I met Summer at a trial last year. She was so scared of everyone, especially men. She came from a puppy mill where the adults were thrown into a pen with garbage and left to fight for and eat whatever they could.

I talked with her mom a bit and we worked with her quietly in a corner and got her to eat out of my hand as long as I was perfectly still and didn't look at her much.

Then about two weeks ago I ran into them again. Summer is still scared, but worlds better than where she was. I could feed her and very carefully and slowly pet her. She even let me give her a command or two (Touch and Down) which were lavishly rewarded of course.

I sat and talked with her mom a bit while Summer kept bumping me with her nose and then backing away. I made sure Summer had moved away before I got up and then I managed to get this shot (and several nice ones of her agility runs too).

Very nice, Jim. Summer is very fortunate to be out of that puppy mill environment and with someone who clearly loves her and is giving her an active and rewarding life. And your sensitivity to her needs is really wonderful. Patience, and an ability to let her come to you. Lovely. Summer is a very lucky girl!

Jim

Thanks Jim,

That's the dog trainer in me. I have a few handlers I see at different shows who know I'm not going to freak out their already scared dog, and I'm always glad to be the "guy with a beard in a big floppy hat," etc to socialize the puppies too.

Here's Summer having fun:

What a beautiful candid Jim. I am glad that she has a loving and caring owner. Agility is great for building confidence.

Penny

Great photos and great story! Love the smile on Summer's face in the jump photo.

Diana