Molly

Hi! My name is Molly and I am ready for my new life. Myself and 2 other dogs were handed to a vet to be euthanised because our prior owner got caught with too many animals. Instead of trying to rehome us, she simply asked for us to be put down. Thankfully Off The Chain K9 Rescue Qld stepped up and we could be saved!

I was in pretty horrible condition. I am an example of "too much" of the wrong kind of love. It appears I have never been short of a meal. Ample food and treats have resulted in me being severely overweight to the point my belly nearly drags on the ground. My dislike of leads would tell the team I did not get regularly walked (and I was so overweight I couldn't walk further than a few metres anyway). My prior owners seemed to have "loved me" too much to put me through the stress of doing anything I might have been afraid of including learning how to walk on leash, how to go in a car, how to interact with new people, how to cope in any new situation. Subsequently I was terrified of everything and reacted in fear when I arrived.

They never subjected me to the horror of vaccinations or yearly health checks. My poor quality diet and lack of vet checks resulted in severe decay of my teeth beyond what is reasonable or expected for her age or breed and all my teeth have actually rotted away. Dental decay also commonly leads to secondary health problems and is very painful. My owners knew about my teeth but chose to do nothing about it. These kinds of love are not love at all. It lead to me needlessly living a life of pain and suffering.

Off The Chain K9 Rescue Qld's initial goal was working to help me feel safe while building trust and respecting boundaries, and also working towards an understanding that most humans are friendly. Initially it was a love hate relationship - they loved me and I hated them. But we have made amazing progress!

I have lost a lot of weight and can finally walk and even run...which I seem to really enjoy now! I now stand with my tail out, not tucked away, and my chin is up not dragging in misery. My biggest fears are raised voices or yelling, and being separated from my humans. Our training plan:
- frequent short separations (baby gates, doors closed and positive reinforcement with treats)
- exposure to new sounds, objects and people
- considering crate training for her to have a safe space

I feel that if the right home came along I would make amazing further progress. In just 2 weeks my carers achieved wonderful progress with me- imagine what we could do with years!

My ideal home understands my history and isn't afraid of a challenge. You understand that I will come to love you in my own time, if you allow me to come you and don't pressure me. You will take my health seriously and not 'spoil' me. I don't want to be spoiled. I want to have my needs met.

I would enjoy another dog for company, or humans who are around a lot. I like to sleep inside at night. I would also enjoy short daily walks and lots of games.

I am quite healthy beyond my weight and missing my teeth, and should stay on a good quality diet and get some daily exercise. Yearly health checks at your vet are a must. I don't mind kids but they need to be understanding of my need for space. I'm not a dog that will let kids drag me around or sit on me, and will rightfully defend myself when I feel threatened.

I have a lot of love to give for the right person. It will just take some effort, commitment and consistency from both of us and I think we will make a great match.

So what do you think? Would we make a good team?