Walter Returns with Lessons Learned!

Doc picked me up from puppy rehab on Monday at high noon. It had been over two weeks since I had seen her, and I was so happy when they told me she was there that I did a happy dance. I was excited to show her what I had learned, but first they had to train Doc on what new commands I knew and how to follow through. You see, most of us don’t like to change our behaviors, including dogs, but it was time for me to grow up and show Doc what I could do.

When they brought me into the training room, there was Doc sitting in a chair with a big smile on her face. I went over and pressed up against her. Doc is my safe place, and I wanted her to know how much I missed her. After a quick reunion we got to work. First, they showed Doc a video of how well I did, being around other dogs, being around distractions and listening to my commands. Then Alissa the trainer told Doc how smart I am, so smart that I compartmentalize things and act differently in different environments, so the test will be to work on consistent behavior wherever I go

Next, she had Doc practiced my commands and she showed her how to correct me if I tried to slide back into old behaviors. I did great, so the next step was to bring another human into the room to try and distract me. They weren’t going to fool me; I sat right next to Doc no matter how much the nice lady tried to get me to misbehave. I did try to mouth her for a hot second, but I got corrected quickly and made a mental note to not put human’s hands in my mouth anymore. Getting used to improved behavior makes my puppy brain hurt After that it was time to finally go home, and I jumped happily into the back seat of the car.

I was so excited to be home and sleep in my own bed that I almost overslept and was late for work this morning. I could tell Doc was a little anxious and I must admit that although I am doing much better, I did try to push the boundaries when we got to work to see what I could get away with, but Doc is right on it. Already the patients and staff notice a difference and are being helpful to Doc to reinforce what I learned so I don’t slip into my old behavior. You know what they say, it does take a village.

So far, so good, I have improved and Doc is making sure I mind my manners. It was so nice to be welcomed back to work by everyone and to be told how much I was missed. Hearing that from everyone warmed my little doggy heart and makes me want to work even harder to be the best therapy dog ever.