The Halls have two other dogs, one a very old Lab, the other a 15 month old Lab, they're raising for guide dog training. Matilda was fine with the young pup, but the 15 month pup drove her crazy. Finally I just put Matilda on a down while we talked about the test.
Here are some things for me to remember for the test.
I should be sure to take Matilda for a pee before going in.
The brush I bring should be clean, no hair in it.
I should bring a non favorite toy, one without a squeak.
Before the test I should tell them I like to have her offered a treat in a flat hand.
During the test I should role play. As I walk I should pretend to greet people as if in a hospital.
When they do the physical exams, the gentle and the rough one, it's OK for me to kneel down beside Matilda and reassure her.
When I change from Matilda's leash to the long line and then back to her leash, put two leashes on and then pull off the second one so she is never without a leash. Put her leash around my neck. Keep hold of the long leash when I recall her. Take her back to the starting box in the long line carefully so neither of us gets tangled and then change back to the Matilda's leash.
Always keep a loose leash.
If I have to tell her "leave it" for the toy be sure to say it in a friendly up beat voice.
I don't think I need to bring the long line, but maybe I will.
We need to work on adult group hugs and getting bumped from behind.
When we got back we went straight to the Pooch Park. As a fundraiser they were taking pictures with the Easter Bunny and selling toys and other things. I bought a toy and Matilda had her picture taken. Then we went to the Pooch Park where she really did pretty well.
Matilda with the Easter Bunny on her Birthday
