How would you define dogs?
If posed the question, I would respond that they tend to be joyful, willing to please, and loving beings who treasure humans.
Therefore, witnessing a dog that is incredibly frightened of any human contact due to possible past abuse utterly shatters my heart. No dog should ever experience such fear.
Fortunately, for every harmful individual in this world, there are countless wonderful ones who accomplish remarkable feats.
Upon his rescue, little Arnold was so frightened that he didn’t allow anyone to approach him. Yet, with the support of extraordinary individuals, he gradually learned to trust and embrace love once again. This is his inspiring recovery narrative.
A Terrified Little Dog
No one knows precisely what transpired with this unfortunate little Chihuahua, but whenever anyone would approach him or attempt to touch him, he would whimper and flee. He was utterly terrified of everything and everyone; it was genuinely heart-wrenching.
An altruistic family nurtured him for months, yet each time they tried to pet him, he would once again cry. Any contact frightened him immensely. Thus, they reached out to the rescue organization, Hope For Paws, for assistance.
It wasn’t an uncomplicated rescue endeavor. The only method they could “pet him” was by utilizing a towel since he was so fearful of a human hand. Furthermore, they worried he might bite them. Nevertheless, delicious treats did aid somewhat.
They opted to call him Arnold.
“His former owners shattered his trust when they deserted him. There’s a possibility he also endured physical abuse,” shared his rescuers.
After excluding any medical conditions and giving Arnold a warm bath, they transported him to Foxy and the Hounds rescue, which rehabilitates mistreated, abandoned, and abused dogs, along with those at threat of euthanasia.
Dogs like Arnold seldom leave shelters alive, as they lack the resources to provide the necessary support system that a dog like him requires.
Fortunately, a kind-hearted woman named Teri Fox committed herself to assist this frightened pup.
Relearning to Love
“The rescue reached out to me and indicated he was quite upset. They inquired if I could assist, and naturally, I agreed,” recounted Teri.
Similar to numerous rescue dogs, Arnold was apprehensive, jittery, and frightened initially. They all require time to acclimate and adjust to their new surroundings.
Typically, dogs begin to show a turnaround within the first week, but Arnold was different.
“Well, Arnold needed additional time, and it proved to be quite demanding. I couldn’t approach within a couple of feet without him feeling the need to bite me,” Teri recollected.
“He possibly could have remained in that state of fear for a year or two, and I genuinely believe no dog should ever exist in that level of dread.”
Determined to demonstrate that he was safe and that she meant no harm, she persisted. Yet, even her presence seemed to intimidate him. He needed to discover that human contact would not cause him pain now.
Initially, he was scared and uncertain of her hand, but after the initial surprise of being petted, he could relax a bit and take a breath.
“Although he didn’t immediately adore me, I understood the process. It takes time. Gaining trust from any dog requires patience.”
A few days later, something extraordinary occurred. When Teri entered the room, Arnold flipped onto his back, wagging his tail and eagerly awaiting a belly rub. What a magnificent moment it was.
Before long, he began to approach Teri independently and seek attention.
The journey was challenging, but now Arnold gets to be a relaxed, sociable, and generally joyful dog. He finally understands what love is all about.
“We’ve made significant progress… now he’s genuinely joyful and comfortable. He relishes affection, love, and contact,” expressed Teri, with deep affection in her tone.
However, he was still a work in progress, and finding someone who believed in that journey proved to be a challenge until Teri received a message from one of her preferred Foxy adopters.
Arnold happily resides with his new pawrents, Pam and Tyler, as well as his new siblings.
“Arnold is by far the most challenging rescue we have ever adopted; however, this little boy craves love and affection immensely, and every day brings improvements. We will pamper Arnold for the remainder of his life and cherish him. We will NEVER abandon him or harm him. He now enjoys a life of luxury!!”, Pam stated.
Relish your joyful new life, Arnold… you undoubtedly deserve it.