Fear-Free Training Transforms Stray Dog: Guido’s Path to Adoption

Guido was brought in under PAR’s care on November 7th 2024.  He came to us from Tuscola County Animal Control after they had to live trap him in a campground where he was running as a stray for months.  Completely shut down, this big ear cutie went right into foster care with our dog barn manager, Wendy.  Wendy has been caring for Guido ever since and has helped Guido overcome many fears which include human touch, learning to play with toys, wearing a collar, getting used to a leash, going for car rides, and so much more.

Guido was a severe case of fear and under socialized.  He could not be touched for over 2 months without shaking and flinching.  It took over 3 months for him to venture out of a kennel.   Guido started to play with toys in January and in February when Wendy fostered the Flintstone pups is where we saw Guido come to life!  He loves to play with other dogs!  Guido has now helped with other foster dogs with canine play like Chico and Major and will continue to do so as our very own Wendy has adopted Guido!  

Guido was strictly trained with force free positive reinforcement training methods, as Wendy is a certified fear free dog trainer.  Any aversive tools or harsh training methods could have been detrimental to Guido’s well-being and could have made his mental state worse, if not damage the bond that was forming between him and Wendy.  Special cases like Guido take a lot of time, consistency, patience, and compassion, but in the end the bond is like no other.  

Just in the past few weeks, Guido is being more of a ‘dog’.  He is going on long walks, walks in a group with other dogs, he went camping last week, had a fabulous happy vet visit, and he loves his canine brother and sister.  Guido also gave Wendy a kiss on the face for the first time on July 2nd, so July 3rd the adoption papers were signed.  Guido still has a lot of confidence boosting planned in the future, but he is happy and in a good mental state.  Happy life Guido, we are so happy for you and your new family.  This is just one story of don’t give up or ignore the dogs that may need a little extra care, as it all works out, even though it make take a little longer…

Thank you, Wendy, for your extra care and patience with Guido.  He is one lucky dog.  That kiss sealed the deal. ❤️