I met Homer while volunteering with the HSUS. He was part of huge pit bull fighting bust. All of the dogs received care and enrichment to help them overcome their recent past. Some dogs did better than others. Each time I returned to the shelter, the improvement in the dogs was evident. They began to trust again and learn about toys and treats. They experienced shelter from the weather and looked forward to regular feedings. They finally knew what life off the chain was about.
Homer had a comfy kennel with a warm bed in an area designated for quiet and calm. He stayed in the back of the kennel, cowering in the presence of people and cringed when touched.
Homer didn't show improvement with each of my visits to the shelter. Nothing would change and it was heartbreaking. I started to wonder if he'd ever be okay.
When Homer was released by the courts he joined the rescue Bark Nation to continue his rehabilitation. Co-founders Kelly and Kerry McLaughlin didn't know what to expect of Homer but they celebrated each milestone. Within a week of being in Michigan Homer ate in front of them and allowed himself to be touched without cringing. A month later he was playing with tennis balls. Yet, six months later he was still terrified of new people.
One year after the raid Homer met a human who had come to visit and it was evident he was declaring her his own. Sydney Koehl is a college student and artist and felt an instant connection with him. With each visit from Sydney, Homer got a little more brave. It took eight months of preparation but he was finally adopted by Sydney and went home with her.
His quick potty trips outside turned into walks and walks turned into hikes. He was cautiously curious about everything and after a while even decided the car wasn't so scary because it led to great things, like the beach. Homer's past does get to him sometimes. He has anxiety when he sees other dogs and new people but he remains brave and curious and he trusts Sydney and those he loves.
Sydney says, "If there is a day he is scared to go down the stairs, we work through it. Nothing is really a set back. We are moving together even if it's backwards and further again."
Homer lived in a heavy chain and was a victim of cruelty. He was neglected, used and treated like property. Since August of 2013 he has walked a trail and climbed a mountain with a swim at the beach in between. Bark Nation didn't help Homer learn to trust again. They helped him learn to trust for the first time.
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