Michelle Hanley, a 53-year-old teacher, decided to get an Italian Greyhound named Dante after her children left home, seeking to overcome the emptiness of an empty nest. Initially drawn to the breed for its gentle and loving nature, Michelle brought Dante home as a 12-week-old puppy and found joy in his company.

However, at around eight months old, Dante’s behavior took a turn for the worse following negative encounters with aggressive dogs. Michelle noticed a significant change in Dante’s demeanor, as he became anxious, barking and pulling on walks whenever he saw other dogs.

Despite seeking help from a local trainer, Dante’s behavior continued to deteriorate, causing Michelle distress and making her hesitant to walk him. The situation became overwhelming, leading Michelle to consider giving up Dante, a thought she struggled with due to her love for him.

Fortunately, Michelle discovered Woodgreen, a charity in Cambridgeshire that provides support to pets and their owners across the UK. Through Woodgreen, Michelle connected with Steph Drake, the lead outreach officer, who visited her home in Bedford to observe Dante’s behavior firsthand.

Steph identified signs of stress in Dante, explaining that his aggression stemmed from fear. She taught Michelle how to interpret Dante’s body language and handle stressful situations calmly, which proved effective in helping Dante relax during walks.

Woodgreen aims to ensure every pet has a happy and healthy home by providing various services such as expert advice, in-home support, and rehoming assistance. They work closely with pet owners to address behavioral issues and prevent potential separations between pets and their owners.

By implementing Steph’s recommendations, including shorter walks on quieter routes and ending on a positive note, Michelle saw a significant improvement in Dante’s behavior. Understanding the impact of her own emotions on Dante’s anxiety, Michelle learned to stay calm and build trust with him during walks.

With consistent effort and support from Woodgreen, Dante’s transformation has been remarkable. Michelle now feels more confident in managing Dante’s behavior, with only occasional issues arising. Steph’s guidance and Michelle’s dedication have led to a positive change in Dante’s demeanor, making him a happier and more relaxed companion.