Annie, my shy, sensitive girl, had a setback last week (week #2) – after having a great first agility class at The Collared Scholar. We arrived just as the class was ready to start and the other 3 class participants had already arrived. Stepping into the loaded room set the stage for problems… Annie was nervous – looking from dog to dog, tail tucked tightly under… So, a late arrival was error #1. Then, a super friendly, playful dog came running over to Annie to say hello – right in her face… Oh, No! She took to my lap for security. Error #2. From that point on, she wanted nothing to do with the agility equipment, being too distracted by the dogs in the room. This was a real setback.
The first week, we had arrived early – the first to enter the space. She had plenty of time to sniff around and know that the room was a good place to hang out… she sniffed some of the equipment, too. Then, she was able to watch each of the dogs as they entered, coming in one at a time. No threats were sensed! She started off feeling relaxed.
So, this week, I was sure to leave early enough to re-establish the pattern we had set up on week #1. Annie did appear a bit more nervous going in this time, but this soon dissipated. She was ahead of the crowd (of 3!!!). She sniffed the space – and all the new equipment – and established herself in her spot. We were back on track! Once again, baby steps all the way.
She had a great time. Really enjoyed herself. And, was exhausted!
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