If you have been impacted by this film and need support please reach out for help to one of the following amazing charities; www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/crisis-services/getting-help-in-a-crisis/ www.samaritans.org/ afsp.org/
Thank you for making this film. I related to a lot of what you shared - unbelievably so. Brought up with dogs, worked in education, am different, everyday is a battle with my mental health. Then a year an ago a working lab came into my life. Going through a bad time at the moment and he forgives me. Thank you for all the time you have given in all your videos, they have helped us a lot and this one too. Incredible work helping so many. 🙏🐾🐾
Depression is such an insidious thing. It pushes the worst to the forefront and makes the illogical logical. Thanks for showing a ton of vulnerability and bringing these issues to light. More men especially need to talk about this.
We still have our son because we had a chocolate Lab. When the pain became too great, he would get the dog. He suffered with depression. 15 years on, he's doing fine.
Will, I DEEPLY appreciate you posting this video and for your vulnerability. Mental health is a subject that is hard for people to talk about and I think the more it becomes normalized to talk about our struggles, the more people will be able to get the help they need -- particularly men who often feel it makes them weak to show emotion. My husband thinks that crying or showing emotion makes him weak and I keep trying to gently tell him this is the furthest thing from the truth; I think a man who is willing to show emotion, to cry and be open is an incredibly brave man and one I want to be around. Thank you again Will!
Thank you for your comments! I fully agree! It takes incredible strength & amazing courage to be as vulnerable as Will is being here in this video ! He's opened himself to the entire world in the most vulnerable manner I think any man ever could & I'm floored by his courage in doing so! That is more courageous & strong than any loud mouthed "macho" bully could ever conceive of ! I SALUTE Will's brave display of his humanity & MANHOOD! THIS is the model the world needs of what REAL manhood is! ( BTW _ I disagree with that garbage about CAPS being "shouting" in testing! It's merely a way to emote significance in the written word! Who ever made the shouting rule anyway & who died & left them in charge? Rules & alleged authority only have power when it's GIVEN! ) . WIZARDS of AAAHHH's UNITE! We CAN change the world. . . because it's done by EXAMPLE not by force! Tell your husband THAT!
When I started to watch Will videos it was purely because we are about to own a chocolate Labrador, every video I watched from any other dog trainer I straight away skipped video because that’s not what I was looking for , somehow in Instagram Will account popped up and thought Will UA-cam it and watch what Will is actually doing , watched 24h survival with the puppie at home and thought where the time flew , I was so into to this started to watch in web page videos , ended up with Wills book perfect puppy , I said to my husband I don’t know this guy but he is my hero , husband said Will looks like a Viking so I like him too. We will buy a perfect puppy course next month to start to train our puppie as next month he will be home. Was watching other Will videos and came across this documentary, and I can’t believe what Will been through stuck in darkness, and his gorgeous dog didn’t want to go away at any moment . I am proud of you and what you are doing ! Keep going! And you are correct no one from outside can tell what is going inside and I’m happy you have found a light at the end of the tunnel and do what you love to do. Thank you for this documentary for opening up, vulnerability , it will help a lot of people. I was shocked on first and all 14min been crying on how actually people do not notice changes and we never know what other people feel and what their actions will be. Thank you for spreading love and passion.
Bawled my eyes out at this. I had bad anxiety and panic attacks, and also had a Lab who got me through it. She gave me a reason to get up in the morning and she gave me so much unconditional love. I lost her two months ago - she was almost 17. I didn’t think I could have another dog but our house felt so empty without her. We just got a new Lab puppy two weeks ago!! He’s ten weeks old and we are following your course. He is already doing ‘sit, stay, break’ for his dinner and that amazes me. He bites like a monster but we’ll get there. Thank you so much for what you do, Will, and for sharing your story.
Lost my dogs too Lynsey 3 years ago Breakes your heart . Seeing Will's video and comments here makes me realise what's missing in my life ! I wish you fabulous times for you and you best friend ever !!!
@@dennisreil936 Thank you, Dennis. I hope you’re able to get another dog too. I realised I had all this love to offer to a dog and would get so much in return. I thought the heartache of losing my dog would stop me getting another but the love outweighs the loss.
Wow, such a powerful video that hits you in the heart and makes you realise how blessed we are to have amazing dogs in our lives, who enrich each and every day. Thank you Will, big hug❤
Sorry for your loss. I lost my 2 years ago and feel as though I've lost my happy. I didn't get another for a year but couldn't take any more. My new pup is definitely helping but just not quite the same 😢😢
In one of your videos you said 'If you do not train your dog, it is like the dog is having to drive the lorry and he does not know what to do, but tell your dog what to do and when and your dog will have all the weight of the world taken off his shoulders cos he no longer has to drive the lorry'. This has worked, the dog is really safe and content, and looks to my daughter for guidance even when his food is put down for him (in your puzzle bowl) he asks for permission to eat! And this is a labrador. Thank you Will for all your calm advice. You are a kind man. Uncle Sully is a kind dog.
@@antonoat Agree that a trained dog is a happy dog. The difference in my daughter's dog is utterly amazing. He trusts her totally now, and has no anxiety, so he behaves well. (The only thing she is NOT confident about is if he sees a strange cat, he will chase it, the dog is fine with cats he knows).
"I owe a lot to that dog" are words that resonate so much with me. Seven years ago my partner took her own life and it was my labrador that gave me something to focus on, something I was responsible for, and something that meant I had to get out of bed and get out of the house every day. I had to say goodbye to him last week which was one of the saddest days of my life. He was with me through the hardest times in my life and I will never forget him and the bond we had. Thanks for sharing your story Will and for a reminder of the ways in which dogs are more than pets.
The world is a better place with you in it, Will Atherton. Our dogs give us so much more than they ask of us. You and Sully were matched from the start, by providence or just plain good fortune. Thank you for sharing your deeply painful journey with us, hopefully you have inspired someone on the edge to reach out for help and to have hope.💕🐾🐾
Mission accomplished! I greatly respected Will before I watched this, but now I'm amazed & inspired! After learning his back story, I feel if Will can go through that & accomplish the stellar skills & well deserved reputation he's worked so very hard to build, then I can do well also! It's tough when you're still trying to figure out what you want to be when you grow up - as a 67 yr old disabled veteran living on Social Scarcity - as I prefer to call it - in America, in a very rural location in the Northwoods of Wisconsin! It takes immense tenacity to succeed & that's always been a strong trait I carry. Now that I have watched this video & know Will's deeply personal & painful story, I'm newly inspired to push on! Come to DOGWART'S & observe the magic of "The Wizard of AAAHHH's !" ! Here I come!
Watched the premiere and as it finished, with tears streaming down my face, I leaned down and my beautiful black lab, Obsidian, looked up at me sweetly and gently licked the tears from my eyes. I never knew how much my dog would open my heart up and allow me to really feel a depth of unconditional love for another being I hadn’t realized was closed off prior to getting him.
Dear God. I'm 55 years old. I have 5 rescue dogs. This is probably the best documentary I have ever seen. And I Can explain why. I cried through all of it. Thank you with all my heart. Sincerely frank. I love this man.
