Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Needs special attention,
Needs experienced adopter,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Sweetie Pie – a gentle soul ready for a second chance at life.
For the first four years of her life, Sweetie Pie lived in a puppy mill—confined, ignored, and denied the simple joys every dog deserves. She didn’t know soft beds, kind hands, or what it meant to feel safe. But despite it all, she is trying… slowly, bravely, and beautifully.
Since starting fluoxetine about a year ago, Sweetie Pie has begun to come out of her shell in the most heartwarming ways. She’s more engaged with her foster family and the other dogs in the home. She now jumps up on the bed, welcomes gentle pets on the couch, and even cuddles with her fosters and her canine companions.
She enjoys exploring the yard, occasionally joins in playful chases with the other dogs, and happily chews on bones inside. Her tail is almost always up and wagging, and she’s beginning to reveal a silly and loving personality. Walks are becoming enjoyable too—she still needs to be in her crate to get her leash clipped on, but she’s learning.
While Sweetie Pie is still cautious around new people and sudden noises, the progress she’s made is remarkable. She may not yet run to you for affection, but her trust is growing every day.
Her ideal home includes:
A calm, patient environment
A gentle, confident dog who can guide her
A secure physical fenced yard (non-negotiable)
A family committed to continuing her progress at her pace
Experience with mill dogs is a plus, but not required for the right match. What matters most is understanding, empathy, and a willingness to let her set the pace.
Sweetie Pie’s journey won’t be fast—but it will be worth it. With love and consistency, she will reward you with the sweetest, quietest kind of trust.
💗 Adoption Fee: $400
She is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, and on monthly heartworm and flea prevention.
📍 Located in Decatur, IL
📝 Apply at leiashope.org to learn more about our adoption process.
🚨 PLEASE NOTE:
We are a volunteer-run rescue. Applications take 7–10 days to process.
All dogs are in foster homes; meet-and-greets are scheduled after approval.
We do not ship or transport dogs—you must travel to the dog’s location.
All family members (human and canine) must be present at the meet.
Dogs are a lifetime commitment—please apply only if you’re ready for that promise.
