Thank you, Bonnvie, Rockyisle,Plymit56 and Bonanza for taking time to answer!!! I wish I had posted when first starting this journey. I didn't understand the emotional trauma a puppy mill dog sustains. When I saw just how fearful she was, I started researching… I was very naive. I knew puppy mills were bad but I didn't realize how bad or how pervasive they were. I also found that puppies learn to bond and trust with humans by 14 weeks of age. It appears that my little fur baby was in a cage her whole life and any interaction that she had with humans was not kind. Once she was rescued, she was groomed, spayed, microchipped and given all her shots which was in her best interest but must have been very scary. The first real kindness she knew was from her wonderful foster mom. She was petrified of the outdoors… of the wind blowing through the trees and did not seem to understand what she was supposed to do outside. Now, she is so loving with both of us, fully potty trained and loves to go outside for a walk. We have a crate with the door open that she can retreat to when she needs to. I have to keep pushing myself beyond my comfort zone so I can help her. We’re hoping she will be able to transfer the trust she feels with us to our friends and neighbors. Cristi is looking forward to the treats, thank you, Aunt Grace!
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