Respect for your sharing your pain with us. I've also been there, now I have a pup who makes me do the things I found impossible without him. I have PTSD and depression and my puppy got given to me because the people who had him weren't good people so I couldn't refuse. He hadn't been touched or shown love from a human and weaned early so your videos and help have really helped us progress. Thankyou so much for being the human being that you are and helping me find my leadership for my boy.
@@speakingforcrows5227 I really appreciate the kind words and thoughts, it's a comfort to know there are people who care and that have been there...and made it through. Love from New Zealand ✨💜✨
I watched your video and cried with you ,by making this video you have helped more people than you know , you brave man ,you are such a wonderful human being and the world is a richer place for having you in it , wishing you many ,many years of peace and happiness, you were meant to have that dog you know it was meant to be
Thank you for your honesty Will. So many people suffer in silence and it's a tragedy. You're proof that there is always light at the end of the tunnel, however far away it may seem. Keep doing what you're doing, it's incredibly valuable.
A deeply deeply moving account. Just shows never judge a book by its cover. Never in a million years would I have ever thought this was your life before all the dog training. Thank you for sharing. We have a great Labrador and some how all my stress just fades away when we go for a walk. Dogs are amazing and Will you are amazing. Hope to meet in person one day.
This Moved me to tears. Dogs have a way of healing us just with Their simple presence. I walked out of an abusive marriage and got. myself an aussie pup and he is the light of my life. We are doing your Perfect Puppy course and he loves the exercices. Thank you for Sharing your Story.
Your story reminds me of someone close to me who was under immense pressure working in a high school, they were heading for a breakdown but left the job and decided to foster rescue dogs. It's been tough but those dogs have been their saving grace.
This was beautiful and really hit home. I genuinely cried watching it as a 31 year old man. I've suffered with bad mental health for as long as I can remember, I function fairly well having a social active job but I suffer when I'm alone. After a couple of bad relationships being cheated on and dumped I'd felt so alone and had some of those horrible impulses you'd been through. I've had dogs growing up but watching this convinced me it's time to get one myself. I went to view a litter yesterday and found one with a personality I like. Anyways I just wanted to thank you for putting this video out there exposing yourself emotionally to the world in this and potentially having an amazing knock on effect to myself and others. I will be subscribing and using your videos to train my dog. Thanks again
Beautiful Will. Dog whisperers are highly sensitive people, still in touch with our inside animal. I wish you ALL the best, keep on keeping on and educating us!
Hi Will, Thanks for sharing your story. I am 59 and after 4 years of psychotherapy and 5000+ hours of psychology study my depression has been in remission for a couple of years now. I got a German Shepherd mystery mix puppy from the animal shelter a month ago. He's the 10th Dog I have had in my life. At one point I had two Rottweilers and an Akita mystery mix, then GSD lab mix with a Rottweiler Blue healer mix. I lived in India from 2012-2916 and adopted a puppy I literally pulled out of a sewer -an Indian Pariah Dog. I had to sit up with him for three days changing his IV to treat Parvo. 'Arjuna' was the smartest dog I have had. Unfortunately, when I was in India I had a complete psychotic break into major depression and multiple suicide attempts, ended up living on the street in Bangalore, hospitalized with TB and the US Embassy got me back, and he was left on the street " :( . My new Dog "Spitz" is the first dog I have had in seven years. Otherwise I have had dogs and cats all my life. I am primarily using your training advice with "Spitz" and it's working out really well. I trained the other Dogs I mentioned with the Monks of New Skete method. I have only had to do an alpha roll twice on two different dogs. Otherwise it is similar to yours. I like your emphasis on leadership. It's raining but I am about to take him for a 2 mile hike here in SW Oregon.
Wow what a beautiful story. This is so weird. But today I was driving alone and thinking of getting another dog as my old girl is 17 yrs old and I’ve never been without a dog my hole life. Well driving alone and I thought my next dog will be a lab & gonna call her fly , what a call name ❤ You are a LEGEND OF A MAN ❤❤❤❤❤❤
I kinda have a similar story. I was going through a rough time in my life. We had to move to my grandmothers house, and the pandemic started, so I was isolated and depressed with the situation, and my grandmothers dog at the time kept me going it wasn't fair to him that I wanted to sleep so I got up cause my grandmother couldn't walk him that much so me the dog and my mom would walk miles and it was great for my mental health and his for that matter. Dogs are truly one of God's greatest creations.Thanks for sharing your story, Will Atherton
One of the saddest truths Will,is that your not alone...my darkest period was a hell I hope to never go back to...and I honestly believe that my beautiful Jack Russell Stanley helped me heal...when I lost him about 8yrs ago a piece of my heart went with him..I've had dogs since that I truly love but stanly will always be my saviour and my heart still hurts when I think of him ❤
For me, it was my eskie. He was always there giving complete and unconditional love. I held onto him and cried more times than I can count. I lost him a month ago, and I really am torn to pieces. I just cannot see starting over with another dog-there will always be the comparison to my sweet boy. And I don't think I will ever find another dog that just intuitively knew me like he did.
Not like him but you will find another to love and that needs your love! dont compare them. Just like your children, you love them but they are different and that IS OK @@user-dc2ed2dm8d
@user-dc2ed2dm8d you'll know when your ready...eskie will always be in your heart...life without a dog seems very lonely once you've had one...I hope your heart heals soon ❤️
Will, you've helped us greatly with the training of our three (yes 3!) Rottweilers that we brought home at 8 weeks old, a year and half ago. A year before that, on Easter 2021, a pitbull jumped from the window of a house and attacked our family, leaving me traumatized to the point of immobilization. After a year of every therapy in an attempt to recover, I realized the only way I could heal would be to get and train "ferocious" dogs so the ways and sounds of them would not longer create terror in me. These three have helped me retrain my nervous system as I train them. Thank you for your message of responsibility and conscious decision-making for all dog owners--especially for those of "ferocious" breeds. And, thank you for sharing your story with us!
Thank you for your story, in addition to Will's! I feel very strongly that it's the responsible people of the world who love & train their dogs to a very high caliber, that take the alleged " ferocious" breeds & turn them into loving / caring >sweet< family members that are *not* a threat to anyone! Hats off to you and Will both for doing what you do! I'm inspired & attempting to take a similar path, but I live a in very rural area of Northern Wisconsin, so connecting with clients is all the more of a challenge. I'm also trying to do pet transports via Citizen Shipper. My goal is to become known as. . . & earn my business name - The Wizard ofAAAHHH's! Like Will, I've always felt a close connection with dogs & although I am not yet certified as a trainer / behaviorist, my goal is to earn the tuition to take Will's Academy course & get certified! I greatly identify with Will's story! I was inspired by him before I watched this video, but now I'm awed by his amazing courage & openness in sharing this deeply personal story!
Thank you for your story. A dog park friend says her Rottie was the best dog she ever owned, and a better guide dog than the registered guide dog she has now. Though she knows it would scare people, those who know Rotties appreciate them. I wish you all the best.
Thank you for being brave enough to share your story, it really brought a tear to my eye. I've just recently picked up a beautiful black labrador called Chester and came across your channel whilst searching for training advice. So far, less than a week in and I've got sit, paw, play (break), leave it, bed, and lie down all coming along strong. I was so apprehensive about getting a dog due to the added stress, especially with a toddler around the house but my wife was adamant it would be good for my mental health. After watching this it's taken me back to my late teens, a time I had probably locked away and forgotten about and how I found so much relief in just walking the family dog. I would be gone hours with her and it always helped me. We don't deserve dogs, they're incredible creatures.
