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Lady Holds Puppy Groomed For Fighting And Tries To Calm Her Rage

Written by: Julie Hunt
Julie Hunt is an avid dog lover and writer for iHeartDogs.com, and has a background as a veterinary technician. She rescued a beautiful former bait dog named Rory.Read more
| Published on August 3, 2023

A woman was walking through a park in Brooklyn when a man ran up and threw a bag at her. The woman was frantic when she saw a tiny puppy stuffed inside. She asked the man where she came from. The guy said he found her in a dumpster and then ran off. The woman called Mr. Bones and Co. rescue, who sent Elli Frank to help.

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When Elli first interacted with Maddie, the man’s story didn’t add up. The puppy wasn’t thin enough to have been abandoned, and Maddie demonstrated “fear-based reactivity, rage, and confusion.” Elli’s suspicions were confirmed by a top-notch trainer, Suze Cullinan. Maddie’s behavior was consistent with dogs that are groomed for dog fighting. Maddie was registered for dog school to learn what it takes to be a companion and a happy, well-adjusted dog.

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When puppy classes began, Maddie could only participate for a few minutes at a clip before she was pulled out. She went after other puppies, nipping at their tails, stealing their toys, and being nasty. Even though she lacked manners and was a bit of a wild child, Maddie’s behavior indicated low self-esteem and terror, especially around new people.

Was rehabilitation possible? Let’s just say Maddie met the dog trainer at the perfect time and thanks Suze for her devotion in the sweetest way! Click play on the video below to meet Maddie and find out what happens next!

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