A dog living in a hollowed-out tree with window-like openings sounds like an interesting fairytale. However, in reality, this abandoned pup hiding away in a tree was scared, hungry, cold, and completely afraid of humans. Luckily, animal control officers in northern California were on the case.

This is the twisty-turny tree that the little Chihuahua, Boo, was hiding in.

The passageways were narrow and nearly vertical in some spots.

Rescuers used a hose (but no water) to try and ease the scared pooch out of her hiding spot.

She hadn’t had any interaction with humans before, so she didn’t particularly care to start now.

But with a little extra persuasion and time (over an hour), Boo came to their calls.

She even had a nice bubble bath at the shelter.

It took Boo a bit to accept being in the care of humans.

She still needs a little extra persuasion with treats and sweet talk to come out of her hiding places.

Hopefully, Boo comes around so she can find her forever home.

She shouldn’t have to spend cold nights tucked away in a dark tree trunk!

(source Facebook / The Secret Life Of Dog Catchers)

Shirley Zindler, author of The Secret Life Of Dog Catchers, is the woman behind the scenes on this rescue. When Boo was too scared to stay at a foster home, Zindler took her into her own home. Boo’s journey to puppy normalcy is going to be a long one, as the crucial developmental years of her life were lacking human companionship.

Still, we hope that Boo will come around. Until then, be sure to read Zindler’s book. A portion of the book’s sales go to animal and children’s causes.