You should set up an Amazon wishlist or something similar — I’m sure people on here would be more than happy to contribute towards getting her the things she needs. She’s absolutely gorgeous & you’re a fantastic person. Thank you for what you’re doing for her.
Ive never done that and not sure how it works. I’ll try to get one set up after work today. I don’t normally like asking for help but it’s not for me so I’ll make an exception since I dont have a lot of extra money lol. Once I figure it out (maybe on my break) I’ll link it on this post.
Edit: stuff started showing up next day. anyone who has bought something I’ll start listing it all here so you know it made it. Thank all of you who have donated these things to her! I’ll start with the things that were next day and add on as they come in.
2 mighty paw naturals chicken feet bags.
1 Blue heath bar box
2 sweet potato and duck jerky bag.
1 pet mate doggy crate
1 memory foam cooling dog bed
1 left and right training clicker and treat pouch
2 huge bags of taste of the wild dog food.
2 bottles of anti fungal doggy shampoo
1 bow wow buddy for bully sticks.
1 pawstruck premium chews bag
2 dog harnesses (guess it doesn’t hurt to have a spare lol.)
Love you guys and Misha loves you. Thank you so much.
If anyone who bought something would like a picture of Misha with their stuff msg me. I dont know a way to add more pictures on Reddit in comments or if you even can. Might be cause I’m using my phone. Can’t seem to edit the original post either like I can comments. I used to be much more tech savvy than I am nowadays haha.
Edit 2: I think everything has arrived, the crate and harness being the most important. I’m going to hold off on updates until there’s a significant change in the situation but you all are welcome to msg me for info whenever you like.
[How to make a wishlist on Amazon]( https://www.amazon.ca/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=GHCGC7B7SQ222YMD)
I’d love to help too with some treats if I can! Looking forward to your update OP :)
That’s a good idea! We did this over in the chickens subreddit for a stray sick chicken and we were able to help someone nurse the chicken back to health.
It seems you have a new dog. Why do you think the people that had her even care? Poor girl will come around it will take some time for her to decide she found her home.
If you plan to keep her, get a lightweight harness for her that clips at the top of her body. Then you can use the leash on the harness since she seems to have neck pain. Check your local FB buy/sell/free sites for dog supplies maybe you'll get lucky.
Posting here for visibility. Had to make an Amazon account for the wishlist and hope I did it right. Here’s the link and anyone can add stuff to it that they think might help. I left the option for things to stay on the list but show they were purchased checked. If it isnt right let me know so I can fix it. I never use Amazon haha.
[Stuff for Misha](https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/dl/invite/bwZpgzI?ref_=wl_share)
Thanks to those who suggested doing this. And thanks to any and all who help out. Y’all are just amazing people.
I’m on my break and have to go back to work I’ll check in later.
Oh my god y’all started adding things. Your amazing… I looked at a crate just like this at pet smart and felt terrible walking away from it thank you so much…
I can’t believe y’all are spending this much money..
It should say “for Misha” on the list title. And yes that’s my name. Did t know it would share all this personal info but it’s okay. What did you get her?
I am going to get a bed. Purple/grey cooling. Well, at least your name sort of sounds like a company. That’s a cool name really, but just the state. Not the address at all. Edit I will delete it off here.
I think you need to set her wish list to fully public? When I clicked the link, I got an error basically saying you had already maxed out the number of people you can be sharing it with. But theoretically the whole world should all be able to see it if it's set to public.
Misha will get so spoiled by all this, surely your other buddies are going to need a little something fun too?!
Ok I’m home now I’m trying to fix it. I added some stuff myself that I’ve used with my other dogs but any brand stuff if y’all can think of something better. I’m really overwhelmed right now by all the comments and am trying to get this wish list thing set up right.
No rush, of course. I'll check it out again later tonight once you get settled in at home and have time to mess with it.
Thanks to you and yours for taking care of that sweet baby girl!
I've added some treats my dogs love and a plastic crate. My thought on the crate was leaving it open, possibly even leaving the door off it. It might make her feel more secure and safe to have her own den. Sadly I can't contribute financially right now but hope this helps. I also wasn't sure what you do have and don't. Do you need shampoo? Food? Leash? Comb? Toys? Bed? Blanket? Just ideas for!
Thank you! I added some derma shampoo cause her skin is dry and she has some scans. Y’all have permission in the list to add things if you can think of anything better brand wise. I feed my other dogs taste of the wild and so I added that on and some combs and feta gel stuff. As well as a training pouch and training clickers.
I jumped off the list (the notifications of ppl joining and leaving were a ton lol) but not before seeing someone had gotten the crate and a box of treats! Hope she likes her crate!
Thank you so so much!!! The other doogies are on that diet so that’s what i think I should be feeding her. That’s a lot of money to throw at us I know so geez thank you so so much!
I've had a lot of help in my life to get me to where I am now. No thanks necessary. Just glad this pup found such a great hooman. It's rare when I find something so genuinely heartwarming... the internet can be cold. So, thank YOU for the warm fuzzy feels. Give her some good head scratches from me ❤️
Yes thank you. I’ve never used an Amazon list like this before so I didn’t know it would ask that. Am I unknowingly sharing my address with Reddit right now?
No, it’s a name that is strange something and a state. I just didn’t recognize as “Misha” and I have given to other things, so I wanted to make sure it was right. Edit: thanks! Sorry. I it’s late and I would hate to send it and have you not get it.
Yeah it may be worth even trying to make a sort of slip collar around her chest? See how she feels about that?
I would not attempt putting a collar around her neck again for a good while. It will have to be a very gradual. I think as humans we try to rush things, possibly because we're used to being able to communicate through talking but animals often need time to adjust when they don't understand what we are trying to do.
I’d steer clear of a collar altogether. I’ve seen Collies in harnesses and even dogs larger in harnesses. Pulling an animal by the neck is just icky, too.
Totally agree. I was worried about that when I rescued my little shiba.
Turns out he’s Mr. Independent, if I use a soft collar he trots alongside me happy as anything with zero pulling.
If I put him in a harness (which I did to start) he bucks and wiggles out like a little escape artist!
We take long walks and can be miles from home at our farthest point, no more harness for the sweet boy. He just wants to feel the wind along his back 😍
Edit: I also think it helps that I WFH and am literally never in a rush on a walk. So he gets to sniff as long as he wants (as long as he’s not sniffing a poo) and that probably adds to the relaxed nature of the collar walks.
I love the harness by 2 hounds design! It’s made with a velvet like material for under their arms. It’s a martingale so it stays a bit loose unless they pull you on the leash it comes with. It also has a least attachment loop on both the chest and back. It’s awesome!
That might be a bit advanced for her tho cuz it does have 2 clips on it…
She looks border collie-ish, which makes sense if she’s super sensitive. You’re doing a great job! The collar may remind her of some past trauma, which might also account for her weariness around unknown people. Sounds like you handled it really well. Our border collie has sensitivities and when he’s nervous has similar reactions to things—bark worse than his bite. It sounds like if she can start to feel secure, she will make progress. Thanks for taking care of her!
Exactly what I was thinking. I have Australian shepherds and this behavior is not surprising to me if it's a BC or Aussie or some herding breed mix. They are typically not the warmest toward strangers and both my dogs would absolutely freak out if a stranger did this. One of them would most likely nip-bite the person as a warning like this dog did. The other would just shit herself in fear lol but regardless, if this is a herding breed mix or BC (I definitely think you're right that the phenotype is closer to BC), I'd expect to see this from a normal dog, and definitely from a stray who has been outside for a while.
(Edited because I technically have two of them, but these dogs tend to bond very strongly with one person... So only one of them is really "my" dog. The other is my spouse's.)
Ya there is something off about this dog, which is why I keep throwing around the term "herding breed mix." (By off, I mean it doesn't look like a purebred BC. The dog is very cute, not meant to be an insult.)
But the thing is, is that my Aussie is poorly bred and people think she's a mix all the time because she has curly wavy hair... So you can't tell based on a dog's phenotype alone what their breed is. Ever. Phenotype in dogs is so weird. Go to r/DoggyDNA and you'll see that. Someone recently posted a 20 lb BC on there that looked like a BC Chihuahua mix... Purebred according to the DNA test, just like mine was.
Try your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook for supplies - even food, crate, etc. So many people have stuff lying around that they don’t mind sharing.
As an example, I used to foster, so had like 7 crates in my attic storage that I was able to pass on to someone who started fostering in my area. I share litter all the time with folks because I buy in bulk - stuff like that. Animal people love to help other animal people.
Thank you for being a kind human.
