Meet Shelby

Adoption fee: $700 Sweet Baby Shelby: Learning How to Dog Shelby is a 4 month old, 8 lb CKC mix with long legs, a playful streak, and a talent for ending up in positions that make you wonder how she got there. DPS rescued Shelby from a hoarding situation along with 19 other dogs. They had never left the yard, walked on a leash, or lived inside a house. It was a big adjustment for all of them. These sweet dogs are learning “how to dog” one new experience at a time, and watching them come out of their shells has been hugely rewarding for their fosters. From Scared to Snuggly When Shelby arrived at her foster home, she was so frightened that she spent two or three days inside her transport crate. Her foster family gave her space, and she began to venture out. Once she discovered that pets felt good, her world opened up. Now she hops onto the couch to be near her people, asks to play, and happily accepts kisses and belly rubs. Being picked up still feels a little awkward to her, but she grows more comfortable as she learns to trust. Shelby is curious, goofy, and full of puppy energy. She loves toys and is beginning to learn fetch. She’ll race around the coffee table, bounce on and off the couch, and run laps in the backyard. When her batteries run out, she’s ready for a cuddly couch nap. She enjoys following her people sometimes, but she’s also content to explore on her own. A Day in Shelby’s Life Shelby starts her day around 6:15 a.m. with a backyard potty break and breakfast, which she eats in installments between bursts of play. She arrived skinny and is working on gaining weight, so her remaining kibble stays available in her exercise pen. When her fosters are out, she naps and plays in the pen. When someone is home, she gets to explore and spend time with the family. At night, she sleeps in their bedroom and usually stays asleep until morning. Shelby lives with two small dogs and would love for them to play with her more often. She respects them when they’ve had enough. A playful dog companion could be great fun for her, though she could also thrive with people who give her plenty of play, walks, and affection. She hasn’t yet met cats or children in her foster home. Because she had no early exposure to children, younger ones may be a bit much for her; older respectful pre-teens and teens should be fine. Still Learning the Ropes Shelby is just beginning leash practice. She’s comfortable wearing a harness, though walking on leash is still new and a little nerve-racking. She’s also learning a potty routine: she goes in the backyard and uses a potty pad indoors, with the occasional puppy accident. Like any teething youngster, she’ll chew what she can reach, so toys and supervision are essential. Her foster describes her coat as likely low shedding, though it’s too early to say for certain. Shelby has come a long way from the puppy who was afraid to leave her crate. She’s ready for a patient family who will keep showing her the world, cheer on her progress, and save her a spot on the couch when playtime is over. Watching Shelby blossom and become a beloved family member is going to be an amazing experience. Will you let Shelby join your pack and wiggle her way into your heart?