What an incredible friend, you have. I am grateful you have a friend like that. If it not for him, then we, wouldn’t have you. You are a talented gift from God. Doing what you do, is your purpose in life, to save all these dogs. Just like Sully’s purpose, was to save you. You MATTER! So please, say thank you, to your friend, from me.
thanks will. This video made me cry, giving voice to how my rescue dog similarly pulled me out of the dark. You're not alone in your story. You never will be. Thank you for the reminder of how much I love my pup, how much he loves me and how few people unfortunately get to experience it. "I owe a lot to that dog"
Thank you for sharing, although I have never had any doubt in your capability with behavioral issues. I am a little, old lady with a big ass German Shepherd rescue and you have taught us so much! Always grateful.
Will, you don't know how much this means. I'm going through a horrific time. My beautiful fiancé has cancer. It's destroyed our dreams, it's taken over, and it's turned our lives upside down. But you so eloquently put across how amazing the beautiful and unconditional love a dog (and my cat) bring. I don't know what I'd do without them right now. They are the light in the very dark tunnel I've found myself in. I love them so much. Thank you for this. It's wonderful to hear your story.
Regarding that Cancer - have her check her pH level & try using Baking soda /water to lower it to as close to alkaline as possible! Cancer can't live in a alkaline environment! I hope this helps! Will is amazing & so courageous in blessing us all in so many ways! MITAKU OYASIN - ALL MY RELATIONS !
Will , Thank you for putting yourself out there. you made yourself vulnerable and I appreciate it. I lost my dog in august to cancer. This story brought me to tears. Sully is also the lucky one to have you. Regards.
Will I am looking forward to this. Dogs are also my life, I dealt with crippling depression and anxiety and made a plan to end my life as well. At my lowest point my retriever Bailey came into my life and I spent hours working with her, she became my best friend. Her and my other dogs got met through it. I now have a beautiful daughter and my dogs, I help others with dogs as well. You've been an inspiration, but also a reference of what I want to do with my life because of the similarities in our stories. I'm looking forward to seeing this documentary. Thank you for your content.
A dog gives you a purpose & a responsibility to get out & walk he or she then u start to bond together then u realise with all the shit going on in the world & struggles having a bad day or whatever then u look down & see ure best mate just waggling it’s tail just happy to see you then u realise u don’t really need a lot in the world to make u happy as long as you have ure little sole mate ❤
So many parallels. Rescued my GSD as a pup at one of the lowest points in my life, where I lacked hope and goals I now had a responsibility I had to plan ahead for - something that depended on me taking care of myself, forcing me to get out of bed and into the fresh air.
Cried pretty much the whole time. I am glad you had this good of a friend by your side, I wouldn’t be here commenting if it weren’t for them. You have a great friend that you texted as well because I too am happy you’re here. I’ve watched nothing but your videos for a week now in preparation for my puppy this coming Saturday. You inspire me and countless others. Keep doing what you do sir.
I feel blessed to say I had a dog like that too. I always tell people he was my "soul dog". He died unexpectedly 2 years ago and I miss him every minute of every day. Thank you, Will, for sharing such a personal emotional story.
Thank you, Will, for allowing me to see this chapter of your journey. It literally broke my heart, but I am so thankful you had your best friend to be there for you during the darkest time of your life. He is definitely your light. You and your beautiful family are truly blessed. ❤
I hear the pain and I’ve felt that similar pain and it’s unsettling the feeling of helplessness that comes over you, fear, hurt, love, loss, everything rushes in all at once and you feel like you’re in a deep dark well digging your way out. Writing, sitting with myself, staying off social media, tv off and just sit and write. It’s helped me in healing myself and I’m still a work in progress as I continue on this unedited process and new journey. My heart goes out to Will.
Currently in college and really struggling, knowing my dog is there every time I come home is keeping me going. He's a true friend in a way no-one else is.
I had no idea you were there, I a sorry. I look up to you as an amazing dog trainer and I follow and take all of your advice into consideration. You taught me to teach my dog to "wait" at areas of egress (gates, bridges, crossing busy driveways etc.) and many other tips that have helped us both. Your videos and advice profoundly helped me at a time I was struggling with my highly reactive, super strong 65-70 lb. Staff rescue and u was beginning to think I could not manage her anymore. I was ready to give up and you saved me and her. YHANK YOU!
It's remarkable how often I come across stories like this, ones that echo my own experience. There's a passage I once heard that encapsulates this connection many of us have with our dogs perfectly: "And when man became so blinded with science that he could no longer percieve the mystery of angels, God sent them forth as dogs. Perceived as lesser beings, they were able to move about freely on earth, giving love and comfort to those still able to open their hearts to this healing. Surely I have lived with an angel."
I’ve struggled with depression myself, and I’d wanted a dog for 15 years but was never confident enough to do it. In August I made the jump and got Bowzer (my Mini Schnauzer) and I cannot put into words how much confidence your videos and guides have given me. I watched ALL of them to make sure I knew everything. Bowzer was top of the class at puppy class, and it’s because of you that I was able to get him into that position. He’s still an over excitable Knobhead when meeting other people and dogs 😂 but we’re working on that. You don’t know me, and I don’t know you, but I want to thank you so much for giving me the confidence to get my new best friend and my life wouldn’t be the same without him…or you.
Will, just started this and so wanting to watch through it, thank you for sharing this. my dog saved my life too and i treasure every beating moment with her
OMG Will, when you said about the Dog Whisperer…same. Became obsessed from that moment on, (15+ years ago) everything dog that I could watch, read, dog courses - namely The Dog Listener. Love helping people, although I find humans a challenge, the dogs…easy. I love watching you and I can still learn something every time I watch your clips. Thank you Lad, you make a difference. ❤
Your intuition chose Sully. I had a similar experience. I had a Vizsla that was going to have a litter, and I planned to keep a puppy. I told myself that when the puppies were being born, the one I placed a yellow collar on would be my puppy. He turned out to be the most amazing dog-my heart dog. What a gift he was! Wow what a touching film, thank you for sharing.
I know what you mean. It is just astounding…. astonishing.. no words for it. They are like angels. And I mean it. My Linda saved my life too.. brought me “home” when my life as I knew it fell apart. She hung in there as long as she could and when she just got too tired, she left me physically. A year later, she sent me a pup with the “silly” name “Building Blocks”. Thank God I didn’t change her name because that is exactly what she is to me. Linda had handed BB the “torch”, it is as clear as day. There was a frame in your video of your dog’s profile and I saw Linda in it. I would say we are VERY blessed. Merry Christmas.
That hit me in the feels. I know the darkness all too well. Luckily I've managed to give it a place and built myself to a point where I might not fully know what I want yet, but I do know what I don't want and what is detrimental to my health. There is always light, even if you are too far to see it. Thank you for speaking about your experience. Men's mental health is very much ignored in society. Please give uncle Sully a nice pat on the head for me.
