[docmartin]

It took Crystal about six weeks to start interacting with us. She was re-homed by my wife and I, at 20 weeks after an elderly first owner couldn't cope. We made sure she had her own little den/area and gave her plenty of toys to gather in it. Try feeding her little titbits, every hour or so. We found small strips of chicken went down very well. By sharing, as they see it, 'your food' they accept this communication as a kindness and socialization commences. Eventually they come to see you as 'pack members' and settle down. Lots of walks helped too, she did however sleep in either mine or Irina's room from night one. Outwardly a little toughie, inside she was a perplexed and anxious little toddler. I used to talk to her as much as possible (still do!), although they don't understand of course, the sound and tone of your voice is a comfort and they feel included in this big new home.

One day I woke up after a mid afternoon snooze following our walk, to find her snuggled up to me, dreaming like crazy. We're now virtually inseparable and it seems years ago (in fact only five months back) that she used to stand in doorways, head on one side viewing me with such forlorn little looks. I believe she was trying to comprehend and understand what must have been a very bewildering passage in her tiny lifetime...

Persevere, the benefits are wonderful.