10/31/2026
**COURTESY POST**
Location: Fort Irwin, CA
Dixie, spayed female, 5yrs old, 38lbs
Dixie was at the Barstow Humane Society when I began fostering her through their foster program. After four months, I was informed that, due to a change in the organization’s insurance, the foster program would be closing. I was given the choice of returning Dixie to the Humane Society or adopting her. Knowing how far she had come in my care and not wanting her to return to the shelter, I decided to adopt her.
Since then, Dixie has continued living in my home, where she has been learning that people can be kind and that a home can be a safe place. She is house-trained, walks on a harness, has learned household manners, and is a quiet, gentle dog. She does well with other dogs and continues to build confidence at her own pace.
She is now house-trained, crate-trained, obedient, and very good on a leash. She does well with other dogs, both large and small, and is gentle and submissive. She enjoys car rides and has started discovering the simple pleasures of living in a home, including relaxing on the couch and receiving affection.
Dixie is still shy around unfamiliar people, and she needs time to build trust. However, once she feels comfortable and safe, her sweet and affectionate personality begins to shine.
However, her fear of men has recently increased, particularly toward my husband, both inside and outside the home. I believe Dixie would benefit from the support of a rescue experienced in working with fearful dogs and helping them continue their rehabilitation.
Her ideal home would be with a patient, understanding family willing to give her time to adjust. A quiet environment and a securely fenced yard would be ideal.
This is an incredibly difficult situation for me because I truly love Dixie. I adopted her because I wanted to give her the opportunity to continue making progress outside the shelter. My goal is to find the best possible path forward for her well-being, with the right experience, patience, and support.
Dixie is not an ACDRA Foster Dog. If you are interested in Dixie or have questions, please email [email protected]