My Journey With Calvin

My journey with Calvin began in 2004 when I found him while searching on PetFinder.com. I was excited to find such a handsome dog, and quickly made plans to visit him at the Humane Society in Southern Ohio where he was staying. When I met Calvin, I felt a special connection, and was delighted to welcome him into my life.

Since I had never adopted a dog from a shelter or an animal rescue, I was unaware of the potential baggage that these types of pets often carry with them as a result of being exposed to the overcrowded, noisy, confining shelter environments, and/or the potential neglect & abuse that occurred in their previous homes. Unfortunately, I soon learned that I couldn't walk Calvin in public, because he would become leash aggressive. Alarmed by Calvin's anti-social behavior, I took him to a well-known "method trainer" that had been recommended by the local animal shelter. This particular trainer felt that if I gave Calvin treats while he was acting aggressive towards the other dogs in the class, that he would eventually make a positive association towards the other dogs, and subsequently stop his unwanted aggression. This trainer's "method" not only proved to be ineffective, but also intensified Calvin's anxiousness and aggressive tendencies. He was no longer just agitated toward other dogs, but actually snapped at the trainer during one of our sessions. She immediately suggested that I euthanize Calvin. It was heartbreaking for me to even consider prematurely ending the life of my cherished friend who actually seemed more frustrated and misunderstood, than blood thirsty and cruel.

Although Calvin's previous trainer had given up on him, I still held onto a sliver of hope that I could find someone to assist us who would understand Calvin, and know how to speak his language. Fortunately, after an exhaustive search, I found a trainer who specialized in rehabilitation. Almost immediately, I could tell Calvin had better focus, and was moving in a much more positive direction. It took hard work and a special dedication, but in the end, Calvin grew into the companion that I had hoped to have when I fell in love with him on our first meeting back at the Humane Society.

Not only did Calvin's whole world change, but it was life changing for myself as well. I realized that their was an intense need for qualified trainers who could address challenging behaviors that often times result in dogs being abandoned for lack of a clear understanding of how to create a desired improvement in their behavior.

Even though Calvin was back on the right track, I was continually haunted by the endless number of dogs that could be found on PetFinder.com, whom I wanted to help. As a result, I decided to volunteer as a foster parent for Go Boxer Rescue. Not surprisingly, almost all of my foster dogs desperately needed intensive rehabilitation and training. So, naturally I returned to the trainer who had helped Calvin and myself so much. I was excited to follow in his successful footsteps as someone who would share what I learned, and create a positive change in the lives of dogs and the people who love them.

I'm pleased to say that Calvin has done extraordinarily well over the years that I have enjoyed having him in the lives of my family, and my pack of dogs. He earned his Canine Good Citizen Certification in 2008. Calvin has developed into such a well adjusted, good natured dog that he accompanies me on many client home visits, and often attends training workshops with me.

I'm grateful every day that we were able to unlock Calvin's remarkable potential, and I am deeply proud of his success. The journey that Calvin & I have shared is a testament of how love, patience, and the correct training methods can change the world of our canine companions and ourselves. I hope that if you are considering training or rehabilitation for your dog, that you take a minute to reflect upon the triumph of Calvin's story. In my eyes, he will always be an exceptional dog, but it's important to remember that his success isn't the exception to the rule. Good behavior usually doesn't just spontaneously happen without some sort of coaching, but it does happen with the appropriate communication, mutual respect, and strategic training techniques. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you personally, and assist you with the questions you may have about developing the potential of your dog. Please feel free to reach out to me directly.

Wag More & Bark Less,
Anita