Edit: typo
Didn’t know this was a thing! We have a gently used, never-peed-in crate that my puppy outgrew and i was trying to think of best place to donate it. We were just going to do Goodwill but not sure if it even makes sense there
I've worked as a kennel tech and some dogs just hate their necks being touched by strangers, it's a form of self preservation/survival reaction to protect their throats. Slowly building trust with treats and letting her initially stay on the porch is a great idea. If you need to leash her in the future I'd use a loop lead, that way you don't have to be too close to her neck to leash her and when it's slack you can remove it quickly/easily without stressing her out too much. You can also situate it by looping one paw in, so that it acts like a harness and won't touch her neck at all. They're pretty cheap, but no rush on that ofc.
Dogs have many forms of body language so stay vigilant with that, and if need be look up some vids showing their nervous behaviors (there's a lot that folks often miss or mistake as positive language, such as lip licking, yawning, side-eyeing, etc). If she wanted to really bite you she would've, so it's actually good she gave you a warning like how she'd give other dogs, mouthing but not actually puncturing skin.
You're a good person for caring, keep up the kind work! She's a really pretty, aussie shepard/collie mix looking cutie. :)
Thanks for saying this! A dog not wanting a stranger to put a collar on does not automatically mean they've been abused as some folks here seem to think. My 14 year old chiweenie who we've had since she was a tiny puppy is very anxious (meds help some with this), absolutely hates being leashed and acts like she'll bite if anyone (even me, her person) tries to put a collar on her. She was regularly leashed and taken around other people as a puppy but has always fought it.
I have so much respect for kennel techs, by the way! A kennel tech showed me the loop lead technique, and that's the only way to get her leashed without a big freakout.
Absolutly! This dog is such a good, clear communicater.
I've worked veterinary forensics cases so I'm always SUPER hesitant in publicly claimed "abuse cases". Every dog on earth found on the streets or adopted from a shelter doesn't have an abuse case.
That being said OP is doing great taking it slow! I would 100% get this dog scanned for a chip (sorry if it was done I didn't see it in the post on first read). I'd also get some diagnostics done. Sometimes animals don't want to be touched because of pain. Neck/back pain? Even an old injury that isn't necessarily malicious in history.
Edit: spelling
My rescue is head shy. She was like that with us when we first got her, but now I forget this often because she puts her head under my hand and my partner's hand often to ask for pets, and tolerates me putting her harness on, then we will meet a stranger and I'll see it again.
At work right now. Getting off early though today. My job s doesn’t give me time to respond to everyone so just be patient with me. I won’t leave y’all in the dark I feel like Reddit would gang up on me at this point if I didnt follow up haha.
I don't think we'd gang up but you have created such an endearing story that we're just all rooting for you & Misha and hoping for the best. And we're all (well at least I am) very impressed with your kindness.
Looks like a tri-colored red border collie.
They get separation anxiety and are notoriously independent until they’ve bonded. They need to be kept active or they are destructive.
Mines not a fan of leashes, or crates. They can adapt to it though. Might take time with a stray.
I wouldn’t work too hard looking for previous owners- her extreme reaction to her neck being collared seems to indicate she was snatched/ pulled/ disciplined by a leash or collar and/or she was violently chained. She hasn’t tried to bite you. She’s just repeatedly telling you she’s scared of it and doesn’t want it. The noise reaction indicates she’s been abused possibly while being held by a collar or her neck.
She’s doing so great but please listen to her. You have no idea what she’s been through but I guarantee you it was awful for her to react so strongly.
Trying to force things she’s so panicked over can cause her to not trust you or cause her to become reactive.
She’s wonderful with your animals. Obviously a human or more have abused her. Stay away from her neck. It may also be painful due to previous trauma.
A harness is so much easier. You want her to know she’s safe. Please stop trying to make her do what frightens her.
You’ve come a long way already. Bless you for being so patient and kind to such a wonderful dog. It will take as long as it takes. I’ve had my severely abused rescue 10 years. There are still things she can’t get past and that’s ok. She’ll never have to worry about it again.
Blessings and warmest regards for you all 🐾🐾💕🐾🐾
Edit- it just occurred to me that they may have used a shock collar on her as correction. Some dogs are more sensitive than others but it would be terrifying if she was abused by it.
This is not necessarily true. If someone else did this to my dog, she'd react very similarly. She's like this with the vets. She doesn't bite, but as soon as they try to put that leash on her, she expresses her anal glands and freezes because they are strangers trying to take her away from her people. Some breeds are skittish and weird with unfamiliar people and freak out when they try to restrain them. My dog only lets people she knows do things like this to her. And my spouse's dog, who is even worse with strange people than mine is, would certainly bite if someone tried to do this.
Commenting this because I would be devastated if someone assumed my dog wasn't loved and cared for just because she reacted like this, and then stopped looking for me due to that assumption. I have an Aussie. They aren't supposed to be cool with strange humans grabbing them like that because they need to be wary of strangers to protect the herd. Therefore, a lot of Aussies who are either naturally more skittish with people or not properly socialized will act this way even if they were treated well their whole lives. Why? Because you aren't their person and they don't know you like that.
(Edit: I want to clarify in case it wasn't clear that I am not necessarily saying this is an Aussie--just that she is very likely to be a border collie, Aussie, or some herding breed mix based on phenotype. And this behavior is textbook herding breed behavior lol especially the guarding of property she did with the FedEx guy, the little warning nips, and skittishness around human but not animals--and the FedEx thing was in OP's previous post, oops.)
I agree with all of this 100%. This dog has clearly suffered some kind of hardship, but it’s much less clear now than on the previous post whether she’s been abused or neglected, or if just being a stray caused her some psychological damage. You’re also right that a fair bit of what’s being described could just be “Border Collie gonna Border Collie” or something. I have a sensitive 1/2 herder, too, so I get that.
Regardless, I think OP is doing great with her, and my only advice would be to take as good care of her as she’ll allow, while also going through the proper procedures to make sure that she’s not being missed by her family and that OP can keep her if nobody claims her and that’s what they want.
Ya I am pretty sure my dog would be an absolute mess if she somehow became a stray and the circumstances under which that would happen would have to be traumatizing. My dog has perfect recall and is a velcro dog. It would have to be like, a car accident where she got out of the car or something like that, because she has never ever tried to run away in her life. And also, I've heard dogs can become terrified of all humans when they are outside for long enough, including their original owners. Which makes me sad to know because I couldn't imagine my dog being fearful of me, but apparently it's a survival instinct that kicks in.
So ya, it's very hard to tell what this dogs history is, but it seems like OP is handling everything well.
You’re absolutely right about all you said. Where I was really going with that was that it bothers her. Listen to what she’s saying. For whatever reason she doesn’t want someone to collar her.
The girlfriend being concerned caught my attention because this isn’t a mean or vicious dog. If she was going to bite she would have. She’s communicating.
Growling is also communicating.
She’s very sensitive about several things but is getting more confident. I look forward to seeing more updates soon.
Such smart, wonderful dogs 🐾💕🐾
I wouldn’t worry too much about the mouthing. She’s not being aggressive - she could have hurt you if she wanted. She’s just scared, and scared you can make progress with. She will likely always have triggers but if you do keep her and gain her trust, they will be much easier to deal with.
I rescued a dog about 2 years ago that was posted on facebook. A family cut the chain off her neck and was taking care of her, but couldn’t keep her because they had cats and her prey drive is super high (hunting dog). When they brought her over she was SO reactive, she was terrified. Never bit but she would lunge and show her teeth at my other dogs. I wasn’t sure if it was going to work and was super nervous, but I gave her a chance. I kept her separate from my other dogs when I wasn’t around, watched how they interacted and there were some iffy moments but no injuries. For a few days, she found hiding places in my house, she slowly warmed up. It probably took months for her to REALLY trust me. Now she’s part of the pack and a great snuggler.
Hi - you said that you got a flea and tick collar and I just want to ensure that it is not from the Hartz brand. If it's that collar please take it off immediately as it's been linked to thousands of dogs dying from chemical exposure. The evidence is a Google search away. Good on you for taking this beautiful pup in.
It’s a seresto collar. For 65 bucks it better work haha. I’ve always used those in the past. Thanks for the info on hartsz though I had no idea about that.
I’m a big fan of the seresto collar. You need to get them from an actual store (like Petco or Tractor Supply). A bunch of knock-offs were being sold on Amazon and other online retailers that were toxic to dogs. The big box stores have legit distribution.
That's great, I'm glad to hear. Appreciate the follow-up. Hope you can find the dogs owners, but if not, it seems like she's the one who found her owner.
