Horchata

• Special needs

Special needs: [BLUE]Background: Stray intake on 5/29/26. Blue dot on intake. Intake staff noted that dog was very scared. Second time meeting first handler. First time meeting second handler. Evaluation completed on 6/10/26.O: At the front of the kennel, tapping feet and wagging tail. Easy to leash. Tucked tail and some zigzag walking down the hallway. Ears pinned, tail tucked as she turned back to look at second handler who was walking behind. Approached both handlers slight piloerection, relaxed body, soft face, wagging tail. Stepped forward for pets around head and relaxed with all over gentle pets. Stiffened slightly and whale eye with more vigorous petting. Took offered treats gently. Followed tossed toys, sniffed, but did not pick up. Ears pinned, tail tucked as she turned back to look at second handler who was walking behind on the way back to the kennel. No issues rekenneling. A: Affiliative but timid. Medium energy. Does not appear to know any commands. Does not appear to be leash trained. Shows enjoyment with pets, but can be a little overwhelmed with more invasive handling. Treat motivated. Blue for in-shelter handling d/t initial very timid kennel presentation and some discomfort with more invasive handling. P: Make available for adoption. Reassess for yellow in one-week as she has shown rapid improvement in kennel presentation and is affiliative with familiar handlers. Recommend patient rewards-based approach to basic training (leash walking, basic commands) with structured and slow introduction to new environments/people. May do best in an adult only home or with dog-savvy older kids as dog is somewhat anxious.This dog has shown signs of food guarding while in a foster home. Adopters should be aware that guarding behavior may continue and should be prepared to manage it appropriately. Recommended precautions include:Allowing the dog to eat undisturbed in a quiet area.Avoiding reaching toward the dog or the food bowl while the dog is eating.Picking up empty bowls only after the dog has moved away.Supervising interactions with children or other pets around food, treats, or high-value items.If guarding behavior persists or worsens, a veterinarian or qualified trainer/behavior professional can help provide guidance on behavior modification and safe management strategies.[2026-06-12 15:19:00.000]