Peanut (Sparkles)

Bruce watched Rocky Kanaka’s “Sitting with Dogs” featuring Sparkles, the sweet, shy German Shepherd and felt immediately that he could help Sparkles. Bruce has a 9-year-old German Shepherd named Rocky also, and the coincidence was not lost on him. Bruce has a wonderful relationship with his own GSD, and he was hoping his dog could help Sparkles come out of her shell. 

Bruce was initially a little worried about Sparkles’s shyness, but he knew that there was an excellent chance that if she was given lots of love and playtime, she would be able to get past her fears. At first, Bruce was a bit shocked at how timid and afraid Sparkles was when people tried to get close to her. She wouldn’t get near Bruce, his wife or daughter. But Bruce’s GSD, Rocky was a different story. Sparkles and Rocky hit it off immediately. Bruce then realized that if anyone can help get Sparkles get adjusted to a new life, it would be Rocky. He definitely saw a connection between the two dogs and he realized Sparkles would have her best chance at a normal life by going home with them instead of a family without another dog.

On the journey home, Sparkles was calm with Rocky at her side. At home, it was a struggle to get Sparkles, now named Peanut, to get close to any family members, but when she saw Rocky getting attention from Bruce that changed. Peanut decided she wanted some attention too, and began to approach Bruce. They are still working on getting Peanut as comfortable with all the family members as she is with Bruce. The family realizes there is probably a good reason why Peanut is fearful of humans, and they understand it will take lots of patience, and they are committed to give that to her. 

Peanut loves her morning walks and playtime. Bruce says she acts very well-adjusted during those times, but in between there are still some jitters. Bruce is grateful to his GSD Rocky for all the help he has given to Peanut to help her adapt to a happy family life.

Bruce loves the GSD breed and is willing to commit to helping Peanut get more comfortable with him and his family. They are looking forward to many happy years with Peanut and Rocky as Peanut’s healing journey continues.