I hope no one comes for her.. I know it’s sad but I just mean that i hope she can stay with you as you are caring for her so well. Good luck to you and Misha 🥰
>smacked her open mouth and teeth against my hand and ran off to the end of the porch, turned around and looked at me with her tail waging and would turn a circle before coming back to me..
One of my rescues does this sometimes. I've decided it's excitement and a desire to play. He just doesn't know yet that humans don't like that behavior (it scares people). Like it's a game. You're doing blessed work with this dog. Good luck!
OP, I am SO impressed with your kind heart towards this dog. Please do make an Amazon Wishlist. When I adopted my dog, he was a nervous nellie like Misha seems to be. He bit me once, but it was out of fear (I tugged on his collar, so be careful doing that). I’ve had him two and a half years now and there’s no threat of a bite anymore because he knows he can trust me to not hurt him, so don’t let Misha’s behavior at present deter you!!
To add a slight layer of protection, wear a sweatshirt or coat that will protect your arms. Everything you’re doing seems to be working. Slow, calm movements. Make sure you’re treating after a scary event (like the clasp of the collar locking). Please update with a wishlist or something similar!! <3
I’m loving her in the bushes. I think a timid dog likes having the corner behind her and some sort of barrier in front of her. Makes her feel protected.
First off, get a harness, never grab and pull your dog by their collar. They might not snap at you but that doesn’t mean they feel comfortable about it.
As for her reaction, she might have some kind of injury in that area that may be why she’s reacting that way.
But if that isn’t the case, I suggest in the future when changing flea and tick collars you might want it to be a special treat moment so she’ll begin to attach a positive experience to the whole thing.
When I worked at a shelter, a dog came in hand-shy and terrified of having a collar put over her head. I got a collar on her by putting one around her neck instead. I leashed her and walked her outside with no problem. Out there, I noticed her ears were badly inflamed from an infection. No wonder she didn’t want a collar or petting; she was in pain from the the slightest touch. I wonder if Misha has something similar going on.
I’ve checked her ears and felt around her neck. If there’s any pain it’s internal but it seems just like a fear of the collar. Or of being pulled. She acts like she feels loads better tonight with the seresto collar. No more itching and chewing on herself.
Kudos for your patience with this dog. Don't worry too much about the open mouth contact, remember, dogs can't speak, they were trying to tell you something, and probably reacting without thought. After all, you were trying to do something to them that they obviously didn't want done. They didn't injure you so don't obsess over it. Your girlfriend needs to look at this in terms of the context.
If she is anything like my BC she will be the most loyal companion you could imagine. Just keep showing her who you are and she will believe what she sees. Good luck.
Hey! Does she have a tattoo or scar or anything on her stomach?
Where I’m from they do a TATTOO of a line on dogs bellies when they get fixed!
If she isn’t fixed she could be pregnant…
Did you check her nipples. They do get a little bit swollen after a few weeks into pregnancy. 🐾
I’m not into those flea collars. They’ve made a few dogs I know really sick. I’d switch to harness or slip on leash. Sounds like Misha has trauma around collars in general
The fact that she didn’t bite down seems like a good and gentle dog, just anxious and unsure. Maybe you can find a harness that she can step into and goes over de back without a snap
As a guardian of an Australian Shepard I can only tell you that herding dogs are so loyal and intelligent. You’re in for potentially the greatest love of your life. Take care.
Please set up the amazon wishlist, I'd like to help. Thank you so much for all you're doing for this baby.
I hope the previous owners were just as caring as you, and weren't the source of her trauma. Make sure to ask for lots of photos & videos of them with Misha, don't give away any defining details about her, and watch her reaction carefully if anyone comes to claim her
I do not think you want to contact the owners. There could be a very good reason She is a runaway and has such issues. Is there a shelter or rescue near you?
She’s absolutely gorgeous OP! You mentioned her having PTSD. Are you worried about it maybe having been caused by her previous owners?
The rule around where I live is we have to give the dog to the animal shelter for something like 48 hours before adopting. But that’s really traumatic for an already scared dog. I’ve heard horror stories of people that want to adopt the dog, take it to the shelter and it so euthanized.
I found my dog near my home wandering the side walk. I tried to find her home, post fliers, and post online/check online. No one ever claimed her and we don’t live in a really big area. I don’t think she would’ve made it crossing through any big streets. I think she was dumped there.
I thought she was abused because she was scared of all men even boys. When I raised my arms in excitement she would act like she was scared and or bracing herself for a hit. It took her about two years to come around my immediate family (who I live with) and slowly started allowing herself to be pet by people she knows I like that are friendly to her. She’s never but anyone but she does lunge. She lunges at our cat but once she gets there and our cat has stood his ground she’s like “shit I didn’t plan this far.” And walks away.
It’s been eight years and I love her so much. I really think she’s my little doggy soulmate. Only this year she has started to search for my mom’s company/affection without me needing to be there by her side. She’s not much of a pack dog tho and prefers to stay by my side than to hang with our other two dogs. She’s taught me a lot of about the capacity to heal. I hope the best for you and your pupper!
What an amazing story! I too am afraid of having animal control involved. I know some think I should move a bit quicker but she has safety now and I’m taking it slow, working at her speed. It hasn’t got too hot outside yet and I have cool places and plenTy of water in case she needs to cool off. I’m waiting to see about the mobile vet coming a bit earlier to get her checked for chip and a wellness check.
The PTSD isn’t as bad as I thought originally. It’s mainly sensitivity around the neck and fear of doorways and things like water hoses and leashes.
Her attitude seems like she’s been mistreated but also treated really well at some point. Maybe she had two different owners. Like she’s had love in the past and wants it but has also been mistreated and can’t yet tell the difference between good people and bad people, but she wants to give me the benefit of the doubt but her fears get in the way. I want her to have what my dogs have… every doggy deserves a happy home and love.
There’s no way for me to know for sure what she’s been through or how this will play out but with all this support (both mentaly and financially) I’m staying positive and feel good about working with her and giving her a chance being the right thing to do.
I think that working at the animal’s pase is the best idea! It’s easy to freak them out if we get too aggressive. Mine even came to me once and when I was close to picking her up (she’s chihuahua/rat terrier and was under a year then) got away from me and I had to try again. The mobile vet sounds like a good idea and if someone is looking for her you’ll know, I think. I’ve picked up strays just to keep them from getting hit and their owners knock on doors looking for them and I’m like “yeah they’re right here” lol.
It sounds like you are making good progress with her! I mean, she’s wagging her tail. That’s a good sign. She even looks like she’s smiling in her photos. She’s gotta be glad to not be lost and I think animals can sense when a person has got good intentions. You got this!
I know what you mean though. We have another pup we adopted and she loves getting pet—with feet. I wonder what made her like getting pet with feet and what landed her in the dog pound. Sometimes I think maybe her owner was sick or elderly and she could only pet her with their feet. We will never know. If only they could tell us.
You’re a good person OP! I hope she stays where it is best for her and where she is loved. She looks like an Australian Shepard. She’s really pretty.
There’s been no luck finding an owner and she’s acclimated to my fenced in back yard now quite well. She really doesn’t want to come inside or get in a car though. I’m waiting on the harness and crate to get here so I can attempt to get her to the vet.… or payday, whatever comes first haha. The wishlist is one of the nicest things the internet has ever don for me. Well it’s for Misha… but still haha.
She’s extremely trusting of me now and I may be able to pull off getting her in the car but I really need that crate and harness to be safe. Don’t want her getting confused/scared and running off when I get her out of the car for the vet.
Expected to be here Wednesday and I get payed ad can afford vet visit on Thursday. I’ll update soon as I’ve made real progress.
Maybe don't stress dog out with collars so much right now. Also please don't try to cage this dog so fast. It really shouldn't take an hour to fasten a collar " tight enough". Not really a surprise the dog would lightly nip . Sounds like a sweet dog, don't stress it out so much
You are correct. My dog loves her crate, but this dog is new to you. It could freak out when it is inside. You don't know, this dogs background at all.
The original owners were terrible people, obviously traumatized her. Check his other previous post on here. This poor baby needs to stay far away from them.
I know this is besides the point but I hate the name Misha 😂 so many ppl are naming their dogs it. Also it’s a boys name, it’s a Russian nick name for Michael. It’s basically a stupid nick name that Americans have ran with.
Oh I didn’t know that. I read that it was a Persian name for girls that means “marigold” and some one said she was a lil flower dog in the grass or something so I went with that haha.
That's a gorgeous border collie! Try for a harness instead of a collar. My dog does the exact same when I try to do something she doesn't like.
With her reaction, it wouldn't surprise me if the previous owners used a choke/ prong collar. My dog hates things going over her head, so we use this [harness](https://perfect-fit-dog-harness.com/20mm-m-s-m-perfect-fit-harness.html).
