For Tzipporah, it seems, bed is life. When we come back to the apartment, from a visit to the vet or a visit to the backyard, she tries desperately to jump out of my arms, and once she hits the ground she runs straight to her bed. Safe. Once she’s recovered from her outing, though, she relaxes: stretching out, rolling on her back, sticking out her tongue, and dangling her head over the side of the bed.
But now, seven or eight weeks into having her with us, we’re getting worried that she only feels safe in her bed, and everything else is lava. When we are all together in the living room, she rarely leaves her bed; it’s only when the humans leave the room that Tzipporah is willing to walk away from her safe place for more than a second. There have been times when, seemingly, she hasn’t left her bed for half the day, not even to pee or get a drink of water from the kitchen. At night, though, she tends to wander around the apartment, investigating her new home, but when she sees any movement from the supposed-to-be-sleeping humans, she runs back to the living room and straight to her bed.
When she first came home, it wasn’t like this, she would sleep on the rug in her grandma’s room, or on the cushions in my room, or in her bed in the kitchen, or in either one of the dog beds in the living room, moving from one sleepy place to another throughout the day and night. So, I put wee wee pads in every room, and the hallway, to give her the best chance to learn that pee goes on the wee wee pad and not the rugs. When she peed near any of the wee wee pads, I would sop up the pee, place the wet paper towels on the wee wee pad, and then move the wee wee pad closer to the spot where she’d peed. And she would then, maybe half the time, start peeing on the wee wee pad instead. But as the weeks have passed, she has gradually decided on the living room as her home base, and on the one dog bed she likes best, and I’ve been able to remove the other wee wee pads one by one, and focus more on rewarding her for peeing and pooping on the wee wee pad in the living room, with some success.
Basically, she was doing well, but I started to get anxious about her bed-o-philia and worried I wasn’t doing enough to help her make progress, leaving her to calcify in her bed.
So, given her only-dog status, and my fears about her fears, I ordered a heartbeat puppy (a stuffed animal with an insert in the belly that mimics a heartbeat), and Tzipporah took to it right away, snuggling with it in her bed. When Mom wanted to see if Tzipporah could sit on the couch with us, to watch TV, I brought her and her heartbeat puppy (in her bed) to the couch, so she could feel as safe as possible in the new location. I tried to give her a treat while her bed was on the couch, but she was too anxious to eat it. After a little while, I returned her bed to its regular spot, and suddenly she noticed the chicken treat and ate it happily.
She’s made a lot of progress, when I look back at where we started. She’s now willing to stay in the dog bed next to me when I sit at my computer, instead of running away to escape the scary human monster, the way she used to. And she’s been getting used to being petted, and even having her hair combed, as long as there are treats involved.
She surprised us by doing well when her first “strangers” (aka my aunt and cousin) visited the apartment, in large part because my cousin brought a bag of freshly cut cheese and chicken cubes for the occasion (there were also salami slices, but even though Tzipporah gave them a lick, she wasn’t sure how to eat them).
Tzipporah also, finally, had her second visit with Kevin, the mini golden doodle, after weeks of everyone hiding inside because of the cold weather. She was still terrified of being on the ground outside, but she tolerated being sniffed by Kevin, and then she sat on my lap while Kevin sat quietly next to us, and I petted him, and then let Tzipporah smell my hand, and then petted her. Over and over. It’s hard to know if my completely scientific experiment worked, but Kevin certainly enjoyed it.
She still doesn’t talk much; she only cries at night when she thinks she’s alone, and she has only barked once in her sleep, but it was a very light bark, more like a yip. On the other hand, she has become more and more expressive with her eyes, staring at us as dramatically as possible to let us know she could use more treats.
The fact is, she is healing as fast as she can and becoming more herself every day. Really, it’s miraculous that Tzipporah feels safe anywhere, after four years in a cage in a puppy mill; that she can stretch out in her bed and show her belly, and not worry about being hurt, is a testament to how much she trusts us already. The only real problem here is my need for her to be all better right away. I have the same impatience with myself. I forget how much progress I’ve (we’ve) made, always focusing on how things should be, instead of recognizing the effort it took to get where we are. Maybe Tzipporah will be the one who finally teaches me how to celebrate how things really are, instead of always worrying about how things are supposed to be. Or maybe we’ll just bond over our shared love of treats (chicken for her and chocolate chip cookies for me) and be satisfied with that. We’ll see.
