Dog Finds Forever Home After Over 2 Years in Shelter.

Waylon, a shy Australian cattle dog mix, spent over two years at the SafeHaven Humane Society in Oregon, becoming the shelter’s longest resident. This heartwarming story highlights the challenges faced by shy animals in shelters, the unwavering dedication of shelter staff, and the joy of finding the perfect match. Overcoming shyness: A long road to adoption Upon arrival in June 2022, Waylon’s shyness and discomfort in new situations became evident. Shelter staff, like Carly Peterson, knew he needed a special adopter. Waylon thrived mentally, being highly intelligent and eager to please. However, new people and environments triggered anxiety, making socialization difficult. Initially, Waylon struggled in the bustling shelter environment. He often hid and avoided other dogs. Recognizing this, the staff developed a new routine in 2023, implementing daily playgroups for canine interaction. Gradually introduced, Waylon found a few canine companions, even engaging in playtime – a significant milestone. Despite progress with other dogs, Waylon’s apprehension towards people persisted. To create a calmer environment, the staff housed him in a quieter area and explored anxiety medication options. Shelters can be stressful for animals due to the constant noise and activity, and SafeHaven understood the need to cater to Waylon’s specific needs. A familiar… CONTINUE READING…