CANINE BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST
Liz Graffagnino Taft owns a dog training business, and their dog Remus’ journey became her inspiration to be a certified canine behavior specialist. Six years ago, Remus was at Flagler Humane Society, recovering from a traumatizing past, when Liz’s family adopted him. According to her, Remus’ former owner used the pup for dogfighting before getting jailed.
DOG REMUS SUFFERS HORRIFIC PAST
Remus was put up for adoption but was returned to the shelter twice for being “too clingy.” Not the word most people would think of when describing a pit bull. Remus has a gentle soul even after his horrific past.
TOO CLINGY NOT WANTED FOR ADOPTION
Months after Remus joined Liz’s family, he still struggled with separation anxiety, fears, and socializing with his fellow dogs. With the family’s hard work, Remus eventually transformed into a sweet and loving companion.
He was also used to being the center of attention. Liz had no idea how Remus, would react once she and her husband bring their new baby home from the hospital. That would be the very first time for the 10-year-old pit bull to be around children.
A NEW BABY IN THE HOUSE
When it was time for Liz and her husband to introduce the newest member of the family to Remus, they made sure to be super cautious. The two met through the gate, and Remus was surprisingly calm. He only licked his baby sister as if he knew that he had to be careful with her.
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
For Remus, it was love at first sight. Now, he makes sure to do everything he can to help make her feel better. Whenever Liz breastfeeds, Remus lays at her feet. He also licks the back of the baby’s head whenever she cries.
REMUS LOVES BEING BIG BROTHER
Recently, Remus decided to take his caregiving responsibilities up a notch. Whenever he hears his baby sister cry, he grabs the pillow for breastfeeding to comfort her. Even if it is upstairs, if Remus hears the baby having a meltdown, he will run up and bring it down to her.
To give back to his family, Remus is helping them in every way he can. Liz even commended him and said that Remus is a perfect big brother to their child.
Credit: Liz Graffagnino Taft