Foster Mom's Faux Pas with Chihuahua Mix Has Everyone Laughing Out Loud

Gaining the trust of a fearful dog is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and a kind heart. It’s a challenge that’s not for everyone, but for those willing to move slowly and show these sweet creatures that humans can be good, the rewards are immeasurable.

To win their trust, we may need to do things a bit out of the ordinary as long as they feel safe. However, sometimes, this can lead to making silly mistakes.

Find out what this experienced foster mom unintentionally did in this video from August 26:

This is so understandable for anyone who has taken in a rescue. I know I have done whatever it takes to make my dogs feel comfortable when they come home, just like Isabel (@ simonsits ) did for her foster dog , Twinkle. She explains he was too fearful to allow her to touch him when he joined the family. As he became more comfortable in his home and began to explore, he would come to check things out when she was in the bathroom. So when he started showing her some affection, she wanted to return it. Unfortunately, this led to him wanting to sit on her lap every time she sat on the toilet. LOL! So now, although he’s happy to be loved and cared for all the time, he also wants to sit on her when she’s in the loo. Whoops! She reveals this little cutie will even bust down the door to ensure he gets close to her if he’s been closed out. Thankfully, this did not deter his new parents from adopting him, and he’s now with his forever family with his adorable and shy little sister. If ever there was a “mistake” to make with a pup, this one isn’t so bad.

Related: Foster Mom Shares Comforting Words for People Who May Be Experiencing ‘Puppy Blues’

Ways to Help Fearful Dogs Feel Safe

1. Create a space just for them. Isabel did this when Twinkle came home, giving him his own crate in their bedroom, where he could retreat and acclimate to his new environment.
   
   
2. Slowly built trust. Although this fearful rescue would show his teeth when Isabel would come near him initially, instead of punishing him or trying to pet him, she would give him space, lots of cheese, and lunchmeat to help build their bond. This worked like a charm, as she showed us and his earlier videos.
   
   
3. Establishing a routine can also help dogs know what to expect, thus lessening their fears of the unknown and setting them up for success.
   
   
4. Avoid punishment for fearful behaviors, and give plenty of positive reinforcement for the ones you wish to see. Although it may take time, dogs eventually realize that even scary situations can have positive outcomes.

Thanks to people like Isabel, her partner, and her beloved dog, Simon, one more pup has found their forever home. While it’s difficult to imagine saying goodbye to love like this, they know that a bit of heartbreak can help them save another. What an inspiration for us all.