|
Articles/Handouts Client Comments
|
|
"Kelly was at San Antonio Animal Control, then Gold Ribbon Rescue. There were several foster homes, but despite her sweet nature, no one could manage Kelly’s amazing energy level. She paced constantly and was never, ever still. After several months, we realized that she was not a typical “high drive” dog—Kelly’s behavioral issues were far more serious and complex. We took Kelly to her first obedience class, and the instructor warned us, “Don’t expect too much from this dog.” Kelly disrupted our entire household with her hyperactive behavior, fear aggression, and pack order issues. Kelly guarded everything—toys, food, even poop and vomit. If another dog got sick, she attacked them to get the vomit. She was an incorrigible poop eater. If we tried to pick up behind her, she would rear up on her back legs, growl and glare at us menacingly so that she could get at it. Kelly’s favorite game was “keep-away”--especially with laundry. If we dropped a sock or some other small item, she would run away with it. And, if we tried to retrieve it, she would swallow it whole just to keep us or the other dogs from getting it. Kelly also fought with some of our other dogs and would go crazy in her crate during feeding time if other dogs were anywhere around. It was clear to us that Kelly needed both medication and behavioral modification or she would not survive. We were desperate for help because we could not face the idea of having to euthanize this otherwise sweet, wonderful dog. Fortunately, we found Dr. Haug, who is uniquely qualified, to work with us. Initially, we were concerned about working with a behavioral specialist that was a 3-hour drive away, but the working relationship proved to be extremely successful. Dr. Haug followed our efforts and Kelly’s progress with genuine interest and concern. Every telephone call and e-mail was promptly answered, and we always felt that Kelly’s needs were met. Dr. Haug helped us to understand Kelly’s lack of impulse control and her hyperkinetic behavior. She taught us calming techniques and how to work towards modifying Kelly’s erratic behavior. She also prescribed the proper medication to assist Kelly in becoming calmer and more focused so that she could learn. These efforts along with time, patience and love, have resulted in Kelly becoming the best behaved dog in our household. The improvements in Kelly’s behavior have also allowed her to reach her potential as an outstanding canine athlete. She is a regular participant in dog agility competitions and has now earned AKC’s highest agility title, Master Agility Champion (MACh.). This accomplishment would not have been possible without Dr. Haug’s help. But most importantly, Kelly is a safe, loved and very happy dog." Kathy and Angie
____________________________________________________________________________________ “REMARKABLE is the one of the many words I use to describe how different Tulip is. She has gone from barking 3 x Thursday night, 2 x Friday night and only once last night. And the barking periods are MUCH, MUCH shorter.
I have had the best sleep in months! Actually I feel like I have a new lease (or should I say leash) on life!!!!
I know it has only been 3 days, and I know it will take long term consistency, but the REWARD of well-behaved dogs
has changed our entire household and my sense of well-being.
….Remarkable, remarkable, remarkable....I don't ever want to go back to rude dogs!
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!”
Faith
|
