Sunday Success - Mary, Our Expert Behaviorist
This Sunday, we're shining a spotlight on Mary, our truly fabulous OUR Dog Foundation behaviorist! Mary isn't just a dog trainer; she's a highly qualified and deeply empathetic professional whose profound understanding of canine behavior is a cornerstone of our foundation's success.
Mary brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to OUR Dog Foundation. Her background as a seasoned behaviorist means she approaches every dog and every situation with a blend of scientific knowledge, practical experience, and an incredible amount of patience and understanding. She consistently emphasises communication, empathy, and a deep respect for a dog's individual history and needs, which are principles that guide all our work at the foundation.
A perfect illustration of Mary's expertise is her recent experience with Albert, her own dog. He arrived as a young rescue, initially thought to be 10 months but quickly revealed to be a much younger, larger puppy from police kennels. While Albert was initially a joy, his adolescence brought the typical "mad box of frogs" teenage behaviors – screaming for attention, embarrassing outbursts, and Jekyll and Hyde moments. Even for a behaviorist of Mary's caliber, these moments are tough. Yet, it's precisely in these challenges that her professional insights shine. She understands that his background, coupled with normal adolescent development, requires a calm, unbothered approach, focusing on clear communication rather than overbearing responses.
Mary's honesty about the difficulties, admitting there were times she felt Albert was "too much to handle," only highlights her unwavering commitment. Her personal journey with Albert directly informs her professional guidance, allowing her to truly empathise with the struggles many dog owners face. This real-world application of her behavioral knowledge ensures that the advice and support she provides through OUR Dog Foundation are not only expert but also profoundly practical and compassionate. Mary's dedication, whether to her own dogs or those she helps through the foundation, truly embodies our mission and makes her our Sunday Success!