Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Story
Morticia is only about 11 weeks old, but it's clear she's already missed out on some of the things every puppy should know: gentle hands, being picked up, feeling safe, and simply being loved.
When she first arrived, Morticia wouldn't let anyone touch her. Reach toward her and she would pancake herself to the floor, turn away, and make herself as small as possible. We quickly realized she likely had very little, if any, human handling before coming to us. Even now, being picked up can be overwhelming. Once in someone's arms, she freezes and breathes heavily, unsure of what's happening.
But we're starting to see little glimpses of the puppy underneath the fear.
She's begun seeking out her foster mom with adorable puppy barks. She loves playing with other dogs, racing around the yard doing zoomies, chewing on toys and puppy teething treats, and exploring this strange new world around her. She's learning that people can mean good things, even if she hasn't quite figured that out yet.
At her vet visit, we also learned that Morticia has very limited vision in her right eye. Our vet suspects it was the result of an old, untreated injury, possibly from being housed in a pen or crate with other puppies. She was rescued from a backyard breeding situation, and she was likely the last puppy they couldn't sell. Thankfully, the eye does not currently require treatment or removal. Her limited vision may contribute to some of her startle and fear responses, especially when she doesn't see something coming.
She has met older children and was curious about them.
Morticia is going to need someone who understands that trust isn't built overnight. She needs a patient adopter who will let her set the pace, celebrate the tiny victories, and show her that the world isn't something to be afraid of. Because underneath that uncertainty is a puppy who desperately wants to play, explore, connect, and be loved. She just hasn't had the chance to learn what that feels like yet.
We're looking for a home with another confident, friendly dog who can help Morticia learn the ropes of being a dog, give her confidence, and show her that new experiences can be fun. And because travel would be especially stressful for a puppy this timid, Morticia will need to be adopted within driving distance (of a few hours max) rather than flown to her forever home.
There is something incredibly special about watching a scared dog discover their confidence for the very first time. If you have the patience to be Morticia's guide and the heart to show her how wonderful life can be, this little girl could form an extraordinary bond with you.
She'll get her second round of vaccines on Wednesday, October 21, and adopters are required to continue her last round of puppy vaccines 3-4 weeks later (including Rabies). Adopters are required to sign a spay contract.