Saluki Rescue - Desperate for Advice
Just over a week ago, my 9 month pup was purchased (saved?) from travellers. I was mislead and didn’t know her origin or condition until it was too late. She’s lived outside, had to scavenge for food from bins and discarded food wrappers and is subsequently significantly underweight and underdeveloped.
Over the week I’ve calmed her desperation for food completely and the change in her appearance is obvious. Plus we’ve bonded well and she’s the most affectionate dog you could imagine.
However she’s terrified to pee/poo outside. Although my enclosed parking spot feels more safe to do her business (sometimes) and is praised with treats when she does!
Futhermore it’s hit/miss whether she’ll attempt to bolt at the sight of other dogs approaching. She’s increasingly attempting to run away from any sight of dogs or humans. And she‘s increasingly rejecting being on a lead/collar/harness. She may jump out of her skin until she’s free and has run loose on my local roads a dozen times. Thankfully I live in a quiet housing estate and able to calmly catch her.
But I feel exhausted and overwhelmed. We just returned home after she got loose outside my home, twice, and I feel like I’m ruining any progress previously made. I’m currently hiding in bed after having a daft cry. I did so well for my previous dog but I wasn’t prepared for such a wild neurotic pup. And Id therefore be very grateful for any and all possible advice please. Thank you in advance for your help.