Cat Date

Bucky needs to be exposed to as many things as possible so that when he encounters them in his future career he will just take them all in stride.

Cats..... wellll.....

He hasn't met very many, but when he does, they certainly grab his attention and hold his fascination. He is very focused as he watches them, and given the chance, I am sure he would have a grand old time chasing them.

This is not a good trait for a Guide Dog to have.

So I asked around if anyone has a cat they would be prepared to place in a Sacrificial Lamb position.

Bucky had three Cat Dates with two amazingly calm and patient cats.

The first date Bucky was totally focused on the cat and I could not get his attention, period, even with treats! He sat still and did not take his eyes off the cat. He would try to get closer but also patiently watched.

I was totally impressed with Lulu the cat for sitting quietly while he hovered so near to her.

With each date Bucky got progressively better. By the time he had his third Cat Date he would take his eyes off the cat - to take treats. Then he looked around the room to watch other things. So I figured he could come off his leash. I held my breath.

Bucky sat and watched, and eventually he even walked away!

Now, I'm not saying he won't chase cats again, but I am saying he could learn to ignore cats.... probably.

Now I just need to learn how to transfer those training skills to work on training John to be well behaved.....

BTW - many thanks to both cats for being so patient. And many thanks to their owners who had confidence in their cats, Bucky and me to not destroy their homes.