Donna, Ally, & Spark (Longmont, CO)

Since our intensive work with Jackie, our dogs have been repeatedly beating their latest records and are now up to a 4.5 hour absence without any fear! Eyeing a five hour calm absence seems incredible, considering that at the beginning even a five minute calm absence was impossible. 

We've also been working on absences at our ski condo. First we got both dogs comfortable at the condo, because they weren't used to all the noises from an old creaky building, neighbors and dogs, people on the stairs, and the road. Now that they're relaxed when we stay there and tolerate, or at least easily settle down after any distracting sounds, we planned an evaluation. I thought for sure they'd get upset and we'd come back right away and have to start all the way back at doorknob jiggling, but they acted like they were applying everything they learned from our exercises at home!

They didn't act fazed at all; it was just another one of those boring times when we left for a little while - even though this was their first time practicing in the condo! We were gone for about 45 minutes and came back because we wanted to and not because the dogs were getting at all stressed. They hung out on the couch, looked out the window, got up for some water, and went back to nap on the couch. 

We are so grateful to Jackie for her patience, caring support, and expertise. She encouraged slow and steady work that laid the foundation for our dogs to be able to just relax when they’re home alone. It has been especially exciting to watch Spark develop into a calmer dog who can handle being alone.