Some days are harder than others. For George and for me.
I've found my patience tested more than usual recently. There's a lot going on - work-wise and personally - in addition to the challenges of supporting an anxious and reactive dog.
I'm a pretty calm and patient person normally. But man, some days are tough.
George is so much calmer at home now but still has his bouts of barking. He's a vocal dog and an alert barker.
Looking back now I don't quite know how I coped with barking for hours and hours on end. Maybe that's why my patience feels more tested now.
George can be having a really good day and then he will have an hour or two where he can't settle and reacts to every little noise.
When it's intense like that, I find my patience tested. It's really hard not to react and to remain calm. Particularly if I am trying to concentrate on work.
I have just realised (it took me an embarrassingly long time) that recently it mostly coincides with his situational meds wearing off and the neighbours returning from work.
He has often rested well throughout the day. So he is more alert, there is more noise, and he has less support from the meds. He might be getting a bit bored too as I'm focusing on wrapping up my work for the day. He finds it harder to handle the noises.
This realisation is helpful. I will try to keep him busy during this time rather than expecting him to calmly rest.
I tried a lickimat which was useful. We played some scentwork games the other day which was very useful. He had a lot of fun and it tired him out. Similarly with hiding some kibble in paper in a cardboard box.
Just like George, sometimes I'm having a hard time and don't always react in the ideal way.
When my patience is feeling severely tested, I try to give George a lickimat or chew, and take a moment for a quick time out.
And remember that I am human and I am trying my best. I think I am a pretty patient person but everyone's patience can be tested at times.