My name is Hank Williams named after the famous country singer. I came to DDRTX from a hoarding situation with a group called "The Country Music Stars". Hank Williams is guessed to be 3 years old and only 20 pounds.
Hank Williams is just starting to figure out life in a loving, safe environment, but he is making a lot of progress! He still has a long way to go though, and will need a lot of time and TLC to heal the trauma of his past life.
Hank still acts like two different dogs at the same time. Once he knows and trusts you, he is as happy and wiggly and affectionate as can be, seeking attention and giving kisses. But any loud noise, sudden movement, or unexpected/untrusted people sends him reeling back into his fearful state, hiding and barking in an effort to protect himself. He is very fearful of meeting new people and will need to be on a secure harness anytime he is outside, as he is very skittish.
More about Hank:
Hank LOVES toys and romping with his young foster brother. He will need a confident, playful canine sibling in his ideal forever home.
Hank does not like men much, even men he’s met many times and spent a lot of time with. He will run away from his foster dad and bark loudly at him whenever he walks from room to room or tries to give him a treat or toy.
Hank LOVES treats and meals, though he also still seems to have some anxiety around meal times. He eats very fast, will steal from his foster siblings, and sometimes throws up afterward. A slow feed bowl is a good tool to help him slow down.
Hank has had only a couple of accidents in the house, which is surprising given his past. He is largely house trained but will need patience as he adjusts to a new environment and schedule.
Hank is starting to become more curious, but only when he feels safe. He likes to investigate the dishwasher, look out of windows (so clear off anything you might have on a window sill he can reach haha!), and poke around sniffing everything.
Hank has been on only a few short, leashed walks. He is afraid of, but not aggressive to, having his harness put on, and he’s very jumpy outside. He does pretty well in the backyard but is still afraid of going out to the front for a walk. He’s also being treated for heartworms, so he should not go on long walks yet.
Hank currently has a love/hate relationship with his crate. We couldn’t get him to come out of it for the first week, but now we struggle to get him to go in. He will go in to eat but cries if we crate him for bedtime.
Overall, Hank is a sweet, gentle boy just seeking comfort and love. He is still finding himself and learning about the world. With patience, love, and encouragement, we know he will blossom into an amazing companion for the person who chooses to invest in him!
