Sophie, a 3 year old Labradoodle, was surrendered to Doodle Dandy due to a personal crisis. Doodle Dandy was informed by the owner that Sophie could be aggressive. For this reason, she was sent to board and train instead of a foster home. Through intensive training, Doodle Dandy found Sophie not to be aggressive but simply had not been properly socialized and was starved for affection. Through extensive training, trips to public places, and family homes, Sophie was deemed ready for a home of her own.
Strike One
After careful consideration, a loving family was chosen for Sophie’s new home. Jumping Jack Dog Ranch facilitated the meet and greet with trainers on hand to guide the introduction of Sophie to the new family and their resident dog. All went well as Sophie was whisked off to her new home. An hour later, Doodle Dandy received a call, Sophie was being returned. Seems the family had a small, special needs pup, who they did not bring to the meet and greet. The small dog did not agree with the new adoptee, and Sophie, heartbroken, was returned.
Strike Two
More training was given to Sophie. Again, Sophie was ready for a home of her own. A dog friendly, rescue savvy family was chosen. Doodle Dandy made sure all family and dogs were present for the meet and greet. Careful instructions were given on how best to introduce Sophie to her new home. Detail guidelines were given for best practices in decompression. Sophie quickly fell in love with her new family, thinking she had finally found her home. Fiercely protective over her new family, so wanting to be apart of her new home, Sophie and resident dog had more than just words. Again, Sophie was returned to Doodle Dandy. This time with Kennel Cough and a sentence of 3 weeks isolation.
Strike Three
Sophie was sent to the most patient, caring, and amazing foster family. Here, Sophie was finally able to build up her confidence, feeling secure in her environment, able to learn how to love without showing aggression. Both through work with trainers, as well as living in a family home without another pup to vie for affection, Sophie was ready.
And You’re a Home Run!
New adoptees worked with trainers over several weeks to ensure they understood and met Sophie’s needs. In turn, Sophie learned safety, security, and best practices to completely and safely love her new family. Finally, Sophie made her home run.