Fluffy was surrendered to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA during the lockdown in terrible condition with a mattered coat. He was unfamiliar with being on a leash and not always comfortable with being touched. This is rather unusual behaviour for his type of breed as the majority of Maltese types are affectionate and cuddly!
Fluffy was nicknamed Grumpy Grandpa Fluffy because he was so aloof. He started to settle in and enjoyed his grooming sessions and strolls around the block.
Frenette, Fluffy’s new mommy was not put off by his grumpiness and fell in love with him instantly. A few days after fluffy arrived at his new forever home, we got a message from Frenette. Fluffy was having restless nights and appeared to have “nightmares”. He was so uncomfortable and would growl and was so vocal. When Frenette reached over to soothe him, he awoke startled and confused-as if he did not know where he was. Our behaviourist recommended that she create a safe space for Fluffy, and see if he would settle.
She let Fluffy have uninterrupted sleep for long periods (average sleep schedules for dogs can be up to 12 -16hours a day), lack of sleep can lead to irritability.
Frenette started to build up their relationship by playing games (like tug-of-war; hiding treats for him to find, and fetch). Play promotes the emotional responses in the brain and promotes the release of positive hormones, resulting in Fluffy feeling a whole lot better.
Fluffy now only has happy dreams about catching waves on the beach and cuddling with his mom in bed!
Fluffy recently had his cruciate repaired and mom Frenette has been doing all of his physio. Moms know best, and Fluffy is doing so well! Thank you, Frenette, for the wonderful home you have given Fluffy.