From Fear to Friendship: Copper's Journey

Copper is a labrador retriever mix with a mahogany coat and large, expressive eyes. When he arrived at Dakin last November at 9 months old, he was fearful and anxious, needing encouragement just to stand or walk. However, seeing another dog would instantly lift his spirits, and he'd eagerly seek a new friend.

Though cleared for adoption right away, Dakin staff carefully noted his behavioral challenges. His profile highlighted his “heart full of love and a touch of shyness,” along with his “sweet, gentle” nature, but emphasized the need for a friendly, confident dog in his new home to help him build confidence. “With a buddy, Copper blossoms, enjoys meeting new people, and even plays. Alone, he’s timid and may hide until he feels secure,” the profile read.

Within days, an adopter placed a hold on Copper but withdrew it after a play date with their dog. Copper, excited to meet a new friend, became overly enthusiastic, stressing the other dog. A week later, the same situation occurred with another potential adopter, whose dog was overwhelmed by Copper's eagerness. It was clear that finding the right match for him would require patience and effort.

Copper was placed in a foster home with Emily, one of Dakin’s most dedicated and experienced dog fosters. Her family includes two young children, three cats, and a year-old dog, Nali. Emily worked with Copper to reduce his nervous habits, like leg humping and mouthiness, which are stress-relief behaviors. Her patience and care were crucial for Copper’s progress.  “The first few weeks were rough,” Emily recalled. “He had no self-calming behaviors, but I taught him to sit and a few other things.”

As Copper settled in, Emily also worked closely with the Dakin team, noting his improvements and planning for his transition to an adopter. The plan involved bringing Copper to potential adopters' homes for visits, then returning him to Emily’s house, helping him build confidence and avoid anxiety. Copper, despite his quirks and issues, was an endearing foster. “He’s a really sweet dog,” Emily stated. “Every time I sat down, he’d lay across me. Once he got comfortable with the kids, he did the same with them. He adored Nali, and he was just so lovable.”

A few adoption inquiries arose, but Copper's nervous habits caused the families to reconsider. Finally, in early March, Copper met Heather, who adopted him into a loving home in Hampden County. He is settling in nicely. Emily has stayed in touch with Heather to offer some insight about Copper’s personality to help with his transition. And, as a Dakin adopter, Heather has access to our behavioral team should she have questions about Copper’s care.

Copper’s journey to adoption succeeded thanks to Dakin’s animal care, behavior and volunteer teams, Emily and Heather’s dedication, and his own determined spirit.