Brodie’s and Layla’s Story: Separation Anxiety Success
When Brodie was rescued and brought into his new home, his family knew he had a history of mistreatment.
He’d only been with them for four months when the signs started to show; panting, pacing, barking, howling, destruction.
He couldn’t be left alone without spiralling into distress.
What they didn’t expect was that it would start to affect their other dog, Layla too.
Layla had never struggled with separation anxiety before.
But Brodie’s panic started to unsettle her. Being left alone together became overwhelming for both dogs.
Layla and Brodie together
What Their Owners Were Facing
Not being able to leave the house without Brodie becoming distressed
Layla becoming unsettled by Brodie’s behaviour
Worry about damage to the home
Guilt and emotional exhaustion from seeing them struggle
“I just didn’t know how to help them. It was heartbreaking to watch Brodie panic — and even worse seeing it rub off on Layla.”
What We Did Together
Brodie and Layla’s family joined our 1:1 coaching program.
We put a tailored plan in place using gradual exposure, helping Brodie and Layla become confident and happy home alone.
That meant:
Teaching both dogs that being alone was safe
Reducing triggering cues around departures
Building safe absences alone through repetition
This was slow, steady work. But it was working.
Where They Are Now
After completing their training, Brodie and Layla can now be left alone for over two hours, calm, settled, and without distress.
Their owners no longer feel trapped by anxiety or guilt.
They have the tools, the plan, and most importantly the confidence to keep building on that progress.
This transformation happened through working closely with Jodie, one of our experienced coaches who truly understands separation anxiety and how to support both dogs and their humans through the process.
And most importantly, both dogs are calm at home, and with each other.
Listen directly from them in the video below!
What This Story Tells Us
Separation anxiety can ripple into other areas and affect more than one dog
Progress is possible with the right approach
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own
If this story feels familiar, and you’re ready to help your dog feel safe when home alone — I’d love to help.
📍Book a free consultation with me to chat about 1-1 separation anxiety coaching and what support could look like for you and your dog.