New training environment
Since moving to the London team, Skye has bonded with me very quickly and is happy to visit any new places. Initially she was fascinated by London pigeons and couldn’t understand why they wouldn’t move out of her way, but she’s got used to them now!
Obviously, London isn’t as busy now as it would normally be, but soon I’ll be able to take Skye to busier shopping precincts. We’ve just tried out the Tube which Skye took to with no fuss at all, but she did initially find the noise of motorcycles a bit loud!
Continuing to learn more skills
Until lockdown restrictions fully ease, I’ve had to adjust Skye’s training to more local areas both around and within the office. I’ve been teaching Skye how to find the button box at road crossings and together we’ve also been practising right shoulder work. This is where Skye must think about what obstacles I may face on the right-hand side as she walks on the left and learn to leave a sufficient gap.
Sometimes Skye would follow her nose too much and lose concentration, but I’m delighted to see her becoming a lot more focused now, especially once she gets to know places better. I’ve been introducing new places to Skye gradually just to build up her confidence. Overall, Skye is so laid back and yet gets so excited to do training sessions; sometimes she doesn’t even want the downtime in-between sessions and will come back for more!
Partnership training
Over the next few weeks, I will be looking to drop my guiding support of Skye slightly, so she learns to think more for herself. By doing this she’ll gradually become more confident to take on more things herself.
I’ll then be considering Skye’s individual skills and characteristics to find a suitable match. This includes reviewing her walking speed to that of her potential owner, and things like where the potential owner works in case Skye needs to have completed more specified training such as travelling on escalators. We’ll then start the matching process with her potential owner.
I think Skye will be best suited with someone who is active but who also wants a social dog as she’s such a joy to have in the office. I think her ability to adapt and her enthusiasm to continue learning will make her a truly reliable companion for her new owner.
Thank you so much for sponsoring Skye. Look out for an update on Skye’s new chapter with her owner.
