Meet Abbie on International Dog Day
Celebrating International Dog Day with Abbie the Belgian Shepherd who is looking for a home.
Dogs, Rescue, Adopters
Trust takes time
When Norman first arrived at Bath Cats and Dogs Home in September 2023, he was in a shut-down state. Underweight, injured, and deeply traumatised, he had clearly survived neglect and hardship. His ribs were visible. His foreleg was wounded. But perhaps most heartbreaking was his behaviour - frozen with fear, avoiding eye contact and unable to process the unfamiliar world around him. He wasn’t aggressive; he was overwhelmed.
Our vet and behaviour teams worked gently and patiently. Every step - from wound care to mealtimes - was guided by Norman’s comfort level. The goal wasn’t just to treat his injuries but to help him feel safe. Progress would be slow, but it would come.
October 2023 – A quiet victory
The first breakthrough came a few weeks later. After countless calm, routine-led days, Norman walked with quiet confidence to the triangle field - a safe open space he’d previously found intimidating. His tail was up. He sniffed the grass, took in his surroundings, and stayed relaxed. It might seem like a small moment, but for Norman, it was a milestone: his first real sign that he was beginning to trust the world again.
November 2023 – Small steps, big progress
By late November, Norman was still a sensitive soul, but the signs of emotional healing were becoming clearer. He started to wag his tail more, even seeking gentle fuss from familiar people. He still needed a hands-off, predictable routine - but there were glimpses of the affectionate dog hiding beneath the fear.
January 2024 – Confidence begins to bloom
The new year brought further signs of hope. Notes from his behaviour team documented a quiet but significant shift: Norman was “gaining confidence.” These changes weren’t dramatic, but they were profound - softer eyes, more curiosity and a growing willingness to engage with the world around him.
February 2024 - A home that understood him
Norman’s next chapter began when he was adopted by Jessica and her family - a home that understood exactly what he needed. They gave him space, respected his body language, and offered calm consistency. Because of their approach, Norman felt safe enough to begin forming bonds - on his terms. Slowly but surely, the real Norman began to emerge.
September 2024 – Six months of transformation
Six months later, Norman is unrecognisable. Now a confident “Velcro dog,” he sticks close to his humans and his doggy siblings, Charlie and cousin Rufus. He enjoys short off-lead walks, has blossoming recall skills, and curls up on the sofa or in bed with total ease. The once-fearful, shut-down dog now seeks out affection, snuggles, and comfort - not just as a need, but as a choice.
Norman’s transformation is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a dog’s emotional and behavioural needs are treated with the same importance as their physical care. It takes time, patience, and compassion - but the results speak for themselves.
To everyone who played a part in Norman’s journey: thank you. And to Jessica and her family - thank you for giving Norman the life he always deserved. A life where he is not just safe, but truly seen and loved.
Click here to learn more about animal body language.
