So I had the opportunity to work with Chris Fisher from 97x http://97xonline.com. He was very fortunate to find a great dog – Dexter from Pet Pals Animal shelter here St. Pete. http://www.petpalanimalshelter.com They are a very good rescue organization and like other rescues in the area, they work tirelessly to do their best with dogs and cats that have been given up.
When I first met Dexter he was a little unsure of himself. Most rescue dogs lack confidence either because of their constant surroundings, the stress of multiple handlers, and far too often the inability to get much out of the crate time. Fisher has a hectic schedule, but his commitment to his new found friend was a strong one. We worked for 7 weeks at basic to mid level obedience. Dexter completely transformed himself from a shy, uncertain dog over those 7 weeks. Learning the commands was easy, and Fisher worked diligently on his “homework” of two 20 minute training sessions a day. Each week that I saw Dexter he was more confident, eager to please, and the bond that obedience training strengthens between owner and dog was easy to see.
Rescue dogs are just as good as those in pet stores. As a matter of fact they need your love more than any dog out there. Trust me when I say when you rescue a dog from a shelter, and train with it, you will have a friend for life.
Cindy Tuley




