Learning to love (and be loved) again!

Barney was brought to our partners in South Carolina as part of a feral pack of dogs. Since being rescued, he has had to unlearn everything he knew about being on the streets, always fending for his life.

He was unsure about human touch. He was unsure how to be loved and taken care of. He was hypersensitive and constantly on edge. He did not know what the unconditional love of a foster home looked or felt like so he did not know how to respond to it.

But good things come to those who wait. And those who work hard. Barney’s foster parents, along with our friends at Metropolitan Veterinary Associates and their Vet Behaviorist worked hard with Barney to help him learn that the world isn’t such a scary place and that no dog has to live in it alone. He found the love he didn’t know he had been missing with his forever family!

“Since adoption in March, Barney’s journey has been amazing to witness and his trust & confidence has superseded our hopes. Barney has learned to play toy tug with his big sister Nala and even enjoys pets on the head and scratches on his back! If you knew Barney, you would agree these are BIG steps! Simple commands like sit, touch, down, and stay are becoming routine and Nala plays a huge role reassuring him these are all positive experiences. Barney’s personality comes to life in the evening where he likes to show off his “husky” voice while trying to hold conversation (haha). We’re beyond grateful Barney chose us to be his forever family xoxo.” - Barney’s Furever Family

Barney was not an easy dog to foster, but he was so worth it. Being able to see his journey from a feral dog who disliked people to now snuggling with his people is what makes rescue so rewarding.

All of the behavioral training that Barney received in foster care was covered by TLC. As a non-profit, we rely on the generous donations of our neighbors, donors, sponsors, and people like you to help us cover costs like this.