In January we met this very special 2 year old, COVID raised, Border Collie. He was surrendered to GHS with many behavioral issues and we were warned in advance.
We welcomed him into our pack as we have had several border collies in the past and were well aware of their intelligence and quirks.
His list of don’ts far out numbered his do’s at the time.
So as our training started, our immediate attention was on learning to socialize. We drove around to parking lots and with Turbo in the crate in the back of our car and (yes in February) opened the hatch and let him observe. He watched as people moved around the parking lots of Walmart and Costco.
Turbo’s need to learn, please and self regulate his energy was very helpful. Plus he was already crate trained and excellent on a leash.
In the first few weeks he was busy learning tricks. But still had anxiety with touch. Nightly we would pet and touch his back, paws and back legs. All was met with a low growl and uncomfortable ayre but he would still remain at our side.
From there he learned how to navigate memory puzzles, frisbee, distance runs and how to wear a life jacket on his boating adventures.
Turbo is very apprehensive at first to all newly initiated events but we have figured how to de-escalate some of his anxiety with soft words, repetition of task and coaxing.
I am so happy to report he now let’s us brush him daily, trim his nails, brush his teeth, show off his enormous repertoire of tricks, runs daily with his dad and has bonded immensely with our family members and family dogs. He has lost his best friend and training meet recently, but his bond with his cousin (Elle who is also a GHS rescue pup) is immense.
He is a joy to be around and still a work in progress but our love and pride in his accomplishments is undeniable. Thank you for the special gift we call Turbo!
