While Jasmine isn't an official Therapy dog, we've been utilizing her therapeutic qualities. Our Shih Tzu, Missy is
very skittish. It's obvious she's had physiological damage in the past. Missy
LOVES people but is frightened by everything else (including her own shadow) Jasmine has a very soft, polite personality, yet is inquisitive & puppy-playful. She desperately wants Missy & Lucy to play with her but unfortunately Lucy is well past puppyhood & Missy battles her own demons. To acclimate Missy to having another dog around we've been feeding her next to Jasmine. Jasmine finishes her dish, then sits & waits for Missy to eat her fill. Once Missy walks off, Jasmine polishes off her leftover morsels -
so polite! Jasmine & Missy have been rooming together at night. Jasmine is happy to be out of her crate & Missy is getting used to a roommate. If ever there was a dog to show Missy "Other dogs aren't a threat & can be fun", it's Jasmine! We're grateful for the assistance Jasmine has provided in building Missy's confidence & trust.
Our hope is for Jasmine to have a playmate who could enjoy & appreciate her antics. At 14 months old she has the maturity of an adult dog, but a vibrant puppy spirit. She is respectful of Lucy's boundaries yet can't help but try to engage her. A few times she's taken Lucy's ear in her mouth & "walked" her around the yard. --DARLING. Lucy has all the patience in the world for her in the yard, but that patience stops abruptly at the office door (where the whelping pool is). Jasmine is aware of the invisible boundaries & keeps a safe distance only poking her nose in on occasion.
I believe Missy can overcome her fears and become a playmate to Jasmine sooner or later especially with the help of your love, care and attention for her and the respect that Jasmine is demonstrating. From what I have read http://www.trainpetdog.com/Shih-Tzu/about-shih-tzu.html Shih Tzus are excellent playmates. Just be patient.
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