Sadie

We're going to be very picky when it comes to Sadie's forever home. She needs a family who meets every one of her requirements, with no exceptions.

Sadie / F / 7Y / 12lbs / Pomeranian mix / Fostered in Owen Sound

Sadie arrived in our care deeply frightened and completely shut down. Even our vet clinic had never seen a dog so withdrawn. We know nothing about her past, but we can imagine it wasn't kind. She was found as a stray and placed on a 10-day quarantine hold after biting the person who found her. When the shelter was unable to adopt her out, they reached out to us, and we decided to take a chance on her.

Sadie began her journey in an x-pen, then slowly expanded to the living room and eventually the whole house. She still loves her safe little corner, but she's making small strides. When no one is home, or when only her foster mom is in another room, she'll venture out to explore. She remains very fearful of men and will stay in her bed when her foster dad is home. Going outside to do her business is getting easier for her, though she still has the occasional indoor accident, usually on a pee pad but sometimes on a dog bed.

Sadie adores the company of other dogs and has begun playing with her foster siblings. She's even shown a little curiosity about chew toys! She won't take treats from a hand, but she will happily eat them once you set them down and walk away.

What You Should Know
- She tolerates pets but doesn't seek out attention, and if acknowledged she may retreat to her bed.
- She may growl at men and try to bite if picked up or moved.
- She does not walk on a leash. Her fear was so overwhelming during one attempt that she injured her mouth.

Sadie's Must-Haves
- A quiet, adults-only home
- A securely fenced backyard
- Close proximity to Owen Sound, as multiple visits will be needed before she heads home
- Adopters with plenty of experience with very nervous, shut-down dogs
- A family who will never push her beyond her comfort zone and is content to simply share space with her, with no expectation of a cuddly or interactive dog
- Another resident dog, which would be a big help to her

Sadie has the potential to be a wonderful companion, but we can't say whether this is who she'll be forever or whether she'll keep blossoming. Her family must be at peace with either outcome.

If you are interested in adopting Sadie, please complete an adoption application on our website.