Day 1163

He did it!!!!!!!!! Sam passed his “Obedience 2 Class” with flying colors! Mac was his cheering section and voted him Valedictorian!

Now, we take the next steps towards Therapy Dog Certification and soon he will be one of the lucky ones to head out to our venues! He will make this world SUCH a better place!!!’

Thinking back to my doubts about the classes he has taken, and whether success was within his reach, I shake my head in awe! At his very first session for Obedience 1, he barked and lunged at his other classmates in an attempt to play! Focus was NOT part of his vocabulary! He was a challenge! Fast forward to his final class for Obedience 2 and it is hard to believe it’s the same dog! He was perfection with every task and command! My boy…

What was the impetus for his change and growth? I have a couple ideas…

*Positive reinforcement was the philosophy of the school! No harsh words!

*Treats were rewarded often.

*There were many cheering sections for the pups…Sammy’s was the best!

*The humans were never admonished, just redirected with praise for the continuum of learning.

*It was fun!

Perhaps it is simply Goldens, who are fragile flowers when it comes to their soft hearts, but it seemed to work for everyone…two-legged and four! It sure worked for Sam! Look out world…here he comes!