Will, thank you so much for your honesty and being willing to share such a painful time with us. Sending blessings to you, your family, and all your pups, especially Sully. 💜
Total respect to you Will for an extremely well produced documentary. You were one of the first online trainers I started following and I’m so glad you are still here to share your knowledge with us all. I would love to train emotional support dogs in the future and believe everyone should have access to such a dog during times of crisis. Keep on keeping on 🐾🤞
Being a Beagle Person I can Resonate with you completely. My Pogo helped me like anything to get out of my age old anxiety, Addiction, Trauma Bond and what not! Cant imagine my life without him! He is so very a Therapy Dog. 🌸🌸🌸❤️❤️❤️
I applaud you. Being open and honest about these kinds of experiences is hard but also very important. The more open we are about these issues, the more people are willing to open up about their struggles, which saves lives.
Beautiful story. There is usually a silver lining in dark as well as light times in our lives. Dogs have always been a central figure for me. Teach us so much.
Will, thank you for sharing your story. You help so many people who may be going through a painful time and think there ‘s no hope for them. Give Sully a BIG hug for helping to keep you with us! ❤️🐾🌵
Will, thank you and Sully for telling your Story. The world truly is better with you in it. i also have a rescue dog that was the only one there for me in the darkest of times!!! Thank you so much
Wow, that’s so impactful! I want to thank you for sharing such a hard time, you don’t know how much it has helped me to see that there can be a light at the end of the tunnel … thank you.
Thank you for openly and honestly sharing your struggles. What a blessing your Sully is! Dogs instinctively know us deep down and will never betray us. Sully has such a beautiful soul and obviously means so much to you as you do to him. ❤
What an absolutely beautiful story. Thank you for being humble and vulnerable enough to share these details with us. You and your boy are an inspiration. Though I never wish emotional suffering on anyone, it is so important that we see that those who seemingly have it all together have often had to come to nearly the end of themselves to get there. Thank you, Will and keep up your blessed journey.
Well done Will mate, brave and vulnerable of you to share. I get it, you're brain, when it's not very well, can make the worst things seem like the best option. You can Really feel like your family are better off without when of course...Of course they absolutely are not and you know that 100% when you're well. Well done mate. Day at a time...
Thank you for sharing. The unconditional love our four legged friends have for us is amazing. Tomorrow I will begin a new journey with my new puppy. With a little luck and the grace of God, I will find that love once again. You are lucky to have Sully.
I always knew Sully was special for you (just the way you talk about him) but I didn't know how much. I'm very glad you have made it to the other side. Thank you so much for your hard work Will. Mental health issues are horrible, I have been through the same, and I can't see myself without my dog Cindy.
My old collie saved me from driving off cliffs or into trees multiple times just because she was always in the car with me and I couldn't do that to her. She left the world 9 months ago, age 16, and it's like I've lost a child, I won't ever get over it. I now have a little rescue collie who is bringing light back, and I hope I can bring light to her as she hasn't had the best start. Some people just need best friends who happen to be dogs.
Will... I went through a similar experience a number of years ago when I worked in the Fire Service and became mentally ill. It was my staff Riley who got me through. I then retrained as a Psychotherapist. We lost our beloved Riley 5 days ago... 17 years old. An amazing friend who touched so many lives working with me in therapy. Riley was. Better human than me and we should all try to be more dog like... loving, patient, non-judgemental. Beautiful boy. Thank you for your work. Many blessings Rob 🙏
Sully you are such a good boy 💙 your grey muzzle can't help but break my heart because it reminds me of my doggy we lost just before my eldest was born. I truly wish dogs lived as long as people 💙💙💙
Great story, Will. I imagine a lot of people can relate to much of it. Glad you pulled through- I am thoroughly enjoying your training materials and methods. Hope to thank you personally some day!
We owe a lot to dogs on so many ways.... From the ones who've saved our lives, even if we came kicking and screaming lol, and yes my lil dude Cody did that for me. He saved my life several times because when I would get too dark, he'd look at me, that's all and I'd think I can't do that to him because he'll wind up back at the shelter.... From the ones who've been family companions, the 9nes who work in the military and the police departments to keep us all safe. They are a gift from God himself. Yet the human race has looked at that gift and spit it back out so many times. We don't deserve them, but we do need them!! Thank you for telling us your story. You had me in tears because I've also been there.... Wishing you nothing but the best!!!
Wow! This is just fabulous. I recently brought a Red Fox Lab puppy into my life and I had the same experience as Will. I just knew instantly that he was the one. And thank god, because my Bear has been the most perfect dog I could ever wish for. Everything I ever wanted and needed. I came across Will when preparing myself to bring Bear home, and I can safely say that his teaching has helped us no end with every aspect. Thank you Will, you are brilliant
God bless you Will. I had no idea! We have personally watched your videos and used what we learned from you to have a better relationship with our own dogs. Sending you lots of love and positive thoughts. Please take care of yourself-there are plenty more dogs and humans out there that are waiting for your wonderful help.❤
your story really hit home for me and i can relate i have suffered from depression on and off my whole life dogs have always helped me through life and my current dog saved my life and she is my world
Iv learnt so much from you!! I fostered for 3 years, I needed training, you were there** and now I have my own pup, a mastiff" I adore, and thanks for all iv learnt from you - I'm raising a well behaved obedient pup - so thank you!!! Blessings 🐾🐾
If you have been impacted by this film and need support please reach out for help to one of the following amazing charities;
www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/crisis-services/getting-help-in-a-crisis/
www.samaritans.org/
afsp.org/
Thank you!
Superb video Will never give up fella, there's a lot out there that will help or just listen.
Thank you for sharing that 😢❤ so brave
This is definitely the most emotional heartwarming video I've ever seen on UA-cam Will.
Thank you for making this film. I related to a lot of what you shared - unbelievably so. Brought up with dogs, worked in education, am different, everyday is a battle with my mental health. Then a year an ago a working lab came into my life. Going through a bad time at the moment and he forgives me.
Thank you for all the time you have given in all your videos, they have helped us a lot and this one too. Incredible work helping so many. 🙏🐾🐾
Depression is such an insidious thing. It pushes the worst to the forefront and makes the illogical logical. Thanks for showing a ton of vulnerability and bringing these issues to light. More men especially need to talk about this.
We still have our son because we had a chocolate Lab. When the pain became too great, he would get the dog. He suffered with depression. 15 years on, he's doing fine.
Will, I DEEPLY appreciate you posting this video and for your vulnerability. Mental health is a subject that is hard for people to talk about and I think the more it becomes normalized to talk about our struggles, the more people will be able to get the help they need -- particularly men who often feel it makes them weak to show emotion. My husband thinks that crying or showing emotion makes him weak and I keep trying to gently tell him this is the furthest thing from the truth; I think a man who is willing to show emotion, to cry and be open is an incredibly brave man and one I want to be around. Thank you again Will!
Thank you for your comments! I fully agree! It takes incredible strength & amazing courage to be as vulnerable as Will is being here in this video ! He's opened himself to the entire world in the most vulnerable manner I think any man ever could & I'm floored by his courage in doing so! That is more courageous & strong than any loud mouthed "macho" bully could ever conceive of ! I SALUTE Will's brave display of his humanity & MANHOOD! THIS is the model the world needs of what REAL manhood is! ( BTW _ I disagree with that garbage about CAPS being "shouting" in testing! It's merely a way to emote significance in the written word! Who ever made the shouting rule anyway & who died & left them in charge? Rules & alleged authority only have power when it's GIVEN! ) . WIZARDS of AAAHHH's UNITE! We CAN change the world. . . because it's done by EXAMPLE not by force! Tell your husband THAT!
