Another blocky-headed dog

Here’s what you see: A blocky-headed dog, in a sort-of kennel, eating some good food, just steps away from a comfy bed. Another dog in a never-ending stream of pit bull type dogs in shelters and foster care.

What’s harder to see: white streaks on her head – sometimes the result of healed-trauma to the skin underneath, evidence of birthing multiple litters, toys strewn about, a heater.

What you don’t see:
The progress. It’s taken 2 months for her to trust us enough, over time, to allow us to sit close-by while she eats, to accept petting on all parts of her body, to come when called, to know that I will protect her from loud trucks, water spurting from the hose, strangers.
Her goofy side. This girl knows how to play! When a simple walk across the yard will suffice, Zola covers that ground, but adds her own flair with hops and jumps and Tigger-like bounces.The wag wag wag of her tail. Once Zola is comfortable, her tail doesn’t stop wagging. Tonight on our walk, she swaggered and kept fwapping my little dog in the face with her tail! She is joyful.
Her patience. As with so many dogs in shelters or foster care, Zola exhibits incredible patience. What is it that she’s waiting for? I truly believe that homeless pets are waiting for people to catch up with them. Zola’s communication about her needs was incredibly clear. She told me what she needed, then she waited for me to figure it out and catch up, then she gave me a little more, I caught up, and we grew together as a team. Now, she can glance my way, and I know to move my body to shield her from the scary-thing; I feel her relax and she can peek her head out for some exposure and choice.
Trust. This girl spent her first 2 days glued to the back of a crate, not sure if we were friend or foe. Then she spent a couple of weeks inside her room, not sure what was outside, not sure if she’d be let back inside if she ventured out, not sure. Then that leash being placed over her head, sent her into freeze and shake mode. My dogs taught her that great things happen with a leash around your neck and a stroll out the open gate.
LOOOOOOOVE. This is what happens when you’re not paying attention. A dog grabs your heart and doesn’t let go. You wake up one day and realize that the partnership, the friendship, the teamwork happened because hearts opened wide.
So, what’s next? Zola needs a home. Like every other foster pet who has crossed our path, she is special, in need of a special person to help her continue to blossom and become her very best Zola-self. Message me if you’re interested.