Peach, a 22-month-old crossbreed rescue dog, faced a heartbreaking struggle with sleep after arriving at her new home. Traumatized by her past and suffering from undiagnosed pain, Peach couldn’t rest for more than a few hours at a time, forcing herself to stay awake due to fear and discomfort.
Adopted by Hannah McKnight and her partner in 2024 after they purchased their first home, Peach’s background was far from ideal. Born into a house with 26 other dogs, Peach had endured improper breeding practices that left her with significant health and behavioral issues. A mix of Chihuahua, Bichon Frisé, Border Terrier, and other terrier breeds, Peach had never known a home where she was the sole focus of attention.
“She wouldn’t sleep because she was in pain, distressed, and uncertain of her surroundings,” McKnight explained to Newsweek. “She also feared she wouldn’t be fed consistently.” Initially, Peach was given temporary diazepam to help her sleep for four weeks, but it was clear that deeper issues were at play.
With support from a behaviorist, veterinary care, and the rescue center, Peach’s pain was eventually diagnosed. A specialist noticed stiffness in her walk, which led to a diagnosis of mild hip dysplasia. On top of that, severe anal gland problems, which will soon require surgery, contributed to her discomfort.
Through a combination of patience, routine, and positive reinforcement, Peach slowly began to trust her new environment. It took over three months for her to settle in, but now, she’s a happy and affectionate dog, enjoying long naps and dreams of toad hunting.
“Peach is a shining example of how a dog can transform with the right care,” McKnight said. “She’s now a sweet and very snoozy girl.”
Hannah hopes Peach’s story will inspire others to consider adopting rescue dogs and raise awareness about the lasting effects of improper breeding practices, which often lead to painful health issues for the animals involved.
Peach’s story resonates with other rescue dog experiences as well. Ryder, another dog who spent two years in a shelter before being adopted, now refuses to sleep unless his new family tucks him in—a clear indication of the deep trauma many rescue animals carry with them.
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