When Teresa first walked in to meet Boo, he was beside his foster mom and appeared smaller than she anticipated. Nerves on high, she sat on the end of the bench sensing equal nervousness from Boo. Here’s Part 1 of this story, in case you missed it!
While Teresa and Boo’s foster mom were quietly chatting, Boo slowly emerged towards her, wary of his surroundings, and gave her a brisk lick on the nose, before retreating to his original position. Shock and awe in the atmosphere, Boo’s foster mom told Teresa that he had never done that before! It was then that Teresa knew Boo was coming home with her.
The first few months with Boo was a journey. He was scared and wary, not knowing who he could trust. He didn’t want to play with his toys and he still flinched at the slightest noise. But Teresa made the right decision and treated him as if he had experienced trauma, just as she had. She kept to a predictable routine and observed his body language when he responded to things.
As time went by, Boo slowly started feeling comfortable and engaged with her. He played with his toys and eventually started going for outside walks. Two and a half years later Boo has made major strides, he is happy in his safe environment, eats his food well and sleeps in his crate at night.
This once petrified dog has become a face-licking bundle of joy, a prime example that past traumas don’t necessarily have to define your future. The story of Teresa and Boo gives hope for those of us who have had traumatic experiences, reminding us that it is never too late to try again!
Feature Image Source: Pixabay