Pepe and his buddy Hope

Update from Bev Farmer

It’s been 5 weeks since Pepe arrived, and the progress we’ve made together may be small, but every tiny step matters. With a dog as deeply traumatised as Pepe, nothing can be rushed — it’s all about understanding what he can cope with and giving him the space he needs.
One thing that truly seems to comfort him is working together on the lead. When we’re moving with purpose, his focus settles and he becomes much calmer. So I’ve brought back the most basic obedience exercises from years ago, and to my surprise… he actually enjoys it.
He’s no longer constantly in flight-or-fight mode. Bit by bit, he is learning how to relax. He chooses to spend less time in his crate now. the door is always open for him if he needs it.

Simple things like me walking past his bed no longer makes him jump away. I chat to him all the time; he probably doesn’t understand a word, but he looks up at me. Thinking who is the crazy person .  If I say, “Pepe, do you want to go out for a walk?” he sits up, ready, and off we go for a few circuits of the garden, adding in a little training along the way.

It’s very difficult seeing a dog so troubled by life, where even ordinary things are overwhelming. But underneath all the fear, I see a gentle soul. One day, I hope he’ll take that leap of faith and realise there are safe, happy, joyful things waiting for him.

For now, we celebrate the small wins and every single one is a step towards the life he deserves.