Raja is perhaps the most urgent case for rescue workers at the shelter for homeless animals in Celestynów, Poland.
She arrived fearful and timid around people, and the kennel environment has done nothing to help her overcome her fears.
An urgent case
Raja is tiny, at just 6kg, and she is also terrified.
Staff have worked hard to help her understand that not all human touch is scary, but it's become clear to them that only a home can really help her.
She may now tolerate attention and can walk on a lead, but the pound environment is affecting her both physically and behaviourally. With a growing fear that Raja is shutting down completely, the rescue has appealed for an urgent adoption.
Plea for help
How a dog copes with life in the pound varies from case to case. Some dogs tolerate the environment better, finding coping mechanisms to endure the time they spend confined there. But for other dogs, and particularly the more timid, sensitive souls, it can be highly stressful, often leading to poor condition and an increase in fear.
The rescue's hope is that people will share Raja's story far and wide... hopefully her happy ending is just around the corner, with a patient, experienced home who can help her settle and adjust in her own time.
