Recently, my brother reminded me of Shyla's extreme fearfulness when we met her in 2012. She was so fearful that we couldn't let anyone outside our family interact with her directly. If they looked at her or spoke to her, she'd collapse onto the ground and lose control of her bladder.
As we tried to help Shyla not to be afraid of new people, we'd orchestrate outdoor meetings with new people. She could only handle meeting them if they were walking away from me and Shyla. Shyla and I would shadow them by about 10-20 yards. As long as no one looked at her, she was okay.
My brother recollected that it was a couple of YEARS before he could look at Shyla without scaring her. And it wasn't just him, it was all outsiders.
My reaction to the memories of Shyla's early years was "REALLY?!?". I'd almost forgotten. Shyla is so close to normal now that I hadn't thought about her early days recently. Until my memory was jogged, I didn't remember that she and I met with a trainer weekly for a couple of years (with daily practice of the things that the trainer taught us).
R was Shyla's touchstone, and perhaps he prepared her to take on this role for Hachi. He was such a gentle and loving big brother to her, and now Shyla can pass that along to Hachi.
It is amazing that Shyla has grown up to have such confidence. I am so happy for her. And it gives me even more hope for Hachi.
Hari OM
ReplyDeleteOh I needed to read this positive post today... thank you for sharing Shyla with us! YAM xx
You've worked hard and you totally deserve this and we couldn't be any happier for you, Queen Shyla♥
ReplyDeleteShyla has come such a long way and that makes us all smile!
ReplyDeleteShyla sure has come a long way but she never could have done it without your dedication. We know R was also a big influence on her and showed her how to lead.
ReplyDeleteWow, that's awesome! So happy Shyla has "found her way." Sounds like she is a great leader. R did an amazing job guiding her.
ReplyDeletemy heart if full and my eyes are wet with tears. this is simply lovely. xo
ReplyDeleteShyla....you are (and all your pack) are proof positive that TLC is the best medicine EVER.
ReplyDeleteI love our photos today
Hugs Cecilia
What wonderful lessons you and Shyla have learned from each other.
ReplyDeleteGoodness, you've sure had your hands full with the dogs who've come into your home. They're very lucky to have been found by you (or perhaps found you.) Shyla has definitely come into her own...Hachi will surely learn those lessons too.
ReplyDeleteTake care and stay well.
It is hard for me to fathom that you have had Shyla for eight years; it seems like just a short while ago. She has come so far, hasn't she? And she owes it all to you and your dedication. She learned well from R. And now it is Hachi's turn to reap the rewards of life and training with you.
ReplyDeleteI remember you blogging about all of Shyla's trials and tribulations. Seems so long ago. She'll take care of Hachi, just like R took care of her. <3
ReplyDeleteShyla is so amazing, and I have no doubt Hachi will continue to follow in her footsteps - literally and otherwise! ♥
ReplyDeleteJan, Wag 'n Woof Pets
You have done a fabulous job with Shyla and are repeating it with Hachi
ReplyDeleteJust think, someday, Hachi may be the one to lovingly lead another. OF course, we hope it is not for a very, very long time.
ReplyDeleteSo sweet she's become such a role model for Hachi. All hail the Queen.
ReplyDelete