I've worked and trained with dogs (and horses) for decades, but it was my very sweet, very high prey drive and very reactive dog Maya that really launched me into the professional depths of dog training.
I felt frustrated with her behaviour. Even more so though by the lack of understanding. What was really going on and how to best deal with it. I worked with various trainers and even though we seem to make little bits of progress here and there, I still felt I wasn't actually helping her. On the whole, we didn't change and the The methods seems harsh and unfair. Neither of us was really happy and there was no understanding.
I studied extensively with top dog professionals and behaviourists focussing on rescue and shelter dogs, high prey drive dogs and the various kinds of reactivity and aggression. As my understanding change, my perspective changed and my relationship with Maya changed for the better. As did she. This made the world of difference to me personally.
On top of that, I am able to help other guardians and their dogs so much better.
