RESCUE-ONLY DEADLINE CLOSE OF BUSINESS Tuesday February 3rd Must be pulled by a partnered rescue Name: Calligraphy Animal ID: A889494 Age: 1 year 1 month Weight: 41lbs Web Link: 24petconnect.com/PimaAdoptablePets/Details/PIMA/A889494 About: Calligraphy is a German Shepherd mix who is searching for a very specific kind of sanctuary. Found as a stray with a history of livestock harassment, he arrived at the shelter with significant behavioral hurdles. He is currently severely under socialized and has found the high-pressure shelter environment difficult to navigate. Because he remains quite fearful and has had limited human handling, he requires a quiet, predictable home that can move at his speed rather than expecting him to adapt to ours. While his journey has been slow, we are finally seeing signs of hope. Calligraphy has recently started to turn a corner with his leash training, beginning to understand the concept of walking alongside a human. This breakthrough proves that with the right guidance, he is capable of learning and connecting. He isn't a plug-and-play dog, but he is a resilient one who simply needs a translator for the human world. We are looking for a knowledgeable, rescue-savvy owner with specific experience in rehabilitating fearful or shut-down dogs. Calligraphy needs a patient guardian who understands that progress is measured in inches, not miles. If you have the skills to help a fearful dog find his confidence and the space to let him progress on his own terms, Calligraphy may be the rewarding challenge you’ve been looking for. Adoption Process: All interested parties must meet the dog at PACC before their deadline. Some dogs may also require an introduction to any dogs they may potentially live with. Once introductions are complete and if the IP has decided this dog may be a good fit, the process is as follows: Interested parties: • Must visit PACC before the COB TUESDAY FEBRUARY 3rd deadline to meet with an adoption counselor who will go over notes and introduce you to the dog. • Are encouraged to reach out to a rescue group ASAP (even before coming to PACC), to start the rescue approval process. Please have the rescue contact PACC at PACC.UrgentDogs@pima.gov if approved to pull. • If an IP has not already contacted a rescue, PACC will notify all partnered rescue groups of an interested party and request their assistance. Once you have come to PACC to meet with the dog and determined that you’d like to move forward, your information will be sent to partnered rescue groups. If a rescue group is interested and feels they may be able to pull, they will then reach out to IPs. Collaboration with Rescue Groups: • Rescue groups are encouraged to reach out to PACC immediately if they will pull this animal into their rescue (and if there are requirements: Interested adoptive party, spay/neuter if not already completed, etc.) • Rescue groups are encouraged to start their adoption process with any interested parties who have contacted them directly and email PACC at PACC.UrgentDogs@pima.gov. Please note that it is ultimately up to the rescue group's discretion to decide whether to proceed with adoption. HOME MANAGEMENT PLAN: Undersocialized OR Handling Issues: • Decompression Period - Allow Calligraphy a minimum of 2 weeks to settle. They must be allowed to go at their own pace. Allow them to approach you for attention and pets. DO NOT force interactions. • No Forced Handling - Avoid all handling that Calligraphy cannot consent to. This includes: • Petting them while they are sleeping • Grabbing their collar or body. • Picking them up. • Forcing grooming (bathing, clipping nails, cleaning ears) during the decompression period. Use positive reinforcements and conditioning only. • Positive Reinforcement: Use high-value treats and praise to reward all desired behaviors. • Recognize Warning Signals - the adopter/foster must be intensely aware of Calligraphy’s body language signals, which indicate stress and potential snap or bite: • Lifting of the lips/showing teeth • Low growls • Stiffening of the body (freezing) These warnings must be respected immediately by creating distance and disengaging. • Confident Dog Recommended: They may benefit from living with a calm, confident dog who can model appropriate behavior and help build trust in new environments. Flight Risk • Experienced Handler Required: Calligraphy should go home with a confident, experienced handler who can recognize and manage signs of fear or startle response. • Dragline Use: Keep a dragline attached for a minimum of two weeks. This allows safe, low-stress handling if they become difficult to approach. • Leash Safety: Always maintain a secure grip on the leash when outdoors until they are fully settled. Avoid using retractable leashes. • Supervision: Never leave them unsupervised outdoors, even in a fenced yard, as fearful dogs can climb, dig, or squeeze through small gaps when startled. • Equipment Requirement: They must go home with a properly fitted martingale collar and a standard flat clip leash to help prevent slipping out during walks. • Longline Use: When spending time outdoors in an enclosed yard, use a longline to give them extra space to explore while keeping them safe and under control. Do NOT use tie outs, leash should be held and maintained by the handler at all times. Should NOT be used in unenclosed or public spaces. Escape Risk • Calligraphy has a strong curiosity and may attempt to explore beyond confinement or containment areas. • Supervision Required: Always supervise outdoor time, including in fenced yards. Ensure gates and doors are securely latched before allowing them outside. • Preventive Measures: Use a properly fitted martingale collar and standard clip leash during walks. Avoid leaving them unattended in any unsecured area, including open garages, yards or vehicles. • Longline Use: When spending time outdoors in an enclosed yard, use a longline to give them extra space to explore while keeping them safe and under control. Do NOT use tie outs, leash should be held and maintained by the handler at all times. Should NOT be used in unenclosed or public spaces. Stranger Danger: • Initial Reaction: Expect your new dog to be uncomfortable around and with new people including yourself until they are comfortable with you, they may bark, snap, or flee. • Introductions: New people require a slow, controlled introduction. Muzzle training is strongly recommended to ensure safety during any necessary close-range interactions or introductions outside of the immediate family unit. • Safe Retreat: When guests are expected, Calligraphy must be secured in their crate or in a safe, separate room away from the commotion and entry points of the home. • Walks: Restrict walks to low-traffic, quiet areas where unexpected encounters with people or dogs are minimal. • Re-Entry Management: During the first few days to weeks, they may startle, bark, snap or attempt to flee when you return home. To prevent stress or accidental escape, secure them in a crate or quiet room before leaving. This helps make door entries calm and predictable rather than frightening. ..........................................