Dorothy

Dorothy is the perfect mix of playful energy and sweet affection. Like all of the Golden Girls, she is still adjusting to a world that is very new to her, but we are already seeing so many wonderful pieces of her personality emerge.

Since moving into foster care, Dorothy has made incredible progress. She has embraced her new routine, and continues to grow more confident with each passing day. We are so happy to report that Dorothy has not had any accidents since entering foster care, and is believed to be fully housetrained. However, consistency and routine are key to maintaining this progress, and small set backs can occur following big changes. Dorothy also sleeps through the night in her crate (with the door open) next to her foster's bed.

Dorothy loves to play and tends to be the most enthusiastic when playing with the other dogs. She is goofy, expressive, and always ready for some fun once she feels comfortable.

One of Dorothy's favorite things is exploring the world through her nose. Whether she is investigating a new scent in the yard or taking in the sights and smells on a walk, she approaches life with curiosity and enthusiasm. She is learning about leash walking and is doing very well with a harness. While she is gaining confidence every day, she can still startle when unexpected things happen, particularly if a car passes close by while she is walking.

She is also the biggest of our beagles, complete with lots of extra skin that makes her especially perfect for scratches and smooshes--something she thoroughly enjoys from the people she trusts. Ear scratches are another fast favorite.

Even with her playful side, Dorothy also has a soft, cuddly side. As she develops trust with her caregivers, she has started leaning in for petting, cheek scratches, and quiet moments sitting beside the people she feels safe with. She has recently started climbing into the lap of her primary care giver and we think she's going to be quite the lap dog once she finds her people. Watching her choose affection and connection has been one of the most rewarding parts of her journey.

Treats are absolutely the way to Dorothy's heart. She is a big fan of peanut butter and anything peanut butter flavored, and she is always happy to accept a tasty reward while learning new things.

Dorothy would do well in a home with another playful, confident dog who can match her energy, continue building her confidence, and help show her the ropes as she settles into home life. She clearly enjoys canine companionship and gains confidence from following the lead of another dog. In the right situation, she may also do well as an only dog with adopters committed to continuing her socialization and confidence building.

Dorothy has met a young child and did well. However, because she can still startle easily due to her past experiences, we believe she would do best in a home with older, respectful children who can understand her need for patience, predictability, and gentle interactions.

Dorothy will be most successful with a series of meet-and-treat appointments and build a relationship with her before she goes home. Dorothy's foster spent several days visiting her before bringing her home, and that investment in trust and familiarity made for a much smoother transition. We hope to create that same opportunity for her future adopters.

Dorothy will need a patient home willing to continue helping her build confidence while embracing both her silly and snuggly sides. In return, we think she is going to make an absolutely wonderful companion.

For more information on the adoption process, visit hsbcpets.com/beagles. If you are interested in learning more or would like to set up a Meet & Treat appointment, please fill out an adoption application on our website: www.hsbcpets.com/adopt