When Charlie Bear joined our household he came with “issues.” Found fending for himself on the streets in LA with an owner who didn’t care for him, he guarded his food and toys, threw temper tantrums when he didn’t get his own way (chased his tail aggressively when he was nervous or over-excited or unable to do what he wanted to do), and was sensitive to touch.
But, the online ad went on to say, when this dog feels secure and relaxed, he turns into a Charlie Bear, the sweetest, affectionate, cuddle bear.
That’s what made us fall in love. We knew time, patience, and tough love would see Charlie through his transition period in his new home. I’ll be the first to admit that the beginning of his first year with us was rough. Very rough. We even wondered if we’d made a mistake. Should we have taken on a dog that needed so much from us? But he deserved a home, just like so many others. By the middle of the year things were better, and by the end of the year the relationship with Charlie Bear was mutually satisfying. Charlie Bear did indeed turn into a cuddle bug.
Back in November 2010 when I first shared about Charlie Bear’s issues on Facebook here’s what a few people said: Marianne: Our adopted dog came from an abusive owner and we had to prove to the dog we weren’t going to give him back. Then we adopted a pal for him and they’ve taught each other so much! Kathy: Your Charlie Bear issues sound like the same issues my adopted children have. Kimi: Build a bond as well as his confidence through training and you’ll have a fabulous companion.
Have you ever adopted a rescue dog? What happened and how did you work it out? Tell us in a comment and then send in a photo of your cute pooch. We’ll be posting photos of adopted/rescued dogs on future blog posts. Send to: bj.taylor@verizon.net.
Hugs from B.J.
Woofs & Wiggles from Charlie Bear
NEW RELEASE:
Charlie Bear: What a Headstrong Rescue Dog Taught Me about Life, Love, and Second Chances http://bit.ly/HHI8zs
Yeah to everyone who rescues animals and has the patience and love to work through their “issues.” What an admirable endeavor.
Heather,
Working through a dog’s “issues” is a labor of love and so entirely worth the effort. Thank you for your comment. I adore and admire all rescuers and fosters.
Hugs to you,
B.J.
Jesse chases his tail! And now that you’ve mentioned it, it’s usually when he is upset and a bit nervous. I never made the connection. I wish they could talk and tell us what’s wrong with them and how we can really help.
Martha,
Yup, I wish they could talk, too. If so, I’m sure they would tell us all the things we tell them….”good boy,” “down,” “stay,” sit,” “come,” and all the rest! And for sure, they’d tell us what is wrong when something is bothering them, just like we pour out our troubles to them and they hang on each and every word, snuggling close, licking our wet cheeks, warming our hearts.
Hugs & love,
B.J.
Charlie Bear, I think if most of us were honest, we all have issues….or have had….or will have. And you’ve conquered yours! Great big hug!! So thrilled about your new book.
Julie, so true! Thanks for being thrilled about the new book!
Wiggles and Woofs to you and Clyde,
Charlie Bear