Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Needs experienced adopter,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
applications at leiashope.org
Location Decatur, IL
Candy Land is a 1-year-old Golden Retriever and a puppy mill survivor who is just beginning to learn what it means to be a loved family dog.
Before rescue, Candy had never lived in a home. She didn’t know the comfort of a dog bed, the fun of toys, the joy of treats, or the safety of human affection. She also missed out on early socialization, and because of that she is a shy, insecure girl who is carefully learning how to navigate this big new world. Everything is new, and she is taking it all in at her own pace.
Candy learns best by watching other dogs and truly blossoms when she has a confident canine role model. She will need a canine coach in her adoptive home — a calm, confident dog who can take her under their wing and show her that life is safe, routines are predictable, and good things happen every day.
Because of her background, Candy is a flight risk. She does not know how to walk on a leash and will try to flee if given the opportunity. A secure physical fenced yard is required. Candy should always wear her martingale collar when leaving the home for things like vet or grooming visits. A martingale collar is slip-resistant and safer for dogs like Candy than a harness, and she will go home with one.
Candy is looking for a patient, understanding family who can take things slow and steady. Puppy mill survivors do not follow a set timeline. There will be progress, pauses, and moments that require grace. Adopting a mill survivor is a long-distance marathon, not a sprint — but the reward is immeasurable. Watching a dog like Candy learn to relax, feel joy, and finally live as a carefree, normal dog is one of the most beautiful experiences rescue has to offer. In time, she will become a deeply loyal, grateful companion.
Candy’s adoption fee is $400. She is spayed, current on vaccines, and on monthly heartworm prevention.
Leia’s Hope is a volunteer-run, foster-based rescue. All of our dogs live in foster homes. Applications typically take 7–10 business days to process. Meet and greets are scheduled only after an application is approved. We do not transport dogs; adopters must travel to the dog’s location in Decatur, IL for meet and greet and adoption.
Candy is a 10+ year commitment, and her adopter must be prepared to love and support her for her lifetime.
To apply, visit leiashope.org.
