Some dogs simply need a little extra love to bloom.
Unlike pups who spend their lives in warm homes surrounded by family, there are many who must first overcome trust issues.
Take Gabriel, better known as Icky.
Before he was ever brought to a rescue, this tiny dog had been used only as a breeding male. Fearful of humans and startled by loud noises, Icky needed time to realize that people could also be kind.
But his path was anything but easy.
From Anxious Pup To Silly Companion
Icky was surrendered to Spark of Love Animal Rescue, in Woodhaven, Michigan, as a very anxious dog. The team immediately knew he would need patience, understanding, and the right foster home.
According to Kari Nulph, SLAR’s president, Icky had difficulty relaxing around anyone, so he was paired with an experienced family who could gently guide him through the challenges ahead.
Bit by bit, he began to change. With love and encouragement, he slowly turned into a sweet pup with a quirky personality.
Once comfortable in his foster home, Icky became known for the silly antics that made everyone smile. He loved playing with dogs and cats, and he showered his people with affection.
“He is silly and special with his play and love. He gets the zoomies when he plays with other dogs, he is good with cats but does like to chase sometimes, and bonds close to his person once he trusts you,” the SLAR team wrote.
Fireworks Turned Into Trauma
When the rescue felt confident Icky was ready for adoption, he was placed in a trial home. Sadly, just a week later, everything went wrong.
The family decided to bring him along to a Fourth of July fireworks show at Sterling State Park in Monroe, Michigan. For Icky, the loud noises triggered deep trauma, and he bolted in fear.
Kari Nulph, Icky’s foster mom, along with rescuers Kim and Rick Canales and other helpers, immediately began searching. They hung flyers and checked the area tirelessly. Yet as days passed without success, worry began to take over.
Six Days Later, A Miracle Appears
Even after nearly a week with no sign of him, the group refused to give up. On the sixth day of searching, hope was finally rewarded.
Using binoculars, Nulph and the team scanned the park trails. Suddenly, at the top of a path, a small, familiar figure came into view.
It was Icky.
Relief and joy washed over the rescuers as they saw him alive after six days alone. At first, he froze in fear, uncertain whether to approach.
Calling out familiar words, they tried to spark his memory. Slowly but surely, the timid pup recognized them. At last, he rushed forward, climbing into his foster mom’s lap and snuggling close.
“He got close enough to be sure it was us and finally crawled into my lap. He is so happy to be home, back with us,” the SLAR wrote on their Facebook.
The long search was over, and Icky was safe once more.
Learning To Trust Again
Although the frightening ordeal set back some of his progress, Icky is slowly regaining his confidence with his foster mom’s help. What matters most is that he is safe and surrounded by love.
For now, he enjoys life with people he knows and trusts. When the time is right, he will once again be ready for a forever home.
“He is looking for that forever home that will love him and continue to work with him,” the SLAR team wrote.
At heart, Icky is still the same goofy little dog, just waiting for someone special to see how amazing he truly is.