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rachelmankowitz 
Oh, that little face–she is adorable. Four years in a cage at a puppy mill is a long time. She sits with you and takes treats and even tolerates Kevin sniffing her–manners, Kevin! Might be slow progress but it is, indeed, progress. You are a good momma, Rachel.
Thank you so much!
She is very, very cute. And yes, she’s made a lot of progress especially considering the abuse she endured. You’re a terrific dog parent. 😊
Thank you!
She seems to be adapting to your home quite well. It’s understandable that Tzipporah needs a safe base like her bed. I’m glad you shared this update on her progress.
Thank you!
I’m glad she’s getting so much love and care, and so happy she’s gotten a chance for a better life.
Thank you! The work these rescue organizations do is incredible!
Your ordering a heartbeat puppy for her is a very effective smart move too. Tzipporah is improving (and the process seems like ice is breaking or at least melting) because of you Rachel. That’s another thing to love and that makes me proud of both of you.
Thank you so much!
Dogs are the best and she’s especially adorable! We break each other in…
i know little to nothing about puppy mills. Only that they are hard-hearted cruelty. Do some puppy mills persons let the dogs in the house, ever? Do they even give their dogs names? It’s really hard to imagine the shock of what those babies have suffered, to then suddenly be in the lap of love, affection and luxury. She seems to be adjusting pretty well, as you note. Two steps forward…
I’ve seen pictures and videos of puppy mills, though not the one she was in in particular, and they are horrifying. Cages, concrete floors, no medical care or grooming, no kindness at all. I’m sure they exist along a spectrum, but even the best ones see all dogs as objects to be sold, so…
I’m sure she’ll get more used to you all in time, poor thing, she’s really cute, so adorable! Beautiful name too!
Thank you!
Tzipporah is very lucky to have found a home like yours and someone as patient as you.
Thank you so much!
It’s such a pleasure to be witness to the healing adventures of Rachel, grandma and Tzippy. I read back through your previous posts to find her short name, and it is clear she has come a long way from that frightened little girl who first entered your home. We heal as we help others heal. Love and hugs.
Thank you!
It sounds like Zipporah is actually progressing nicely. And she has you to thank for that. What’s that phrase? Oh, yes. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Just keep doing what you’ve been doing, Rachel. You’re a great dog Mom!
Thank you so much!
She’s so cute! She will make progress in her own time. My big 70+ lbs Charlie who doesn’t have to overcome anything, likes to be near me but not on me and cuddling is on his own terms. He wants attention for sure but he also loves his beds.
Thank you! There’s something wonderful about watching them sleep so comfortably.
Wow, she is such a sweet looking dog! She is lucky to have you and your mother and I’m sure she will be just fine. She probably never had her own bed do she loves it so much she doesn’t want to leave. Milo, my Yorkie th
Thank you! It does feel like she’s refilling her batteries.
That poor little thing was obviously very traumatized when you adopted her. She’s so lucky to have you and your font of love and patience. She’s will reward you right back!
It’s just hard when she looks at me like I’m scary.
I don’t think her progress is slow at all. Having gone through all of this recently with Murphy, it feels very familiar. He went through the bed stage where that was the only place where he felt safe, but now he roams confidently around the house and yard. He had separation anxiety pretty bad for a while, but he is growing more confident each week. He didn’t make any noise at all for the longest time. (Even now he only uses his voice rarely.). I don’t know that it would work with your little girl, but I would sit on the floor with a fuzzy blanket over my legs. Murphy would come over and lie on the blanket, kind of near me, but not too near.
You can see the intelligence in Tzipporah’s eyes. It won’t be long before her natural curiosity brings her out of her shell to investigate the world. 😊❤️💕
That’s so helpful! Thank you!
She just needs time. She’s really sweet.
Thank you!
Tzipporah is adorable. Bless you for your heart to rescue and your loving patience! My C’mas present from Bob is a new Boston Terrier puppy. “Kenny” will join us soon. He’s currently in Missouri. My fun days of puppy training will begin soon!
Congratulations!!!!!!
Small things will mean even more now.
It sounds like Tzipporah is slowly but surely healing and learning to trust you. I’m sure that little by little, she’ll grow closer and closer to you.
I hope so! Thank you!
The heartbeat puppy toy was a great idea to comfort her.
Best wishes, Pete.
Thank you!
