Penelope is an beautiful young Shepherd believed to be around 2 years of age. Penelope was abandoned at a county dump where animal control had to trap her due to her mistrust of people. We do not know her history prior to showing up in the dump however her fear of loud noises and quick movements provides some clues. Penelope has come a long way in her foster home and has shown herself to be a very sweet, loyal, and loving girl. However, this has taken time and trust building which will have to start anew in an adoptive home. In her foster home Penelope enjoys being a shadow shepherd that goes everywhere with her foster parents. Her favorite activity is playing in the creek and she loves to go on hikes. Penelope is terrified of the washing machine, thunderstorms, and other loud noises but has a routine of going into the bathroom to ride out those occurrences. Penelope has lived with multiple other dogs ranging from 12 week old puppies to a 5 year old Malinois and everything in-between. Penelope meets new dogs well but takes a couple days before she will really play with them. She doesn't appreciate being pushed around by other dogs and although she is rather tolerant she will set firm boundaries with other dogs. Once she has made friends Penelope loves to play chase games or lay on the floor and let the pups chew on her. Penelope also lives with a cat and while they do not often interact directly - per the cats orders - they have no issues doing so. Penelope switches between staying in a crate at night or loose in the house with no concerns for the cats safety or that Penelope will be destructive. Penelope is very fearful of new people and takes time to warm up when she meets someone for the first, or even second, time. Penelope does well in public settings but is very subdued and reserved. She will meet people okay but remains detached for the most part. When new people come into her foster home she will either go to her crate or if in the yard she will go to far corner to get away from them. Penelope has never been reactive towards new people or exhibited any fear aggression; however, she is never placed in an overwhelming situation without a clear exit so as to prevent her from feeling the need to respond this way. Penelope is searching for an adoptive home that understands her need for patience and compassion alongside structured socialization to ensure that she continues to improve. Penelope is searching for a family to help her continue to overcome her past but also give her lots of love and patience through the process. Penelope is going to need continued structured socialization and eventually will likely need basic obedience training. She has a lot of love to give those that show her kindness and is going to blossom into an even more wonderful companion with a little more work. If you're the home for Penelope please email tierhavenrescue@gmail.com for an adoption application.

Good with Dogs, Good with Kids