@@JustinDancingHawk 100% agreed 🎯
in life sometimes there is somebody who just understands everything.......happy to see it once again
When I started to watch Will videos it was purely because we are about to own a chocolate Labrador, every video I watched from any other dog trainer I straight away skipped video because that’s not what I was looking for , somehow in Instagram Will account popped up and thought Will UA-cam it and watch what Will is actually doing , watched 24h survival with the puppie at home and thought where the time flew , I was so into to this started to watch in web page videos , ended up with Wills book perfect puppy , I said to my husband I don’t know this guy but he is my hero , husband said Will looks like a Viking so I like him too.
We will buy a perfect puppy course next month to start to train our puppie as next month he will be home.
Was watching other Will videos and came across this documentary, and I can’t believe what Will been through stuck in darkness, and his gorgeous dog didn’t want to go away at any moment .
I am proud of you and what you are doing ! Keep going!
And you are correct no one from outside can tell what is going inside and I’m happy you have found a light at the end of the tunnel and do what you love to do.
Thank you for this documentary for opening up, vulnerability , it will help a lot of people. I was shocked on first and all 14min been crying on how actually people do not notice changes and we never know what other people feel and what their actions will be.
Thank you for spreading love and passion.
Bawled my eyes out at this. I had bad anxiety and panic attacks, and also had a Lab who got me through it. She gave me a reason to get up in the morning and she gave me so much unconditional love. I lost her two months ago - she was almost 17. I didn’t think I could have another dog but our house felt so empty without her. We just got a new Lab puppy two weeks ago!! He’s ten weeks old and we are following your course. He is already doing ‘sit, stay, break’ for his dinner and that amazes me. He bites like a monster but we’ll get there. Thank you so much for what you do, Will, and for sharing your story.
Lost my dogs too Lynsey 3 years ago Breakes your heart . Seeing Will's video and comments here makes me realise what's missing in my life ! I wish you fabulous times for you and you best friend ever !!!
@@dennisreil936 Thank you, Dennis. I hope you’re able to get another dog too. I realised I had all this love to offer to a dog and would get so much in return. I thought the heartache of losing my dog would stop me getting another but the love outweighs the loss.
Wow, such a powerful video that hits you in the heart and makes you realise how blessed we are to have amazing dogs in our lives, who enrich each and every day. Thank you Will, big hug❤
Love you got another one… ur other dog would want u to give love to as many as u can on this earth. There are so many that aren’t lucky!
@@dennisreil936❤
I had a dog like this. We spent every minute together. She passed away last year and I miss her every day.
I’m so sorry for your loss 😢 I used to have a dog like this, 15 years ago. I still dream about her and my heart still aches.
The pain never goes, ive just lost mine and I miss my big boy every single minute of the day.
Yep just lost mine 2 weeks ago feels like the world's never gonna be the same
Sorry for your loss. I lost my 2 years ago and feel as though I've lost my happy. I didn't get another for a year but couldn't take any more. My new pup is definitely helping but just not quite the same 😢😢
❤
In one of your videos you said 'If you do not train your dog, it is like the dog is having to drive the lorry and he does not know what to do, but tell your dog what to do and when and your dog will have all the weight of the world taken off his shoulders cos he no longer has to drive the lorry'.
This has worked, the dog is really safe and content, and looks to my daughter for guidance even when his food is put down for him (in your puzzle bowl) he asks for permission to eat! And this is a labrador. Thank you Will for all your calm advice.
You are a kind man.
Uncle Sully is a kind dog.
A trained dog is a happy and safe dog, we owe it to them! 👍😀🦥
@@antonoat Agree that a trained dog is a happy dog. The difference in my daughter's dog is utterly amazing. He trusts her totally now, and has no anxiety, so he behaves well. (The only thing she is NOT confident about is if he sees a strange cat, he will chase it, the dog is fine with cats he knows).
"I owe a lot to that dog" are words that resonate so much with me. Seven years ago my partner took her own life and it was my labrador that gave me something to focus on, something I was responsible for, and something that meant I had to get out of bed and get out of the house every day. I had to say goodbye to him last week which was one of the saddest days of my life. He was with me through the hardest times in my life and I will never forget him and the bond we had. Thanks for sharing your story Will and for a reminder of the ways in which dogs are more than pets.
The world is a better place with you in it, Will Atherton. Our dogs give us so much more than they ask of us. You and Sully were matched from the start, by providence or just plain good fortune. Thank you for sharing your deeply painful journey with us, hopefully you have inspired someone on the edge to reach out for help and to have hope.💕🐾🐾
Mission accomplished! I greatly respected Will before I watched this, but now I'm amazed & inspired! After learning his back story, I feel if Will can go through that & accomplish the stellar skills & well deserved reputation he's worked so very hard to build, then I can do well also! It's tough when you're still trying to figure out what you want to be when you grow up - as a 67 yr old disabled veteran living on Social Scarcity - as I prefer to call it - in America, in a very rural location in the Northwoods of Wisconsin! It takes immense tenacity to succeed & that's always been a strong trait I carry. Now that I have watched this video & know Will's deeply personal & painful story, I'm newly inspired to push on! Come to DOGWART'S & observe the magic of "The Wizard of AAAHHH's !" ! Here I come!
Watched the premiere and as it finished, with tears streaming down my face, I leaned down and my beautiful black lab, Obsidian, looked up at me sweetly and gently licked the tears from my eyes.
I never knew how much my dog would open my heart up and allow me to really feel a depth of unconditional love for another being I hadn’t realized was closed off prior to getting him.
Very awesome 😊
Dear God. I'm 55 years old. I have 5 rescue dogs. This is probably the best documentary I have ever seen. And I Can explain why. I cried through all of it. Thank you with all my heart. Sincerely frank. I love this man.
Respect for your sharing your pain with us. I've also been there, now I have a pup who makes me do the things I found impossible without him. I have PTSD and depression and my puppy got given to me because the people who had him weren't good people so I couldn't refuse. He hadn't been touched or shown love from a human and weaned early so your videos and help have really helped us progress. Thankyou so much for being the human being that you are and helping me find my leadership for my boy.
Lots of best wishes and love from the Netherlands! I know from experience that anyone can get through it, and I know you can too. 🧡
@@speakingforcrows5227 I really appreciate the kind words and thoughts, it's a comfort to know there are people who care and that have been there...and made it through. Love from New Zealand ✨💜✨
@@badnelly7819 ❤
I watched your video and cried with you ,by making this video you have helped more people than you know , you brave man ,you are such a wonderful human being and the world is a richer place for having you in it , wishing you many ,many years of peace and happiness, you were meant to have that dog you know it was meant to be
Thank you for your honesty Will. So many people suffer in silence and it's a tragedy. You're proof that there is always light at the end of the tunnel, however far away it may seem. Keep doing what you're doing, it's incredibly valuable.
A deeply deeply moving account. Just shows never judge a book by its cover. Never in a million years would I have ever thought this was your life before all the dog training. Thank you for sharing. We have a great Labrador and some how all my stress just fades away when we go for a walk. Dogs are amazing and Will you are amazing. Hope to meet in person one day.
