On her first day on the job, our new employee Mariah wasted no time in putting her training skills to work. I had identified blind Levi as her first student, so that's who began school today. Levi is an incredibly sweet, eager-to-please dog, but he's essentially had little training in his prior life. He's big, high-energy, and loves to jump up on people to greet them. Given his size and lack of manners, he's the kind of dog who can end up knocking you over in his exuberance. Thus an excellent candidate for training!
Because he was badly beaten -- he's blind because his eyes are filled with blood, all the vessels having been ruptured by the blows -- he needs a very calm and gentle approach. His prior history of abuse resulted in Levi having a case of submissive urination ... even a raised voice (particularly a man's voice) can trigger one of these episodes.
So Mariah began with the basics -- like getting him to focus, and then sit on command. She spent about 30 minutes this afternoon working with Levi in Widget's House, our disabled dog building. Levi did very well, and clearly connected with Mariah, as you can see from the photo. I'd call that a focused student, wouldn't you?
(Click on photo for larger image.)
It sickens me that Levi is blind due to horrific abuse! Levi will now have a new lease on life and a chance to learn his doggie manners. Keep us posted on his progress.
Posted by: Nina | August 06, 2006 at 09:09 AM
Levi looks as tho he's fallen in love with Mariah's voice already. She has simply mesmerized him! He's basking in all that attention. Good boy, Levi! I'm so sorry that you were beaten so horribly! You look so well behaved & attentive in the photo, good job!
Hugs to all,
ginger & Tobias
Posted by: ginger & Tobias (the greythound) | August 02, 2006 at 04:50 PM
It breaks my heart to hear about a dog blinded from being beaten. I am SO grateful that you are there to show Levi how it should be, that people LOVE dogs!
Keep up the good work.
Nancy
Posted by: Nancy | August 02, 2006 at 11:20 AM
Levi is a great pupil! His history of abuse is quite saddening; but not only has there been a happy ending for him, but he's getting properly trained which will really make him happier in the long run.
Good job Mariah and Levi. :-)
Posted by: Leilani | August 02, 2006 at 08:02 AM
Yes, Levi looks focused and eager to please. That'll be great having one-on-one training and tune-ups for some of the animals.
Posted by: Roz | August 02, 2006 at 06:16 AM