Finding my home base!

From Lexi the Coonhound

I used to live with my mom and sister until, one day, we were rescued. We were removed from our home and taken to a shelter where we could find a new family to adopt us. However, the families who came only wanted my mom and sister. Suddenly, I was all alone. I missed them but knew they were okay, and the shelter wasn’t too bad. At times, it was loud because noisy dogs barked constantly, and the shelter always smelled like pee. Still, there was a routine: walk time, feeding time, playtime, naptime, repeat. Sometimes during playtime, other dogs tried to sniff my butt, which I didn’t like. My favorite time of day was when I got to sleep.

One day, a new lady came to see me. I hid from her because I was shy, and then she left without me. That confused me. She returned again and again, and I felt more excited to see her each time. On one of her visits, I even sniffed her. Wasn’t I brave? She smelled good, like flowers. Still, I wouldn’t let her pet me. She kept talking to me in a baby voice, which was silly, but I liked it. I remember her telling me I was safe and not to be scared. So, I nudged her to let her know I understood. I get scared easily with strangers, but with her, things felt different.

Then, I went on a road trip to her house. She had a dog bed, a food bowl, and toys for me. I didn’t have to share with any other dogs like I did at the shelter. I went to lie down right away since the ride had tired me out. The car ride was stressful and scary. I hid in the backseat. When I got to her house, I napped with one eye open, and I didn’t want to be petted, but I didn’t shake. She sat next to me and watched over me while I slept. Afterward, I went back to the shelter. I felt sad and wondered if I’d see the new lady again.

Then, on the best day of my life, I came back to the new lady’s house and was allowed to stay! She still had all my toys and something brand new: a collar just for me. I was excited but nervous, and the first night at my new home was scary. I guess I was all tuckered out because she told me the next morning that I snored loudly. She offered me food and water, but I didn’t want any – I was too nervous. You know how it is when you’re anxious, and your tummy feels funny. That was ruff.

Finally, on my third day, I drank some water. I even nibbled on the kibble she had in the bowl. It tasted different. Everything was different: nothing smelled like pee anymore, there was no barking, and I was getting lots of attention. The lady gave me a stuffed animal to cuddle with; I was amazed as I’d never had my own stuffed animal. She also gave me a blankie. At first, I wasn’t sure what to do with it, but she helped teach me to snuggle under it.

After adjusting, I quickly learned my new routine. Eventually, I realized I liked the new smells in this house, I liked my toys and bed, I liked my collar – and I loved my new owner. She was no longer a stranger but my forever family. She feeds me and gives me butt scratches which are sooooo good! I follow her everywhere because she is my person, and I always want to be near her. Even though I miss my mom and sister sometimes, I’m so happy and know they are, too.