Dog phobia
From Fear to Friendship
John was an adult with learning disabilities and a severe dog phobia. His family said he had had this fear for 30 years and it was affecting him daily. It was impacting him and the family in many ways, they had to avoid any places outside where there could potentially be dogs, particularly if the dogs were not on a lead. If John encountered dogs when out, he would become anxious or angry and shout at the dog owner. He would tense and grip on/nip his parents.
The client attended all four sessions at XRT’s studio with his family supporting from the next room and watching the intervention take place. Six weeks after the last treatment session, the client described himself as experiencing definite improvement since treatment.
So much so that his family have now bought a dog that they can walk daily together with John in various locations and environments. John is now also much more confident when meeting other dogs off the lead.
The family said that much fewer adaptations were having to be made now for his dog phobia. They are allowed to access parks and beach environments which were not possible in the past. They can plan ahead and visit public places, can book holidays with all the family and the dog and John is very comfortable with all of this.
*** when referring to our clients, we use the names Jane and John, these are not their real names, we do this to protect their identity and privacy.