Meet Rolo, a timid dog from Florida who always seemed a little different from the rest.
He had very little exposure to people, and his fear of humans was so strong that he would freeze completely whenever anyone came near.
Despite his shyness, Rolo was naturally sweet and affectionate. He just needed patience, time, and a calm space to help him adjust to the world around him.
This is the story of how one compassionate foster mom gave him exactly that—and helped him rediscover his confidence.
A Foster Mom’s Gentle Approach
When Tracy first met Rolo, she immediately noticed how terrified he was.
She told The Dodo: “He was frozen and was clearly very scared. When I picked Rolo, I could tell he was scared around people.”
Determined to help, Tracy brought him home and created a safe space for him with a cozy kennel where he could retreat whenever he felt nervous.
Although Rolo loved exploring his surroundings, he was cautious whenever Tracy was nearby.
She offered soft words and gentle pets but never forced him to interact more than he was ready for. Sometimes, he would edge closer to her, only to retreat at the last second.
Most of the time, he preferred the security of his kennel, where the world felt a little less overwhelming.
For weeks, this was their pattern. Rolo would peek out of his crate, approach Tracy for a brief moment of affection, and then quietly return to his safe space.
Tracy explained, “I figured he probably never came in contact with very many people in his life, and I don’t want to overwhelm him, because he was already scared.”
A Four-Legged Friend Brings Change
Everything began to change when Tracy introduced her dog, Lily.
The two dogs bonded almost instantly. Though Tracy expected them to get along, she was surprised by how quickly they became inseparable.
Rolo followed Lily everywhere, watching her every move. The playful pup’s confidence and affection began to rub off on him.
Tracy said: “When I saw him being happy with my dog, it made me feel really good and I knew he was gonna have a good time here and not be scared all the time.”
With Lily by his side, Rolo’s transformation picked up speed. He became bolder each day and started to seek out Tracy’s touch on his own, tail wagging with excitement.
It was clear he was finally learning that people could be trusted.
A Forever Home Filled With Love
After several months, it was time for Tracy to start looking for Rolo’s forever home.
It was a bittersweet moment for her. She had watched him grow from a frightened pup into a joyful, trusting companion.
Tracy said: “When Taylor reached out and said she was interested in him, I figured she’s the family for him.”
When Taylor brought her young son to meet Rolo, the connection was instant. The boy and the dog bonded right away, and it was clear that Rolo had found his person.
Now living in Florida with his new family and several dog siblings, Rolo spends his days playing, cuddling, and enjoying every bit of the life he once feared.
After everything he endured, Rolo finally has what he always needed—a family full of love and understanding.
