I so look forward to my classes with Melissa, and today lived up to my expectations. Unexpectedly (I'm assuming, I can't imagine anyone would plan it
this way) we had 5 canine students, all male, all under the age of 2. The male adolescent energy that was emanating from the room was amazing. I'm
surprised no one's head spun off their shoulders in the first two minutes. Melissa asked everyone to work on downs and sits while at their spots. In less
than 5 minutes the energy had decreased to a much more manageable level, and everyone was ready to start class.
Tucker (the tank) was a very handsome yellow lab. He was amazingly strong and very energetic. He and Amy's Bailey could be siblings. Though he started in his own private suite, by the end of the class he was able to venture into the open and still keep his brain in his head. I can tell his owner (I'm sorry I don't remember your name) has worked very hard to channel all that amazing energy and I'm sure they have a bright future ahead. Tucker will guarantee that it will be action-packed.
Next was Hudson, a lab/pitt mix. He reminded me a lot of Rachel's Gus. At just 10 months, he was the youngest in the class. You could tell his owners had worked very hard with Hudson as he walked amazingly well on lead and seemed to be trying very hard to please. It was great to see both husband and wife there working with him.
Radar and Herdndog were the class stars. Within a few minutes of class starting, Lisa brought Radar out from his suite and he remained calm. The connection and energy these two share is amazing. They truly enjoy working together. Though this was a basics class, which Radar is very experienced with, Lisa kept it challenging by using subtle cues and increasing his exposure to the other dogs in the class.
Tali and Justin have improved so much in a month. When people talk about the love between a boy and his dog, they must be talking about these two. Justin works so hard to train Tali (in order than someday he may work as his service dog). Tali is completely devoted to his boy and displays such patience. I hope that I can continue to see this pair mature.
And finally, my goofball, Oakley. The transformation that occurred in my boy from the serious and distant pup many of you met in October, to the super friendly, ready to wag himself out of his fur today, is nothing short of amazing. I thank Melissa for this transformation. She has been there with us through all the challenges and successes. Thank you to Rachel for offering her guidance and words of encouragement--I need them as much as Oakley. Gus and Petra were great demo dogs!
Thanks guys for another super class!
BTW: The next time you see Melissa, ask her about her sparkly, pink hat
Tucker (the tank) was a very handsome yellow lab. He was amazingly strong and very energetic. He and Amy's Bailey could be siblings. Though he started in his own private suite, by the end of the class he was able to venture into the open and still keep his brain in his head. I can tell his owner (I'm sorry I don't remember your name) has worked very hard to channel all that amazing energy and I'm sure they have a bright future ahead. Tucker will guarantee that it will be action-packed.
Next was Hudson, a lab/pitt mix. He reminded me a lot of Rachel's Gus. At just 10 months, he was the youngest in the class. You could tell his owners had worked very hard with Hudson as he walked amazingly well on lead and seemed to be trying very hard to please. It was great to see both husband and wife there working with him.
Radar and Herdndog were the class stars. Within a few minutes of class starting, Lisa brought Radar out from his suite and he remained calm. The connection and energy these two share is amazing. They truly enjoy working together. Though this was a basics class, which Radar is very experienced with, Lisa kept it challenging by using subtle cues and increasing his exposure to the other dogs in the class.
Tali and Justin have improved so much in a month. When people talk about the love between a boy and his dog, they must be talking about these two. Justin works so hard to train Tali (in order than someday he may work as his service dog). Tali is completely devoted to his boy and displays such patience. I hope that I can continue to see this pair mature.
And finally, my goofball, Oakley. The transformation that occurred in my boy from the serious and distant pup many of you met in October, to the super friendly, ready to wag himself out of his fur today, is nothing short of amazing. I thank Melissa for this transformation. She has been there with us through all the challenges and successes. Thank you to Rachel for offering her guidance and words of encouragement--I need them as much as Oakley. Gus and Petra were great demo dogs!
Thanks guys for another super class!
BTW: The next time you see Melissa, ask her about her sparkly, pink hat
Melissa has some good tricks up her sleeve and a nice touch. 
