Grace introduced herself slowly and calmly, just quietly walking nearby without pressure. Coco was very nervous at first, but after gentle walks in circles around the field, allowing her to learn that we were not a threat, you could slowly feel her mood soften.
Sadly, Coco was abused before being rescued by two wonderful gentlemen. She needs patience, gentle care and calm strategies that will help her learn to trust the world again.
Grace eventually showed her beloved ball and for a moment there was a little spark of curiosity from Coco. We left her in a calmer place than when she arrived and honestly, that felt enough for today.
I do hope Coco manages to find her regulation again in time. Bless her heart. Sometimes dogs carry sadness quietly and cannot tell us where it came from.
We as humans struggle enough explaining our feelings, so imagine being unable to say why you are frightened, overwhelmed or sad.
I hope to see Coco again tomorrow on my own to give her a gentle little walk, some fuss and hopefully another safe experience added to her story.
