Agree with @elbrant and I'd like to add, when you return be very matter of fact, do not make a big fuss, particularly if she is excited and effusive in her greeting to you. Sure, acknowledge her if you must but don't make any sort of big deal out of it. Go about your business, e.g. if you've been shopping, put your things away before spending any time with her. Your goal is to make your absence just part of a normal routine, nothing to be excited about. I've had two separation anxiety dogs, and you know you have won the battle when the dog just glances at you in an "oh, you're back" way and doesn't bother getting off the couch! Yes, people like it when their dog greets them and makes a big fuss, but if you feed that behaviour you give too much emphasis to your absence and that can grow into anxiety in your dog.
New title for an old dog
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I'm happy to report that Digital received his TDIAOV title certificate a couple of days ago. A therapy dog is awarded the TDIAOV title after 150 hours/visits. Diggie will turn 15 in December and I'll post a birthday message then. I believe this brings his title count up to 30 (not counting his MVB or is ASCA titles). I'd also like to point out that Digital was my first competition dog of any sort and he's ALWAYS been owner-handled. Can you imagine what he could have accomplished with a more experienced handler?
good boy.
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Congrats to Digital and to YOU too, you are a team!
