Caspa the German Shepherd

I had a lot of experience with dogs, having been involved with Guide Dogs for the Blind, usually being given the more challenging cases. Caspa arrived as a 13 week old and as a puppy was very good.

As her hormones kicked in, things started to change little and following her being attacked several times by one dog, and a couple of others, she became unmanageable to walk. When she was off her lead, she would shoot off after something and shut off her ears to my attempts to get her back, and then there would be resulting unpleasantness. Even on the lead she would try to get to another dog over the road, and being a large and strong breed would have the capability to pull me over. Living in a small village, her reputation quickly spread. Alas, the attacked had become the aggressor! I was at my wits end, and frankly could easily have cried. Pet ownership is about joy, and at this point there was none! This dog had got to the point where she was likely to have to be destroyed! Fortunately I became aware of Sally, working in my area. Thank goodness! And there began an amazing journey and a total transformation!

Sally could understand where Caspa was at, and quickly identified her fear. We spent time working in the house and just outside, and this dog was just too scared to be outdoors!

Usually of course we go to people with the worst parts of unwanted behaviour, where there is a bit more that needs to be sorted. Sally was firm with Caspa, and me when needed, but also very supportive and encouraging, with an abundance of patience. Caspa was not too happy about being touched, which also gave issues at the vets. It was not known if Caspa would ever be able to free run again, such was the depth of her issues. Over a period of time, several months, I learnt so much about her, the love quickly returned, and we now have a much deeper bond, as we have learnt to communicate properly. I learned what a complex mix she is being very sensitive and wanting to please on one side, yet being a natural pack leader! She had to learn her place! Many techniques were learned and Caspa is very much a reformed character, a delight to walk, and yes she is free running.

The process is not a five minute fix, and it does require you to put in the work, but perseverance does pay off. It is an investment of time, effort and resources. If she were a child I could not give her away, so why think about it with a pet? The new owners or rescue centre would only end up destroying the animal. I now have many years ahead with a very much loved, well mannered and valued member of the family. I am writing this several months after the process finished, and I can assure you, it does work, and I have had no return of the previous issues!

Thank you so much Sally and well done!

Lynne