Re: Rescue terrier discipline

In Reply to: Rescue terrier discipline
Category:   Russell Rescue
Posted by:  Marie Pintar
Posted on:  June 26, 2002 at 14:15:29

: I have a six month old male JRT Spike, who was owned by an abusive man from age 2-3 months. He was hit, kicked, left in cage for days, not fed, etc. Friends threatened to call the cops and he surrendered Spike to them. Health problems were sores, bruises and borderline malnutrition. He sees a vet and is now in good health.
: I have a female Rottwieller who has raised him for three months. He responds positively to correction from her. Little growls and the 'mom'look.
: If I scold him, he hides and cries for hours. I do not raise my voice, I do use a scolding tone. How do I correct him without scaring him to death? Any disturbing noise will scare him. He will be fixed next Monday. Thank you.

Response:

Dear Marie,

On behalf of the other Forum volunteers, thank you for rescuing such a truly needy terrier. Spike is lucky to have you AND your Rottwieller as his "moms." :-)

Because of Spike's history, this is a situation where you and he would best be served by consulting a behaviorist. By personally observing Spike and ALL of his reactions, a behaviorist can teach you how to correct him based upon his specific needs.

Ask your vet for a recommendation for a behaviorist. There may come a time when Spike will benefit from attending an obedience/training class but for now, his specific behavior needs to be addressed. I'm providing you with links to JRTCA Russell Rescue volunteers and JRTCA State Representatives so you can contact terrier folks in your area for recommendations.

Again, thank you for taking in the little guy and give your big girl (!) a hug from all of us.

Warm regards,
Leslie