Grandma Overcomes Her Fear of Pit Bulls

Nancy had always been uneasy around dogs. As a child, she and her sister were chased by a large one, leaving a lasting fear. As an adult, she kept her distance from dogs. When her daughter adopted pit bulls, she refused to visit. The thought of being around them made her uncomfortable.

Living with Two Pit Bulls

Two years ago, Nancy’s daughter welcomed Ellie, an American Pit Bull Terrier, and began fostering Sophie, a pit bull mix. Though she longed to see her daughter, she avoided the dogs. She told herself she would never set foot in that house. Overcoming years of fear seemed impossible.

Pushing Past Fear

Her daughter struggled to cover daycare costs, and Nancy saw how much financial strain it caused. She decided to help by looking after the dogs while her daughter worked. It was a leap outside her comfort zone. The first time alone with them, she felt tense. Still, she stayed, determined to support her daughter.

A Turning Point

One afternoon, Nancy sat on the couch as the dogs lounged nearby. They observed her but didn’t act aggressively. Gradually, she let her guard down. They were peaceful, trusting. “They don’t fear me, and I don’t fear them,” she realized. Her daughter suggested she give one a kiss. She chuckled and declined.

Embracing Her Role

Nancy’s fear slowly disappeared. She started visiting without hesitation. She even referred to the dogs as her grandchildren. Initially, caring for them was just a way to help her daughter, but it turned into something greater. The pit bulls thrived under her care, even gaining weight. She had not only accepted them but come to love them.

A New Outlook

One good experience can change everything. Nancy had spent years fearing dogs, but now she understood their affection. She felt free from fear and was thrilled to visit her daughter anytime. The pit bulls had accomplished something unexpected—they turned her into a dog person, one step at a time.