03/09/2025
Why I Do What I Do: My Journey With Shadow
When I talk to people about their dogâs separation anxiety, I understand the worry and frustration theyâre feelingâbecause Iâve been there myself.
Before I became a separation anxiety specialist, I was simply a dog owner trying to help my own dog, Shadow, feel safe when left alone. Like so many, I followed advice I found online, tried different routines, and hoped that time would help. At one point, I was even told to just leave him to âbark it outââadvice I now know only made things harder for both of us.
There were days when I felt discouraged and wondered if things would ever change. But what I didnât expect was how this journey would bring us closer together. Every small step forwardâno matter how tinyâhelped us build trust, deepen our understanding, and strengthen our communication.
I began to notice the little ways Shadow was telling me how he feltâlike a yawn, a glance, or a shift in posture. Paying attention to these subtle signs helped me truly listen to him, and made our bond even stronger.
Shadow wasnât being âdifficultââhe was genuinely distressed, and he taught me he needed us to do this journey together.
That personal journey inspired me to train as a Separation Anxiety Pro Behaviour Consultant and dedicate my work to helping other dogs (and their people) find relief, confidence, and calm. I know how lonely and frustrating the journey can feelâbut I also know how powerful it is to have support, a plan, and someone cheering you on.
If youâre struggling with your dogâs anxiety, youâre not alone. Iâve been there, and Iâm here to help with a gentle, structured planâstep by step, just as I learned to do with Shadow. This photo is of me and Shadow on one of our walks by the sea â a moment that always reminds me how far weâve come together.