This past weekend, Gracie and I attended the Asheville Pet Expo. It was an interesting event. Vets from the local emergency animal hospital held talks about various topics. The local sheriff’s department had a K-9 demonstration. Vendors sold all sorts of interesting stuff.
Gracie had a meltdown in the car on the way. It was so strange. The night before, she was excited and barking happily as we rode to Grandma’s house. Before this trip, she was trembling. I almost turned back halfway there, but then she stopped trembling and lay in the seat, defeated.
She did very well with the other dogs at the expo. She has historically had issues meeting other dogs. Her reactions were typically defensive, unless the dog was about her size. She only showed a little aggression toward a Lab-mix pup who wanted to get in her face and a Great Dane who was just too darn big.
When she had enough of the crowds, she would want me to carry her. I know the trainers would disagree with me. I did it anyway. I was more concerned that someone would step on her or that being in a large crowd of people and dogs would overwhelm her.
For me, the expo was very interesting. For Gracie, I think she enjoyed meeting some of the dogs and definitely all the people. She probably would have been happiest with a 5-minute sweep of the area and then straight back home. It is important, though, to continue exposing her to new things. Fingers crossed, we can make some progress with her anxiety issues.
Rescue Mommy
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