I spoke with someone at the Humane Society and learned a little bit more about Oscar's history today. He was seized from a home due to neglect. I don't remember exactly what the woman said, but I was left with the impression it was a hoarding situation. If he was in a home with a bunch of other animals fighting for everything, it would go a long way to explain his possessiveness about his food and toys. It would also explain why he is so clueless when it comes to walking on a leash and behaving in general. I also spoke with a behaviorist today and I think we're going to take a block of private obedience classes first before joining the gen. pop. of the beginner class. That way, not only will Oscar feel more confident, I will, too. She gave me a few ideas on how to start working with him now so, hopefully, things will continue improving.

Unfortunately, Josie has decided that she's no longer willing to sit quietly on her window seat. Every time Oscar is in her line of sight, she's growling and hissing. I realize this is her way of asserting herself so I'm not upset with her. However, it's triggering Oscar and he's losing his mind every time it happens - lunging, barking, the works. Man, obedience classes can't start soon enough.