Willow

Hi there! My name is Willow, and my heart has felt a bit empty lately. Until recently, I lived with the same mom and dad for as long as I can remember. I know they loved me, but I spent a lot of time alone and wasn’t really socialized with people or other animals, so I never learned what it truly means to give and receive love.

Fast forward seven weeks: my parents realized they were too busy for me and surrendered me to Yorkie Haven Rescue. Now, I’m relying on my cuteness to find a new forever home that can help me adapt to a different way of living. And trust me, I know I’m cute—my foster mom tells me all the time! I might pretend it doesn’t matter, but it really makes me feel good.

Right now, my potty habits need some work, but thanks to my foster parents, I’m making progress. I go out first thing in the morning with the others and usually do my business outside, though I still have some accidents inside. I’m wearing comfy diapers that help me hold it until I’m taken outside.

Because my early life lacked social interactions, I have very few social skills with people or other dogs. There are two small dogs in my foster home, and while I get along with them, I could easily be an only pet. I’ve felt a bit like a flower in a pot that’s never been watered—lifeless inside—but with the support of my foster mom and dad, I’m starting to bloom. Don’t tell foster mom, but I seem to prefer foster dad! A gentle, sweet male presence in my future home is a must. While I’m not a big cuddler, I enjoy lying next to foster dad on the couch and occasionally snuggling on foster mom’s lap. I want to be close to my humans, but I still need my space. My hope is that, over time, I’ll become the kind of Yorkie that follows you around and wants to be with you all the time.

When I first arrived at my foster home, the vet recommended a dental check-up. I don’t recall ever having one before, and unfortunately, the few remaining teeth I had had to come out! I’m now a toothless wonder, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to share the other dogs’ food. I’m a bit of a foodie! My foster mom makes sure I stay in front of my bowl until I finish eating so I won’t steal from the others.

I sleep comfortably in my crate at night, which is what I’m used to, and I’ve started napping in there during the day with the door open. I think I’ll enjoy sleeping in a big bed with my future family when the right time comes. When foster mom lets me nap with her, I snuggle right up to keep her company. I’m not particularly interested in toys, so you’ll save money there!

Foster mom works from home, so I’m not alone much now, which is a big change from my last home. In my future home, I hope to continue this kind of environment. If you’re looking for a social little princess, I might not be the right fit just yet. I need time to trust and love, and I’m not overly interested in new people right now. With a loving mom and dad, though, I know I’ll come around in time.

I’m still adjusting to affection—I don’t enjoy being held, I’m not big on kisses, and I often prefer a dog bed on the floor where I can see my humans rather than sitting in your lap. But I’m hoping to change that, just slowly!

Normal household sounds don’t bother me much, but I’m not fond of thunder or the ringing of cell phones. When storms roll in, I like to climb into foster dad’s lap for reassurance. They’ve changed their ringtones to something soothing instead of a bell, and I think that makes us all happier! I do join in and bark along with the other dogs if something catches our attention. My personality is more timid than bold.

I’m a good girl who just needs someone patient and understanding to help me come out of my shell and learn about love. In the past seven weeks, I’ve stopped cowering around my foster parents and have even begun wagging my tail when they come home, eager for pets just like my foster siblings. When they put me on the couch or a chair, I’ve started staying longer before retreating to my dog bed. While I’m still working on potty training, I’m making progress. If you’re not prepared for a few accidents, I might not be the right fit for you.

I’m also trying out walks with my foster mom, but I take my time so she won’t tire out too quickly. I’m beginning to enjoy the interesting scents in the grass, though it does take me a while to explore them all thoroughly!

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