There is a wonderful new book out called ‘ The Tale of a BIG dog’ by Rosie Lowry. It is a great read and helps readers understand the about the emotional needs of our dogs, and how they communicate those needs. In this article Rosie tells us about the book and the dog that inspired it – Hagrid!

The tale of a BIG dog is a story about Hagrid who lived with us. Within the pages there are useful ideas and options that other carers and their dogs may choose to act upon. As every dog, carer and their personal situations are unique to them it’s only appropriate to use discretion if thinking of adapting any of the ideas that were personal choices for Hagrid and ourselves:

Hagrid was a dog and a half and I guess most mastiffs are to some degree. He was an emotionally and physically sensitive creature in many ways and came into our care with oodles of health issues. I learnt that a multi- pronged approach to Hagrid’s care was needed, so while dealing with considered lifestyle preferences, environment, diet, exercise, appropriate enrichment, management of family and visitors we discovered this to be an overall suitable remedy. Through monitoring the output of these components I made adjustments accordingly.

Listening to and responding reasonably to Hagrid’s communication, with thought and care was a huge part of keeping him as well as possible. I observed how difficult he found communicating at certain times when he felt under pressure and not many would know or recognise these times, it was just so subtle. One of the key elements to Hagrid’s wellness was using complimentary therapies as a regular option which we used long before veterinary intervention was needed. In fact Hagrid lead the way and said what suited him. I tried to think ahead, always working in a preventative way.

And out of my experiences of loving and living with Hagrid a book was born ‘the tale of a BIG dog’; a book about our path through the many twists and turns we faced together. I share would like to share with you an array of aspects that kept Hagrid in balance and despite a compromised immune system he was able to have a good quality of life for a number of years.

I won’t lie, it wasn’t easy to take this route but then to achieve a suitably fitting
standard of care for any dog that is what is needed. Hagrid at the helm guided the choices. He said ‘no’ when something didn’t suit him and I listened, mainly, as well as I could in the circumstances – I’m working on my issues too, aren’t we all?

Being tall has its advantages and offers a whole new perspective to life – the ever inquisitive Hagrid.

If this tickles your curiosity you can read more about our chosen path and the difficult choices I had to make in the book. It was most certainly an emotional journey for Hagrid and I, and I have some regrets, which I’ve learnt from and am now able to help my current dogs, who you will also meet in the book. I have found this philosophy can be applicable to the dynamics of human relationships. With some knowledge of canine communication we can learn the best lessons from animals if we slow down, are willing to casually observe and then have a glimpse into their lives.

Our story includes Hagrid’s introductions to our family, other animals living in the household and a slow, considered approach getting to know one another; how we helped Hagrid with insecurities around people, friends and family; other dogs and the environment; interactions with Vets; exploring complementary therapies; techniques used during walks; intrinsic rewards; ways to enhance a dog’s life; feeding and much, much more.

Those are just a few ways we worked to help Hagrid emotionally, socially and therefore physically – they are all absolutely linked.

Hagrid in his room, enjoying a roll after a recent operation

You may be surprised to see he is wearing a collar. That was because we adapted to his varying needs. Hagrid’s chest was sore and oozing, so anything such as a harness touching it proved to be irritating and made matters worse. I adapted my handling skills so the oversized collar had limited contact. Basically he went and I followed! We had fun.

Hagrid grew from being a timid, scared dog into a calm, thoughtful one because he was given time, the space he required and then more time to think, process, re-evaluate, becoming the loving, trusting and brave dog he was.

Would you like to find out more? If so please visit our website ‘thetaleofabigdog.com’

The book is available now via Amazon or direct from the author https://laidbackdogs.com/shop/the-tale-of-a-big-dog