Wendy LeSage is a professional trainer who, six months ago, took a Katrina survivor named Blackie to help her overcome her fears. Blackie is a feral, black Lab mix who was in need of someone to help her build her trust in people and acclimate her to a more “normal” life. Wendy LeSage was up to the challenge. She has been working with Blackie for several months and her work has paid off.

When Blackie first arrived at Wendy’s at the end of December, she was afraid of most everything, including Wendy. Blackie wouldn’t make eye contact with Wendy, let alone go near her at first. Wendy realized from the very beginning that patience and time would be the keys to success when working with this shy and fearful girl. She took very small and careful steps with Blackie, never pushing her too far beyond her comfort level. In the beginning she simply allowed Blackie to become comfortable with her new environment and did not ask for anything more. Wendy provided her with toys and though she never witnessed Blackie playing with them strangely, the toys were piled all around her dog bed. In an update in early February Wendy wrote, “Blackie has made tremendous strides, she seems happy and alert. Still not ready to make friends, but I haven't pushed her. She does like Lenny Kravitz music and seems to smile when I sing to her.”

Gradually, Wendy began working on helping Blackie become more comfortable with her. Using food and treats Wendy started teaching Blackie to change her association with people, one person at a time starting with herself. Finally, by early March, Wendy was able to take Blackie for a walk on a leash. For a well socialized dog this is no great feat but for a dog like Blackie this was a huge step.

Since then Blackie has been making slow, consistent progress. While Blackie is still skittish Wendy feels that she is much more relaxed and comfortable. Wendy and Blackie are still working on becoming better friends and she is helping Blackie make canine friends as well. “She still doesn't come to me, but almost. She actually got up when I called her today, took a step and then stopped herself. She is making friends with my Rottie and a GSD that is a rescue that is kenneled next to her. She no longer runs from the other dogs, but lets them sniff her through the fence without running away.” Wendy feels that she and Blackie have a long way to go but is confident that this girl can continue to improve.

Stay tuned for more updates on Blackie in the future…