Michelle Hanley, a 53-year-old teacher, decided to get an Italian Greyhound named Dante after her children left home, seeking companionship in her empty nest. Despite Dante’s initial good behavior, his demeanor shifted dramatically at eight months old due to negative encounters with aggressive dogs. Michelle struggled with Dante’s anxious and reactive behavior, eventually feeling overwhelmed and considering giving him up.
Fortunately, Michelle found support from Woodgreen, a charity dedicated to aiding pets and their owners. Through expert guidance from Woodgreen’s outreach officer, Steph Drake, Michelle learned to interpret Dante’s stress signals and respond calmly. By making adjustments to their walks and addressing her own emotions affecting Dante, Michelle saw significant improvements in Dante’s behavior.
Steph’s insights and Michelle’s dedication led to a remarkable transformation in Dante. Michelle now feels confident that Dante’s behavior can be completely changed, with only occasional issues arising. Steph commended Michelle’s efforts, noting Dante’s increased confidence and relaxation, showcasing the positive impact of their collaborative work.