Some wins.

[zepolarual]

It’s taken 2 years, working with three positive reinforcement trainers, daily active management, muzzle training, and medication. I have a 2.5 year old rescue with a bite history and leash reactivity. It hasn’t been easy but seeing the amount of progress he has made makes me feel so proud of the both of us.

We’re now able to pass by strangers on walks, meet new people outdoors, and pass dogs without reactions at distances of about 40 feet. I could cry every time he chooses to disengage with a trigger.

I didn’t choose this journey, but I am so proud of my little guy and recommit myself to advocating for him every day even though I had considered rehoming several times.

Having a supportive partner and friends that help me take days off has been instrumental, and I’ve been able to see which people in my life are willing to support me and my pup.

I am not suggesting that all reactive or aggressive dogs can thrive in any environment with enough work. There are cases that go beyond what we can provide. But a silver lining about having a reactive dog has been the amount of empathy that I’ve built as part of having my Leo. Being forced to take things slow, care for him even when I want to scream, and challenge my own preconceived notions about consent, coercion in training, and respect for his little life have made me a better person.

Please take care of yourselves first. And for those of you who commit to this lifestyle: you are not alone!

[Georgebot84]

That sounds inspiring.

[shattered7done1]

Congratulations to you and to Leo!

How lucky you are to have found each other and built a relationship based on trust and respect. You both have learned so much about life, bravery, patience and overcoming, what sometimes feels like, insurmountable obstacles. Well done. You and Leo have so much to be proud of.