Age: 6 years Gender: Female Color: Liver/White Weight: 43 lbs Variety: Bench/Show-bred The story of iRene is all too familiar. A dog used for breeding, that for whatever reason, ended up at a shelter. The long ride in a toolbox ended when she was unceremoniously dumped. Conflicting stories from the owners left shelter personnel wondering why she was not taken to the local shelter, but instead taken a hundred miles to their shelter. Terrified, she spent her first days cowering in her crate. She eventually warmed up to a few people, but spent most of her time hiding and sleeping in the small bathroom. I was very concerned when an ESRA volunteer (a vet) picked her up from the shelter and delivered her to me. We discussed iRene's behavior, and thought that she must have physical problems that were causing her pain. This little dog was so withdrawn that we had to lift her to go outside, she wouldn't make a sound, she wouldn't eat, or interact with the other dogs in the house. Once again, it is great to be wrong! It has been a gradual process, but iRene has overcome all of her behaviors that had us so concerned. The healing power of the pack cannot be underestimated here. Every day, iRene learned something new; to run, explore, and to play. It has been a heartwarming transformation. If you are interested in something a little different, iRene is the girl for you. Her red and white coat is silky smooth. She is on the small side, and very compact. She has very good house manners, is crate/kennel trained, and walks well on a leash. She is current on vaccinatons, and has a clean bill of health. She is very much a Velcro dog, but that is to be expected, given her background. iRene would do well in a home with another dog or as an only dog