On the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, we encounter many unimaginable animals, every with their very own distinctive story. That is the heartwarming journey of Athena, a resilient German Shepherd combine who touched our hearts and located her loving house after a 12 months of devoted care.
Persistence and perseverance assist Athena overcome her fears
Athena first got here into our care in March 2023. The transition to an animal centre was tough for her, and she or he started to expertise important kennel stress. Athena was experiencing frustration from being in an unknown setting and was additionally displaying fear-based reactivity. She was particularly frightened of unknown folks, which introduced ongoing challenges in her adoption journey.
Regardless of these obstacles, her animal care staff was dedicated to serving to Athena discover her manner and she or he was dropped at the Provincial Canine Rehabilitation Centre for some additional TLC.
By means of persistence and perseverance, Athena started to point out outstanding enchancment. As soon as she was prepared, Athena met a number of potential adopters, however discovering the precise match took time. We by no means gave up hope, and neither did Athena.
Athena finds her loving house
Lastly, in February 2024, an exquisite couple got here into her life. They had been shifting to a big property, and their persistence, understanding, and love for Athena made them the proper match. After 12 months in our care, Athena had discovered her loving house!
“Athena was very nervous through the automobile trip from the animal centre, however she immediately felt at house as soon as she arrived,” says Sara, Athena’s adopter.
Athena now enjoys sleeping on their mattress and curling up on the sofa. Sara says that Athena typically tips her into getting up so she will be able to take her spot on the chair. When they’re outdoors collectively, Sara performs chase with Athena, who delights in operating up and down the slope within the yard.
“She likes to run up our little set of stairs and throw herself down the slope to run as quick as she will be able to. We usually play chase collectively.”
Sara says Athena has turned “Scooby Doo” right into a verb together with her antics.
“She will be able to get so excited that she skitters round on her ridiculously lengthy legs like she’s in a cartoon, and typically will get so tousled in herself that she falls over,” Sara says with amusing.
Athena’s antics proceed to deliver pleasure and laughter to her new house. She is a lovable canine, in search of consolation from her mother and father when confronted with issues that make her nervous.
On the Might lengthy weekend, Athena skilled life on the cottage for the primary time. She was so thrilled by the water and sand that she sprinted backwards and forwards, splashing and digging with boundless vitality. Sara might barely sustain together with her, making it one of many funniest and most joyous experiences they’ve shared.
Since her adoption, Athena has been thriving. Her journey from a fearful and reactive canine to a cheerful and assured companion is actually inspiring. Athena’s story is a shining instance of what could be achieved by way of dedication, compassion, and group assist.
Thanks!
We need to prolong our deepest gratitude to everybody who supported Athena’s journey—our workers, volunteers, foster households, and the fantastic group members who shared her story and supplied their encouragement.
In case you are curious about different heartwarming tales, learn Beam’s story, a deaf canine’s journey with the Provincial Canine Rehabilitation Centre.
In the event you had been touched by this story, please contemplate making a donation to assist animals like Athena get the second probability they deserve.
