Summer

Summer is a resilient and gentle soul who came to us after surviving heartbreaking conditions. Rescued from a hoarding situation, she spent her early life confined in a small, outdoor enclosure with little to no human interaction. Isolated and afraid, Summer learned to fend for herself, almost like a feral dog, relying on instinct alone.

When she first arrived at Avello, Summer was terrified. She huddled in the deepest corner of her travel crate, frozen with fear and refusing to come out. With patience and care, we gently helped her out—but she immediately ran under a car to hide. Trust was foreign to her, and even eating was a challenge. 

For weeks, Summer wouldn’t eat in the presence of humans; we had to leave the room for her to feel safe enough to take a few bites. She avoided eye contact and would retreat into her safe corner, curling up with her face down—punishing herself in silence.

Summer was also a major flight risk. One day, she managed to escape and fled into the woods. It took two long days, and the help of a local trapper, to safely bring her back home.

Despite her progress, no one showed interest in adopting Summer. For over seven months, not a single inquiry came in—not even a request to meet her. The shelter eventually reached out to Avello and asked if Summer could stay permanently. It was clear she had found her person in Ana, the only human she fully trusted. Though Ana hadn’t planned on adopting Summer she knew deep down that adopting Summer was the best choice for Summer's future. Dogs like Summer, with deep trauma and special needs, often require a level of patience, understanding, and experience that most adopters simply aren’t equipped for.

Now, Summer is slowly but surely discovering what it means to be a dog. She runs, plays, and loves jumping into Ana’s lap for affection. Her eyes are brighter, her steps lighter. She’s learning to find joy, connection, and the safety she never knew she could have.

Summer still has a journey ahead of her, but her transformation so far is nothing short of inspiring. She is proof that, with patience and love, even the most broken spirits can learn to trust again.