abused and neglected and unsocialized poodle

Question
Good Evening.  I am fostering a abused poodle that was severly neglected and unsocialized.  I will be fostering for about a month to try and nurse the dog back to society for adoption to a wonderful home.  I havent really worked with a dog with this severe syptoms.  Can you please give me some pointers on how to make this animal able to coop with being around a family.
Thank you for your time
Mary Morales

Answer
Mary,

I'll do my best :).  Sudden movements and pushing too hard could be detrimental to the relationship you form with this dog. It may take more than a month, although sometimes it can take less time.  I find with a dog that has been abused or neglected, it's best to just sit near them....but not TOO near.  The idea is to be close but not so close that they feel threatened.  Talk to him/her and offer treats now and then.  At first, just put it near him/her and let them get it in their own time.  I just took a dog that had been neglected to his new home (from KS to VA) and I had worked with him several months at the vet clinic where I worked (although it wasn't daily).  If you'd like, feel free to contact me at kathrynks@cox.net and either give me your phone # or I'll be happy to give you mine if you feel more comfortable that way.....and we can talk about it.

Mainly, it's best that (at least in my opinion) you sort of act like the abused dog is there but not the focus of your attention. When he/she needs out, put a lead on him/her, and allow plenty of lead so he/she can feel unfettered as much as possible.  Do you have other dogs? Does she/he interact well with them? If so, it may be best to take them out together. There are so many variables and I would love to explore it with you if you like.

Just let me know. I'll check my e-mail frequently today. Tomorrow I'll be in school all frickin' day (8-6) but will be home after that.

Anyway, the main thing is to take it slow and easy.  Let him/her come to you.  Baby steps.  The neglect didn't happen overnight and it can't be undone overnight.

Good luck and I hope to hear from you!

Kathy