Lucille was terrified and acted feral around her foster mom Michelle until she discovered the joy of belly rubs. When Lucille first arrived, she was petrified for her own life.
She was shut down, scared, and stuck to herself by hiding in her crate. Michelle slowly worked to push Lucille out of her comfort zone. Lucille wasn’t genuinely aggressive, only acting out of fear.
Michelle tried to take Lucille out of her crate and wore gloves to protect herself. Then she started taking Lucille to a pen which was out of Lucille’s comfort zone but still a controlled environment.
Lucille would lash out and try to bite Michelle. She was constantly fighting to get out of Michelle’s arms. Michelle wanted Lucille to learn that biting would not get her anywhere.
Then one day, Lucille flipped over while struggling to get free. Michelle gave her a belly rub, and suddenly Lucille calmed down and thoroughly enjoyed the feeling. Ever since then, Lucille has been quick to show Michelle her belly.
Lucille was no longer feral, and Michelle wanted to show her more of the world. Her other dogs showed Lucille how to go down the back steps, and eventually, Lucille became more confident.
Michelle learned that sometimes you must start slow to go far, and she knew that someone would love Lucille very much. Lucille does now live happily in her forever home.
Share this because you can make someone’s day.
