Cleo the Mini Schnauzer

My husband and I were devastated when my rescue ex-breeding Mini Schnauzer actually bit a visitor's ankle, having been accidentally let out from behind a safety gate. Up until now we had wrongly been excusing her territorial behaviour which had been increasing over a period of time. However we now realised we had to seek professional help if we wish to keep her.

We had had some experience of behaviourists in the past for her nervousness and lack of trust and this had always been addressed with the use of medication and food.

I now realised she needed a different approach and I searched the net for a suitable behaviourist/dog whisperer. I was impressed with Sally's testimonials and got in touch. Sally spent some time on the phone with myself realising the seriousness of the situation. She made immediate arrangements to come to the house and on arrival spent some considerable time with my husband and myself explaining where we had gone wrong. She also showed us the amazing control she has over her own two rescue German Shepherds.

She then approached our dog in her cage and eventually with her own method gradually confronted Cleo's fear until she became calm and placid.

It is up to ourselves now to follow Sally's advice and not let Cleo retain her position as pack leader. We have been given the tools to work with and we are already seeing signs of an improvement. We have also taken her dietary advice and Cleo is already feeling and looking fitter.

Pat and Brian