Cartier’s journey to finding a forever home has been a challenging one. After her previous family decided they no longer had time for her, Cartier ended up at a New York City shelter. Her surrender notes revealed that she had spent most of her time confined to a crate. Despite the difficult start, Cartier quickly became a favorite among the shelter volunteers due to her shy smile, charming ear bonnet, and endearing personality. In March, Rebound Hounds stepped in to help, and Cartier was finally moved to a foster home.
Cartier is currently being fostered by Katy Brink, executive editor at Luzocn, and her husband, Collin. They had noticed Cartier during a visit to the shelter last year and couldn’t stop thinking about her. When they finally picked her up, Cartier immediately snuggled up to them for the entire ride home. From day one, she has been a velcro dog, enjoying both running around the yard and cozying up on the sofa.
However, Cartier’s transition hasn’t been without its challenges. Although she had previously lived with a small dog, she hasn’t adjusted well to her foster siblings, Jake and Lola. “It became clear right away that Cartier was stressed by our dogs, and they seemed stressed by her as well,” Collin explained.
To help Cartier adjust, her foster parents work with her daily to improve her comfort around other dogs, and she enjoys her training sessions. To monitor her when she’s alone, they set up a Ring camera. The footage revealed a heart-wrenching truth: whenever Cartier was left alone, she would wait by the door for her foster parents to return. “Seeing her wait by the door was particularly moving, especially knowing her past experience in a crate,” Collin said. “She just wants to be close and be part of whatever you’re doing.”
To minimize Cartier’s time alone, her foster parents have devised a routine. Cartier spends her days with one parent in the home office while Jake and Lola are with the other parent. After work, Cartier is given engaging toys and puzzles to keep her occupied while her foster siblings have time with their parents. In the evenings, Cartier enjoys snuggle time on the sofa with her foster parents.
Despite this arrangement, what Cartier truly needs is a permanent home of her own. “She’s such a cuddle bug when it’s just her and us,” Collin said. “She needs a family who doesn’t have other dogs and can give her the attention she craves.”
Cartier adores people and loves spending time with her loved ones. She walks well on a leash and enjoys outdoor activities, but she’s equally content relaxing by your side and getting belly rubs. Cartier would thrive in a quieter home where she can relax and receive all the attention she deserves.
“She’s going to bring so much happiness to her future family,” Brink said.
