Well, today we had a little bit of progress… I think.
There are some of you out there who, once you read what I am about to type, will think that this is regression, but in our family, it is progress. Rusty is a very well trained dog. Sometimes, too well trained.
Now, we know that a dog is, in fact, just that. But we still consider him a member of our family. And once in awhile he deserves to be cuddled comfortably… On the couch.
Up until today, Rusty would not get up on the couch. My husband once pulled him up here the first day Rusty was home, but since then the dog will not get up here.
Today that changed. Rusty came up here on the couch with us and cuddled. He got coddled, pet, and loved on. And when the novelty wore out for us, we told him to get down, and he did. I think he just enjoyed the brief special treatment.
On a more somber note… I am not so happy about the 4th and the fireworks coming up… Remember, Rusty’s afraid of thunder… Turns out, fireworks, too.
J gave Rusty a really good grooming today. He got trimmed up, nails cut, shampooed and conditioned. {His long fur is nice and soft!!} Afterwards, I took Rusty for a nice walk. During this walk, someone waaaay down the street must have lit off a firework or two, something rather small, and Rusty freaked. He barked.
I have got to help him get over this fear. I really do. This poor dog has got to learn that the world is wondrous, not to be feared… I just wish i could make him see. Sometimes, I guess it’s just easier to be a mom to human kiddo’s than it is to be a doggie mom…
Filed under: behavior, progress | Tagged: couch, dog, fear, fireworks, grooming, phobia, progress, rusty, walk
