[Jenn218]

We have 2 big rescue dogs (and have had several other rescues in the past).

Each dog is different...some, will instantly "forget" their past it seems and become your shadow. Others, will never forget.

We currently have had our german sheppard for about 3-4 years..she was soooo badly abused...I can't even imagine what she had went thru. She still hasn't fully recovered. It just took her until this past year to take a treat from our hand. Now, she will sit and shake for a treat...and it helps for her to see how we interact w/ all our other dogs too. She will still cower if you correct her....and we never yell or raise a hand to her in fear that she will relapse back to the way she was when we got her.
The first few years, she would cower and pee....if we tried to bathe her, put her on a leash, etc...that was how scared she was. She still does not do well on a leash, and we no longer try. She gladly stays right next to us on our walks. If a car comes, I just put my hand on the top of her head and she lays down! She is so scared! Poor girl. She also still won't go up and down stairs (no telling what she remembers about stairs)!

But all in time....it has taken about 4 years for her to come this far...I don't know if she will ever get over her past.

Love, understanding and support is what is needed. I truly think that her watching how I am w/ the other dogs and my calm, positive voice and lots of treats have helped her this far.

Good for you for taking the time to help a furbaby in need!