Holly and Jolly came to us from a deplorable situation and are quite a pair!  They MUST be adopted together as they are extremely bonded.   They are touching each other much of the time and seem to give each other courage.   They are absolutely adorable and each have their own little personality.

When they first came to us (their foster family) they were terrified of everything and everybody and were a filthy mess with mats of hair down to their skin.   They would cower in the corner together if you went near them.     They have gotten more courage and they are looking much better.   Holly had major dental surgery and they both were brought up to date on shots and fixed.    

They still are afraid and will need much time and patience.   I cannot even imagine the life these dogs must have had.     Jolly comes to his name now and there is some "jolly" coming out in his personality!   We do not leave them loose in the house unless we are watching them but he has gotten to where he likes to run around and he also likes to carry around soft toys.   Holly wags her tail and she is definitely the more feisty of the two.     They still need much attention grooming wise as well as to learn that people can be trusted.    We make the point of sitting with them on the couch, just sitting, with no loud sounds or quick movements.   It has been a huge help in gaining their trust. 

We have them in a pen in the house when we can't watch them.    Outside we put them in a pen as well but are with them at all times.    If they were to be let loose in the yard I am afraid they would not be caught due to their fear.   Like I said, they need time and patience but I know it is well worth it as we have seen the improvement in them.   They are real sweeties and it is wonderful watching their personalities start to come out.

We are still working on housetraining.    For the most part they know not to go in their pen but they do have accidents, usually at night.    If they are out of their pen I put a belly band on Jolly to try to keep the marking attempts to a minimum.    Holly tries to "mark" as well.     Time and persistence will be key.