Help frightened dogs like Holly

Holly was still young when unwanted behaviours cost her the only home she had ever known.

Holly missed out on some of the early experiences which were detrimental to her development and ability to build confidence. Due to the unwanted behaviours she displayed, she was unable to be walked by her family which led to her missing out on those important early social experiences.  

This left Holly increasingly anxious and worsened her behaviour. She found unfamiliar situations difficult and often reacted by creating distance between herself and whatever was causing her concern, to keep herself safe.

What many people saw as unwanted behaviour was Holly’s way of communicating how she felt.

Transformations like Holly’s don’t happen by chance or overnight. They take specialist Behaviour Officers, tailored training plans, rehabilitation facilities and countless hours of patient one-to-one support.

Your gift today could help give frightened dogs the behavioural support they need to begin feeling safe in the world.  

When Holly arrived in our care, she approached the world with her tail tucked tightly between her legs, unsure of what might happen next. 

Our Behaviour Team began with simple exercises designed to help her feel safer. Introductions to other dogs or unfamiliar people had to carefully planned and managed. Even routine activities needed patience, scheduling and specialist support. 

Over time, Holly’s rehabilitation included behaviour sessions, muzzle training, target training, visitor management and gradual introductions to new experiences.

She also lived in our Specialist Rehabilitation Unit, where consistent routines, experienced handlers and a quieter environment helped her feel secure enough to trust. And step by step, Holly began to make progress. 

Your gift could help more dogs like Holly access tailored behavioural training and rehabilitation, helping them feel safer and build trust at their own pace.

With your help, we can provide personalised, expert-led support when dogs and their owners need us most. And our Behaviour Support Line can continue being there for families struggling to understand and manage their dog’s behaviour before they reach breaking point. 

A gift today could help keep families together through expert behavioural advice, while giving dogs in our care the dedicated support they need to come closer and trust.

Thank you

Donations will go towards all areas of Dogs Trust's work and help care for dogs where the need is greatest.