Love has the power to mend even the most broken and fearful souls.
Sandy, a shelter dog, longed for human connection, but her deep-rooted fear kept her from accepting it.
Picked up as a stray in the southern part of Chicago, Sandy bore physical scars and battled multiple health problems.
Thankfully, the compassionate team at One Tail At A Time stepped in. They were committed to helping Sandy shed her fear and discover the joy life could offer.
A Foster Mom Steps In With Kindness
Not long after Elie signed up to foster through the Chicago-based rescue, she was introduced to Sandy. The dog left a lasting impression.
Sandy was gentle and sweet, but her fear of people was overwhelming.
“I’d never seen a dog that was so shut down and so scared but at the same time you could tell she wants to be loved,” Elie told GeoBeats Animals.
Elie chose to foster Sandy.
As soon as Sandy got into the car, she curled up tightly, trying to make herself as small as possible.
When they arrived at Elie’s home, Sandy was frozen with fear. Elie had to lift her out of the car.
Caring for Sandy turned out to be a startling experience. The dog was afraid of nearly everything.
“I would take her out on the first couple days and she would see a street sign and she would cower in fear. There would like a bench and would look at it like it was the most terrifying thing,” Elie added.
Elie worked patiently to help Sandy face her fears. She offered comfort and poured love into every moment.
A Home That Finally Feels Safe
Gradually, Sandy began to feel safe in her foster environment. She bonded with Ziggy, Elie’s other dog, and the two began playing and enjoying each other’s company.
Day by day, Sandy grew more confident and happy. She started seeking affection from Elie. Once Elie realized her home had become Sandy’s sanctuary, their bond deepened.
Elie describes Sandy as a deeply sensitive dog who yearns for love.
“She wants to be loved and to show other people that she loves them, but she’s also very sensitive and when things happen, it really affects her. So she’s the kind of dog who really loves life when she feels safe but is deeply affected, I think, by the world and by her environment,” Elie added.
After three months of fostering, Elie knew Sandy was meant to stay. She made the adoption official.
Sandy now shares joyful snapshots of her life in her permanent home through her Instagram account. She loves going on walks with Elie and her brother, Ziggy.
The love she receives from her mom has brought her true happiness. Sandy is thriving, and her smile never fades.