“The week started with a one-to-one session with Claire Lush, Dogs for the Disabled’s puppy coordinator, to help me with a specific situation for which her experience and immediate support was invaluable.

At the weekend, Ruby had a rather concerning experience with another dog while we were in the town centre, and I wanted to ensure that she had no lasting ill effects.

As we were walking through the shopping area, a dog rapidly approached Ruby and immediately invaded her space whilst continuously barking at her. Ruby was very startled, and, although I quickly moved on, she was clearly shaken and unsettled.

To help address the potential issue of Ruby developing the same reaction on meeting all unfamiliar dogs, I immediately arranged to meet with Claire the following day at a local park.

Claire brought four other dogs to meet and then play with Ruby, where we also encountered a variety of other dogs as well. Fortunately, Ruby seemed to be absolutely fine, and appeared to thoroughly enjoy the meet-and-greet sessions – even taking quite a shine to a 12-month-old black Labrador called Jester.

I also used the opportunity to practice recall in the wide-open public space, both by voice and using a whistle. Ruby responded extremely well.

The later part of the week was quite upsetting for a different reason, as my own dog was taken ill and has had to stay in hospital for the last few days. So I have not done as much additional work with Ruby as I had planned, but she really has been an absolute star.

I returned home from the vet after one of the many visits and was feeling very upset. Ruby came straight over to me, put her little head on my knee and just looked up as if to give me the comfort and reassurance I needed. It was so sweet.

Mind you, ten minutes later she was outside, chasing my other dog around the garden, playing with him and teasing him in equal doses. The unsettling experience at the beginning of the week was certainly consigned to history!”