[nagdu] Soul Searching

[Mardi Hadfield]

Hi Cindy, Mardi here. I can sympathize with you on your troubles with your
dog. I had a similar problem With Shaman after he was attacked by a pit
bull the first time. He started growling at every dog that got within 3
feet of him.I did not take him to a convention,but he was reactive in
public when we were out. I tried every thing, but to no avail. at first I
though that he was afraid of other dogs.I was wrong. He was actually trying
to protect me from the other dogs.I had to make him understand that the
action he was taking was inappropriate. I finally had to break down and use
a shock collar on him.I hate using shock collars,but I regard it as a tool
of last resort.It was either retire him or try this method.It worked and I
only had to "zap"him 3 times before he got the message.I have never had to
use it again.When we are faced with a possible problem,I just say "leave
it" and he calms right down and behaves.I am not advocating that you use
this method. Do what your trainer wants you to do to correct the
problem.It's just that I had tried every thing to stop the problem with my
dog and nothing worked.He was a very young dog at the time and I was bound
and determined to "fix" him rather than retire him.It was the only thing
that worked for him.I am sure your trainer can help you with your dog's
problem.At the time of Shaman's bad behavior, My trainer had chosen to go
back to school and was unavailable to help me. I work with rescue dogs and
frequently must rehabilitate some who are fear biters. I have been
successful with every one so far and have not had to use a shock collar on
even one of them. Most dogs respond to kindness and obedience training.
Some are more stubborn like Shaman. He has turned into a wonderful guide
and behaves very well know. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I hope
every thing works out for you and your partner.  Mardi and Shaman and
Tipton,future GDIT.

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