Meet Ginger 🤎
 
Ginger is a little dog with a big story.
 
She came to NTASR from a horrific hoarding situation in North Texas, where she was living alongside 37 other dogs. She's now about 4 years old, around 20 pounds, and living the much quieter life she deserves in Austin.
 
And quiet is actually a pretty good word for Ginger.
 
She's a Mini Australian Shepherd, but she's surprisingly calm and is happiest when life is predictable and her people are nearby. Once she trusts you, she is incredibly sweet, affectionate, and loyal. She's learning that toys are fun, treats are excellent, and having a soft place to sleep is actually pretty great.
 
However, Ginger's adjustment period can be hard.
 
She may freeze on leash rather than walk, and new environments and unfamiliar people can be overwhelming. In a previous home trial, she became very distressed after her foster left and began barking intensely. These behaviors are typically a fear response for many dogs.  Moving too fast, too much change too quickly, things just didn't feel safe for her. 

She did not bite or attempt to harm anyone, but it was a clear sign that she needs more time and patience than her original profile suggested. 
 
Ginger is not an aggressive dog. She has been incredibly sweet in her current foster home and has shown no aggression there. She is a dog who has experienced a lot of instability and is still learning that her people leave and come back, that she is safe, and that she doesn't have to handle every new situation on her own.
 
For that reason, Ginger will likely do best as an only dog or with a calm, patient dog who won't overwhelm her. A high energy or pushy dog would not be a good match. We don't know how she is with cats or young children, so a home without either would be ideal for her. 
 
The payoff for giving Ginger that patience is pretty special.
 
Once she decides you're her person, she becomes the sweetest little shadow and an incredibly loyal companion. She is potty trained, crate trained, sleeps through the night, and is continuing to build confidence with the world around her.
 
Her future family will need to be willing to let Ginger set the pace, especially during those first days. NTASR offers a 10 day home trial (in the state of Texas) to ensure a good fit for everyone, this is for all dogs in our care. We always understand that some dogs just need a little more time and patience. 
 
Ginger isn't looking for someone who expects her to walk into a new house and instantly become the perfect dog.
 
She's looking for someone who can say, “Take your time. You're safe here.”
And if you can give her that?
 
You may end up with the most devoted little shadow you've ever had. 🤎🐾
Ginger will also need dental surgery and her spay in December/January. Her adoption fee covers both procedures.