HERSHEY

EMERGENCY PLACEMENT DEADLINE CLOSE OF BUSINESS SATURDAY 6/6/26 AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION ONLY THROUGH PACC Name: Hershey Animal ID: A882205 Age: 3 years Weight: 44.5lbs Web Link: 24petconnect.com/PimaAdoptablePets/Details/PIMA/A882205 About: Meet Hershey, a gorgeous three-year-old Border Collie who is looking for a calm, stable, and consistent home where she can get a true fresh start. Hershey first came to the shelter last September after her previous owner sadly passed away. She was adopted for a few months but has recently returned to us, giving us valuable insight into the exact type of environment she needs to thrive. Hershey is a classic velcro dog who loves to curl up right in your lap, and we have no doubt that she will be an incredibly loyal companion for the rest of her life if just given the right chance. From her most recent home, we learned that Hershey tends to bond intensely with one individual and can display resource guarding behavior over her chosen person. In her previous home, she became very attached to the grandmother and began guarding her from the daughter and children, which resulted in several ankle-nipping incidents and minor bites that did not break the skin. This behavior aligns closely with her natural herding breed instincts, as she will actively go after ankles. Because of this, Hershey will do best with an experienced owner who understands herding breed characteristics and knows how to manage and redirect these specific behaviors. Additionally, Hershey's deep bond with her human means she can experience some separation anxiety when her person leaves. On a positive note, her previous owners stated that she has had good experiences with both small dogs and cats. However, a slow, proper introduction is always recommended for any resident pets. If you are familiar with the brilliance of herding breeds and are looking for a devoted, sweet, and slightly shy shadow to join your quiet household, please come down and meet Hershey today. Available for adoption ONLY through PACC. Interested parties: Must visit PACC before the COB Saturday June 6th, 2026 deadline to meet with a counselor who will review notes and introduce you to the dog to ensure that it’s a good fit. Some dogs may also require an introduction to any dogs they may potentially live with. Home Management Plan Undocumented Bite History: • Incident Details: multiple undocumented bites (no skin broken) within the home due to resource guarding owner. Goes after heels. Resource Guards Attention from People: • Hershey may guard attention or affection from certain people, particularly those they are bonded to. • Muzzle Training: Muzzle training is strongly recommended for all new introductions to ensure safety and reduce stress for both Hershey and others. • Professional Support: Establish clear boundaries early and seek guidance from a qualified trainer to help manage and modify guarding behavior. • Management at Home: Create a calm, designated space where they can relax when guests arrive or when attention is divided. Avoid scolding or punishing guarding behaviors - focus on redirection and rewarding calm, appropriate responses. • Recognize Warning Signals: Watch for signs that they are becoming uncomfortable, such as stiffening, growling, or placing themselves between people. These behaviors should be respected by giving space and calmly redirecting their focus. Shy/Nervous: • Decompression Period: Allow Hershey ample time and space to settle into their new environment. Pushing interactions too soon can increase stress and delay progress. • No Forced Handling: Avoid handling that Hershey does not initiate or consent to. Let them approach on their own terms. Use high value treats, calm praise, and gentle encouragement to build trust. • Building Affection: They may take time to show affection or seek attention. Every dog adjusts at their own pace - patience and consistency are key to helping them feel secure. • Confident Dog Recommended: They may benefit from living with a calm, confident dog who can model appropriate behavior and help build trust in new environments. Recommend Proper Cat Introduction: • Separation Period: Keep Hershey and any resident cats fully separated for a minimum of two weeks to allow decompression and scent acclimation before any face-to-face meetings. • Do Not Rush Introductions: Never place them directly with cats upon arrival. Gradual exposure through scent swapping, barrier greetings, and calm observation is essential for safety and success. • Muzzle Training: Muzzle training is highly recommended before the first in-person introduction to ensure safety for both them and the cats. • Supervision: All interactions should be closely monitored, and introductions should end on a calm, positive note. If tensions arise, separate immediately and return to an earlier step in the process. Separation Anxiety: • Hershey may experience stress or anxiety when left alone, which can result in vocalization, pacing, or destructive behaviors. • Crate Training: Proper crate training can provide a safe space and help prevent destructive behaviors when unsupervised. • Enrichment & Comfort: Provide mental stimulation through frozen kongs, puzzle toys, or other enrichment items. Background noise, such as calming music or television, can also help reduce stress. • Gradual Independence: Practice short departures and slowly increase alone time to build their comfort level. • Companion Dog Support: Some dogs experiencing separation anxiety may feel more secure and settle better when another calm, stable dog is present in the home.