Hilda

My story

Hilda is a sweet, sensitive 10 year old Shih Tzu who is learning that the world can be a kind and safe place. While she has made progress in foster care, Hilda is still a very fearful dog who will need a special adopter with patience, understanding, and a heart for letting her adapt at her own pace and build confidence slowly. After several months in foster care, Hilda has settled into a routine, but she remains easily startled by unfamiliar sights and sounds. When she feels unsure, her instinct is to retreat to a safe space where she can regroup. Her foster family's bedroom has become her sanctuary, and having a quiet place of her own is very important to her sense of security. Hilda is not a dog who enjoys handling and cuddles. Instead, she shows her affection in quieter ways. As she learns to trust, gentle ear rubs, chin scratches, and head pats, are sometimes accepted. Trust is something Hilda offers slowly, but when she does, it feels truly special.  She loves to follow her foster parents around and keep an eye on what they’re doing; if they toss her a treat as she watches them, she is one happy girl! Because of her sensitive nature, Hilda is looking for a calm, adult-only home. She would thrive best in a peaceful environment with someone who understands that progress comes in small steps. Hilda is very good with other dogs and takes comfort in their presence, making a canine companion a potential benefit in the right home. Another important adoption requirement for Hilda is a securely fenced yard. She loves spending time outdoors, but due to her startle response, walks on a leash are not something she is comfortable with. Cars, bikes, and passing people can be frightening for her, and she is a flight risk. A fenced yard may always be her preferred way to enjoy the outdoors. Hilda is pee-pad trained and sometimes prefers using her pad, especially when she's feeling uncertain. One of her endearing and funny quirks is how happy she gets once she's done her business. It is often followed by the "Happy Hilda Dance!" Hilda may never enjoy busy outings, leash walks, or constant physical affection, and that's okay. What she offers instead is the quiet joy of watching a cautious dog slowly learn to trust, and the knowledge you are giving her the safe, understanding home she deserves. Due to time constraints, we cannot respond to every email asking for more information on a dog. Please carefully review the bio for the dog and our adoption process https://www.speakingofdogs.com/adoption/adoption-process/.  If you are still interested in adopting, please fill out the adoption application form at the bottom of that page.August 7, 2026, 8:33 am

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Hilda, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.