Case Study: Buddy

Written By Deirdre Bennett

From Anxiety at Mealtimes to Calm Confidence

Buddy during training with Dee

Clients: Rob and Katie
Dog: Buddy (Blue Heeler)
Program: 1:1 Behaviour Support

The Challenge

Before training, Buddy’s anxiety made mealtimes stressful for everyone:

  • He would growl when Rob or Katie walked past his bowl, making them anxious too

  • Sometimes, Buddy would even urinate during meals out of stress

  • Feeding time became a source of tension, not bonding

Buddy learning how to respond around food

Why Disaster to Delight?

Rob and Katie had tried several trainers but couldn’t find anyone who understood Buddy’s unique needs—until they met Dee.

“In the very first session with Dee, we learnt so much.”

The Training Experience

Dee’s approach was hands-on and practical, focusing on:

  • Teaching the right cues and what to look for if Buddy felt anxious

  • Threshold training for food, which made a massive difference

  • Helping Rob and Katie read Buddy’s body language and signals

“The training process was fantastic. Dee helped us with so many cues for Buddy and taught us what to look out for with Buddy’s body movements if he is ever anxious again. It’s safe to say Buddy has made a friend for life with Dee—he gets so excited now when we have training!”

Buddy enjoying the Place Bed, and doing so well at it!

The Transformation

  • Buddy now sits and waits calmly for his food, for as long as he’s asked

  • Rob and Katie can even pat him while he eats—no more growling or anxiety

  • Mealtimes have become a positive, bonding experience for the whole family

  • Buddy is more obedient and confident, with a growing list of command tricks

Buddy patiently waiting for his breakfast

Breakthrough Moment

“When we could feed Buddy and he sat and waited for his food—he wasn’t anxious, he didn’t pee or growl for the first time as we walked past—this was a massive win for us.”

Client Reflection

“Absolutely we would recommend Disaster to Delight. Dee was so great to work with and she is definitely all about the dog’s care, there is no doubt about it. If we were doing something wrong by Buddy, even we would get told off, haha.”

Buddy has made remarkable improvements, what a superstar (oh, and super handsome!)

Deirdre Bennett
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Case Study: Stella