Update 8/31: Delilah has been doing well! She has been able to meet people while with her dedicated handlers, has shown more social behavior with staff and volunteers, and has been working on muzzle conditioning. She now wears her muzzle well while on walks! While Delilah has made great progress in making friends, she is still wary of strangers. She likely would prefer a quiet, low traffic home without lots of new people coming in and out. We always recommend setting up a 'safe' space for her when visitors come over (backyard, crate, separate room, etc)! Delilah may not be the dog that wants to join you on big public outings - but that doesn't mean she wouldn't make an amazing companion!4/27: This dog is on our Call to Action List due to behaviors with strangers that may be challenging for the average adopter. Delilah is a 2 year old German Shepherd mix who initially came to us as a baby in a litter with her mom and dad. She was adopted when she was just a puppy, and unfortunately her owner needed to move and couldn't bring Delilah along with her. Likely due to a combination of genetics and limited socialization (both of her parents displayed similar behavior) Delilah struggles with strangers and meeting new people and is protective of the family. Her previous owner did let us know that with the family Delilah has been great! She lived with kids (aged 3 and 9) and was excited, affectionate and playful with her owner. Delilah lived mostly outside due to her preference and likes squeaky toys and chews. Delilah's need for rescue placement stems from this wariness and protectiveness. She has been very fearful here in the kennels, and during intake she growled, snapped and bit at intake staff (no broken skin so no official bite record). In the kennel as we try to leash her, she is defensive—shows teeth and lunges but also urinates and defecates on herself because she is so scared. We are trying to make friends with Delilah, but we really think that her best chance of success is with a rescue group who can help her learn that people are fun and she doesn't have to be so scared. The shelter is a difficult place for dogs to learn, and Delilah is having an especially hard time coping with the daily stress, frequent strangers, and handling needs. We are continuing to evaluate her, but if we are not able to make progress, have her be safely handled by staff or volunteers (for out of kennel enrichment or medical care), or safely show her to adopters, humane euthanasia may be considered. @vcanimalservices Meeting Delilah for the first time! Delilah is reported to be lovely with people she knows well and a former family, including young kids. But meeting strangers can be scary! (We totally get it girl). The shelter is a difficult place to learn. Delilah doesn’t have many chances to get her energy out, or learn that people can be good! She may never be the gal who wants to join you on a busy restaurant patio or walk downtown. But with lots of treats and taking it slow, she’ll show you what a fun, energetic companion she really is. Please help us find a rescue group or experienced adopter that can take on Delilah. ? Hey There Delilah - Plain White T's