Michelle Hanley, a 53-year-old teacher, found herself seeking companionship after her children left home. With a fondness for dogs since her childhood with a German Shepherd, she decided to bring an Italian Greyhound named Dante into her life for their gentle and affectionate nature.
Although everything went smoothly initially, Dante’s behavior took a turn at around eight months old following some negative encounters with other dogs. This led to anxiety, excessive barking, and pulling during walks whenever he spotted other dogs.
Struggling to manage Dante’s behavior, Michelle sought help from a local trainer without success. The situation became overwhelming, causing Michelle to consider giving Dante up despite her strong bond with him.
Fortunately, Michelle discovered Woodgreen, a charity in Cambridgeshire supporting pets and owners across the UK. With the guidance of Steph Drake, Woodgreen’s lead outreach officer, Michelle learned to interpret Dante’s stress signals and respond calmly in challenging situations.
By making adjustments like shorter and quieter walks and maintaining a positive end to each walk, along with managing her own emotions, Michelle and Dante saw significant improvements in their daily routine. The transformation has been remarkable, with Dante displaying more confidence and relaxation.
Steph’s tailored advice and Michelle’s dedication have led to a positive shift in Dante’s behavior. Michelle is now confident that Dante’s behavior can be fully transformed, thanks to the support and guidance provided by Woodgreen.
For pet support and assistance, individuals can reach out to Woodgreen for expert advice and services to ensure the well-being of pets and their owners. Steph commends Michelle for her commitment and hard work in transforming Dante into a more confident and happy companion.
