Betsy the Rescue Dog

I was beginning to worry that my 9 month old rescue dog was showing signs of assuming the position of very top dog. I had badly broken my wrist and training was not going to plan. Then I heard about Sally and I started to think, and hope the situation could be reversed. I was not to be disappointed.One of the many good things about Sally is that she came to my house and saw Betsy in own environment, which is just what I wanted.

I will never forget the look of awe and respect that Betsy gave Sally from the first moment. I still envy that look. Little by little Sally is peeling off the unwanted bits of Betsy's behaviour with commitment, understanding and amazing patience, if only I could learn that quickly! Betsy was a lead-pulling, car chasing, visitor smothering ball of uncontrollable energy, and slowly Sally is showing her, and me, the right way to behave.

Sally has taught me that so often bad behaviour comes because of nerves and insecurity and a more confident dog is a more relaxed dog. I have already seen this manifest itself the day my frightened dog struggled up the stairs for the very first time after twenty minutes step by step gently coaxed by Sally. The joy and pride on Betsy's face was a very emotional moment for all three of us.

By the way Sally does not come alone, she is one third of an incredible team. Her two amazing German Shepherd Dogs make up a terrific partnership. Chiot and Boy are showing my dog what to do. It is fascinating to watch Betsy taking in every move they make. They have a calming and tolerant influence with now and then a gentle scolding which is delightful and touching to see, they are very definitely an important part of the training process.

We still have some way to go, but Sally assures me we will get there in the end, and I have a stronger feeling with each visit that she is right.

Linda Chevis