Yanni is a 4 year old, 12 pound, sable, neutered male Sheltie. He was released along with 4 other dogs from a puppy mill.

We have had Yanni neutered and cleaned his teeth. Luckily he did not lose any teeth during his dental. His blood work looked good and he tested negative for heartworms.

Like all puppy mill breeding dogs Yanni has not been socialized with people. He was never taught to walk on leash, go up and down stairs or to do anything that dogs who are raised as companions do. He did not tolerate grooming very well, but we are continuing to work on brushing him and handling his feet.

Yanni does very well with his house breaking as long as he is let out on a regular schedule. He does not ask to go out. He will walk a few steps with a harness and leash on, but really does not like the leash. He knows how to go down stairs, but he will not go up them. He follows the lead of the other dogs in the house and must have a well adjusted, playful, outgoing dog about his size in his new home. He doesn't mind cats.

Yanni is making progress very slowly and is looking for a quiet adult only home, with very patient people who will give him space and time while he learns how to be a pet and to trust humans.

We recommend that everyone who is considering adding a mill survivor to their family read "The Diary of Lucy Blue" and read the information on mill dogs from Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue and ASPCA. These dogs are beyond shy and it takes many months for them to feel comfortable in their new role as a pet. Most of them will never be comfortable with new places and people. They do adjust to their home and their normal routine and most bond very strongly with their owners once they overcome their fears. Adopting a mill dog is a huge project to take on, but we feel the rewards far outweigh the effort and commitment required to give them a new lease on life.