Many dogs, unfortunately, become just a means to an end for some owners, valued only for work or breeding, rather than as cherished companions.
This often leads to these animals suffering from neglect or abuse, existing in less-than-ideal conditions. Their fate relies on the hope that someone will notice and take steps to rescue them.
This was the unfortunate reality for a dog named Faith in New Jersey. Her story, however, took a positive turn thanks to an observant neighbor and a team of dedicated animal rescuers.
After giving birth to a litter of puppies, Faith was sadly ignored by her owners, who abandoned her to live alone in the backyard. Her life was one of isolation until a sympathetic neighbor intervened by reaching out to rescue organizations.
Happy Paws Rescue responded promptly, recognizing Faith’s urgent need for a better life. The volunteers involved saw firsthand her previous owners’ lack of care, but now Faith found herself in a nurturing and safe environment.
Enter Kaitlyn Marcinkowski, a compassionate woman from New Jersey, who agreed to foster Faith. Recalling her decision to The Dodo, she said, “When [Happy Paws Rescue] asked if I could help, my answer was simple. Can I get her tonight?”
Kaitlyn immediately noticed Faith’s fragile state, as the dog was too frightened to even walk by herself. With great care, Kaitlyn carried Faith into her new home, hoping the comfort of a kind person would help her ease her fears.
Kaitlyn understood that Faith needed time to adapt, never rushing her recovery process.
Initially, Faith was too scared to leave her crate or venture outdoors. Kaitlyn remembered, “She trembled around people, and she wouldn’t even use the bathroom for two whole days. It broke my heart to see such a sweet girl so scared of the world.”
Kaitlyn relied on a strategy of patience and love, offering Faith praise and positive reinforcement, allowing her to slowly come out of her shell.
She noted, “Our plan to earn her trust was simple: patience and positive reinforcement. We gave her space, let her set the pace, and watched her cues.”
With time, Faith began to gain confidence. A breakthrough moment came when she leapt onto the couch to snuggle with her foster mom—a small but meaningful step in her journey.
As time went on, she grew more adventurous, even daring to play outside in the yard.
Faith fell in love with the outdoors, enjoying joyous runs in the yard, rolling in the grass, and eagerly seeking belly rubs. The once timid dog had transformed into a lively and assured companion.
Through Kaitlyn’s care, Faith blossomed into the happy, secure dog she always deserved to be. Her foster parents are now hopeful that Faith will find a family who will cherish and care for her wholeheartedly.
Kaitlyn is confident that Faith will easily settle into a new home, where she can continue to receive the love and attention she deserves.
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