“Gretel has become an absolute gem, though a bit spoiled.
She crawls into my lap for a cuddle when I'm typing on the computer, or jumps
up if she wants attention when I'm reading the paper. When we first met at the Washington Humane Society (WHS),
Gretel put her paws on my knees to get picked up, then gave me hugs and
kisses. Within three to five days after I adopted her, we were bonded, and
she had her little paws wrapped around my heartstrings.
Having been abandoned when her prior owner moved, Gretel seemed afraid that I too would abandon her. I suspect, from how well-socialized she was and beautifully cared for, that her first owner loved her dearly.
According to her record, it took her over a week to become less
withdrawn so the Washington Humane Society (WHS) staff could perform her exam
and behavioral assessment. This was a reflection of her past, but also of her ability
to eventually warm-up to people.
The loss of two precious canine companions increased my patience and determination to work with Gretel. For whatever reason, we were just meant to be together.
It was a good nine months before Gretel's vocal behavior decreased. She has learned that I will refuse to go to her until she's quiet, so she stops her fussing and sits quietly waiting.
The bottom line is that she has the good life, with a doting adopted mom who loves her dearly.”
- Beverly Powell
Beverly generously took in
miniature parrots who needed a home, because Gretel was already socialized to birds
from her previous home.
Have a WHS alumni story to share? Yelp about it! Georgia Avenue Adoption Center Yelp Page/ New York Avenue Adoption Center Yelp Page.
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