SECRETS TO HELP A SCARED DOG BECOME A BRAVE ONE – A PERSONAL JOURNEY
In October of 2008, I brought a scared dog home from the shelter to join our family. What follows is our story in the evolution from a shy, terrified creature, to the almost self-assured dog we have today. I say almost, because she still has her moments. But, for the most part she’s confident and happy. Will the methods I used work for every scared dog? No, all dogs are different. I’m hoping that some of them, however, will guide you towards calming your frightened pet. THE DOGS I MET ON MY FIRST DAY OF VOLUNTEERING After having signed up with a local shelter to volunteer (Briggs Animal Adoption Center), I decided to work with dogs of all different personalities that first day to see where my talents and interest would be best used. I don’t remember all of the dogs I interacted with that day, but here are the three that stood out. Winnie, an energetic terrier mix, large, hairy, slobbery, with a joyful, rambunctious personality, Dino, a Jack Russell terrier with a Napoleon complex, known for toy possessiveness…