Sometimes a dog comes along to my behaviour clinics that just has to be saved.
The little Jack Russell you see in the photo above is just such a dog.
Freddie arrived screaming with fear and dragging his exasperated new owner along in a state of pure frenzy. He wasn't sending a warning to keep away or threatening me with a show of aggression. Freddie wanted to kill me plain and simple. Even through his muzzle I could feel the impact as he charged my leg.
Freddie had no social skills, no education whatsoever and had learned people and other dogs could hurt him. That's all he knew and his only response was attack.
I knew the first five minutes were crucial to our future relationship and stood my ground as Freddie snarled and snapped. Without making eye contact, or allowing him to walk in front I took his lead and in total silence trotted him around the show.
Once he recognised he had a leader Freddie calmed down enough to sit beside my pack in the sunshine and watch the world go by. I have no doubt this was the first time in Freddie's life he had ever relaxed.
It's going to take a while but once Freddie's owner understands the process rehabilitation is inevitable. No dog (or owner) should spend their entire life under stress.
I am holding my final behaviour clinic of the summer at Teggs Nose Country Park Visitor Centre on Sunday September 27th from 10am to 2pm. If your dog has a problem this is your chance to solve it.
For a £10 donation to Animal Support Volunteers I'll work one-on-one with your dog for 15 minutes. I promise you will see just how good he/she can be.
There's a great new café up at Teggs Nose where my team will be happy to chat about your dog while you wait to see me or you can text me on 075-905-60012 to make a specific appointment.
The following weekend October 2nd and 3rd we have our Autumn Master Class where you can spend two full days training with me and my dogs in the great outdoors. If you can't commit to regular weekly training lessons the Master Class is for you.
You will find full details at vicbarlow.com