I have bipolar and after a break in i had a full break down and I got my girl and she saved my life x. Xls aren’t all bad xxx
This Moved me to tears. Dogs have a way of healing us just with Their simple presence. I walked out of an abusive marriage and got. myself an aussie pup and he is the light of my life. We are doing your Perfect Puppy course and he loves the exercices. Thank you for Sharing your Story.
Your story reminds me of someone close to me who was under immense pressure working in a high school, they were heading for a breakdown but left the job and decided to foster rescue dogs. It's been tough but those dogs have been their saving grace.
Man that’s a good friend, walking out of work and finding Will on some bench next to the train tracks
This was beautiful and really hit home. I genuinely cried watching it as a 31 year old man. I've suffered with bad mental health for as long as I can remember, I function fairly well having a social active job but I suffer when I'm alone. After a couple of bad relationships being cheated on and dumped I'd felt so alone and had some of those horrible impulses you'd been through. I've had dogs growing up but watching this convinced me it's time to get one myself. I went to view a litter yesterday and found one with a personality I like. Anyways I just wanted to thank you for putting this video out there exposing yourself emotionally to the world in this and potentially having an amazing knock on effect to myself and others. I will be subscribing and using your videos to train my dog. Thanks again
Beautiful Will. Dog whisperers are highly sensitive people, still in touch with our inside animal. I wish you ALL the best, keep on keeping on and educating us!
Yes , sensitive that is the right word . I have this too , sometimes a blessing and sometimes a curse . 🤷♀️🫣
Hi Will, Thanks for sharing your story. I am 59 and after 4 years of psychotherapy and 5000+ hours of psychology study my depression has been in remission for a couple of years now. I got a German Shepherd mystery mix puppy from the animal shelter a month ago. He's the 10th Dog I have had in my life. At one point I had two Rottweilers and an Akita mystery mix, then GSD lab mix with a Rottweiler Blue healer mix. I lived in India from 2012-2916 and adopted a puppy I literally pulled out of a sewer -an Indian Pariah Dog. I had to sit up with him for three days changing his IV to treat Parvo. 'Arjuna' was the smartest dog I have had. Unfortunately, when I was in India I had a complete psychotic break into major depression and multiple suicide attempts, ended up living on the street in Bangalore, hospitalized with TB and the US Embassy got me back, and he was left on the street " :( . My new Dog "Spitz" is the first dog I have had in seven years. Otherwise I have had dogs and cats all my life.
I am primarily using your training advice with "Spitz" and it's working out really well. I trained the other Dogs I mentioned with the Monks of New Skete method. I have only had to do an alpha roll twice on two different dogs. Otherwise it is similar to yours. I like your emphasis on leadership. It's raining but I am about to take him for a 2 mile hike here in SW Oregon.
Alpha rolls don’t work and are quite cruel, they cause the dog to shut down and not actually relax. Please don’t do them!
Wow what a beautiful story. This is so weird. But today I was driving alone and thinking of getting another dog as my old girl is 17 yrs old and I’ve never been without a dog my hole life. Well driving alone and I thought my next dog will be a lab & gonna call her fly , what a call name ❤
You are a LEGEND OF A MAN ❤❤❤❤❤❤
beautiful and so true ! he doesn't care how many views you get, he just wants to be with you.
I kinda have a similar story. I was going through a rough time in my life. We had to move to my grandmothers house, and the pandemic started, so I was isolated and depressed with the situation, and my grandmothers dog at the time kept me going it wasn't fair to him that I wanted to sleep so I got up cause my grandmother couldn't walk him that much so me the dog and my mom would walk miles and it was great for my mental health and his for that matter. Dogs are truly one of God's greatest creations.Thanks for sharing your story, Will Atherton
One of the saddest truths Will,is that your not alone...my darkest period was a hell I hope to never go back to...and I honestly believe that my beautiful Jack Russell Stanley helped me heal...when I lost him about 8yrs ago a piece of my heart went with him..I've had dogs since that I truly love but stanly will always be my saviour and my heart still hurts when I think of him ❤
For me, it was my eskie. He was always there giving complete and unconditional love. I held onto him and cried more times than I can count. I lost him a month ago, and I really am torn to pieces. I just cannot see starting over with another dog-there will always be the comparison to my sweet boy. And I don't think I will ever find another dog that just intuitively knew me like he did.
Not like him but you will find another to love and that needs your love! dont compare them. Just like your children, you love them but they are different and that IS OK @@user-dc2ed2dm8d
@user-dc2ed2dm8d you'll know when your ready...eskie will always be in your heart...life without a dog seems very lonely once you've had one...I hope your heart heals soon ❤️
Will, you've helped us greatly with the training of our three (yes 3!) Rottweilers that we brought home at 8 weeks old, a year and half ago. A year before that, on Easter 2021, a pitbull jumped from the window of a house and attacked our family, leaving me traumatized to the point of immobilization. After a year of every therapy in an attempt to recover, I realized the only way I could heal would be to get and train "ferocious" dogs so the ways and sounds of them would not longer create terror in me. These three have helped me retrain my nervous system as I train them. Thank you for your message of responsibility and conscious decision-making for all dog owners--especially for those of "ferocious" breeds. And, thank you for sharing your story with us!
Thank you for your story, in addition to Will's! I feel very strongly that it's the responsible people of the world who love & train their dogs to a very high caliber, that take the alleged " ferocious" breeds & turn them into loving / caring >sweet< family members that are *not* a threat to anyone! Hats off to you and Will both for doing what you do! I'm inspired & attempting to take a similar path, but I live a in very rural area of Northern Wisconsin, so connecting with clients is all the more of a challenge. I'm also trying to do pet transports via Citizen Shipper. My goal is to become known as. . . & earn my business name - The Wizard ofAAAHHH's! Like Will, I've always felt a close connection with dogs & although I am not yet certified as a trainer / behaviorist, my goal is to earn the tuition to take Will's Academy course & get certified! I greatly identify with Will's story! I was inspired by him before I watched this video, but now I'm awed by his amazing courage & openness in sharing this deeply personal story!
@@JustinDancingHawk Thank you for sharing. Best wishes in getting your business ideas up and running.
Thank you for your story. A dog park friend says her Rottie was the best dog she ever owned, and a better guide dog than the registered guide dog she has now. Though she knows it would scare people, those who know Rotties appreciate them. I wish you all the best.
Thank you for being brave enough to share your story, it really brought a tear to my eye. I've just recently picked up a beautiful black labrador called Chester and came across your channel whilst searching for training advice. So far, less than a week in and I've got sit, paw, play (break), leave it, bed, and lie down all coming along strong.
I was so apprehensive about getting a dog due to the added stress, especially with a toddler around the house but my wife was adamant it would be good for my mental health.
After watching this it's taken me back to my late teens, a time I had probably locked away and forgotten about and how I found so much relief in just walking the family dog. I would be gone hours with her and it always helped me.
We don't deserve dogs, they're incredible creatures.
Well done, Will. You should be so proud of yourself
What an incredible friend, you have. I am grateful you have a friend like that. If it not for him, then we, wouldn’t have you. You are a talented gift from God. Doing what you do, is your purpose in life, to save all these dogs. Just like Sully’s purpose, was to save you. You MATTER! So please, say thank you, to your friend, from me.
thanks will. This video made me cry, giving voice to how my rescue dog similarly pulled me out of the dark. You're not alone in your story. You never will be. Thank you for the reminder of how much I love my pup, how much he loves me and how few people unfortunately get to experience it. "I owe a lot to that dog"
Thank you for sharing, although I have never had any doubt in your capability with behavioral issues. I am a little, old lady with a big ass German Shepherd rescue and you have taught us so much! Always grateful.
