an abused dog

Question
QUESTION: My mother has just adopted a one-year old cocker spaniel female from our local humane society, it was abused.  She doesn't noise, when people come to visit she will hide under the table.  She will come peek, but will not come out to see anyone.  She does follow my mother everywhere and seems very happy to be with her.  My question is how do we help her get over the abuse?

ANSWER: Hi Jean,
I have a few questions.  How is she on her walks?
How is she with familiar people?  Is she frighened/nervous of anything else but strange people?  Does she eventually come out when visitors are around?

For the moment, I'd just ignore the behavior.  Above all, do not coax - comfort her.  For a dog that's reinforcing her fears.  In time she'll figure out that nothing bad happens when there's a visitor in the house.
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: She seems ok going for a walk.  She still is shy when I go for a visit (I am there everyday), she will come out after a while of me being there. She is frighened with all noises and sudden movement. My mother has only had the dog for 5 days.  thank you

Answer
Well then, Jean, I'd tell your Mom to just respect her shyness for awhile.  Ignore it...and let her come out when she's ready.  The most important thing is not to try and comfort her.  I know that sounds cold :)...but the very best thing to do is simply carry on as if all is well.

When you're there and she finally comes out, say hello and have a treat ready.  If she won't come right to you, just put it within her reach.

With her history I'm totally surprised she's not a lot worse
and she has only been in her new home a week...so give it time.

On walks, if she gets spooked, just tell your Mom to stand still and say nothing until she gets over it, then say "Okay, let's go" and carry on.  Go the same route every day and let her get used to it.
Best of luck and write anytime if you have more questions.
Delores