Feral Mama Learns Love After Overcoming Fear of Leashes

Feral Mama Dog Overcomes Her Fear of Leashes and Learns to Feel Love

Lastest Updated February 13, 2025

A dog that has spent years wandering the streets, scavenging for food to survive, often develops a deep-seated mistrust of people. In such cases, efforts to offer help can be met with fear and hesitation.

This was true for Shania, a stray puppy who exemplified this struggle. Whenever someone attempted to reach out to her, she would cautiously observe from afar before darting away in fright.

Yet the urgency of her situation could not be ignored; being heavily pregnant and close to giving birth meant that rescuers were compelled to act swiftly and bring her into safety from the harsh cold surrounding her. Stay tuned as we discover Shania's journey toward rescue and hope amidst adversity.

One Expecting Mother Finds Hope

dog in the snow
Source: The Dodo

Upon learning about an impending snowstorm of unprecedented intensity, the rescue team felt a surge of concern. Fortunately, they received news that Shania had recently welcomed her puppies and was currently devoted to caring for them, making it easier to approach her.

Seizing this moment, the rescuers promptly headed to the site and successfully brought her under their protection. A representative from the organization shared that Shania's capture marked a significant beginning in their journey together.

Upon arrival at the shelter with her pups, both Shania and each puppy underwent thorough health examinations. It was reassuring to find all puppies were thriving well; this outcome wasn't unexpected given how nurturing and protective Shania had been toward them during their time together outside.

scared dog lying
Source: The Dodo

Being feral made her struggle with trusting and engaging with humans. It was observed that she tended to shy away from interaction.

Hand-feeding became a method used to build rapport gradually, as patience was key in the process. Despite her reserved nature, it was noted that she possessed an endearing temperament; never once did she display aggression towards anyone, remaining gentle and calm throughout their efforts.

The rescuers chose to let her acclimate at a comfortable speed before introducing any restraint like a leash around her neck. Nonetheless, it appeared that this wasn't something she appreciated much either.

dog indoors
Source: The Dodo

Each time Shania sensed the leash against her skin, an instinctual response kicked in, prompting her to attempt escape. Fortunately, it didn't take long for her to understand that a leash posed no real threat.

Once she grasped this idea, everything changed for the better. Leesa mentioned that during store visits with Shania, she would stroll confidently beside them without ever pulling on the leash.

The transformation was remarkable; Shania had truly embraced her outings and gained comfort in being leashed.

Joyful Moments for a Loving Family

photo of three puppies
Source: The Dodo

With a strong mother and kind humans around her, Shania’s puppies blossomed into healthy and lovely dogs. Each one found a caring forever home where they were embraced with affection and warmth.

Shania stayed with Leesa, who welcomed her into the comforts of home life as a cherished house pet. In this new environment, she met Otis, an incredibly gentle pup who quickly became her close companion.

The bond between Shania and Otis was heartwarming; he helped her emerge from shyness to truly relish in the joys of her new existence. It was expressed by Leesa that having him along with their other dogs, Banjo and Hades, contributed significantly to Shania feeling more at ease within the family dynamic.

mama dog lying with puppy
Source: The Dodo

Shania radiated joy every single day.

Her desire for love was so strong that she would leap onto the couch just to snuggle with her humans.

The excitement reached new heights when the news of her adoption arrived, filling her heart with pure bliss.

A notable moment occurred during her initial visit to her forever home; it was said that she exuded a level of confidence never before witnessed in her demeanor.

little girl hugging the puppy
Source: The Dodo

Finally, Shania found her forever home.

Now, she enjoys a life that every dog dreams of living.

Her days are filled with joyful playdates alongside her humans, leisurely strolls in the fresh air, and warm snuggles on the couch.

Letting go of her past has allowed Shania to fully embrace this new chapter in her life, bringing out her true spirit and happiness.

Truc Tran

Truc Tran

Animal Lover & Content Specialist

Expertise

Rescue Participant, Meal Planning for Pets, Recipe Development for Pets, Content Editor

Education

TasTAFE, Australia

  • Degree: Diploma of Hospitality (Commercial Cookery)
  • Focus: The culinary program encompassed a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, a Certificate IV in Kitchen Management, and a Diploma of Hospitality Management, providing a blend of theoretical and practical training in finance, sustainability, diversity, and human resources management.

Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Explored global cuisines, and developed entrepreneurial abilities to manage a successful food business, along with acquiring essential language, math, computer, and communication skills for success.

HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program

  • Program: Certificate of Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef
  • Focus: Master traditional and contemporary Vietnamese cuisine

Truc Tran is an animal lover and rescue advocate with 2 cute furry kids. With a background in culinary arts, she uses her skills to create easy pet-friendly recipes and share helpful tips for caring for rescue animals.

At cutiepuppie.com, Truc focuses on showing the joys of adopting rescue pets and helping owners connect with their furry friends. Her passion for dogs and digital storytelling helps inspire readers to build meaningful connections with their furry companions.

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