You are stronger than you will ever know…❤
It needs a lot of courage to let everybody know what is inside your soul. Respect. A lot of respect. Hope you will be on your path out there
Will, you don't know how much this means.
I'm going through a horrific time. My beautiful fiancé has cancer. It's destroyed our dreams, it's taken over, and it's turned our lives upside down.
But you so eloquently put across how amazing the beautiful and unconditional love a dog (and my cat) bring.
I don't know what I'd do without them right now. They are the light in the very dark tunnel I've found myself in. I love them so much.
Thank you for this. It's wonderful to hear your story.
Regarding that Cancer - have her check her pH level & try using Baking soda /water to lower it to as close to alkaline as possible! Cancer can't live in a alkaline environment!
I hope this helps!
Will is amazing & so courageous in blessing us all in so many ways! MITAKU OYASIN - ALL MY RELATIONS !
Look into soursop leaves to make tea out of them and black seed oil. They will kill cancer cells.
I wish you all the best ❤
@@freyamariano106thank you 💚
Will , Thank you for putting yourself out there. you made yourself vulnerable and I appreciate it. I lost my dog in august to cancer. This story brought me to tears. Sully is also the lucky one to have you. Regards.
Will I am looking forward to this. Dogs are also my life, I dealt with crippling depression and anxiety and made a plan to end my life as well. At my lowest point my retriever Bailey came into my life and I spent hours working with her, she became my best friend. Her and my other dogs got met through it. I now have a beautiful daughter and my dogs, I help others with dogs as well. You've been an inspiration, but also a reference of what I want to do with my life because of the similarities in our stories. I'm looking forward to seeing this documentary. Thank you for your content.
Just thought I'd tell you I'm glad you made it through ✨💙✨
Thank you for your kind words! @@badnelly7819
A dog gives you a purpose & a responsibility to get out & walk he or she then u start to bond together then u realise with all the shit going on in the world & struggles having a bad day or whatever then u look down & see ure best mate just waggling it’s tail just happy to see you then u realise u don’t really need a lot in the world to make u happy as long as you have ure little sole mate ❤
@@Ashmanx absolutely ✨💚✨
Agreed!🐶@@Ashmanx
I’m so grateful to Sully and I know your family is, too.
So many parallels. Rescued my GSD as a pup at one of the lowest points in my life, where I lacked hope and goals I now had a responsibility I had to plan ahead for - something that depended on me taking care of myself, forcing me to get out of bed and into the fresh air.
Cried pretty much the whole time.
I am glad you had this good of a friend by your side, I wouldn’t be here commenting if it weren’t for them.
You have a great friend that you texted as well because I too am happy you’re here. I’ve watched nothing but your videos for a week now in preparation for my puppy this coming Saturday. You inspire me and countless others. Keep doing what you do sir.
Dogs really are angels on earth 💖
I feel blessed to say I had a dog like that too. I always tell people he was my "soul dog". He died unexpectedly 2 years ago and I miss him every minute of every day. Thank you, Will, for sharing such a personal emotional story.
Thank you, Will, for allowing me to see this chapter of your journey. It literally broke my heart, but I am so thankful you had your best friend to be there for you during the darkest time of your life. He is definitely your light. You and your beautiful family are truly blessed. ❤
I hear the pain and I’ve felt that similar pain and it’s unsettling the feeling of helplessness that comes over you, fear, hurt, love, loss, everything rushes in all at once and you feel like you’re in a deep dark well digging your way out. Writing, sitting with myself, staying off social media, tv off and just sit and write. It’s helped me in healing myself and I’m still a work in progress as I continue on this unedited process and new journey. My heart goes out to Will.
Currently in college and really struggling, knowing my dog is there every time I come home is keeping me going. He's a true friend in a way no-one else is.
I had no idea you were there, I a sorry. I look up to you as an amazing dog trainer and I follow and take all of your advice into consideration. You taught me to teach my dog to "wait" at areas of egress (gates, bridges, crossing busy driveways etc.) and many other tips that have helped us both. Your videos and advice profoundly helped me at a time I was struggling with my highly reactive, super strong 65-70 lb. Staff rescue and u was beginning to think I could not manage her anymore. I was ready to give up and you saved me and her. YHANK YOU!
The world is a better place with you in it. My darkness has been losing 3 dogs in 9 months xxx
You’re a true inspiration will ❤️
It's remarkable how often I come across stories like this, ones that echo my own experience. There's a passage I once heard that encapsulates this connection many of us have with our dogs perfectly:
"And when man became so blinded with science that he could no longer percieve the mystery of angels, God sent them forth as dogs. Perceived as lesser beings, they were able to move about freely on earth, giving love and comfort to those still able to open their hearts to this healing. Surely I have lived with an angel."
I’ve struggled with depression myself, and I’d wanted a dog for 15 years but was never confident enough to do it.
In August I made the jump and got Bowzer (my Mini Schnauzer) and I cannot put into words how much confidence your videos and guides have given me. I watched ALL of them to make sure I knew everything.
Bowzer was top of the class at puppy class, and it’s because of you that I was able to get him into that position.
He’s still an over excitable Knobhead when meeting other people and dogs 😂 but we’re working on that.
You don’t know me, and I don’t know you, but I want to thank you so much for giving me the confidence to get my new best friend and my life wouldn’t be the same without him…or you.
What a lovely story - wishing you good luck and a happy life with Bowzer the Schnauzer 🐾
There is something about mini schnauzers ❤️. Rip Max. Stay strong. Be well
I wish you the best with your little furry friend and many years of happiness to follow♥️♥️♥️
Will, just started this and so wanting to watch through it, thank you for sharing this. my dog saved my life too and i treasure every beating moment with her
OMG Will, when you said about the Dog Whisperer…same. Became obsessed from that moment on, (15+ years ago) everything dog that I could watch, read, dog courses - namely The Dog Listener. Love helping people, although I find humans a challenge, the dogs…easy. I love watching you and I can still learn something every time I watch your clips. Thank you Lad, you make a difference. ❤
Your intuition chose Sully. I had a similar experience. I had a Vizsla that was going to have a litter, and I planned to keep a puppy. I told myself that when the puppies were being born, the one I placed a yellow collar on would be my puppy. He turned out to be the most amazing dog-my heart dog. What a gift he was!
Wow what a touching film, thank you for sharing.
I know what you mean. It is just astounding…. astonishing.. no words for it. They are like angels. And I mean it. My Linda saved my life too.. brought me “home” when my life as I knew it fell apart. She hung in there as long as she could and when she just got too tired, she left me physically. A year later, she sent me a pup with the “silly” name “Building Blocks”. Thank God I didn’t change her name because that is exactly what she is to me. Linda had handed BB the “torch”, it is as clear as day. There was a frame in your video of your dog’s profile and I saw Linda in it. I would say we are VERY blessed. Merry Christmas.
That hit me in the feels. I know the darkness all too well. Luckily I've managed to give it a place and built myself to a point where I might not fully know what I want yet, but I do know what I don't want and what is detrimental to my health. There is always light, even if you are too far to see it.
