Mutts Matter: Delilah's Comeback

Photo Credit: Virgil Ocampo Photography

When Delilah first came into rescue she was a shell of a dog, terrified of humans and the unfamiliar world around her. She was rescued with four other dogs from a backyard breeder in southern Virginia, and lived the first 7 years of her life imprisoned in a small travel crate, living in squalor, and repeatedly bred until she was no longer useful.

Most backyard breeders are just smaller versions of puppy mills; dogs are considered a commodity, and they operate under the same inhumane conditions without regard for the health or well-being of the dog. Delilah probably never left that crate or received any type of love or kindness in all those years. She was also physically neglected, her fur was matted, she was heartworm positive, and her teeth were falling out because of malnutrition and a calcium deficiency from being overbred.

Delilah has come a long way over the past six months, and as her true personality emerges, we have come to see a sweet, happy dog who loves being with her fellow pups and needs other dogs around her who will engage her and help her feel more secure. She loves to snuggle with the other dogs in her home, take walks with her pack, and has recently discovered the joy of romping and playing in the snow.

Delilah’s transformation did not happen overnight and she is still a work in progress as she learns how to be part of a family. When she first came into her foster home, she was completely shut down. She would cower in her crate, afraid to come out, and would stand in place frozen with fear when she was taken out. It took about a month for her to make eye contact, and two months before she would seek out affection from her foster mom. Delilah’s spirit was clearly damaged living in those horrid conditions, but she has fought to leave that life behind, and is making her comeback.

Luckily, Delilah ended up with the perfect foster mom, Melissa, who has chosen to dedicate her time to help dogs like Delilah. Melissa has been an intern with the Humane Society, and she recently worked on their Stop Puppy Mills campaign and understands the plight of these dogs. She has patiently worked with Delilah to help build her confidence and expose her to new things. They go on regular outings to the pet store, and recently started attending a Foster Alliance class where Delilah and Melissa can work with trainers and interact with other dogs and fosters who are working through similar issues.

Delilah is ready for the next step in her rehabilitation, and to find a family to call her own. She still has things to learn, but also a lot of love to give. She’s a Miniature Poodle, about 7 or 8 years old, weighs 14 pounds, and has the most soulful big brown eyes that will melt your heart. She has a soft, thick coat that will need regular brushing and grooming, and she’s still working on some potty training issues. She is trained to go outside, but there are times when she gets scared being alone and will have an accident. Melissa has started using puppy pads as a back-up option in the house, and that has been working well.

We are looking for a laid back, loving home for Delilah, and a patient owner who will nurture her and give her space and time to adjust to her new life. She must have other social dogs in her home to encourage and teach her, and an owner who has some time to help her finish her rehabilitation and work through her fears. Delilah is good with kids, but a home with young children is not the best fit for her right now. She needs a calm environment where she can quickly learn to trust.

To learn more about Delilah, go to the Mutts Matter Adoption Page and fill out an application, or you can contact Suzanne at suzanne@muttsmatterrescue.com

Click here to learn more about adopting and caring for a puppy mill survivor.