Brave animal rescuers work tirelessly to help dogs and cats in need. The goal is to capture the homeless animal without causing further trauma. Some rescues are easier than others. The pup in this story had no intention of being caught, but no one was giving up on him! When Danny from SafeFurr Place Animal Rescue first encountered a stray dog named Weston, he never could have anticipated the emotional journey they would embark on together. Weston, a gentle and friendly dog, was initially quite receptive to Danny’s presence, even eating treats from his hand. However, when Danny attempted to put a leash on him, the frightened dog took off running.
Determined to help Weston, Danny tried a new approach the following day. He decided to cover the dog’s eyes while he slipped the leash around his neck, hoping to avoid triggering any fear. Although it seemed like a good plan, it ultimately backfired, causing Weston to panic and flee once again.
Feeling devastated and worried, Danny began to doubt if he could be the one to rescue Weston. Thankfully, another volunteer named Sheila stepped in to help. With a calm and patient demeanor, Sheila was able to keep the dog cornered and contained without using a leash. Instead, she gently guided him into a crate, marking the beginning of Weston’s journey to rehabilitation.
The key to helping Weston overcome his fear of leashes was taking things slow. Sheila, now Weston’s foster mom, allowed him to set the pace and followed his lead as he became more comfortable. She also used a fellow rescue dog, Ginger, to show Weston that leashes were not a threat. By following Ginger’s example, Weston gradually learned to trust the leash and even wag his tail in anticipation of walks.
Weston, now named Wesley, has come a long way since his days as a scared stray. Adopted in December 2021, he has become a beloved member of his new family, bringing joy and adventure to their lives. Wesley’s bond with his new sibling, Izzy, has played a significant role in building his self-confidence and helping him feel secure.
Together, Wesley and Izzy enjoy walks on the beach and quiet moments during the holidays. Wesley’s journey is a testament to the power of patience, love, and trust in helping animals overcome their fears and thrive in their new homes.
Toledo, United States.
