Before I called Paul, I was at my wits end with my dogs taking over my life. I found myself always on edge and nervous when it was time to “take the dogs out.” I love both of my dogs, Jewels (4 year old, lab mix), and Scholastic (1 year old, chihuahua).
When I first brought Scholastic home 8 months ago, I noticed Jewels’ behavior start changing little by little. She loved her new little brother and was always on alert as to his well-being. Then slowly, she started showing signs of aggression to the other neighbors dogs. I was very upset when I noticed this dramatic change of behavior in Jewels. It was one “dog fight” later that I realized I really needed help to change her behavior.
I don’t think I will ever forget when I heard Paul knock at the door and as usual, my two dogs went crazy alerting me and probably the entire population of Altamonte Springs. The moment I opened the door they did their crazy jumping up and barking non-stop at him. After talking a while, he was able to pinpoint the real issue, and he explained how I needed to change MY energy with the dogs,
He taught ME some simple skills to keep in mind before I even began to interact with them that day, such as keeping myself calm and relaxed. NOT showing signs of stress, fear, panic, or uncertainty. I have never had a dog trainer who placed so much emphasis on remembering that dogs can read peoples energy and body language!
I will admit I was a bit skeptical at first at the skills Paul was teaching me, but after watching him work with Jewels outside, in our normal everyday environment, I was completely speechless. I was even more amazed when I watched Paul walk Jewels side by side with my neighbor’s dog and she acted as if she didn’t have a care in the world. No aggression, no fighting. She was a different dog in less than 24 hours. I had two separate neighbors who were stunned to see the difference in her. Still happy, but with a much calmer demeanor. Jewels did have one little growling incident with a new dog around the neighborhood, but with the new skills Paul taught me, I knew immediately what to do to correct the behavior, and to do it with confidence.
Much of Paul’s first visit was to work on Jewels although; Scholastic did get a few minutes of work in on basic skills. Because he is one of those feisty, stubborn, Chihuahua’s he is going to be a bit more challenging, but I know if I keep doing my part, he will improve. I will be making another appointment with Paul to work with Scholastic next time, and then Jewels can show off her new “lifestyle!”
If it wasn’t for Paul’s visit I don’t know what I would have done. Honestly, Paul has given me more insight on myself and my behavior, than my dogs. Paul has been heaven sent and I know that we are a much happier family now, and the future is very promising for Jewels, Scholastic, and me.
Barks!
Casey , Jewels, & Scholastic
Atlamonte Springs, FL