5 Months Later…

January 29, 2015

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A couple days before Nate and I adopted Sierra, John told us to wait to buy her a collar to ensure we got one that fit her correctly. So, when the papers were signed, and we hopped into the car after a successful Priceless Pets Sunday hike, we decided to take the newly christened Sierra (previously known as Cherry) to PetsMart. The collar Sierra had on was much too big for her – she has an unusually small neck in proportion to her head and body – so we were careful to hold it tight with her leash as we approached the automatic doors to the store. I was excited, which I quickly discovered was bad news for a dog whose nervous, scared emotions tend to overcome everything else. But, I was still inexperienced, so with a lot of coaxing and cajoling, Nate and I led Sierra from the car to the front of the store.

The automatic doors opening was the first trigger. The loud noise scared Sierra and she bolted backward with all her strength, dragging me with her into an empty parking spot. I clearly remember thinking how strong she was, and how the nylon leash I was holding wasn’t going to cut it with her. However, I regained my balance and composure, and with a lot of encouragement, Sierra and I began to inch our way back to the automatic doors. After what seemed like hours, we reached the point that triggered the sensors on the doors. Sierra was slightly more prepared this time. She cowered in fear, but she did not try to run away.

Nate and I continued to urge her forward, one step at a time, until her whole body crossed the threshold and she was completely in PetsMart. Our snail-like process happened to catch the attention of the staff. Some watched silently, some ohhed and ahhed, and one guy started clapping and yelling reassurance at Sierra. Looking back, I understand that this guy was trying to help and be supportive, but for future reference to anyone reading this: if you see a dog who is clearly distressed, never try to make her feel at ease by clapping and yelling.

That was it for poor Sierra. She ran out the door with me helplessly dragging behind her. I managed to get her under control on the sidewalk before we entered the parking lot, but the damage was done. She continued to pull and refused to take one step closer to the store. Nate and I decided that he would quickly go buy the collar and leash (by that time, the nylon leash was cutting into my hands), while I tried to calm Sierra.

I will not lie. Sierra is much, much stronger than me. I could only hold her back long enough to make sure she didn’t get hit by any cars as we crossed the parking lot. She found her resting spot on a median 30 feet away from the store and under some bushes. By then, I was exhausted, so I allowed her a couple minutes of respite as I collapsed on the curb waiting for Nate to finish shopping. When he came out, we coaxed her back into the car. Luckily, once she realized we were not headed for the store, but rather to the safety of the car, she was much more accommodating.

On the drive home, I began having doubts. Were Nate and I getting ourselves in over our heads? We hadn’t even had her for an hour, and I was already feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. But I knew this kind of thinking wasn’t fair to Sierra. She was completely out of her environment, and we didn’t help her by trying to force her into something she wasn’t ready for.

Five months later, I still think about our first day with Sierra. As uncertain as I was about the future, I knew I already loved her, and it would break my heart to give her up. So, instead of resenting her for her supposed flaws (she really just needed some patience and training), I went about trying to improve mine. With the help of John, Nate and I have worked to build Sierra’s confidence and trust. No, she’s not perfect, we still have setbacks, and I still get frustrated, but that first day is a reminder of how far we have all come together.

Now, as soon as she sees me put on my jacket, she goes and sits by the front door, waiting to go outside with me (this happens every time, whether she’s coming or not!). She walks calmly beside Nate or me when we take her outside, and she doesn’t start eating her dinner until we say her release word. Now, when the automatic doors open, she enters PetsMart with her head held high, which is one of the biggest stepping stones for me, since it is such a completely different change from that first day.

Yes, she does still get spooked by loud noises, and kids scare her a lot. But we’re continually working on overcoming it. And when I think about how far she and we have come, it is more than enough to keep us motivated.

I am so glad I didn’t give into my fears or doubts. I would be without one of my best friends today. For anyone that is thinking of adopting or surrendering a dog: think long and hard about your decision. Dogs do not come fully trained. They have their own issues and problems, and they will act out in a variety of ways. However, if you put in the time and effort, and give your dog what they need (not what you want), their behavior will improve. For everything you put in, you will get so much more out of it. And your dog will thank you for it with loyalty and happiness every day, just like Sierra has done for me.