I don't think that you petting her has much to do with this problem. Since you make her obey a commmand for EVERYTHING else I personally would have to say it probably doesn't matter too much BUT it may help if you could make her obey a command before petting her JUST for a short time, say a week or 2 or 3, just until this poroblem goes away. But continue to still make her obey a command for everything else.

If I remember correctly, Heidi is just *about* a yearish? If so she is probably going through a stage, she is probably testing you. That & it may also have something to do with her being kenneled. Exactly what caused this behavior could be numerous things, like just her feeling sad as yous were seperated, it may be due to other dogs there, the staff, the routine they followed, the food &/or treats the offered, timing of feedings etc.... without being there you may never know.

Is she only protective of the rawhide & nothing else?

Be firm, consistant & patient.