In June of 2008 I adopted a three year old, large abandoned pig hunting dog from the Hawaiian Humane Society. She was found wandering in the mountains behind the Pali Golf Course. I named her Pali.
I had to sign a liability waver when I adopted her because she did not pass the Hawaiian Humane Society temperament test. She was extremely fearful of humans and showed signs of being abused.
I first met Doug and Carol 5 years ago when I needed help with Annie, a terrier mix whom I also adopted from the Hawaiian Humane Society.
Annie suffered from separation anxiety and would throw a fit every time I got out of her sight. My leaving for work caused us both great anxiety.
Doug and Carol made three home visits, and taught me how to help Annie. I, subsequently, signed Annie up for their socialization class to build her self confidence.
Eventually, Annie stopped being fearful when I left the house without her.
Doug arrived at my home 3 days after I adopted Pali. I was at my wits end. Pali was hiding behind a book case in the living room and would not venture out. No one in the family had even touched her. I was sure I had made a terrible mistake by adopting her..
Doug, however, had a plan! We followed his instructions carefully.
Once we got her out from behind the book case, our first challenge was house training. I was amazed how easily Doug solved that problem.
Next came socialization, then walking her on a leash (clearly something she was not experienced at.)
Three months later she was playing, just like a normal dog, at the Hawaii Kai Dog Park.
I have great respect for Doug and Carol and their highly effective gentle training methods. Pali and I enjoy attending the adult dog training class on Saturday morning.
Linda Vannatta
Honolulu
more