Over 100 Shih Tzus are looking for their forever homes after the RSPCA rescued them from a breeding house in October, per Metro.
When officers found the dogs after a noise complaint in the English town of Torquay, they were matted with feces and infested with fleas. They rescued 96 dogs, but there are now more of them needing homes. Many of them were pregnant and have since given birth.
The Shih Tzus were split up and sent to various RSPCA branches in the area. While they were terrified of humans, to begin with, they’re now ready to find their forever homes. RSPCA Cornwall has rehomed three dogs so far, but another ten pups need to find homes.
Support and Patience Needed
However, any new dog parents will need to be patient, and willing to support their new pets. “They have had a difficult start to life and will not just slot into a home, and be grateful that someone took them on,” said RSPCA spokesperson Sammy Howard. “They will be terrified and may take months before they start trusting people, which is a hard sell when asking for someone to welcome a dog into their home.
“We won’t give up hope that there are people out there for these dogs.”
How To Help Your New Dog
Adopting a dog who’s had a tough start in life, facing abuse or neglect, is one of the most wonderful things any dog parent can do. However, there are things to consider before doing so. As Howard explained, it’s vital to have plenty of patience and be prepared to offer support.
Gaining your new pet’s trust won’t necessarily be easy. But to help your furry friend adjust to their forever home, there are things that you can do.
Make sure you can read their body language, and appreciate that sometimes they may want their own space. Give them some choices and autonomy, too. Offer a number of different beds and toys to choose from. And, ensure they have safe places where they can go if they need to.
Routine is also important, helping to alleviate anxiety. From meals at set times each day to regular walks and play sessions, it all helps.
