[nagdu] cooperation vs. force

[Criminal Justice Major]

Hi, Robert H,
Odie had a bad chewing problem in the beginning and yes, it took a lot for me to get a handle on it.
He did get scolded a few times as for some unknown reason, he liked to chew on wooden furniture.
I eventually figured out later on that the chewing was caused by anxiety and stress upon talking with a behavioralist that was recommended by the vet I used in the past.
Once the problem was recognized, I tried not to get frustrated or stressed out in front of him so I could help him as well.
Years later, we're both bonded, attached and deeply connected together and do read each other's feelings and thoughts.
As soon as he feels me stressing and I've relaxed, I immediately start talking to him, letting Odie know that I'll be all right and for him not to worry.
During times when I would be really sick at times, it would bother him too upon my partner becoming really worried.
In February, 2007 on the 23rd, I ended up with a deadly respiratory infection and while I debated on getting an ambulance, Odie felt as if he was powerless to help or do anything.
Once Fire and paramedics arrived, he did show how concerned and upset he was.
After getting to Denver Health Medical to get quick emergency treatment, Odie finally calmed down a felt relaxed at ease.
Yes, he was spoiled by the doctor treating me because the doctor offered him a blanket to lie down on and sleep.
No, I wasn't able to wrap his leash around anything in the emergency room, but I definitely wrapped the end I'd hang on to around the harness handle.
Odie lie still on the blanket, but close enough to where he was near me.
When we did go home, he climbed up on to the bed to be with me.
Again, he didn't need a tie down nor anything else as his primary goal was to keep close.
Bibi