It's an easy guess that Meadow's early life gave her every reason to distrust humans. Her story started as the type that makes animal lovers cringe. But thanks to the intervention of some concerned citizens, King County Animal Care and Control, the Seattle Humane Society and the Jindo Project, Meadow's life has moved from despair and uncertain survival to one with every chance of a 'happily ever after' ending.

From February till early April, this beautiful white Jindo dog lived between an office park and an apartment building in Federal Way. Clearly, she was in trouble – even from a distance, it was apparent that her collar, which was attached to a short twisted length of chain, was actually imbedded in her neck.

Neighbors left food out for her and tried to coax her to safety, but she refused to get close to any humans, including the King County Animal Control officers who tried to catch her. Her story was featured on KOMO TV news.

Finally, an Animal Control Officer left food containing tranquilizers out for the dog. Meadow took the bait and after she fell asleep she was transported to the Seattle Humane Society for surgery. The collar was removed and she was spayed and micro chipped.

At first, Meadow refused to eat. Veterinary and kennel staff at the Seattle Humane Society went to great lengths to tempt her appetite. After a few false starts, warm chicken and rice got the job done.

While the Seattle Humane Society's Dog Behavior and Socialization program does wonders for many of the shelter's residents – working with the dogs on everything from basic obedience to resource guarding – it was apparent to Behavior Program Manager Emily Keegans that Meadow needed more intense socialization.

Keegans says that while Meadow did make immediate progress at the Seattle Humane Society, it was obvious that she would make even greater strides outside of the loud kennel environment. "So foster was the next choice," says Keegans, "but because of her specific breed traits we wanted to make sure she'd go to foster with someone who really understands the breed. We were extremely fortunate that a Jindo Rescue organization responded to our request for help and they were able to find the type of foster home she needed."

Jindos have been designated a national treasure in South Korea, their country of origin. While renowned for their loyalty, intelligence and courage, the dogs often need special handling, especially if they are under-socialized, like Meadow.

As soon as Meadow was cleared by the medical staff for release she went to a local foster family provided by the Jindo Project. There she will get the socialization and support she needs to be ready for a new life in a loving home.

Thanks to a ready network of dedicated animal professionals and volunteers, of which the Seattle Humane Society is an integral part, Meadow's story is sure to end up a success story.

Lynn
lynnseattlehumane@gmail.com