"The predictable patterns of aggression apply to most cases, but each one has the potential to surprise me with a better-than-predicted outcome. I approach each new case with optimism—that’s my basic nature, and it's my experience that once in a while, a dog improves more than I imagined possible. Every time this happens, it’s an occasion to celebrate because of the good fortune for the people and dogs involved, and because I always learn something new.
After 25 years of working with aggressive dogs, I’ve learned that being optimistic is important. Yes, it’s my job to give realistic assessments of situations, and to help clients safely manage them, but it’s also my job to do all I can to help them improve their dog’s behavior. If they are committed to making the effort, I am never without hope.
The rare cases in which dogs wildly exceed my expectations are my favorite kind of success story, and I look forward to sharing a few such cases of surprise happy endings with you."
- Karen B. London Ph.D.
