Mutual Rescue Amid the Pandemic

Animals are a blessing for one’s mental health. They need you and you need them.

On a rainy day in February, a transport arrived at PAWS from California carrying a special family. Despite the dreary weather, Willow, a diminutive dachshund, and her five tiny puppies were embarking on a hopeful new beginning. Originally rescued from a hoarding situation, Willow was shy and fearful.

“PAWS is an ideal place for under-socialized dogs,” says Lisa Hockins, PAWS Shelter Operations Manager. “Our knowledgeable staff and patient foster families give these dogs all the time they need to come out of their shells.”

Experienced foster parent Asa Tsuki Fox happily volunteered to help socialize the mama dog and her rambunctious brood. It took time. “At first, Willow wouldn’t come out of her kennel if someone was in the room. She couldn't even go outside to go potty as she’d frantically try to run away,” recalls Fox. Still, Fox kept trying, hand-feeding Willow and sitting on the floor beside her kennel to build trust.

Willow and her puppies were taken in by a loving foster.

Meanwhile, Lori and Charles Allen were dealing with the combined loss of Lori’s mother and her dachshund Mookie. People were isolating and sheltering in place due to the emerging pandemic—a tough situation for a family in grief.

As summer approached, the Allens felt the timing was ideal to welcome a dog into their family. Charles was retired, and Lori and their son Kyle had plenty of time to devote to a new family member. When Lori came across Willow’s profile, she knew she was the one.

“This little girl needs us,” says Lori.

Thus began the delicate process of building trust with the nervous and skittish dog. Lori first met Willow in the fenced visit yard on the PAWS campus. While Willow darted around trying to find a place to hide, Lori sat down on the ground and nonchalantly chatted with a PAWS staff member. Willow’s curiosity got the better of her, and she finally came close enough for Lori to casually pet her.

Fast forward several months—Willow has made amazing strides! She explores the outdoors at every opportunity, and her favorite activities are snacking on blackberries, jumping in the hayfield, and barrel rolling across the grass. Says Lori, “Willow’s true, sweet self is shining through. She loves belly rubs and is getting more relaxed and comfortable every day. Willow is non-stop entertainment and the topic of many conversations.”

Most importantly, Willow has given Lori, who is still grieving the loss of her mother, a set schedule and an excuse to get outside more. “Animals are a blessing for one’s mental health,” Lori explains. “They need you and you need them. I find myself smiling and laughing more, which is a good thing, especially right now.”

For more content related to this story, visit paws.org/Fall2020.

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