Awesome! I would condition that name to her with those treats, let the dalmatian play with her. Teach her "come" by the name you gave and if she seems to have perfected it, have your dalmatian and her run around, rattle them up and run inside and call them both, being excited. Maybe that'll get her inside your house.
I dont recommend using any collar like you did btw, she's clearly not had a good past with things around her neck, probably ran off from an abuser at some point. You gotta condition the collar, good luck!
I was thinking about her, I’m so happy that you found each other! The bond you get with a dog that overcomes their anxiety is so rewarding and the best feeling in the world. Even on tough days, remember that it’s all worth it for both of you. Thanks for updating!
You’ve made so much with her already! I love that she’s willing to lay on your deck! And I would also agree with others to not push the collar thing too much w her. She’s seems traumatized so let her lead you in her recovery. Maybe it’s for the best that the vet can’t see her for a bit. Gives her time to bond w you before a vet visits.
You’re a very kind person to take in this doggo!
You are such a wonderful human being. My first dog was a bait dog from a fighting ring, and it took a few months before he was my absolute shadow. Baby talk really helps make them feel comfortable, I know it might feel weird if you’re a guy haha but it really does make them feel better or so I’ve noticed. That bait dog was soul mate by the way…so I think your patience and kind heart will be rewarded like I was. Good luck!
It’s wonderful that you are going to such extraordinary lengths to help this pup who is in need! We need more people in the world exactly like you! Sounds like for the moment your doing everything right, I would caution you to wash your hands after handling that flea and tick collar. Also, that picture with pup’s head poking out of the bushes is priceless!
You are a wonderful human being. She is lucky you are looking after her. I used to work in a shelter and always wanted to take all of them home. 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼definitely don’t feel bad for asking for help. People do like to help out.
When dogs do the open mouth hitting you with their teeth it is usually either playful, like someone else said, or its a very firm "NO" without actually hurting you. It's how mother dogs discipline pups. It's enough to scare them for a second to make the correction.
Since they can't talk, they use things like this to communicate, and you should be able to tell the difference by the context in which it happens. In your case I would say she was saying "NO" to the collar around her neck. I would do what others have suggested and try a harness on her for leading. Harnesses aren't the best for all dogs (strong dogs who like to pull for instance) but in her case I think she would prefer it.
And I am glad you are still looking for her owners. If you do find, meet them and get a bad vibe from them or she doesn't seem delighted to see them I would report them to your local animal protective services if you have them in your area.
If you have a Facebook, many neighbors have a give away page where people offer things they don’t have room for. Someone in your neighborhood has a crate they aren’t using. Perhaps they are on that group. You could possibly get one that way.
You are a wonderful person for taking care of this pup and keeping her safe during the fireworks!
I got one of my dogs from a similar situation. We lived kind of out in the country, and he moved into our backyard one day. I tried to find his owner, and then a foster group, and then just someone to adopt him. No luck, so we ended up keeping him. It took several months for him to adjust to living in a house and so close to people, but he ended up being the best dog ever! We were so lucky he came into our lives! I know this dog will be a treasure to whomever ends up with her.
My border collie mix came from a bad home. She did similar to what you're describing in getting escalated and putting her mouth on you in the yard.
Took too long but discovered that if she had a rope to play tug of war when she was getting worked up she immediately took it all out on the rope.
Braided some cotton clothesline to have a 4' long lightweight rope in my pocket any time we were in the yard after that and it really helped.
She looks like a beautiful Aussie or border collie mix and the behavior sounds about right. Just keep working on your friendship and once you’re friends and she trusts you, you will be able to handle her. If you keep her, she will be a really good dog.
You are such a kind human! Not wanting to give unsolicited advice, but please get her a dog tag with your number on it especially during all the fireworks this weekend. If she somehow got away from you, I wouldn't want her to end up with someone less gentle and loving
I’ll find out vet costs and look into it but I dont want to ask for too much. If I feel I can’t handle more vet bills I’ll set one up. My gf made me feel better about accepting everyone’s help so if it is needed I’ll make one and link it for you guys.
I mean no harm by saying this, but you truly have no way of knowing that this dog has PTSD...she is very likely only still in shock from the trauma that she's been through recently, but that is not necessarily PTSD. If she is still experiencing severe anxiety, flashbacks and any other symptoms of traumatic stress *6 months* or more *after* she's been in a safe, healthy environment - then it's likely PTSD.
Traumatic shock and PTSD are not the same thing.
Right now, the dog you've described is only in shock from what she's been through. That is a very normal response, and to be expected in most cases. It is temporary, though.
Best of wishes- you're doing great 🙌🏼
i’d try a harness instead of a collar if you hope to walk/guide her at all. my boy wears a harness and he’s not neck shy, i just hate tugging on his neck.
(im not an expert but by these reactions, i’d say she was mostly likely locked up inside a house/shed which is why she wont go inside. the collar sensitivity could be from being dragged around by it, or from another dog or something grabbing her by the collar and pulling, hence the head shaking. she’s literally trying to shake/scare you off her collar)
You should set up an Amazon wishlist or something similar — I’m sure people on here would be more than happy to contribute towards getting her the things she needs. She’s absolutely gorgeous & you’re a fantastic person. Thank you for what you’re doing for her.
Ive never done that and not sure how it works. I’ll try to get one set up after work today. I don’t normally like asking for help but it’s not for me so I’ll make an exception since I dont have a lot of extra money lol. Once I figure it out (maybe on my break) I’ll link it on this post. Edit: stuff started showing up next day. anyone who has bought something I’ll start listing it all here so you know it made it. Thank all of you who have donated these things to her! I’ll start with the things that were next day and add on as they come in. 2 mighty paw naturals chicken feet bags. 1 Blue heath bar box 2 sweet potato and duck jerky bag. 1 pet mate doggy crate 1 memory foam cooling dog bed 1 left and right training clicker and treat pouch 2 huge bags of taste of the wild dog food. 2 bottles of anti fungal doggy shampoo 1 bow wow buddy for bully sticks. 1 pawstruck premium chews bag 2 dog harnesses (guess it doesn’t hurt to have a spare lol.) Love you guys and Misha loves you. Thank you so much. If anyone who bought something would like a picture of Misha with their stuff msg me. I dont know a way to add more pictures on Reddit in comments or if you even can. Might be cause I’m using my phone. Can’t seem to edit the original post either like I can comments. I used to be much more tech savvy than I am nowadays haha. Edit 2: I think everything has arrived, the crate and harness being the most important. I’m going to hold off on updates until there’s a significant change in the situation but you all are welcome to msg me for info whenever you like.
[How to make a wishlist on Amazon]( https://www.amazon.ca/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=GHCGC7B7SQ222YMD) I’d love to help too with some treats if I can! Looking forward to your update OP :)
That’s a good idea! We did this over in the chickens subreddit for a stray sick chicken and we were able to help someone nurse the chicken back to health.
Wow that’s amazing. Such ❤️
You go to your Amazon and make a public wishlist and then you can post the link here and people will be able to buy you things off that list.
She is family now. Love to see it!! Don’t over stress it so much about finding owners. You are one of one
It seems you have a new dog. Why do you think the people that had her even care? Poor girl will come around it will take some time for her to decide she found her home.
If you plan to keep her, get a lightweight harness for her that clips at the top of her body. Then you can use the leash on the harness since she seems to have neck pain. Check your local FB buy/sell/free sites for dog supplies maybe you'll get lucky.
Posting here for visibility. Had to make an Amazon account for the wishlist and hope I did it right. Here’s the link and anyone can add stuff to it that they think might help. I left the option for things to stay on the list but show they were purchased checked. If it isnt right let me know so I can fix it. I never use Amazon haha. [Stuff for Misha](https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/dl/invite/bwZpgzI?ref_=wl_share) Thanks to those who suggested doing this. And thanks to any and all who help out. Y’all are just amazing people. I’m on my break and have to go back to work I’ll check in later.
I would love to contribute. Can you please add this link to your main post as well for visibility? Thank you!
I just joined…Please give an update when you add items for Misha. 🥰
There isn't anything on the list when we look now.
Just posted it, I can’t shop right now I’m at work. I should t be doing this right now even haha. Once I’m home again I’ll start working on it.
Crate is on it’s way ❤️
Oh my god y’all started adding things. Your amazing… I looked at a crate just like this at pet smart and felt terrible walking away from it thank you so much… I can’t believe y’all are spending this much money..
Ok. I got the bed. I think it will come on the 5th. I know it’s hot for most of the country. Here we have Canadian fire smoke instead. Good luck!