Tzipporah is gorgeous. I wonder if her hesitations stem from disbelief. Is she thinking, can all this really be true after so long in a cage? Celebrate the little wins with her and try not to worry.
I think you’re right. She’s not sure what all of it means, yet. Though roast beef and chicken seem to speed up the process.
Wanting Tzipporah and yourself to be better NOW really resonates with me. I, too, have a tendency to contemplate dejectedly all that is not done and discount whatever I manage to do. Actually, Tzipporah’s love of her bed resonates with me too, because I am spending far too many hours in my own bed, and that is not such a good idea for me! I hope you and Tzipporah continue to heal and are able to find joy along the way,
Thank you! My hope is that she will wake up one morning and realize she’s not so tired, or scared, as she used to be.
You’re such an amazing dog mom! Tzipporah is well on her way to feeling at home. Remember that dogs can sense their owners’ anxieties, too, so I’d just keep being reassuring and calm with her.
I will keep trying. Thank you!
It is a case of the stereotypical “who rescued who” conundrum. I think we learn a lot about living when we try living with animals. Thinking they can’t communicate with us is foolish thinking. They can. We just have to learn their language. In the process, we learn how often and how much we been misinterpreting ourselves. Good luck bonding – and growing – with Tzipporah.
Thank you so much!
I love hearing about her progress and how patient you and your mom are even though you want her to be better right away! Beautiful post! ❤️
Thank you!!!
Oh she is such a sweetheart! Beautiful girl.
Thank you!
🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶
I don’t have knowledge or expertise, so cannot say much. I am guessing there is trauma in Tzipporah’s past, and want to commend you on the progress that has been made. She is capable of moving on from the trauma. As you go forward, make sure the people are the leaders, not the dog. Good luck.
Thank you!
Your concern for Tzipporah’s well being, and sensitivity to her needs are obvious. Let her heal at her own pace, while you heal at yours. Love and patience will do the trick. ❤
Thank you!
Aww, she’s too adorable and looks like she’s settling in nicely.
Thank you!
I was way behind reading your posts, so: belated congrats on your new family member. I’m so glad you got another pup. I’ve had three dogs from shelters over the years, and one was severely traumatized. What I saw with all three was that they only completely came out of their protective shell two to three months after the adoption. Then they trusted enough to be themselves. Then they tried themselves out, did some nonsense, weren’t punished and got braver. I think Tzippy is at this stage. Also, if she only ever had her puppies as companions, that heart-beat toy would perhaps remind her of them and give her comfort. What they all needed most was patience and time.
Looking forward to more Tzippy stories.
Thank you! That’s reassuring to hear!
Thanks for this, Rach. I’ve been having difficulties teaching my Jack Russell (her name’s Popcorn) where to pee and poop. Your tips here should be useful. Lovely read.
It’s all trial and error. Popcorn is a great name for a Jack Russell!
I wonder if putting extra bedding on her bed and then once it has her smell, moving it to the couch and other places in the house would help. The poor wee dog has experienced things we can’t imagine so I would say you are doing a sterling job Rachel. Keep going.
What a great idea. Thank you!
I read somewhere that most dogs who feel somewhat afraid love for their mistress/master to look into their eyes. Apparently, it helps to calm them and make them feel wanted. They read our emotions as much as we read theirs. Looking lovingly at him/her can only aid a greater connection. That’s got to be good, I feel.
I know that my little Pebble will gaze at me forever; and I love to gaze back.
She’s been watching me much more carefully as the weeks have passed, so I think you’re right.
Lovely! I hope your precious little dog continues to improve.
Thank you!
I think you may be right, Rachel. She’s making progress at her own pace. Eventually, I believe your patient love will be rewarded.
I hope so! Thank you!
Our dog was hoarded, and there were moments between 6 months and 1 year that we had him that I felt we had regressed, gone backwards in all progress, and I despaired he would get better. They say 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months, but a professor told me it took 3 years for his adopted dog to stop fearing her phobia. I listened to the Puppy Training Podcast, and took heart from her words to never give up, appreciate every positive, and sometimes it might feel one step forward, two steps back, but don’t give up! The podcast host is a former teacher, so I can relate to that coaching mentality: baby steps! don’t give up! be kind to yourself and your pupil (puppy)! celebrate every progress!
You got this.
Thank you!
Thank you for rescuing Tzipporah. She’s a beautiful little lady and her eyes look out with love. You’ve done that for her. God bless you.
Thank you!