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 dwelling after a 12 months of devoted care.
Endurance and perseverance assist Athena overcome her fears
Athena first got here into our care in March 2023. The transition to an animal centre was troublesome for her, and she or he started to expertise vital 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 crew was dedicated to serving to Athena discover her method and she or he was delivered to the Provincial Canine Rehabilitation Centre for some further TLC.
By means of persistence and perseverance, Athena started to indicate outstanding enchancment. As soon as she was prepared, Athena met a number of potential adopters, however discovering the correct match took time. We by no means gave up hope, and neither did Athena.
Athena finds her loving dwelling
Lastly, in February 2024, a beautiful couple got here into her life. They have been shifting to a big property, and their persistence, understanding, and love for Athena made them the right match. After 12 months in our care, Athena had discovered her loving dwelling!
“Athena was very nervous throughout the automotive experience from the animal centre, however she immediately felt at dwelling 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 generally methods her into getting up so she will take her spot on the chair. When they’re exterior 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. We frequently play chase collectively.”
Sara says Athena has turned “Scooby Doo” right into a verb together with her antics.
“She will get so excited that she skitters round on her ridiculously lengthy legs like she’s in a cartoon, and generally will get so twisted up in herself that she falls over,” Sara says with fun.
Athena’s antics proceed to convey pleasure and laughter to her new dwelling. 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 forwards and backwards, splashing and digging with boundless power. 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 really inspiring. Athena’s story is a shining instance of what may be achieved by dedication, compassion, and neighborhood help.
Thanks!
We need to prolong our deepest gratitude to everybody who supported Athena’s journey—our workers, volunteers, foster households, and the great neighborhood members who shared her story and provided their encouragement.
If you’re keen on different heartwarming tales, learn Beam’s story, a deaf canine’s journey with the Provincial Canine Rehabilitation Centre.
For those who have been touched by this story, please think about making a donation to assist animals like Athena get the second probability they deserve.
