How did Opal learn to express herself?

Opal learned to express herself by howling, which her owner celebrated as a sign she felt safe and comfortable.

What kind of abuse did Opal endure?

Opal endured torture, abuse, and neglect by a commercial breeder, including the use of shock collars, which taught her to stay silent.

What health issues did Opal have?

Opal had untreated ear infections leading to hearing impairment, a benign growth, a mast cell tumor, scars, and sores on her feet.

Home / Lifestyle / Rescue dog finds her voice after years of silence

Rescue dog finds her voice after years of silence

26 Jan

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Summary

Opal, a rescue dog, was previously punished with shock collars.
She was surrendered by a commercial breeder due to small litter sizes.
A video of her howling showed progress in overcoming fear.

Rescue dog finds her voice after years of silence

A rescue dog named Opal, who endured years of punishment including shock collars, is now learning to express herself in her forever home. Opal was surrendered by a commercial breeder on November 15, having lived a life of abuse and neglect. Her adopter, Dana Martini, has been dedicated to helping Opal unlearn her fear and overcome separation anxiety.

Martini discovered Opal's progress when the dog began howling two minutes after she left the house. This howling, while initially a sign of anxiety, was celebrated as Opal finding her voice and feeling safe. Opal also finds comfort from sleeping with her owner's T-shirt, which helps alleviate her howling.

Beyond her emotional trauma, Opal suffered from various health issues, including untreated ear infections, a benign growth, a mast cell tumor, and scars. She has undergone two major surgeries and is now on the mend, allowing her and Martini to focus on her emotional well-being. The Instagram video of Opal's howling has garnered significant attention, with users celebrating her journey.