How big? Medium
How old? Adolescent (around two years)
Male or female? Female
Living with kids? I can live with children (10+)
Living with dogs? I can live with other dogs
Resident dog required? Yes
Living with cats? I’ve not been tested with cats
Where can I live? I’d like a calm, patient home with a garden
Where am I from? Cyprus

About Scarlet

Scarlet is a beautiful young dog, around two years old, who was found living as a stray in August last year. For weeks she would return to the same home in a small village to play through the fence with the resident dog that lived there. Eventually the family were able to gently approach her and secure her with a lead, as they were worried she would eventually get hit by the traffic on the road if they kept letting her return. She showed no fear at the time, and was a sweet, friendly and cheeky little thing.

Scarlet was then taken to the local municipal pound, where she has remained ever since. Unfortunately, the prolonged confinement and high-stress environment have taken a toll on her. She has become more anxious and cautious, particularly inside her kennel where you can see she definitely doesn’t feel safe. The volunteers are taking their time to make progress with Scarlet, and already we have noticed a big difference in her once she’s outside the pound. The further she is from the kennels, the more relaxed she becomes. Underneath her nerves, the old Scarlet is still there, she just needs to be nurtured.

On walks, Scarlet is naturally curious and likes to see what’s going on around her. At the moment her activity levels are stifled a bit by the confines of shelter life, but in a proper home we think she would enjoy a moderately active lifestyle, and also direct access to a garden.

More recently she has started to seek out affection from volunteers, approaching them for cuddles and gentle pets, and even belly rubs. She likes to lean in for a fuss when she trusts you, which is just the most gorgeous thing to witness. This is a huge step forward for her, and one that shows her willingness to trust again despite the setbacks she has faced.

Scarlet gets on very well with other dogs and loves their company. She is playful, sociable and observant, and she finds comfort and reassurance in being around them. A calm, confident dog in the home would really help Scarlet transition to a companion lifestyle. We think she would be much more withdrawn if she was the only dog in the household.

Due to her sensitive nature, Scarlet will need a calm, stable home environment where she can decompress and adapt at her own pace. A semi-rural setting with a secure garden would be ideal. While she is not at all unfriendly, she remains wary around unfamiliar people, particularly in confined spaces. Her adopter will need to be understanding, patient, and committed to helping her build trust gradually.

Scarlet has made steady progress in the shelter despite limited resources, and we believe she will flourish in a loving home. It is heartbreaking to see how much being in the pound has dimmed her spirit, but we are beginning to see glimpses of the affectionate, playful dog she truly is. If you’re looking to truly rescue a dog, Scarlet would welcome your help.