Special pets
Millie - Starvation had set in until Andrea found her
Millie was found abandoned at the primary school where I work in the middle of winter. She was covered in her own excrement, severely malnourished and could not walk. She was very fearful and the vet suggested putting her down. An animal lover from way back prevented me from considering this option (besides I had already fallen in love)! Obviously, a dog such as this came with a myriad of problem behaviours including incessant barking, attempting to snap at other people and dogs if they came too close, wetting herself when scared and generally being fearful of everything in her environment.
I was very fearful of taking Millie to dog class because her behaviours were so awful and I was convinced that everyone would think badly of us. We had complaints about barking from our neighbours and friends couldn't understand why we would want such a dog.
It was at this point where Millie's dog training guardian angel ‘Dee' came into the picture. Dee was the only person besides my husband and I who could actually touch Millie without her losing the plot. I won't say the journey was easy, it wasn't. But we persevered and slowly but surely, a bright, endearing, intelligent and highly affectionate dog was emerging. Of course, Millie still has her issues, things don't happen over night, but we know that whatever issue arises, we have the support of Dee to tackle whatever comes our way. These days Millie enjoys living with two other dogs at home, has long walks along the waterfront, regularly visits dog parks and enjoys cuddles from family members and friends (and even strangers sometimes)! She has even visited vets without having to be muzzled, been bathed and groomed and seems to have settled with her barking!
Our journey with Dee has helped me to become a better leader for Millie (I still make mistakes but I am trying with Dee's ongoing support). I have learnt that in order for Millie to be comfortable, I have to set clear guidelines and expectations for her. ALWAYS, without exception. Now, I feel so very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to share my life with such a beautiful dog. I can't speak highly enough of her; she really is the light of my life, along with my other two "babies". So, for anyone who feels that their dog is beyond hope, let this be a gentle reminder that this is not always so - unconditional support and guidance without judgement is always available at Positive Response Dog Training and boy does that make a difference in a dogs life.
Thank you Dee from the bottom of our hearts.
