Today we went to get an oil change for husbands car. Athena did great with her down-stay. She’s pretty great when we put her in different environments. She never seems to be bothered by being in strange environments or people walking around. I think because down-stay is her most used position, she is definitely the most confident in it. She mostly in a down because her paws slip on the hard floors so even if she tries to sit, it usually turns into a down. That’s ok too.
We went to lunch afterwards were she wasn’t as confident. She really wasn’t interested in waiting in line but she wasn’t acting out. Just not amused. As usual we sat at a table. I like to try and put her in tight spaces when I have an opportunity for her to get used to strange positions in case we ever need to be in a tight space. She did very well in her down-stay between the wall and chair. However, I did notice while eating my lunch a little nose pop up from under my arm. I asked her what she was doing and she just looked at me. I asked her to go back down and she did. I went to refresh my beverage and she was not interested in staying behind. She ended up going with me and performed great.
She’s been acting funny around me recently. With having some physical health issues, I’m guessing she’s picking up on whatever it is. She’s been with me a lot more and giving me a lot of hugs. I definitely don’t mind her company. After all, that is why I have her. She’s a great companion and definitely wants to keep an eye on me. Her company definitely makes me feel better.
Having Athena with me certainly makes uncomfortable situations a little more comfortable. She helps relax me and often alerts me when I start to get agitated. She has a funny way of bumping her nose on my leg when I start to get upset. Service dogs really can help with mental health. Animals are truly amazing.
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