We received this request for advice. How would your respond?
"I am writing to you in regards to my family dog, Zeus. He is a two year old German Shepherd.
June 10, 2015 was the best day of my siblings and my life! Our parents allowed us to get a family dog! I remember the 2 hour car ride to pick him up as if it was yesterday! Life was great! We have always wanted a family dog, and that year our dream came true! But since that time, my parents separated and my dad took Zeus with him- my siblings and I stayed with our mom. Recently my parents decided to work on things and my dad and Zeus are back with us. Unfortunately, Zeus returned not the same dog he was when he left. Because my dad was so busy focusing and working on himself, he forgot to focus his energy on Zeus' mental needs.
We are so happy to have Zeus back, however he has turned people aggressive and has even forgotten and started to hate some of my siblings. Because of this, he has to be tied up or in his kennel a majority of the time. My parents and I have looked into intense boot camp training for aggression and we found one that we might be interested in, if we can find money to pay for it. My parents just broke the news to us that their last resort, if no one is willing to take him in, is send him to the pound! We are all so upset. All my siblings and I want for Christmas is to be able to keep our friend, Zeus.
If you have any suggestions or tips, please send them my way!"
What would you recommend to this person? What are your thoughts about Zeus? What are your thoughts about boot camp? What kind of recommendations do you make with this type of situation? Would you provide any advice related to surrendering Zeus?
#bootcamp#AnimalBehavior,TrainingandEnrichment#germanshepherd#behavior#aggression