Such a brave (motivated) dog

Tristan conquered his fear today. There's only one thing that Tristan has ever shown fear of and that's industrial exterior open grate stairs. He's been on them numerous times since he was a puppy but suddenly about three weeks ago he stopped dead in his tracks and would not proceed out onto the open grating. I think he must have looked down for the first time and realized he could see everything below. I've tried several times to get him on the stairs again but he was having none of it.

Today we explored a creek and some wetlands near us. On a paved path by the creek there is a shelter/arena installation and a section where stairs lead down to the creek. Tristan loves water and so wanted to head right to the creek. Oh the misery - so close and yet between Tristan and the creek lurked an evil and dangerous impediment - open grating! Tristan was priceless. First he tried to creep along the edge where the railing and concrete footings were. He soon realized he couldn't stay upright as he tried to tip toe along the edge touching only the concrete. Then he was practically on his stomach with all four paws stretched out grasshopper style. Finally he crept and scuttled along until he could reach the three risers down to the water. My brave hero!