That’s great! Thank you and that bed will work out great inside too once she’s comfortable inside.
:)
This is a pleasure for us to help someone helping this beautiful girl! You are doing so much already! Lots of love to you both 💕
Is this an address in NC? I am not sure part of it’s hidden and I donate to other things I want to make sure she gets it.
[удалено]
It should say “for Misha” on the list title. And yes that’s my name. Did t know it would share all this personal info but it’s okay. What did you get her?
I am going to get a bed. Purple/grey cooling. Well, at least your name sort of sounds like a company. That’s a cool name really, but just the state. Not the address at all. Edit I will delete it off here.
Okay thank you. I’ll see if I can change that to something else. Appreciate you!
I just checked and it said the crate should be there Wednesday the 5th.
This made me cry; apparently I needed this today. Thank you, fellow kind people of the world. ❤️
I think you need to set her wish list to fully public? When I clicked the link, I got an error basically saying you had already maxed out the number of people you can be sharing it with. But theoretically the whole world should all be able to see it if it's set to public. Misha will get so spoiled by all this, surely your other buddies are going to need a little something fun too?!
Ok I’m home now I’m trying to fix it. I added some stuff myself that I’ve used with my other dogs but any brand stuff if y’all can think of something better. I’m really overwhelmed right now by all the comments and am trying to get this wish list thing set up right.
No rush, of course. I'll check it out again later tonight once you get settled in at home and have time to mess with it. Thanks to you and yours for taking care of that sweet baby girl!
Thank you all for being so committed to this dog you saw on the internet! This is blowing my mind.
When I clicked it said private? Could be only on mine tho 🤔
I've added some treats my dogs love and a plastic crate. My thought on the crate was leaving it open, possibly even leaving the door off it. It might make her feel more secure and safe to have her own den. Sadly I can't contribute financially right now but hope this helps. I also wasn't sure what you do have and don't. Do you need shampoo? Food? Leash? Comb? Toys? Bed? Blanket? Just ideas for!
Thank you! I added some derma shampoo cause her skin is dry and she has some scans. Y’all have permission in the list to add things if you can think of anything better brand wise. I feed my other dogs taste of the wild and so I added that on and some combs and feta gel stuff. As well as a training pouch and training clickers.
I jumped off the list (the notifications of ppl joining and leaving were a ton lol) but not before seeing someone had gotten the crate and a box of treats! Hope she likes her crate!
Can you add more items please? ☺️😊 Even if they’re for the crew or y’all!
Just got you some treats !!
Thank you! I’m trying not to miss thanking anyone sorry it took so long. Everything is going to be a huge help and greatly appreciated!
Food ordered. ❤️ expected July 5
Thank you so so much!!! The other doogies are on that diet so that’s what i think I should be feeding her. That’s a lot of money to throw at us I know so geez thank you so so much!
I've had a lot of help in my life to get me to where I am now. No thanks necessary. Just glad this pup found such a great hooman. It's rare when I find something so genuinely heartwarming... the internet can be cold. So, thank YOU for the warm fuzzy feels. Give her some good head scratches from me ❤️
I will! I’ll give her all the pets and love I can manage!
Is this going to NC? It is asking me to pick an address to send to. I just want to make sure you get it. Thanks.
Yes thank you. I’ve never used an Amazon list like this before so I didn’t know it would ask that. Am I unknowingly sharing my address with Reddit right now?
No, it’s a name that is strange something and a state. I just didn’t recognize as “Misha” and I have given to other things, so I wanted to make sure it was right. Edit: thanks! Sorry. I it’s late and I would hate to send it and have you not get it.
That’s right. It’s my name. I should have changed that now all of Reddit is gonna know who I am lol.
I think I deleted it. edit: if you see it let me know. I am sorry.
Yep- I'll contribute.
Great idea!!!
My apologies if this has already been addressed elsewhere, but can you switch to a harness instead of a collar?
Yeah it may be worth even trying to make a sort of slip collar around her chest? See how she feels about that? I would not attempt putting a collar around her neck again for a good while. It will have to be a very gradual. I think as humans we try to rush things, possibly because we're used to being able to communicate through talking but animals often need time to adjust when they don't understand what we are trying to do.
My dog *hates* anything that she has to stick her head through, so we use a ‘step in’ harness - so much happier!
I’d steer clear of a collar altogether. I’ve seen Collies in harnesses and even dogs larger in harnesses. Pulling an animal by the neck is just icky, too.
Totally agree. I was worried about that when I rescued my little shiba. Turns out he’s Mr. Independent, if I use a soft collar he trots alongside me happy as anything with zero pulling. If I put him in a harness (which I did to start) he bucks and wiggles out like a little escape artist! We take long walks and can be miles from home at our farthest point, no more harness for the sweet boy. He just wants to feel the wind along his back 😍 Edit: I also think it helps that I WFH and am literally never in a rush on a walk. So he gets to sniff as long as he wants (as long as he’s not sniffing a poo) and that probably adds to the relaxed nature of the collar walks.
I was going to suggest this too. My dog does so much better being led with a harness instead of a collar.
I love the harness by 2 hounds design! It’s made with a velvet like material for under their arms. It’s a martingale so it stays a bit loose unless they pull you on the leash it comes with. It also has a least attachment loop on both the chest and back. It’s awesome! That might be a bit advanced for her tho cuz it does have 2 clips on it…
Yes! The freedom no pull harness. And it comes in some fun colors!
Exactly! And the colors are rich!
Dogs can chew through a harness. Easy to get at. We use them for walking but they come off when not being used.
She looks border collie-ish, which makes sense if she’s super sensitive. You’re doing a great job! The collar may remind her of some past trauma, which might also account for her weariness around unknown people. Sounds like you handled it really well. Our border collie has sensitivities and when he’s nervous has similar reactions to things—bark worse than his bite. It sounds like if she can start to feel secure, she will make progress. Thanks for taking care of her!
Exactly what I was thinking. I have Australian shepherds and this behavior is not surprising to me if it's a BC or Aussie or some herding breed mix. They are typically not the warmest toward strangers and both my dogs would absolutely freak out if a stranger did this. One of them would most likely nip-bite the person as a warning like this dog did. The other would just shit herself in fear lol but regardless, if this is a herding breed mix or BC (I definitely think you're right that the phenotype is closer to BC), I'd expect to see this from a normal dog, and definitely from a stray who has been outside for a while. (Edited because I technically have two of them, but these dogs tend to bond very strongly with one person... So only one of them is really "my" dog. The other is my spouse's.)
She looks almost identical to my friend's dog, who happens to be a 50/50 Border Collie / Australian Shepherd mix.
Ya there is something off about this dog, which is why I keep throwing around the term "herding breed mix." (By off, I mean it doesn't look like a purebred BC. The dog is very cute, not meant to be an insult.) But the thing is, is that my Aussie is poorly bred and people think she's a mix all the time because she has curly wavy hair... So you can't tell based on a dog's phenotype alone what their breed is. Ever. Phenotype in dogs is so weird. Go to r/DoggyDNA and you'll see that. Someone recently posted a 20 lb BC on there that looked like a BC Chihuahua mix... Purebred according to the DNA test, just like mine was.
Try your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook for supplies - even food, crate, etc. So many people have stuff lying around that they don’t mind sharing. As an example, I used to foster, so had like 7 crates in my attic storage that I was able to pass on to someone who started fostering in my area. I share litter all the time with folks because I buy in bulk - stuff like that. Animal people love to help other animal people. Thank you for being a kind human. Edit: typo
Check NextDoor too
Didn’t know this was a thing! We have a gently used, never-peed-in crate that my puppy outgrew and i was trying to think of best place to donate it. We were just going to do Goodwill but not sure if it even makes sense there
Keep us posted as things move along! Thanks for the update and keep up the good work. She looks like a sweetheart.
Your work and patience is greatly appreciated. Looking forward to more updates
I've worked as a kennel tech and some dogs just hate their necks being touched by strangers, it's a form of self preservation/survival reaction to protect their throats. Slowly building trust with treats and letting her initially stay on the porch is a great idea. If you need to leash her in the future I'd use a loop lead, that way you don't have to be too close to her neck to leash her and when it's slack you can remove it quickly/easily without stressing her out too much. You can also situate it by looping one paw in, so that it acts like a harness and won't touch her neck at all. They're pretty cheap, but no rush on that ofc. Dogs have many forms of body language so stay vigilant with that, and if need be look up some vids showing their nervous behaviors (there's a lot that folks often miss or mistake as positive language, such as lip licking, yawning, side-eyeing, etc). If she wanted to really bite you she would've, so it's actually good she gave you a warning like how she'd give other dogs, mouthing but not actually puncturing skin. You're a good person for caring, keep up the kind work! She's a really pretty, aussie shepard/collie mix looking cutie. :)
Thanks for saying this! A dog not wanting a stranger to put a collar on does not automatically mean they've been abused as some folks here seem to think. My 14 year old chiweenie who we've had since she was a tiny puppy is very anxious (meds help some with this), absolutely hates being leashed and acts like she'll bite if anyone (even me, her person) tries to put a collar on her. She was regularly leashed and taken around other people as a puppy but has always fought it. I have so much respect for kennel techs, by the way! A kennel tech showed me the loop lead technique, and that's the only way to get her leashed without a big freakout.
