09/12/2026
This is such a wonderful story. Barbara and her son Rob took on 2 unsocialized mastiffs. That had been in a home where the woman committed su***de,. Their patience and dedication ....WOW!!!! They are all about the dogs.
Barbara writes-
Sonja had to be taken to the vet for a spay incontinence issue. Although we have been fostering her and her sister Rose for 9 months.....neither have been outside of our property, or even in the truck because when they came to us, they were so "reactive" and untrained. Quite frankly since we do not have many visitors, we didn't know what Sonja's social skills would be. And frankly, most visitors did not want to chance a one on one meeting with them. Sonja did excellent in the ride to the vet. The vet was aware of her history. We took her muzzle, prepared to use it. I am so very, very pleased to share that she was an absolute Angel. She happily allowed petting, the tech took her temperature and the exam went fantastic, all with out the use of the muzzle.
We have spent these past many months showing the girls a lot of love, patience and provided them with a whole lot of training. They now enjoy being touched all over...I can pet them while they eat, or take their food with no incidents other than tail wags and kisses. They love their stuffed animals and carry them everywhere. Belly rubs are mandatory. They don't mind a full mouth inspecton, and basically I can put my whole hand in their mouths. We are still working on training. They sit and will stay.....until released. That is really really big. We are working on down and "paw".... but frankly that is just not a big deal to me in the big picture. They mind well, they come when called.....most of the time it is not even necessary to call them as they always return to my side......If they see me head to the house, they are coming too. I don't know if they are protecting me, or if they want me to protect them!!
Both are pretty much scardiy cats.....frightened of anything out of place
When they do become reactive we have mostly been able to divert their attention and call them back. They are leash trained, but we have hesitated to walk them outside the property because of their reactiveity. Now that it is cooling down we are going to start training for our off property walks
These girls have grown so much.....they have become absolute lap dogs, follow us everywhere ...and of course it is almost impossible to work in the kitchen because they are so underfoot, and of course I can never get to the bathroom without assistance....typical loving Mastiffs.
As far as the vet visit Sonja has responded well to the medicine. We thought she had a UTI, but again, her incontinence was due to a spay issue. Pam may wish to expound more. Thank you again Pam for all your help and concern....I certainly could never do this without your guidance
I have to be honest....I am jealous of my fellow MRF Foster's who rescue these wonderful dogs and make it look easy ,
MRF thanks Barbara and Rob for enabling Rose and Sonja to have lives...very special Fosters!!!!! These 2 mastiffs need continued training and socialization , its work and a commitment.
