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Saffi Testimonial ...

Saffi was a rescue, at approximately 18 months old, with no history of her previous life. We were “lured” by her friendly and affectionate nature, and home she came, where she proceeded to make our house her home! After experiencing some “challenging” situations whilst on “walkies” it became apparent she was lacking in some manners and socialization skills, and though not aggressive, was a bit of a bully!

We trotted off to basic training classes, and in the class room Saffi excelled herself, and was top in her group!
On the open plains, it was a different story! Saffi did what Saffi wanted, and on her terms! “Walkies” became a covert operation, and I was becoming somewhat paranoid! Where can we go where there aren’t many dogs? Where could I let her off the lead? Would she run off and not come back? Is this just the way she is? (Shar Pei’s are renowned for their stubbornness and single mindedness!)

After many, many months of “Billy no mates” walks, on long extended leads, and letting her off lead in remote “safe” places, I could not resign myself to “well, it’s just the way she is” and began to despair. I had a long tearful chat to my dear friend Mel (dog walker) who said “I think you need to see Nic for some one to one training”!

Nic came on a home visit to meet us, and I was immediately impressed by his personality and approach to training. After several “prudent” questions from Nic, and also his observations, it was obvious that Saffi ruled the home and us. SHE WAS ALPHA!

Nic explained the importance of structure and boundaries and suggested we started to make a few changes within the home. Nic also explained about clicker training and left an excellent booklet to read. Making those few basic changes was already starting to take affect.

We then started our five week training “out in the field”. I was a nervous wreck. “She’s going off lead, and there are lots of dogs around” I exclaimed! I had nothing to fear, as Nic talked me through every step of the way. I cannot begin to say what an education those five weeks were. Ultimately it was I who need the training, as my lack of confidence and anxieties were being passed to Saffi.
I understood and learnt so much in that time, and it all made such sense.

We are now at a place where I never thought we could be. I now have confidence, and the anxieties have dissipated, thanks to the constant reassurances and understanding from Nic. Saffi can be so laidback sometimes, she almost falls over!

We are the Alpha and Saffi is now able to be a dog and do all those doggy things she should be able to do, without being on a lead! We now have lovely walks in places we would not have gone before. We have also made lots of new friends and playmates. Those five weeks with Nic were the best investment we could ever have made, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Never give up!
Saffi still has her “moments” if she can, but then she is a dog!!

Thanks Nic

Val & Saffi

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