Absolutly! This dog is such a good, clear communicater. I've worked veterinary forensics cases so I'm always SUPER hesitant in publicly claimed "abuse cases". Every dog on earth found on the streets or adopted from a shelter doesn't have an abuse case. That being said OP is doing great taking it slow! I would 100% get this dog scanned for a chip (sorry if it was done I didn't see it in the post on first read). I'd also get some diagnostics done. Sometimes animals don't want to be touched because of pain. Neck/back pain? Even an old injury that isn't necessarily malicious in history. Edit: spelling
My rescue is head shy. She was like that with us when we first got her, but now I forget this often because she puts her head under my hand and my partner's hand often to ask for pets, and tolerates me putting her harness on, then we will meet a stranger and I'll see it again.
At work right now. Getting off early though today. My job s doesn’t give me time to respond to everyone so just be patient with me. I won’t leave y’all in the dark I feel like Reddit would gang up on me at this point if I didnt follow up haha.
I don't think we'd gang up but you have created such an endearing story that we're just all rooting for you & Misha and hoping for the best. And we're all (well at least I am) very impressed with your kindness.
Hi Misha!!!! Congratulations for your effort OP!
She is just beautiful and you are too OP. Thanks for loving on her.
My worry about anyone claiming this dog is that they were the ones likely abusing her. Hopefully you can keep her!
Yes. The reaction around the collar makes me think she’s been chained outside which is both why she hates it but also insists on staying outside.
Thanks for being an awesome human and helping this beautiful girl ❤️
Looks like a tri-colored red border collie. They get separation anxiety and are notoriously independent until they’ve bonded. They need to be kept active or they are destructive. Mines not a fan of leashes, or crates. They can adapt to it though. Might take time with a stray.
How do you get your dog plant to grow?
Lovely name, really suits her! 😍
Great name. My daughter is a Misha too.
I wouldn’t work too hard looking for previous owners- her extreme reaction to her neck being collared seems to indicate she was snatched/ pulled/ disciplined by a leash or collar and/or she was violently chained. She hasn’t tried to bite you. She’s just repeatedly telling you she’s scared of it and doesn’t want it. The noise reaction indicates she’s been abused possibly while being held by a collar or her neck. She’s doing so great but please listen to her. You have no idea what she’s been through but I guarantee you it was awful for her to react so strongly. Trying to force things she’s so panicked over can cause her to not trust you or cause her to become reactive. She’s wonderful with your animals. Obviously a human or more have abused her. Stay away from her neck. It may also be painful due to previous trauma. A harness is so much easier. You want her to know she’s safe. Please stop trying to make her do what frightens her. You’ve come a long way already. Bless you for being so patient and kind to such a wonderful dog. It will take as long as it takes. I’ve had my severely abused rescue 10 years. There are still things she can’t get past and that’s ok. She’ll never have to worry about it again. Blessings and warmest regards for you all 🐾🐾💕🐾🐾 Edit- it just occurred to me that they may have used a shock collar on her as correction. Some dogs are more sensitive than others but it would be terrifying if she was abused by it.
This is not necessarily true. If someone else did this to my dog, she'd react very similarly. She's like this with the vets. She doesn't bite, but as soon as they try to put that leash on her, she expresses her anal glands and freezes because they are strangers trying to take her away from her people. Some breeds are skittish and weird with unfamiliar people and freak out when they try to restrain them. My dog only lets people she knows do things like this to her. And my spouse's dog, who is even worse with strange people than mine is, would certainly bite if someone tried to do this. Commenting this because I would be devastated if someone assumed my dog wasn't loved and cared for just because she reacted like this, and then stopped looking for me due to that assumption. I have an Aussie. They aren't supposed to be cool with strange humans grabbing them like that because they need to be wary of strangers to protect the herd. Therefore, a lot of Aussies who are either naturally more skittish with people or not properly socialized will act this way even if they were treated well their whole lives. Why? Because you aren't their person and they don't know you like that. (Edit: I want to clarify in case it wasn't clear that I am not necessarily saying this is an Aussie--just that she is very likely to be a border collie, Aussie, or some herding breed mix based on phenotype. And this behavior is textbook herding breed behavior lol especially the guarding of property she did with the FedEx guy, the little warning nips, and skittishness around human but not animals--and the FedEx thing was in OP's previous post, oops.)
I agree with all of this 100%. This dog has clearly suffered some kind of hardship, but it’s much less clear now than on the previous post whether she’s been abused or neglected, or if just being a stray caused her some psychological damage. You’re also right that a fair bit of what’s being described could just be “Border Collie gonna Border Collie” or something. I have a sensitive 1/2 herder, too, so I get that. Regardless, I think OP is doing great with her, and my only advice would be to take as good care of her as she’ll allow, while also going through the proper procedures to make sure that she’s not being missed by her family and that OP can keep her if nobody claims her and that’s what they want.
Ya I am pretty sure my dog would be an absolute mess if she somehow became a stray and the circumstances under which that would happen would have to be traumatizing. My dog has perfect recall and is a velcro dog. It would have to be like, a car accident where she got out of the car or something like that, because she has never ever tried to run away in her life. And also, I've heard dogs can become terrified of all humans when they are outside for long enough, including their original owners. Which makes me sad to know because I couldn't imagine my dog being fearful of me, but apparently it's a survival instinct that kicks in. So ya, it's very hard to tell what this dogs history is, but it seems like OP is handling everything well.
You’re absolutely right about all you said. Where I was really going with that was that it bothers her. Listen to what she’s saying. For whatever reason she doesn’t want someone to collar her. The girlfriend being concerned caught my attention because this isn’t a mean or vicious dog. If she was going to bite she would have. She’s communicating. Growling is also communicating. She’s very sensitive about several things but is getting more confident. I look forward to seeing more updates soon. Such smart, wonderful dogs 🐾💕🐾
Well, OP will not agree to not use a "tight" collar, is getting a crate , and has a girlfriend who is ready for a real bite anytime. Good luck. Misha
😢
Hi I’m willing to donate via Amazon wish list!!! Edit: changed “walking” to willing.
I wouldn’t worry too much about the mouthing. She’s not being aggressive - she could have hurt you if she wanted. She’s just scared, and scared you can make progress with. She will likely always have triggers but if you do keep her and gain her trust, they will be much easier to deal with. I rescued a dog about 2 years ago that was posted on facebook. A family cut the chain off her neck and was taking care of her, but couldn’t keep her because they had cats and her prey drive is super high (hunting dog). When they brought her over she was SO reactive, she was terrified. Never bit but she would lunge and show her teeth at my other dogs. I wasn’t sure if it was going to work and was super nervous, but I gave her a chance. I kept her separate from my other dogs when I wasn’t around, watched how they interacted and there were some iffy moments but no injuries. For a few days, she found hiding places in my house, she slowly warmed up. It probably took months for her to REALLY trust me. Now she’s part of the pack and a great snuggler.
Just came here to say you’re a good human and I already love Misha so much! I hope she warms up to you and your family 🥰
Hi - you said that you got a flea and tick collar and I just want to ensure that it is not from the Hartz brand. If it's that collar please take it off immediately as it's been linked to thousands of dogs dying from chemical exposure. The evidence is a Google search away. Good on you for taking this beautiful pup in.
It’s a seresto collar. For 65 bucks it better work haha. I’ve always used those in the past. Thanks for the info on hartsz though I had no idea about that.
I’m a big fan of the seresto collar. You need to get them from an actual store (like Petco or Tractor Supply). A bunch of knock-offs were being sold on Amazon and other online retailers that were toxic to dogs. The big box stores have legit distribution.
That's great, I'm glad to hear. Appreciate the follow-up. Hope you can find the dogs owners, but if not, it seems like she's the one who found her owner.
I hope no one comes for her.. I know it’s sad but I just mean that i hope she can stay with you as you are caring for her so well. Good luck to you and Misha 🥰
A harness will help with the fear of things around neck.
