Rescue dog

Real-life case stories about rescue dogs adjusting to new homes and overcoming problems such as fear, reactivity, separation, guarding and lack of trust. See how I have helped rescue dogs and their families build confidence and enjoy life together.

Shy Rescue Dog Terrified of Men and Strangers

Why do some rescued dogs remain shy and fearful of people, especially men?

Tala is shy with people she doesn’t know. She is particularly scared of men.

shy dogA year ago she was rescued from an abusive situation. Where shy dogs are very often more frightened of men than of women, it may be that Tala has particular reason to be shy of men.

She now lives in a lovely family. It took her time to relax with the two men when she came to them from the RSPCA a year ago, but now she’s soft, funny and loving. (more…)

By Theo Stewart, ago

Rescued from Squalor — Why Gentle Chester Pins Other Dogs

Rescued from squalorHow can a dog rescued from starvation and neglect still be so sweet — yet pin other dogs when things get too much?

I have just met Staffie Chester, featured on TV’s The Dog Rescuers with Alan Davis, rescued with two starving companions from squalor.

How do some of these dogs coming out of such a bad situation, come out of these situations and remain so sweet? (more…)

By Theo Stewart, ago

From Street Dog to House Dog — Why the Outside World Is Overstimulating

Why can a rescue dog be calm at home yet lose all self-control the moment she steps outside?

Sasha finds the outside world overstimulating.

A street dog by birth, eighteen-month-old Sasha has adapted amazingly well to life in a house. This is a tribute to both her basic temperament and to her new family’s own efforts.

She finds the outside world overstimulating

She started life on the streets in India. They think she has Pointer in her. I see possibly Labrador and German Shepherd. A beautiful mix, she doesn’t look like the typical street dog.

At five months old, along with her brother, she was caught and placed in a pound where she stayed for another seven months until the couple adopted her six months ago. (more…)

By Theo Stewart, ago

Rehomed Greyhound Panics When Left Alone

Why would a newly adopted greyhound panic the moment he is left alone?

It’s not really surprising that newly adopted young greyhound Max panics when left alone.

It seems he was a useless racer – good for him because it’s given him such a great reprieve!

A huge change

Panics when left aloneThe two-year-old has spent all his life in kennels with other greyhounds. Now he lives in a house with a young couple. It’s quite amazing how well they have done in just six weeks, integrating him into life living with people in a home.

For the first weeks he paced and panted, showing anxiety in general as he became acclimatised. Now he has settled down beautifully….

…apart from one thing. (more…)

By Theo Stewart, ago