Thank you for speaking about your experience. Men's mental health is very much ignored in society.
Please give uncle Sully a nice pat on the head for me.
Will, thank you so much for your honesty and being willing to share such a painful time with us. Sending blessings to you, your family, and all your pups, especially Sully. 💜
Total respect to you Will for an extremely well produced documentary. You were one of the first online trainers I started following and I’m so glad you are still here to share your knowledge with us all. I would love to train emotional support dogs in the future and believe everyone should have access to such a dog during times of crisis. Keep on keeping on 🐾🤞
Good idea , much needed
Thank you for sharing your humanity, your truth, your heart. It’s great to see you 💛
Respect. There's no other word. ❤
Will, Sully deserves a medal. Not only did she save you, she also saved your family from a life of sorrow and regrets. Well done both of you.
Being a Beagle Person I can Resonate with you completely. My Pogo helped me like anything to get out of my age old anxiety, Addiction, Trauma Bond and what not! Cant imagine my life without him! He is so very a Therapy Dog. 🌸🌸🌸❤️❤️❤️
I applaud you. Being open and honest about these kinds of experiences is hard but also very important. The more open we are about these issues, the more people are willing to open up about their struggles, which saves lives.
Beautiful story. There is usually a silver lining in dark as well as light times in our lives. Dogs have always been a central figure for me. Teach us so much.
Will, I’ve been enjoying your videos so much. I lost my youngest daughter to suicide. Please stay. For all of us, please stay.
Will, thank you for sharing your story. You help so many people who may be going through a painful time and think there ‘s no hope for them.
Give Sully a BIG hug for helping to keep you with us! ❤️🐾🌵
Will, thank you and Sully for telling your Story. The world truly is better with you in it. i also have a rescue dog that was the only one there for me in the darkest of times!!! Thank you so much
Thank you for sharing your story❤
This was so touching.
You chose each other.
Thank you for sharing
I've watched many of your videos. It was obvious that you were a fine trainer. Not it is obvious what a fine man you are.
Thank you Will for sharing your story. It is not easy to be this vunerable. Sully is your guardian angel on Earth. Dogs are the best at that.
Wow, that’s so impactful! I want to thank you for sharing such a hard time, you don’t know how much it has helped me to see that there can be a light at the end of the tunnel … thank you.
Thank you for openly and honestly sharing your struggles. What a blessing your Sully is! Dogs instinctively know us deep down and will never betray us. Sully has such a beautiful soul and obviously means so much to you as you do to him. ❤
What an absolutely beautiful story. Thank you for being humble and vulnerable enough to share these details with us. You and your boy are an inspiration. Though I never wish emotional suffering on anyone, it is so important that we see that those who seemingly have it all together have often had to come to nearly the end of themselves to get there. Thank you, Will and keep up your blessed journey.
I have so much respect for you sharing your story and helping others showing the beauty of dogs and what they can do in our lives!
1330 - 1347 minutes/seconds
Very wise words indeed 👍❤️
with you big man
Well done Will mate, brave and vulnerable of you to share. I get it, you're brain, when it's not very well, can make the worst things seem like the best option. You can Really feel like your family are better off without when of course...Of course they absolutely are not and you know that 100% when you're well.
Well done mate. Day at a time...
Thank you for sharing. The unconditional love our four legged friends have for us is amazing.
Tomorrow I will begin a new journey with my new puppy. With a little luck and the grace of God, I will find that love once again.
You are lucky to have Sully.
This really hits me in the heart
I always knew Sully was special for you (just the way you talk about him) but I didn't know how much. I'm very glad you have made it to the other side.
Thank you so much for your hard work Will.
Mental health issues are horrible, I have been through the same, and I can't see myself without my dog Cindy.
My lab saved my life too, I'm training him to be my service dog, but really I'm just encouraging his natural careing behavior
Thanks for sharing this part of your story with us Will.
Bloody hell will...that was brave..and I'm bloody glad you are still here ..dogs eh...who would be without them ❤
My old collie saved me from driving off cliffs or into trees multiple times just because she was always in the car with me and I couldn't do that to her. She left the world 9 months ago, age 16, and it's like I've lost a child, I won't ever get over it. I now have a little rescue collie who is bringing light back, and I hope I can bring light to her as she hasn't had the best start.
Some people just need best friends who happen to be dogs.
I'm not crying, you are!
Will... I went through a similar experience a number of years ago when I worked in the Fire Service and became mentally ill. It was my staff Riley who got me through. I then retrained as a Psychotherapist. We lost our beloved Riley 5 days ago... 17 years old. An amazing friend who touched so many lives working with me in therapy. Riley was. Better human than me and we should all try to be more dog like... loving, patient, non-judgemental. Beautiful boy. Thank you for your work. Many blessings
Rob 🙏
Sully you are such a good boy 💙 your grey muzzle can't help but break my heart because it reminds me of my doggy we lost just before my eldest was born. I truly wish dogs lived as long as people 💙💙💙
Great story, Will. I imagine a lot of people can relate to much of it.
Glad you pulled through- I am thoroughly enjoying your training materials and methods.
Hope to thank you personally some day!
I love you Will and family! ❤
My living room got awful dusty watching this one m8. Thank you for helping me with my dog, and give a treat to uncle Sully from me!
I too owe a to a dog. Glad we both made it out and found some measure of meaning and happiness.
We owe a lot to dogs on so many ways.... From the ones who've saved our lives, even if we came kicking and screaming lol, and yes my lil dude Cody did that for me. He saved my life several times because when I would get too dark, he'd look at me, that's all and I'd think I can't do that to him because he'll wind up back at the shelter.... From the ones who've been family companions, the 9nes who work in the military and the police departments to keep us all safe. They are a gift from God himself. Yet the human race has looked at that gift and spit it back out so many times. We don't deserve them, but we do need them!! Thank you for telling us your story. You had me in tears because I've also been there.... Wishing you nothing but the best!!!
Wow! This is just fabulous. I recently brought a Red Fox Lab puppy into my life and I had the same experience as Will. I just knew instantly that he was the one. And thank god, because my Bear has been the most perfect dog I could ever wish for. Everything I ever wanted and needed. I came across Will when preparing myself to bring Bear home, and I can safely say that his teaching has helped us no end with every aspect. Thank you Will, you are brilliant
This was incredible. You don’t know how touching or much I needed to hear this story. Thank you so much for sharing.
God bless you Will. I had no idea! We have personally watched your videos and used what we learned from you to have a better relationship with our own dogs. Sending you lots of love and positive thoughts. Please take care of yourself-there are plenty more dogs and humans out there that are waiting for your wonderful help.❤
your story really hit home for me and i can relate i have suffered from depression on and off my whole life dogs have always helped me through life and my current dog saved my life and she is my world
Wow. Really powerful . It can happen to any of us.
Uncle Sully 🖤 so important that you released this man, amazing that you had the courage to be so open and share with the world 🙏🏼
Aww Dude, that was heart-breaking and beautiful. I appreciate You.
Iv learnt so much from you!! I fostered for 3 years, I needed training, you were there** and now I have my own pup, a mastiff" I adore, and thanks for all iv learnt from you - I'm raising a well behaved obedient pup - so thank you!!! Blessings 🐾🐾