Candidate must be able to instinctively display calming signals , respond to directions quickly, carefully and consistently, show quiet, easy-going confidence at all times, remain non-reactive in the presence of reactive/ aggressive canine clients whether 5 pounds or 150 pounds, make all human clients feel like geniuses by responding to their sometimes clumsy commands if asked to do so, demonstrate different levels of play behavior with aforementioned canine clients and quit immediately if required. This type of dog is rare and most of the qualities they need to possess are instinctive, not trained.
Miami and Portia have been ably assisting me for the past 12 years, and, although not yet retired, they would like to begin decreasing their workload in this very demanding career.
Vida applied for the job and his first assignment was to interact with a client's 2 year old GSD who is dog reactive/aggressive among other behavioral issues. This required serious focus and exquisite communication between Vida and myself. He was able to calm this dog by his presence and they both enjoyed their playtraining sessions throughout the class. The client's dog is a recent rescue and has very limited social skills and no previous obedience training. Vida was not offended by escalating rough behavior and waited patiently during time outs.
A quietly confident dog of strong character with exemplary temperament and intelligence is absolutely essential to me in my business. Thank you, Julie, for my new canine business partner. I might have phoned Julie and shared this story with her alone but I thought it more complimentary to post it here so everyone could enjoy this great story about another super Alta-Tollhaus dog.
QuickUpdate: Tonight Vida participated in his second behavioral class with another GSD with reactive/ aggression issues. Another successful class due in no small part to Vida's good work!
I haven't decided yet what Vida's salary should be. Any suggestions?
Oh, I almost forgot. Vida is not even two years old yet!
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