We found an ideallic place for some hydrotherapy. Zuri doesn't fancy swimming but she used to like to wade. It's harder now with three legs which discourages her from both. There was hardly any current but just enough to make standing slightly challenging without being overpowering. Aims for today:
1. Increase the time she will stay in the water.
2. Increase the depth she is willing to go.
3. Encourage swimming.
Important points:
* She is not forced to enter the water.
* She is kept feeling safe.
* She can leave the water at any time. Choice is highly reinforcing. Choice is empowering.
* The desired behaviours are highly reinforced. Every few seconds.
* I use a really well learnt behaviour, touching my hand with her nose, to encourage the deeper walking and swimming.
* I use a well conditioned secondary reinforcer, clapping, as well as treats.
I have all the time in the world to let her get comfortable in the water before asking for more. It will be worth it in the long run. If I force or hurry her I may end up with a dog who won't enter the water or even refuses to get out of the car.