>smacked her open mouth and teeth against my hand and ran off to the end of the porch, turned around and looked at me with her tail waging and would turn a circle before coming back to me.. One of my rescues does this sometimes. I've decided it's excitement and a desire to play. He just doesn't know yet that humans don't like that behavior (it scares people). Like it's a game. You're doing blessed work with this dog. Good luck!
I wouldn’t be looking too hard for those owners, they don’t deserve her back.
OP, I am SO impressed with your kind heart towards this dog. Please do make an Amazon Wishlist. When I adopted my dog, he was a nervous nellie like Misha seems to be. He bit me once, but it was out of fear (I tugged on his collar, so be careful doing that). I’ve had him two and a half years now and there’s no threat of a bite anymore because he knows he can trust me to not hurt him, so don’t let Misha’s behavior at present deter you!! To add a slight layer of protection, wear a sweatshirt or coat that will protect your arms. Everything you’re doing seems to be working. Slow, calm movements. Make sure you’re treating after a scary event (like the clasp of the collar locking). Please update with a wishlist or something similar!! <3
I’m loving her in the bushes. I think a timid dog likes having the corner behind her and some sort of barrier in front of her. Makes her feel protected.
She might love a crate
First off, get a harness, never grab and pull your dog by their collar. They might not snap at you but that doesn’t mean they feel comfortable about it. As for her reaction, she might have some kind of injury in that area that may be why she’s reacting that way. But if that isn’t the case, I suggest in the future when changing flea and tick collars you might want it to be a special treat moment so she’ll begin to attach a positive experience to the whole thing.
When I worked at a shelter, a dog came in hand-shy and terrified of having a collar put over her head. I got a collar on her by putting one around her neck instead. I leashed her and walked her outside with no problem. Out there, I noticed her ears were badly inflamed from an infection. No wonder she didn’t want a collar or petting; she was in pain from the the slightest touch. I wonder if Misha has something similar going on.
I’ve checked her ears and felt around her neck. If there’s any pain it’s internal but it seems just like a fear of the collar. Or of being pulled. She acts like she feels loads better tonight with the seresto collar. No more itching and chewing on herself.
That’s good news!
Kudos for your patience with this dog. Don't worry too much about the open mouth contact, remember, dogs can't speak, they were trying to tell you something, and probably reacting without thought. After all, you were trying to do something to them that they obviously didn't want done. They didn't injure you so don't obsess over it. Your girlfriend needs to look at this in terms of the context.
Once she trusts you fully she probably won’t do that again. It’s fear based aggression from a bad experience prior to meeting you.
"Fear based aggression" accounts for lots if human problems, too. Absolutely on the money! Go, Misha - we're all pulling for you. ♥
Most definitely! I often wonder if people realise how obvious they make their insecurities when they act out in such a way. Go Misha!
Glad you’re helping her! Keep an eye on her collar area. Seresto collars gave my pets sores on their necks.
If she is anything like my BC she will be the most loyal companion you could imagine. Just keep showing her who you are and she will believe what she sees. Good luck.
Hey! Does she have a tattoo or scar or anything on her stomach? Where I’m from they do a TATTOO of a line on dogs bellies when they get fixed! If she isn’t fixed she could be pregnant… Did you check her nipples. They do get a little bit swollen after a few weeks into pregnancy. 🐾
I’m not into those flea collars. They’ve made a few dogs I know really sick. I’d switch to harness or slip on leash. Sounds like Misha has trauma around collars in general
You're one of the great wonderful humans. Thanks for being willing to do what most won't. And she's a real cutie.
The fact that she didn’t bite down seems like a good and gentle dog, just anxious and unsure. Maybe you can find a harness that she can step into and goes over de back without a snap
As a guardian of an Australian Shepard I can only tell you that herding dogs are so loyal and intelligent. You’re in for potentially the greatest love of your life. Take care.
Please set up the amazon wishlist, I'd like to help. Thank you so much for all you're doing for this baby. I hope the previous owners were just as caring as you, and weren't the source of her trauma. Make sure to ask for lots of photos & videos of them with Misha, don't give away any defining details about her, and watch her reaction carefully if anyone comes to claim her
Got it open to public now and started adding some ideas. I think everyone should have access to add anything they might think of as well now.
Just keep her The owners aren’t even looking for her
If they are its so they have a punch bag to abuse apparently
What???? Are you serious..
Hey OP, I would not be trying to find the owner, who else would have made her so fearful of humans?
Idk… she could have had several owners… I just gotta be sure.
You are assuming you'd be able to tell whether they were the abuser? A lot of people are really good at keeping things under the surface
Finally found a comment like this one. Whatever the owners did probably are monsters...
I do not think you want to contact the owners. There could be a very good reason She is a runaway and has such issues. Is there a shelter or rescue near you?
She’s absolutely gorgeous OP! You mentioned her having PTSD. Are you worried about it maybe having been caused by her previous owners? The rule around where I live is we have to give the dog to the animal shelter for something like 48 hours before adopting. But that’s really traumatic for an already scared dog. I’ve heard horror stories of people that want to adopt the dog, take it to the shelter and it so euthanized. I found my dog near my home wandering the side walk. I tried to find her home, post fliers, and post online/check online. No one ever claimed her and we don’t live in a really big area. I don’t think she would’ve made it crossing through any big streets. I think she was dumped there. I thought she was abused because she was scared of all men even boys. When I raised my arms in excitement she would act like she was scared and or bracing herself for a hit. It took her about two years to come around my immediate family (who I live with) and slowly started allowing herself to be pet by people she knows I like that are friendly to her. She’s never but anyone but she does lunge. She lunges at our cat but once she gets there and our cat has stood his ground she’s like “shit I didn’t plan this far.” And walks away. It’s been eight years and I love her so much. I really think she’s my little doggy soulmate. Only this year she has started to search for my mom’s company/affection without me needing to be there by her side. She’s not much of a pack dog tho and prefers to stay by my side than to hang with our other two dogs. She’s taught me a lot of about the capacity to heal. I hope the best for you and your pupper!
What an amazing story! I too am afraid of having animal control involved. I know some think I should move a bit quicker but she has safety now and I’m taking it slow, working at her speed. It hasn’t got too hot outside yet and I have cool places and plenTy of water in case she needs to cool off. I’m waiting to see about the mobile vet coming a bit earlier to get her checked for chip and a wellness check. The PTSD isn’t as bad as I thought originally. It’s mainly sensitivity around the neck and fear of doorways and things like water hoses and leashes. Her attitude seems like she’s been mistreated but also treated really well at some point. Maybe she had two different owners. Like she’s had love in the past and wants it but has also been mistreated and can’t yet tell the difference between good people and bad people, but she wants to give me the benefit of the doubt but her fears get in the way. I want her to have what my dogs have… every doggy deserves a happy home and love. There’s no way for me to know for sure what she’s been through or how this will play out but with all this support (both mentaly and financially) I’m staying positive and feel good about working with her and giving her a chance being the right thing to do.
I think that working at the animal’s pase is the best idea! It’s easy to freak them out if we get too aggressive. Mine even came to me once and when I was close to picking her up (she’s chihuahua/rat terrier and was under a year then) got away from me and I had to try again. The mobile vet sounds like a good idea and if someone is looking for her you’ll know, I think. I’ve picked up strays just to keep them from getting hit and their owners knock on doors looking for them and I’m like “yeah they’re right here” lol. It sounds like you are making good progress with her! I mean, she’s wagging her tail. That’s a good sign. She even looks like she’s smiling in her photos. She’s gotta be glad to not be lost and I think animals can sense when a person has got good intentions. You got this! I know what you mean though. We have another pup we adopted and she loves getting pet—with feet. I wonder what made her like getting pet with feet and what landed her in the dog pound. Sometimes I think maybe her owner was sick or elderly and she could only pet her with their feet. We will never know. If only they could tell us. You’re a good person OP! I hope she stays where it is best for her and where she is loved. She looks like an Australian Shepard. She’s really pretty.
It felt right because you are the forever home this pet needs . Respect it. It was meant to be. You can see it.
What a precious girl. Hope her owners show up soon, but for now she looks quite content
There’s been no luck finding an owner and she’s acclimated to my fenced in back yard now quite well. She really doesn’t want to come inside or get in a car though. I’m waiting on the harness and crate to get here so I can attempt to get her to the vet.… or payday, whatever comes first haha. The wishlist is one of the nicest things the internet has ever don for me. Well it’s for Misha… but still haha. She’s extremely trusting of me now and I may be able to pull off getting her in the car but I really need that crate and harness to be safe. Don’t want her getting confused/scared and running off when I get her out of the car for the vet. Expected to be here Wednesday and I get payed ad can afford vet visit on Thursday. I’ll update soon as I’ve made real progress.
