Post by mhaze on Jun 16, 2011 13:34:11 GMT -5
Had a major breakthrough with Poca and Gus the cat. At first, she'd go into hysterics if a cat went by her crate. That's over. The other day, we had an accidental run in. 'Leave it!' worked for the first time, and Poca got a reward. I've been very carefully rewarding good behavior when she's out of the crate and a cat is present. I keep it short and sweet.
Gus was out being his usual mellow self, and we tried some supervised cat time with Poca leashed (treats in hand). She was so good, I couldn't believe it. No more tensing up. Her body language was calm and relaxed, so I dropped the leash. She smelled, wagged, and actually SAT DOWN next to Gus. She followed him around some, but never mouthed or pawed at him. I asked for another leave it, and she did. I said 'kennel,' and she did. Praise and treats!!
I'm still not at the point where I'd place her in a home with a cat, but I'm really relieved to see that there's potential with more work. Cats that run are still going to get chased, but I think we'll get there. This little gal is just awesome! I hope she can be as cool with cats as she already is with dogs. Someone is going to be lucky to get this girl.
Gus was out being his usual mellow self, and we tried some supervised cat time with Poca leashed (treats in hand). She was so good, I couldn't believe it. No more tensing up. Her body language was calm and relaxed, so I dropped the leash. She smelled, wagged, and actually SAT DOWN next to Gus. She followed him around some, but never mouthed or pawed at him. I asked for another leave it, and she did. I said 'kennel,' and she did. Praise and treats!!
I'm still not at the point where I'd place her in a home with a cat, but I'm really relieved to see that there's potential with more work. Cats that run are still going to get chased, but I think we'll get there. This little gal is just awesome! I hope she can be as cool with cats as she already is with dogs. Someone is going to be lucky to get this girl.
I look forward to learning much here