07/04/2026
We hope all our furry, adopted friends had a wonderful Easter 🐾
As the warmer weather settles in, it’s lovely to see more dogs out and about enjoying the sunshine. However, it also brings a recurring challenge—encounters with well-meaning but sometimes unaware “my dog is friendly!” owners.
While it’s fantastic when a dog is social and well-trained, it’s important to remember that not all dogs feel the same. Some may be anxious, reactive, or simply need space, and even a brief, uncontrolled interaction can escalate very quickly.
Bruce is a great example. He’s a brilliant boy who has made incredible progress, but he can still be reactive in certain situations. After spending time at Dogs Trust, he was fortunate to find an owner committed to putting in the time, patience, and consistent work he needed.
When I first met Bruce in early January, he was understandably wary of strangers entering his home. With calm handling and the right approach, he has come a long way. Today, he greets me with a wagging tail, and we continue to build on his recall—though he remains on lead 99% of the time for everyone’s safety. On those rare occasions he gets a short, controlled run, it’s a real joy to see him enjoy his freedom.
Dogs like Bruce remind us that behavioural challenges are rarely their fault. More often, they reflect past experiences shaped by humans. With the right guidance, understanding, and environment, even the most complex cases can make meaningful progress.
A gentle reminder to always be mindful, respectful, and give other dogs the space they may need—because not every dog wants to say hello.
