It was torture to watch...

I noticed yesterday's breakfast plate was further inside the trap than I had originally placed it, so I decided to try and place the food just a little further inside again. I probably placed it about 6 inches from the opening. Well true to form after I retreated to the house a few minutes later Teddy appeared devouring trail of treats, which always ends close to our fence now, with a jackpot of treats as he gets closer to our home/fence. He then returned to his dining area and I watched from the window. It took him a long time to eat as he'd stretch to grab a mouthful of food inside the trap and startle backwards, it was torture to watch him be so hungry and yet so afraid. After 10 minutes I couldn't stand it any more, I decided to go up and bring the food out for him. Much to my surprise, he HAD taken the plate out of the trap via the removal of the cardboard which covered the base of the trap. (Smart dog, or should I say survivor dog) I was glad to see that he persevered and ate even though he startled frequently throughout his meal. It is hard to watch him fearfully struggle imagining what he has been through, but maybe just maybe someday we can get him via the trap OR preferably by trust.

I've also incorporated a two pitched whistle which I now use whenever I bring his food hoping as usual that this will one day bring him some familiarity. Hoping as always....