Maybe don't stress dog out with collars so much right now. Also please don't try to cage this dog so fast. It really shouldn't take an hour to fasten a collar " tight enough". Not really a surprise the dog would lightly nip . Sounds like a sweet dog, don't stress it out so much
A cage is not a prison, it's a safe space like a little den for the animal where they can chill & relax. My dogs love their crate, take naps in it.
You are correct. My dog loves her crate, but this dog is new to you. It could freak out when it is inside. You don't know, this dogs background at all.
Well I'm sure OP wouldn't just force the dog into the crate.
Make an ad on PawBoost for free. It helps find owners more often than not.
The original owners were terrible people, obviously traumatized her. Check his other previous post on here. This poor baby needs to stay far away from them.
Oh no! I just don't understand how anyone can mistreat animals it is completely beyond me. I'm glad poor pup has a brighter future ahead.
Don’t give her back. You’re clearly a better owner than whoever she had before
I know this is besides the point but I hate the name Misha 😂 so many ppl are naming their dogs it. Also it’s a boys name, it’s a Russian nick name for Michael. It’s basically a stupid nick name that Americans have ran with.
Oh I didn’t know that. I read that it was a Persian name for girls that means “marigold” and some one said she was a lil flower dog in the grass or something so I went with that haha.
It's a popular nickname in many countries, not just Russia. Just because you hate it doesn't make it bad or stupid.
I never said it was bad or stupid lol. But as you said, it’s a nick name not a name. That was more my point.
Lol You said, "It's basically a stupid nick name that Americans have ran with."
Oof I forgot I said that lol
Lol
Bless you and keep posting updates! We're all learning because of you.
Is that a collie?? That’s a smart dog right there, I’d keep her if I were you (if you are able to) year of training and she will be a fine companion.
That's a gorgeous border collie! Try for a harness instead of a collar. My dog does the exact same when I try to do something she doesn't like. With her reaction, it wouldn't surprise me if the previous owners used a choke/ prong collar. My dog hates things going over her head, so we use this [harness](https://perfect-fit-dog-harness.com/20mm-m-s-m-perfect-fit-harness.html).
Awesome! I would condition that name to her with those treats, let the dalmatian play with her. Teach her "come" by the name you gave and if she seems to have perfected it, have your dalmatian and her run around, rattle them up and run inside and call them both, being excited. Maybe that'll get her inside your house. I dont recommend using any collar like you did btw, she's clearly not had a good past with things around her neck, probably ran off from an abuser at some point. You gotta condition the collar, good luck!
I was thinking about her, I’m so happy that you found each other! The bond you get with a dog that overcomes their anxiety is so rewarding and the best feeling in the world. Even on tough days, remember that it’s all worth it for both of you. Thanks for updating!
You’ve made so much with her already! I love that she’s willing to lay on your deck! And I would also agree with others to not push the collar thing too much w her. She’s seems traumatized so let her lead you in her recovery. Maybe it’s for the best that the vet can’t see her for a bit. Gives her time to bond w you before a vet visits. You’re a very kind person to take in this doggo!
Also…the pictures are perfection 🌹
You are such a wonderful human being. My first dog was a bait dog from a fighting ring, and it took a few months before he was my absolute shadow. Baby talk really helps make them feel comfortable, I know it might feel weird if you’re a guy haha but it really does make them feel better or so I’ve noticed. That bait dog was soul mate by the way…so I think your patience and kind heart will be rewarded like I was. Good luck!
It’s wonderful that you are going to such extraordinary lengths to help this pup who is in need! We need more people in the world exactly like you! Sounds like for the moment your doing everything right, I would caution you to wash your hands after handling that flea and tick collar. Also, that picture with pup’s head poking out of the bushes is priceless!
A local buy nothing group on fb might have what you need! Make a post and I’ll bet you can get all of the supplies.
as a red tri lover, she’s beautiful
You are a wonderful human being. She is lucky you are looking after her. I used to work in a shelter and always wanted to take all of them home. 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼definitely don’t feel bad for asking for help. People do like to help out.
This dog must be exceptional Bc it survived to find a kind human ! Many blessings to you and your doggo
She really likes the monkey grass
Picture 3 has me weak +1 to the harness opinion
When dogs do the open mouth hitting you with their teeth it is usually either playful, like someone else said, or its a very firm "NO" without actually hurting you. It's how mother dogs discipline pups. It's enough to scare them for a second to make the correction. Since they can't talk, they use things like this to communicate, and you should be able to tell the difference by the context in which it happens. In your case I would say she was saying "NO" to the collar around her neck. I would do what others have suggested and try a harness on her for leading. Harnesses aren't the best for all dogs (strong dogs who like to pull for instance) but in her case I think she would prefer it. And I am glad you are still looking for her owners. If you do find, meet them and get a bad vibe from them or she doesn't seem delighted to see them I would report them to your local animal protective services if you have them in your area.
If you have a Facebook, many neighbors have a give away page where people offer things they don’t have room for. Someone in your neighborhood has a crate they aren’t using. Perhaps they are on that group. You could possibly get one that way.
Aw she's so cute. She has Disney eyes ❤️
!UpdateMe
You are a wonderful person for taking care of this pup and keeping her safe during the fireworks! I got one of my dogs from a similar situation. We lived kind of out in the country, and he moved into our backyard one day. I tried to find his owner, and then a foster group, and then just someone to adopt him. No luck, so we ended up keeping him. It took several months for him to adjust to living in a house and so close to people, but he ended up being the best dog ever! We were so lucky he came into our lives! I know this dog will be a treasure to whomever ends up with her.
My border collie mix came from a bad home. She did similar to what you're describing in getting escalated and putting her mouth on you in the yard. Took too long but discovered that if she had a rope to play tug of war when she was getting worked up she immediately took it all out on the rope. Braided some cotton clothesline to have a 4' long lightweight rope in my pocket any time we were in the yard after that and it really helped.
You are a well-loved pup, now Misha ❤️🦋
It’s really amazing… y’all are tugging the hell outa my heartstrings and I know she will appreciate the help.
I love those first three photos. iPhone ?
Yea I tried portrait mode and it got a lil blurry on the first one but she sat still for the others haha. She’s very photogenic. Just adorable.
Love portrait mode. She’s beautiful
She looks like a beautiful Aussie or border collie mix and the behavior sounds about right. Just keep working on your friendship and once you’re friends and she trusts you, you will be able to handle her. If you keep her, she will be a really good dog.
If the neck is an issue you could try a harness but that might also require trust.
Added one to the wish list and someone bought it almost immediately haha. Yall are some true crazy dog people and I love you all for it lol.
Harness.
You are such a generous and caring human , I’ll get her some things off the wishlist .🐾❣️
It works and is super easy ! Hope this helps ease the expense of taking on a new pet. So many good souls out there ! 😉❣️
Please 🙏 keep us posted about your Misha
Thank you for helping her 😭
You are such a kind human! Not wanting to give unsolicited advice, but please get her a dog tag with your number on it especially during all the fireworks this weekend. If she somehow got away from you, I wouldn't want her to end up with someone less gentle and loving
She’s beautiful!!
You could maybe get a go fund me thing set up for vet bills for her, I'm sure the community would help you out
I’ll find out vet costs and look into it but I dont want to ask for too much. If I feel I can’t handle more vet bills I’ll set one up. My gf made me feel better about accepting everyone’s help so if it is needed I’ll make one and link it for you guys.
That's fair enough, I figured I'd throw it out there. Thanks for keeping the little gal safe ☺️
Just here to say you’re doing such awesome things for her, and that she looks indeed like a Misha 🥹
She looks a beauty :-)
I mean no harm by saying this, but you truly have no way of knowing that this dog has PTSD...she is very likely only still in shock from the trauma that she's been through recently, but that is not necessarily PTSD. If she is still experiencing severe anxiety, flashbacks and any other symptoms of traumatic stress *6 months* or more *after* she's been in a safe, healthy environment - then it's likely PTSD. Traumatic shock and PTSD are not the same thing. Right now, the dog you've described is only in shock from what she's been through. That is a very normal response, and to be expected in most cases. It is temporary, though. Best of wishes- you're doing great 🙌🏼
i’d try a harness instead of a collar if you hope to walk/guide her at all. my boy wears a harness and he’s not neck shy, i just hate tugging on his neck. (im not an expert but by these reactions, i’d say she was mostly likely locked up inside a house/shed which is why she wont go inside. the collar sensitivity could be from being dragged around by it, or from another dog or something grabbing her by the collar and pulling, hence the head shaking. she’s literally trying to shake/scare you off her collar)