We often forget that animals who have lived on the streets require time to adjust to their new lifestyle. Letting go of their past hardships isn’t easy, and they rely on us to provide the space necessary for them to decompress and relax, which may take days or even months.
Mazie, the pup featured in today’s story, genuinely needed this time. After enduring a harsh life on the streets and giving birth to her litter there, her situation was incredibly stressful.
You Are Safe Now, Mazie

When the NorCal Bully Breed Rescue, based in Sacramento, California, learned about a mama dog caring for her puppies in a parking lot, they realized they had to help.
Fortunately, the rescue mission went swiftly, and both Mazie and her eight puppies were taken to the Sacramento shelter in no time. There, this little family began their recovery journey, free from the worries of finding food or shelter.

Patience Is Key
As time passed, Mazie’s puppies grew into adorable bundles of joy, each finding loving forever homes quickly. However, their mama’s journey was different.
“Mazie was a bit reserved, slower to warm up, and shyer than most dogs. But once she got familiar with you, she became your best friend! She just needed someone willing to give her a chance,” shared the shelter in a Facebook post.
As the shelter set up meet-and-greets for potential adopters, unfortunately, everyone felt the same—they didn’t connect with her. The staff reassured them that Mazie just needed time to adjust.

Eventually, a hooman took Mazie home, but just three days later, the shelter received a heartbreaking email: “She was adopted early on, and we were thrilled! But three days later, we received a dreaded email… ‘I’m sorry, but I need to return Mazie. She’s just not fitting in,’” they shared.
This setback affected Mazie deeply; she grew even shyer and distanced herself from the world, making it increasingly difficult to find a new home.
Then, something wonderful happened.
Good Things Come To Those Who Wait

Mary, a kind-hearted woman, decided to foster Mazie, hoping it would help her open up. Fast forward a few months and exciting news reached the Sacramento shelter!
A wonderful couple, Barbra and her husband Dimitri, were in search of a furry companion to bring joy into their lives, and Mazie caught their eye!
“Their application was perfect. On our call, she seemed like the ideal match. She understood that dogs need time and love to adjust to a new home,” said the shelter.

Since then, the trio has been enjoying a delightful life together, and Mazie has truly blossomed. She now spends her days going on adventures with her loving parents, and the shelter staff couldn’t be more thrilled.
“Barbra and Dimitri – THANK YOU for allowing her to get to know you at her own pace. This is one of our favorite adoption stories ever. We couldn’t have imagined a more perfect home for our sweet girl,” the staff concluded.