SAMMY’S STORY: THE GIFT OF PATIENCE

When Sammy, a 6-year old Shih Tzu, found himself at the shelter a second time in less than a year, this time with the request that he be euthanized, he was confused about what was happening. Overweight and neglected, he had chronic eye problems and a benign cyst on his neck. The shelter vet recognized the little guy and quickly treated his health problems. On the road to recovery, Peace of Mind Dog Rescue took him in and recommended him for UnChained. Little did we know his influence would go way beyond just bonding with his two youth trainers.

In January 2019, Sammy happily trotted into the Monterey County Youth Center to meet his Youth Trainers and get a fresh start. He loved his trainers, looking forward to belly rubs, snacks and positive feedback from the youth. He learned manners like sit, down and stay and tricks like sit pretty and agility. He graduated alongside his Youth Trainers who shared how much they adored Sammy and how “chill” he was.

His Youth Trainers handed over Sammy’s leash to his adopters at graduation who took him to his new home that day.

A few months later, UnChained staff heard from Marcus, one of Sammy’s Youth Trainers, who was working and parenting his two young daughters. He shared how proud he was to have helped Sammy find a new home and happy life. But, more important for Marcus was what Sammy had done for him: made him a better parent.

Marcus had a new-found patience with his daughters and understood the value of speaking positively to them and reinforcing good habits with honest praise and joy. The beautiful gifts of kindness and respect being transferred from dog to young parent to children - we couldn’t be more proud!