Touch

Most of Chester's fearful behaviors are textbook. We anticipated and expected many of the traits he exhibits. Other reactions weren't initially obvious to us, like his lack of desire for personal grooming. He was part of our family for quite awhile before we ever saw him so much as lick a foot. I know the lack of personal hygiene is a symptom of depression or post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people, but never thought about it related to abused dogs.

One of the most pitiful revelations I had with Chester was that he didn't seek attention. He wasn't interested in being petted. Sure, he would let us pet him on the head or back, but most times it seemed that he was just being polite. It truly wasn't something he craved. Actually I'm not certain he even enjoyed it. Most of the time he would drop his head away from the touch. At the same time he very deliberately looked away from the person touching him. Chester's preference was to be alone in a safe location where he could watch us without having to interact.

Golden Retrievers generally thrive on attention. Praise in any form is not only appreciated, but craved or expected by these loving creatures. Our other Golden, Casey, physically pushes her way under your hand or arm when she thinks it's time for more loving. She knows that everyone loves her and simply wants to assist people in touching her to prove it ... that's her version.

Chester still doesn't approach us to be petted, with one exception. If I leave him for awhile with Glenn and Casey, he stands and walks towards me to be petted when I return. He wants a quick pat on the head, just a fast acknowledgement either that I'm back or to let me know that he's happy to have me back in the same room.

Recently Chester's attitude is starting to change regarding touch. I'm sure he's not wholly changed yet, but it's a start. When we pet him, he raises his head to meet our hand. He loves to be brushed or combed and sits quietly while we work on his hair coat. Some of Chester's actions are becoming more normal for a five-year old dog. He likes us to touch him and sometimes he even looks directly at us when we do.

Enjoying touch and making eye contact might not be like claiming the national dog show blue ribbon, but for Chester it's a definite win.