Coal (TN) - Foster Dog News

A Coal update!  A few weeks ago, we introduced you to Coal, a young GSP (2 yo; 30 lbs.) from Middle TN whose life before rescue was anything but easy.  After his owner developed dementia and could no longer care for him, Coal found himself in a shelter. We learned that he had spent his entire life living in an outdoor kennel and, for the past two years, had only been fed every other day. When he arrived in rescue, he was incredibly shut down and unsure of the world around him.
 
Today, we’re celebrating a small victory that feels pretty big. For the first time, Coal’s foster dad, Will, got him to play! The photo says it all. Seeing this boy engage, let loose, and simply enjoy being a dog brought smiles to all of us.
 
Coal still has a long way to go. He will not voluntarily let people pet him yet, and he won’t allow someone to hook him up to a lead. But it’s important to know that he has never shown any aggression. Not even a little. He’s simply scared.
 
And honestly, we can’t imagine what life must have been like for Coal before rescue.  What we do know is that every day, Will and his incredible pack of GSPs - including rescue alum Sally - are showing Coal something different. They’re teaching him that people can be kind. That food comes every day. That play is fun. That he is safe.  Most importantly, they’re showing him what life can be.  How great it can be.
 
Progress with dogs like Coal isn’t measured in giant leaps. It’s measured in moments. A wag. A bark. A game of chase. A little more trust each day.  And Coal is giving us those moments.
 
Thank you, Will and family, for giving this deserving boy the patience, love, and understanding he needs to discover the life he’s always deserved. 
​#TN