Growing My Pack

Initially, Bronx was a friendly pup who enjoyed being around other dogs, humans, and even cats! However, one night in March of 2017, things changed. I woke up in the middle of the night to Bronx unable to control his bladder, breathing heavily, unable to keep his eyes open, swaying back and forth, and falling into me with all his weight. I was terrified! He showed his first sign of aggressive behavior that night on the car ride to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine by snapping at my friend who was along for the ride. Bronx spent 2 nights at LSU where they concluded he had a seizure after likely consuming something toxic.

After the seizure, Bronx became easily frightened, anxious, and slowly began to show more and more aggressive behaviors towards other dogs, strangers, loud noises, and unexpected movements. I quickly realized that we had to adjust our lives to ensure Bronx felt safe and confident in what seemed like a whole new world for him. 

In August of 2018, Bronx and I moved from Baton Rouge, LA to Seattle, WA. We spent our first year in the PNW working with a variety of dog trainers in the area, spending well over $4k across a variety of professionals. Through trial and error with other trainers, I slowly realized that as the one who knew Bronx best, it was up to me to develop methods to help him navigate the fear and anxiety he experiences in the world. I learned that I couldn’t change him, so I focused on teaching him the skills and tools he needed to live comfortably within his limits.

Our goal was progress, not perfection.

In March of 2021, I decided to bring a new member into our little pack – Juniper Blu, a miniature Australian Shepherd puppy. I was very cautious about bringing a new dog into our home, given Bronx’s adversity to strangers of all species; however, Juniper Blu has truly turned out to be a perfect little brother for Bronx! Calm, patient, and resilient, Juniper Blu had a way of easing into situations without creating tension. The transition was in no way easy! The process was slow and methodical; I wanted to ensure that Bronx would fully accept his new brother.

After ~6 weeks of slow, controlled interactions, and a little help from Bronx’s grandpa, Bronx finally warmed up to his brother and accepted him as a member of the pack. They have since become best friends, and Juniper Blu’s resilience and calm demeanor has made a positive impact on Bronx.

Juniper Blu’s presence in our lives has been transformative! He has helped Bronx feel more comfortable, confident, and less reactive, so much so that Bronx has since made friends with a handful of our neighbors! Seeing them together has reinforced my belief in the power of a supportive environment and a tailored approach to training.

Bronx and Juniper Blu have taught me invaluable lessons about patience, understanding, and the importance of adapting to each dog’s unique needs and limitations. My journey with them has shaped my philosophy and approach to dog training – one that is rooted in compassion, connection, intuition, and a deep commitment to understanding the “why” behind each behavior. My goal is to help every dog and their human find that same sense of harmony and connection that Bronx, Juniper Blu, and I have discovered together.