Frank, An Emotional Support Dog, Helped a 2-Year-Old Weimaraner Named Arnold Overcome His Anxiety
Arnold, a 2-year-old Weimaraner, had already been through enough before Frank ever came along. A frightening attack by a large German shepherd left him anxious, guarded, and uneasy around other dogs.
His owner, Carolyn Manalis from Perth, Australia, wanted to help him feel safe again, and that is where a tiny miniature dachshund named Frank entered the picture. What started as an unlikely pairing quickly turned into a close bond that gave Arnold a new sense of confidence.
Now the two dogs are proving that healing can come from the most unexpected friendship. Read on.
Arnold, a 2-Year-Old Weimaraner, Has Had Separation Anxiety Issues Since He Was a Pup.
And a Scary Experience with a Huge German Shepherd Didn’t Help…
It Left Him Emotionally Scarred and Afraid of Other Dogs
Even though emotional support dogs are usually regarded as aids for humans, Carolyn believed that such a pup would help Arnold. The bond these two dogs have is just incredibly beautiful.
They are so connected, loving, and supportive of one another. If one ever cries, the other is there in half a second to check if they are okay. Their love is unconditional, regardless of their size or breed.
Everything Changed When Frank Appeared
Frank Is a Friendly Dachshund
It’s impressive to see how a smaller and younger Frank brings reassurance to a dog who outweighs him by 66 pounds. He radiates self-assurance and friendliness, which is just what Arnold needs to overcome his challenges.
It’s the same kind of turnaround as when a formerly fearful dog finally enjoyed affectionate caresses in this article.
Frank Radiates Self-Assurance and Friendliness, Which Helped Arnold
Carolyn Could See Arnold Getting Better Each Day
Carolyn said: “Frank has helped Arnold regain his confidence to play and wrestle while learning that this doesn’t always mean he’s going to get hurt or attacked. Having a little friend to play with has been the perfect therapy for Arnold to heal.”
And there are some tricks that Frank learned from his big brother. “We swear Frank thinks Arnold is his dad,” Carolyn said. “Being the second child, he definitely didn’t receive as much training and attention as the first. Most of what he has learned, he has learned from Arnold.”
They Play-Wrestle Together, and Arnold Doesn’t Fear Getting Hurt
Frank Also Picked Up Some Tricks from Arnold
Frank copies everything Arnold does, to the point where, if Arnold barks or makes a sound, Frank will mimic it right after, almost like a parrot!
Arnold taught Frank how to be house-trained, how to bark at intruders, how to chase a ball, how to stand and wait to have his collar and leash put on, how to sit, and to wait before crossing the road, Carolyn explained. “Everywhere Arnold walks, Frank will follow.”
Frank Copies Everything His “Older Brother” Does
“Everywhere Arnold Walks, Frank Will Follow”
For more about Rex getting comfort from his dog friends during anxiety attacks, read this story.
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