When a dog doesn’t grow up in a loving and secure environment, it’s almost inevitable that they’ll become withdrawn, depressed, and filled with anxiety. In these cases, when the dog finally lands in a place where they can feel somewhat safe, their natural response is often to curl up, retreating from a world they’ve learned to fear.
This is why it’s absolutely crucial for the person caring for such a pup to approach them with patience and understanding, allowing the dog to find comfort at their own pace.
Rocky Kanaka, a passionate pet rescue advocate, knew exactly how to handle a pup who had faced an unimaginable past, leading to deep mistrust in humans.
Meet Arthur
Photo Credit: @rockykanaka
Arthur, an irresistibly sweet Cattle Dog mix, had barely reached a year and a half when life dealt him a tough hand. Born as a stray, he was part of an unclaimed litter that never knew the warmth of a home. When he finally got adopted after arriving at the shelter, it seemed like his luck had turned. But the joy was short-lived. His new family, unable to care for him, brought him back to the shelter, leaving Arthur crushed.
The return to the shelter shattered Arthur’s spirit. He became deeply depressed, filled with anxiety, and he couldn’t even bring himself to make eye contact with anyone. But Arthur’s story took a turn when a compassionate soul named Rocky decided to spend some time with him.
A Gentle Approach
Photo Credit: @rockykanaka
Arthur was placed in the sallyport—a transitional area for dogs before they are fully admitted into the shelter—making it an ideal spot for Rocky to introduce himself.
Rocky, fully aware of Arthur’s fragile state, kept his distance at first, giving Arthur the space he desperately needed. The dog was terrified, overwhelmed by the unfamiliar surroundings, and Rocky understood that all too well.
In an attempt to build trust, Rocky offered Arthur a treat. At first, he placed it in front of Arthur, but the pup only sniffed it and turned away. Rocky tried again, this time placing the treat closer, but still, Arthur didn’t budge. Finally, Rocky offered the treat directly from his hand, and to his amazement, Arthur took it!
This small gesture filled Rocky with joy. He knew that for an anxious dog like Arthur, taking a treat from an open palm was a huge step forward. It gave him hope. Yet, even after this breakthrough, Arthur still couldn’t bring himself to look at Rocky.
The Power of Kindness
Photo Credit: @rockykanaka
Learning that Arthur had been abandoned by the very family he loved broke Rocky’s heart. He couldn’t stand the thought of Arthur feeling so utterly alone, so he decided to speak to Arthur with all the love and kindness he could muster.
“I believe you’re a good boy,” Rocky told him softly, “and you deserve nothing but love. I’m so sorry that your family left you because you didn’t deserve that. You deserve love, hugs, and treats. And guess what? Today marks the first day of your new life. It’s going to be amazing. I know it’s scary right now, but if you trust me, we’ll find you a home and a family that loves you as much as you love them, okay?”
Rocky’s words seemed to reach Arthur in a way nothing else had. Slowly but surely, Arthur began to open up, even letting Rocky give him a gentle pet. With each kind word, you could almost see the walls around Arthur’s heart begin to melt.
I have no doubt that with time, Arthur will fully emerge from his shell and find a family that can finally give him the love and life he has always deserved.
Rocky, your patience and understanding are a beautiful reminder of how vital it is to be gentle with animals who need time to heal. You truly are a hero.
