared with The Dodo.
Taking her for walks proved to be quite challenging, as she had no training in walking on a leash, prompting her foster parents to carry her wherever she had to go.
Eventually, once Iris began spending time inside, she faced significant challenges with the adjustment. She stubbornly refused to lie on any surface, prompting her foster mom to cover the floors with blankets.
Additionally, she cleverly placed some treats under the blankets to motivate this lovely dog and remind her that this was her home as well.
“From that point on, I increased the physical contact. I would, like, hug her and pet her more frequently,” she continued.
Since affection was a largely unfamiliar concept in her life, Iris was rather bewildered by the attention she received.
Nevertheless, she welcomed this affection warmly. She even permitted herself to be lifted onto the couch for a more cozy cuddling experience. Eventually, she started to climb up there independently.
Transformed Dog
After a month spent in her foster household, Iris gradually started to emerge from her shell.
Her foster parents believed it would be a wonderful moment for her to meet their other dog, Max.
“Iris was just sitting there behind a tree, and Max was looking at me like ‘Should I approach her or remain here?’” she noted
For the initial weeks, Max and Iris maintained their distance, content to be near each other without interaction.
However, they eventually began to interact, evolving into fantastic pals who relished their time playing together.
“Out of nowhere, she started to do play-bows and bark. I was just sitting there like ‘Oh my goodness, who is this dog?’ She was bounding around our yard, pouncing like a young elephant,” Lauryn described.
Merely three weeks after this remarkable transformation, Iris achieved another significant milestone by finally learning to walk on a leash.
Having fully transitioned into a dog who loves to spend her time with humans, Iris was at last ready for adoption.
Fresh Start
Believing that Iris would flourish with a household that already had a canine companion, her foster parents successfully found her a family with exactly that.
Iris now not only has a caring family but also a fantastic canine sister named Clio.
“On her very first night, she hopped onto the bed immediately. She didn’t hesitate at all. Wherever Clio is, she desires to be. If Clio is lounging on the couch, she wants to be right next to her,” Matt, her new father, informed The Dodo.
The mere fact that she jumped into bed independently indicates the significant progress Iris made during her time with her foster family.
Thanks to the perseverance and dedication of her foster parents, Iris is now finally enjoying the life she has always deserved, enveloped in the love of kind humans and a playful, furry sibling.
Heartbreaking News
Regrettably, Iris’s parents shared devastating news on her Instagram account, informing her followers of her passing.
“It has been incredibly difficult to witness, and we did everything within our power to assist her, but her condition worsened, and there was no happy resolution in sight regardless of our efforts for our beautiful, brave girl… We will not disclose any further details than this, so please respect our need for privacy, knowing that we considered every alternative and this was all we could do to support Iris,” the post conveyed.
It deeply saddens me to realize that she was unaware of love in her early life, yet at least she got to discover the beauty of it later on.
Iris, I hope you journeyed across the rainbow bridge with a wagging tail and a broad smile, reflecting on all the wonderful humans dedicated to your joy.
You will be dearly missed.
I would also like to use this moment to express gratitude to every foster parent out there who takes on the challenging responsibility of caring for animals in difficult circumstances, reminding them of their inherent worth.
You all are remarkable. Thank you!