Adopting a shy shelter dog: How to transport an untouchable dog?

Question

I‘m trying to adopt a dog, he‘s a male galgo, but the thing is he is so shy and anxious you can‘t even touch him. The dog shelter, where he is at, is not very near so I always have to drive 50min. That means I can‘t go every day there, just once in a week. I’d love to take him home, but you can’t put a collar on him and it’s really frustrating. He’s been there for 1 year now and is barely making progress, all those medications that he gets, don’t work! What can I do? Thank you. Pet's info: Dog | Spanish Greyhound | Male | neutered

Jennifer Ladd, DVM · Accepted Answer

Poor thing! I think it is important for him to get out of that environment. I strongly suspect his progress will be limited while he remains in that environment. Greyhounds in particular tend to be very sensitive, and that is likely a very stressful environment for him. In regards to medications, in his case, I would recommend Trazodone or something similar. The effect would increase serotonin in the brain and likely reduce his anxiety. Other than that, however, I would remove any sedatives or other medication as they may confuse his recovery. If he is food motivated, I would focus on positive reinforcement with food. If not, it is a bit more difficult, and can be very frustrating. The most important thing for him will be to move slowly, remain patient, and use the reward that best suits him- affection, food etc. I hope there is a way that you can get him out of the shelter without a collar and leash. Perhaps he would do better with a harness. I just believe that once he is in your home and can begin to trust you bit by bit that he will improve over time. An alternative would be to have the shelter crate train him. If he can learn that a crate is a safe and comforting place, then you could more easily transport him. It could also be a place in your home that he could have to himself.

Adopting a shy shelter dog: How to transport an untouchable dog?

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