Thelma Shiba Inu Chicago, IL

My name is Thema, and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 2 y.o. and weigh 25 lbs. I came to my foster home here in Oak Park, IL, from a commercial breeding facility, where humans were scary! But I am learning to trust and enjoy living here! Loud noises and sudden movements still spook me. I'm shyl, but my foster parents have been kind and patient, so I'm starting to relax and show my true personality. I love exploring the fenced yard with my foster fur-sister and I am learning to enjoy leash walks in the neighborhood. I sometimes tug a bit and try to dash after the critters we see outside. Indoors, I’m a good girl! I am potty trained and not at all destructive or loud. I don’t climb on the furniture, but I have my favorite spot in front of the sofa where I hang out. I’m not quite brave enough to approach my foster parents on my own, but I like it when they give me treats and I’m learning that belly rubs and head scritches feel so good! I’m good with other dogs – cautious at first and respectful of their space. I don’t try to interact with dogs we meet on walks. I’ve never lived with cats or other small pets before, so I’m not sure if I’d be good with them or want to chase them. My perfect forever home would be a calm, quiet one with a friendly, laid-back resident dog to help me learn the ropes. The humans should be patient and understand that it will take time for me to learn to trust them. If you have experience with fearful dogs, that would help. Older human kids would be fine as long as they are gentle. No small kids - they are a bit too much for me. My forever family will need to be very careful around open doors and/or gates, since I have a typical Shiba Inu instinct to bolt and am very fast. It will be important to have a good escape prevention system in place, especially as I’m adjusting to a new home. I am a healthy girl. I’m spayed and up-to-date on vaccinations. If you live in the Midwest and want sweet, shy girl like me in your family, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA ensure we'll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet!