Need a break

"I can't take it anymooore !"

I work with humans whose dog suffers from anxiety, fears, and an inability to manage their emotions (whether positive or negative). I work with humans whose dog is afraid to leave the house and hides, fears that another dog will hurt him tries to scare him away, fears that a human will mistreat him and run away or tries to scare him away, fears loneliness and barks or cries (or even exhibits other behaviors). I work with humans whose dog pulls on the leash because of his emotions when facing an element, barks, growls, bites because of his emotions when facing an element, barks, cries, destroys, urinates everywhere because of his emotions in certain situations.

These humans, as dedicated as they are, can be tired. They face several elements together for them to manage : the reaction of their dog, the compassion they feel for him when he finds himself in that state, the (often) negative judgment of other humans, the unsolicited condescending advice, the state of hyper-vigilance in which the situation and the implementation of certain arrangements and techniques put them.

I don't doubt for a moment that they love their dog. Their devotion, their whatever-it-costs-them, their desire to move forward in spite of the familiar or unfamiliar entourage, their concern for the well-being of their canine companion.

However, life would be sometimes simpler for them if they did not have to deal with it.

When it comes to long-term work to modify emotions, to change the perception of certain elements, so that Doggy becomes serene (again) in his living environment, both he and his humans need breaks. By weaning everyone from negative stress, it is easier to maintain stamina to continue progress. Being exposed to difficulties, pain and frustration on a daily basis is exhausting. In the long term, the drained energy risks altering the perception of you for your loved one.

How do you take a break ?

For a dog exhibiting reactive behaviors, this may be :

• walk him only in an environment without triggers

• leave him in the garden

For a dog suffering from loneliness, this may be :

• not be alone at all for a few days

• offer him a few days in a camp

These breaks provide rest. They are beneficial, both for dogs and humans.

Remember to wean everyone from negative stress to return to daily life with enthusiasm and the pursuit of progress !