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Many rescue dogs carry a history of abuse and trauma. They need lots of compassion and patience to acclimate to new surroundings and overcome deep-seated emotional wounds. Animal advocate Isabel Klee has fostered over 30 dogs, each with physical and behavioral challenges, and knows how to help these fearful fur babies learn to trust.

Marmie is Klee’s most recent foster, who comes from a very troubled past. The little pooch is finding her way into normal life and conquering her fears of everyday objects.

Klee explained some details on Marmie’s background that shed light on why she’s so fearful and anxious about common items.

“My foster dog, Marmie, came from a cruelty situation,” Klee said in the TikTok from @simonsits as she held Marmie. “She has lived her entire life feeling scared and nervous, and she has not been exposed to many things in her life.”

The foster mom noticed in these early days that Marmie can feel threatened by objects that cause no danger.

“This means that since having her, there have been a few things that have surprised us,” Klee continued. “And most recently, she decided that she was very suspicious of my coffee mug.”

The video then showed Marmie barking at the coffee mug, with a nervous look on her face. Klee gave her a red tennis ball to play with so she would feel less threatened.

Marmie Took Steps of Courage

The foster pooch slowly got curious about the cup as Klee tried to gently present it to her, showing her there was no danger.

“It’s just coffee,” Klee reassured. “Wanna come see? Come here.”

It took a little time, but Marmie eventually approached the cup and gave it a few sniffs.

Related: Rescue Dog Considered ‘Too Old and Sick’ Transforms Into ‘Perfect’ Pooch’

“See? It’s nothing scary,” Klee told her, and praised Marmie for her bravery.

Then, Klee carefully drank from the coffee mug as the canine cutie sat beside her. Marmie felt the positive affirmations and covered her foster mom with kisses.

Klee’s love and patience are helping Marmie gain more courage each day and learn that she doesn’t need to be afraid anymore. This foster fur baby is sure to flourish under Klee’s care.

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Apr 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.