Dysregulated Duke

Dear Teacher,  

Duke, an elderly Golden Retriever, as a very sever case of "resource guarding."  While most dogs have it with food, Duke's behavior center arounds items he steals -- Household items like lamps, laundry hampers, framed poster, art, and a cooler, books, his owner's clothing, as well as an assortment of Kindles, laptops, and phones.  He will place the treasured items on his bed, adding a teapot, a sugar bowl, or a family portrait, on guard until he goes to sleep.

Having come from an erratic past with domestic issues, Duke was rehomed several times and given up because of behavioral issues.  Finally, he was almost deemed "unadoptable" when his Future Forever Fur-mom came across his picture through the adoption organization.  She says, "We've spoken to professionals about this, but because he's age eleven, it's very difficult to reverse this [behavior].  So we give him space and he will just have them around him, especially the household items.  He just takes such comfort in them.  It's really remarkable!"

Despite Dukes' bizarre behavior, his caregivers recognize his intelligence and his intentionality in everything he does.  Yet his Dog Mom knows that he hoards items to feel safe and secure.

And you, Teacher, there in your classroom, understand the erratic pasts your students come from.  You know their chaotic homeliness, their traumatic turmoil, and offer them a safe place at school that feels like a true Home.  Despite their shocking behavior and emotional dysregulation, you provide a safe and secure environment where they are loved for who they are.  Despite the irreversible behavior, you give each student space and allow them to take comfort in being a part of your classroom family.  It's really remarkable!

Safe-spacing with you,
Mindy
Christian Educator & School Counselor