Doggy Day at BG ft. Brie

I had the pleasure of bringing a newbie named Brie to work with me Friday the 9th.

It’s The Pits received Brie from the San Diego County Central Shelter where she had been for months and was deteriorating and in danger of being euthanized. This is how Brie came to our rescue:

After first meeting her I noticed her beautiful yet intimidating appearance. My assumptions were quickly corrected. She walked well on a leash, was not reactive around other dogs or people. She seemed calm, collected and obviously used to being caged due to her fear of nearly everything outside.

Immediately I started raving about this new beauty and brought my sister and husband to meet her. My sister (a pit bull enthusiast in progress) couldn’t believe Brie’s large head and was nervous when the large dog attempted jumping in her lap but Miranda tried to get her attention several times to pet her head. My husband gasped “She’s everything you said she would be.”

When deciding which rescue to bring to work with me the decision was simple. I was a bit nervous about the reaction she would receive from my coworkers (also pit bull enthusiasts in different stages of progress). I had been bringing rescues to work for months now and each of my coworkers were welcoming, accommodating and warming up rapidly to my temporary furkids. However I had yet to bring in one as large or visually distressing as Brie.

I learned very quickly that Brie was going to have a day of many new experiences ahead of her. After having to pick her up and place her in my passenger seat she began to shake rapidly. She settled slightly when calmed with french fries and praise. Walking up and down my stairs at work was another unnerving and new task. However meeting my coworkers was enjoyable and rewarding for her. She warmed up slowly as everyone asked questions about where we got her from and why her ears looked so funny.

Knowing this baby was not used to being outside or cared for I decided to spoil her rotten with a bath at a local doggy day spa and trip to Balboa Park. Chama’s Dog Wash & Wellness in Hillcrest were kind, welcoming and gave us a discount because Brie was a rescue. I will no doubt be back with another rescue soon.

Nervous as I was about giving Brie a bath, thinking it would be another terrifying new experience, she impressed me with standing perfectly still and cooperating as I sprayed, washed and dried. She also surprised me when one of the dogs at the day spa barked and lunged for her and she cowered as far away as possible, this girl was amazing.

Now for some grass time. Again having to lift her into the car, she wasn’t nearly as hesitant the  third time around. It was a perfect day in Balboa with a slight breeze and little disturbance however this was just as terrifying as this morning’s car ride. She whimpered quietly while looking around as if anticipating something horrible. I attempted to calm her with a caress and calming tone telling her it was ok. She didn’t ease so I lead her back to the car. To my surprise she hopped in willingly this time.

Back at the office she pranced around smelling like a garden, showing her  enthusiasm for her new favorite place. As we sat at my desk she licked me ever so softly on the lips, this the first after many attempts to get her to kiss me. If that wasn’t a thank you, I don’t know what was.

Again I was surprised on our trip to drop off the mail and bank deposit. Rather than the expected fearful glances and avoidance you usually get from walking a pit bull (especially one of her stature), people were drawn to her. “What a gorgeous dog!” I heard over 3 times and took the opportunity to discuss her availability.

She behaved herself like a perfect lady and it was a very rewarding work day for me. This big girl deserves a family as perfect as she is. She is forgiveness, trust, and inspiration at it’s best. I volunteer with It’s The Pits because I love the dogs. They are all so loving, giving and willing to please but sometimes a special one comes along and really touches your heart. My newest best friend Brie is available for adoption through It’s The Pits.

Below are some of the pictures I took of her with my phone to document our day together.