Rusty is the settling superstar

Rusty is doing really well with his settling and focus.

This is the art of taking life easy in public places such as shops, offices, cafés and so on, while all the time paying attention to the person they're with. What we want our dogs to do, is just relax and be no bother to anyone, but attentive to their deaf partners' needs. This is so that they can accompany their deaf partners wherever they want to go. 

And how good is Rusty at this?

Look at the focus below...

... and how's this for a settle?

HHow did we get to this stage? Well, Averil has been very patient with Rusty. Every time he's done the 'right' thing, Averil has given him a treat, a bit of a fuss, and lots of praise. The 'right' thing has been to sit when asked, or wait, or just settle quietly. The 'wrong' thing is just ignored, not chastised. We call this 'reward-based' training and it works really well. It makes the whole thing fun for everyone (and every dog!) concerned.

See what we mean? Here he is in the bustle of a local post office depot, all the while with his laser focus on Averil:

So, now Rusty just knows that, if he focuses on Averil, if he settles in public, he'll get a reward. It makes for a very happy, secure puppy - exactly the kind of companion that a deaf person needs.

That's 'work'. How about home life?

Well we're very pleased to tell you that Rusty still adores Leo, Averil's own pet dog - 'Rusty's old, faithful, wise mentor' as Averil calls him.

And Rusty still makes a glorious contrast with Pippin, an ambassador dog that is also living with Averil. They're so alike, but so different at the same time!

Last but not least, we absolutely love this video Averil shared. Rusty's predilection for curtains is well documented (see your previous Pupdate for proof), but he's also developed a taste for wrapping himself up in a throw. It must be so comfortable and warm! 

Pippin doesn't seem quite sure what to make of this situation. We assure you, that really is Rusty underneath...!

So there you have Rusty - the settling superstar. He's come so far because of your support, so from all of us, thank you so much again for sponsoring Rusty!