Zeus
Pet of the Month - September 2025
From Spicy to Sweet – Zeus’ Puppy Socialization Class Story
Meet Zeus – an 18-week-old Maltese with a big personality in a very small package. When he first joined puppy class, Zeus was overwhelmed. He came in scared, anxious, and unsure of the world around him. His fear showed up in the form of snapping, biting, and growling – not just at other puppies, but even toward his family and class instructors, Traci and Cynthia. His owners were understandably concerned about why he was already so fearful at such a young age.
However, instead of giving up, his family leaned in. they invested in his future, showing up each week with patience and commitment. They also worked with him outside of class, taking him new places, introducing him to different sights, sounds and people. They asked thoughtful questions, stayed consistent and gave him the support he needed. Without their dedication, Zeus wouldn’t be where he is today. By his second class, we saw small glimmers of progress, but still very nervous, guarded, growling and curling his lip when other puppies came too close. Meanwhile, all the other pups just wanted to be his friend. But Zeus wasn’t ready to swap phone numbers just yet! Then came class three, and the breakthrough! During playtime, Zeus cautiously approached Traci, hopped up on her leg, and asked to be picked up. When she bent down, he flopped onto his back and offered her his belly. That was the moment we finally saw the real puppy inside. Not fearful - but playful, happy and trusting!
Fast forward to August 18th, Zeus’ final class. The puppy who showed up that day was nearly unrecognizable from the anxious little fluff we first met. He trotted through the tunnel with confidence, sailed through the obstacles, and even put his head into the e-collar without so much as a grumble. That alone is a big win!
And then came playtime! Zeus zoomed around with the other puppies, tail wagging, chasing and playing. He bounced up on Traci’s leg to be picked up and even gave her kisses! To see the once fearful puppy transformed into a confident, affectionate puppy was truly heartwarming! Now, to be honest, no puppy is perfect. Zeus DID show a little resource guarding at the water bowl, growling and trying to nip when another puppy came in for a drink. Here’s the good news: that was his only spicy moment all class! Compared to where he started, that’s HUGE progress! Zeus’ journey is a reminder that socialization is a process. It takes patience, consistency and teamwork. Thanks to his dedicated family and a safe space to grow, Zeus transformed from a fearful little fluff into a confident, playful and affectionate puppy. And if you ask Traci and Cynthia, THAT’S worth CELEBRATING!