When I adopted Sox in March 2022, he was triggered by walking along the main road near our home, with the exception of very early mornings when there was no traffic. He didn’t like the traffic noise and he didn’t like the reflections of the vehicles in the shop windows.
Given our suburban location, his reactivity on the main road was going to be a problem and so it was time to think about how to apply de-sensitisation and counter-conditioning.
Our local SPCA Op Shop became a cornerstone to Sox’s training.
Located on the main road, it allowed well-behaved dogs, on lead, inside. Sox quickly learned that we could walk through the scary glass windows and inside were friendly people who greeted him with pats and cuddles.
He also made a special friend, a regular Sunday volunteer named Beth.
Within 8 weeks, Sox was happily walking along the main road without fear.
With few exceptions, we have visited the shop every fortnight since our first visit in 2022. Sadly, a couple of weeks ago, these posters appeared in the window – the shop is closing!
Visits to the op shop have become a regular part of Sox’s routine and a source of ongoing enrichment (think of him as the Official Greeter of the SPCA Op Shop whenever he is on site).
I am sure he will be confused when we no longer visit this shop front, and I do wonder whether he will think of his Special Friend Beth when we pass by, not knowing what has become of her and why she isn’t there to cuddle.
We will visit the shop up until the last Sunday they are open next month.
Kathleen Crisley, Fear-Free certified professional and specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and canine fitness, The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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