I’ve gotten into training Gus as I’ve never been interested in training any of my dogs before.
Maybe it’s because he’s smart and responsive. Or maybe it’s because I have more confidence and now I really know what I want in a dog and what I don’t. I’m also not seeing the training as a chore. I’m actually having fun doing it.
I imagine it’s a combination of things.
A couple of days ago I was feeling really panicky. When I’m in a panic, I’m not fully present in my body or my mind. It was the first time since we got Gus that he wouldn’t pay attention to me. It was as if he didn’t really want to be near me.
Through Gus’ reaction to me, I could see how “off” I was myself.
After I took a walk in the woods and a swim in the Battenkill (which was shockingly cold and felt wonderful) the panic left me and Gus and I were back on track.
It’s interesting how much I learn about myself and how, when I’m aware, I can see myself through the dogs.
I remember when we got Fate, I thought I’d never be able to train a puppy without Jon’s help. Now I know I could.
That sounds great….to be able to go for a swim in a nice, cold river!