Gray, an abandoned female pitbull, finds a home with Victoria and Sadie

"Gray at my desk"

Every once in a while I'll come across an abandoned dog. That's what happened this Saturday morning when I met Gray, a 2 year old female pitbull with piercing greenish eyes. Gray's story however is not uncommon. This is her story. 

On Friday, Victoria who works near the Brooklyn Navy Yard, was walking along the former shipbuilding facility now turned industrial park. On her walk, Victoria came across a disturbing sight: a gray coated dog tied by a manila rope to a tall chain link fence. Victoria immediately scanned the area, hoping to see some sign that the dog's owner was nearby. After some time, Victoria accepted the reality of the situation: someone had intentionally abandoned this dog.

Without much hesitation, Victoria approached the female pitbull and after spennding some time comforting the sad, nameless dog, Victoria decided to take her home. Victoria decided to name the dog Gray.

The next day, I met Victoria and she asked me how to successfully merge Gray into her home, which already consisted of a 2 year old pitbull named Sadie. According to Victoria, Sadie is an energetic and happy dog but she is concerned that tension may develop between Sadie and Gray, which could cause her to find a new home for Gray.

My brother John and I gave Victoria our thoughts. We immediately recognized that Gray is somewhat traumatized from being abandoned and to compensate, Gray has forged a strong attachment to Victoria, her new mommy. We explained to Victoria that this could lead to some form of separation anxiety. We also noted that because Gray is submissive, rambunctious Sadie may develop dominant tendencies, which could add some stress.

We suggested a couple of things to Victoria to help maintain a healthy and peaceful home environment.

First, we suggested that Victoria, apply rules and enforce those rules consistently so that both Sadie and Gray respect Victoria as the pack leader. For example, Victoria should ensure that Sadie doesn't take Gray's food and if Sadie does take Gray's food, then Victoria should discipline Sadie in front of Gray (and vice versa).

Second, we suggested to Victoria that she take Sadie and Gray out for exercise in order to teach them that they are part of Victoria's pack and to further the socialization process.

Third, we suggested that Victoria socialize both dogs, particularly Gray, with other people and dogs so they develop trust and confidence.

In addition to these socialization and behavior tips, we observed that Gray had a heat rash on her paws and recommended that Victoria take Gray in to see a vet for a thorough physical examination to make sure Gray is healthy.

After we shared our thoughts with Victoria, we offered to share Gray's story and keep in touch with her and Gray. We hope to post a picture of Gray, Victoria and Sadie soon.

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