TESSA ~ FEMALE ~ MORKIE ~ DOB 4/1/12 ~ Sanctuary

 MAY 2019: Meet little Tessa.  It's hard to imagine her having litter after litter of puppies, she's barely bigger than a puppy herself. Fortunately, all that is behind her now and there will be no more puppies for this sweet girl. She is still skittish, and not quite ready to trust us yet, but we see the signs that she is beginning to relax. If we approach her slowly and carefully, we are now able to pick her up without her bolting in fear. This is a pretty big step for her. She wants to trust us, and we know that day will come, she just isn't quite there yet. 

JULY 2019:  Outside of her playpen, Tessa is very anxious and nervous, observing everything and everyone from a safe distance... always on the move. Recently, she has started to settle a bit. Laying down at a distance and observing. This week she was spotted observing a volunteer petting and loving Tobias. Eventually, with much patience, the volunteer was able to touch her and pet her. When spooked by another volunteer, Tessa recovered and came back, wanting more attention....slowly on her terms...but progress is definitely being made. One thing we know...we will let her take the time she needs to trust. We are so honored to be a part of Tessa’s recovery! Tessa we love you and are so very proud of you!

AUGUST 2019: Check out the photo below of gorgeous Tessa after her spa day!

OCTOBER 2019: Our beautiful Tessa is still learning to trust, but it is a slow process. We will continue to work with her, at her pace, encouraged by every tiny step forward that she makes. 

MARCH 2020:  Tessa continues to enjoy her time "being near" in a quiet environment.    She is very anxious and exits the space when a lot of activity is happening.   However, she is often seen resting within a foot or two of a volunteer when things are calm.   Petting Tessa is a challenge.  She is very tense when touched and it takes some time for her to relax.  We have discovered she is an expert puzzle master!  She enjoys searching for dogfood/treats in a variety of ways!  We believe this is helping to build her confidence!  We will continue to give Tessa the time she needs to trust.

JUNE 2020:  Petting Tessa is a challenge.  However, she is learning that human hands can be a rewarding and relaxing experience.  She is trying to trust.  She has been able to experience the world outside of MPMR from the stroller.  This allows her a safe, secure space to see the sights and sounds of a different environment.  Even in the stroller she is a bit anxious... we continue to work with her.

Medical Expenses for Tessa through February 12, 2020 total $906.