Tiny dog lived in a puppy mill and never felt human touch, until a volunteer decides to sit down in her cage

A little Chihuahua with floppy ears was cowering at the back of her cage when National Mill Dog Rescue found her. The dog had spent 3.5 years in a cage, used for breeding in a puppy mill operation.

Named Harleigh, the dog had never known the kind touch of a human hand until they saved her. Years of imprisonment make it difficult for puppy mill dogs to trust people. They have been traumatized and never received the socialization that puppies should receive.

Soon after she was rescued, a volunteer spent time with her. In the video you’ll see that Harleigh is terrified at first, digging her claws into his arm. But after just one hour of kindness, Harleigh shows a glimmer of hope.