Nail clipping. This is a topic that most people despise. *I* despise it. For me it ranks right up there with clipping a baby's nails. I cringe and get squeamish just thinking about it. Really. The worst thing for me is when I clip them back too far and hit the quick. The dog yelps and pulls back, I freak... its just not pretty.
Well, first off, let me just say that if you're in that 2% of owners who dont *mind* doing nails - good for you. You're ahead of the game. You keep your dog's nails clipped back and shaped and do it on a regular basis. You're in the group of people I simultaneously am proud of and despise.
For the rest of us who don't do the deed as often as we should and hate to do it when we do, here are some helpful tips:
1. Do it more frequently and in small increments. The dog's quick will shrink back as you clip the nail back, so eventually, you will have nice, short nails and not worry about the quick.
2. Do it after a hard play session. Let them calm down first, of course. But doing it when your dog is tired means (generally) they'll be more relaxed and less resistant to your efforts. I'm blessed, really, Ranger never puts up a fight no matter when I do it. He's the model dog when it comes to letting me clip his nails. Then again, I've been playing with his feet, paw pads, nails, etc since he was 10 weeks old. it makes a huge difference. Getting your dog comfortable with you touching him anywhere will be a huge help not only in nails and teeth, but also when the vet does checkups!
3. If your dog is one of the many who is particularly skittish of the clippers, let them sniff the clippers first. Letting them sniff, lick, and generally figure out what these things are is a good positive introduction. Then get ready with tons of patience as you sit and patiently do one or two nails at a time. It may take a few days at first to do all the nails and you may feel like you're just on a never-ending rotation of nails by the time you're done, but trust me, you'll have a much more confident dog for it!
4. Make sure to have the "quick stop" on hand! If your dog's nails are white or opaque, you can probably see the quick (the thin red/brown line that runs in/through the nail. You want to stop just before you get to that point leaving a little nail beyond it. If you are one of us unfortunate souls who has a dog with jet black nails, you'll likely need the quick stop (or cornstarch or baby powder) until you get used to your dog's nails and how to find the quick. -- The general rule of thumb is to look at the clipped tip of the nail as you clip it back, doing it in small little snips, until you see a black spot appearing in the white center of the nail. That's the start of the quick and THAT is what you want to avoid cutting! If you do happen to nick the quick and you see blood, dont panic. Just coat the bleeding end of the nail in the antiseptic powder and it should coagulate quickly. Yes, it is painful for the dog when you nick their quicks - kind of like when you cut your own nails too short or rip a nail back beyond the nail bed - not pleasant. But, your quick, calm reaction will help reassure your dog that life will not end. Remember, you're the pack leader. If you don't panic, you're sending them the signal that they don't need to either.
An alternative to the nail clipper is using a dremel to file down the nail. This is a great maintenance thing for when you have the nails clipped back, but I find it tends to take a LONG time to grind down nails that are already way too long! There are quite a few dog-specific dremel tools out there (think PediPaws) but truthfully, getting an actual dremel is probably comperable in price when you factor in the batteries you'll be buying for the PediPaws and the length of time it takes to get the job done. The dremel I have is the 7.2 volt rechargeable cordless. I find it more than meets my needs (when I'm good about keeping the nails trimmed back and just have to do maintenace filing!) Dremel does now make a 'pet' version of their tool, but it uses 4 AA batteries. I dont even *want* to know how many batteries I'd go through!
With both the dremel and the clippers you'll want to remember to have the antiseptic powder handy, just in case. Remember, its easy for a dog's nails to get too long and for their paws/pads to become inflamed and irritated, or, worse yet, to ooze. If you see any of these signs, please take your dog to your vet as soon as possible!
If you're still squeamish about doing your dog's nails, call your vet's office and ask if they clip nails. Most vet's will do it free or for a nominal fee (in this neck of the woods its something like $5). You may just find it well worth the $5 to reduce the stress on you and your dog! If you go at a relatively slow time, many vets and techs are more than happy to demonstrate the proper techniquest for you so you can see it first hand and even help coach you through doing a nail or two yourself.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Thursday, July 29, 2010
General Training: Oh me-yo Oh my-yo... Oh nooo!
Normally, Pawnation is a site I can get behind. Today's post, however, I just cant.
Oh yeah, they said that. Its an article on what human foods are safe and healthy for your dog. I'm really good with that. People should be educated about what human foods *can* given to their dogs. BUT - these foods should be used as treats during training, possibly stuffed in a kong (peanutbutter, sunflower seeds, shredded chicken, etc make a great kong stuffing!) or as an additive/substitute for some of their regular dog food.
You should never, ever, *EVER* give a dog food from your table. NEVER reward an undesireable behavior - which, I think we can all agree, begging is no matter WHAT household you're in! No one wants to have a dog begging at the table, especially if you're hosting friends! Remember, if it would not be ok when people come over, you need to make sure its NOT ok when no one is at your house.
Pawnation is, in general, a wealth of great information for dog people. I support it 99% of the time. *THIS* time, however, this is a statement I just can't get behind. The article would've been re-post worthy if not for that sentence. --- Today Pawnation's editing staff gets an 'epic fail' from Ranger and I.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training
"But you're only human, and sometimes it's hard to resist your dog's sweet stare as he begs you with his eyes to share some of your delicious homo sapien cuisine."
Oh yeah, they said that. Its an article on what human foods are safe and healthy for your dog. I'm really good with that. People should be educated about what human foods *can* given to their dogs. BUT - these foods should be used as treats during training, possibly stuffed in a kong (peanutbutter, sunflower seeds, shredded chicken, etc make a great kong stuffing!) or as an additive/substitute for some of their regular dog food.
You should never, ever, *EVER* give a dog food from your table. NEVER reward an undesireable behavior - which, I think we can all agree, begging is no matter WHAT household you're in! No one wants to have a dog begging at the table, especially if you're hosting friends! Remember, if it would not be ok when people come over, you need to make sure its NOT ok when no one is at your house.
Pawnation is, in general, a wealth of great information for dog people. I support it 99% of the time. *THIS* time, however, this is a statement I just can't get behind. The article would've been re-post worthy if not for that sentence. --- Today Pawnation's editing staff gets an 'epic fail' from Ranger and I.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training
Monday, July 26, 2010
General Training: Little Dog Syndrome and the Leader of the Pack
While I was in the hospital, I had several nurses who each had dogs. Of course, this leads to the "how do I..." questions. Bless their hearts!
Nurse #1 tells a story about her little (toy-sized) dog who is a toy hoarder, yappy, and bolts. I look at her very seriously and say "She's spoiled." The nurse blinks twice and replies sheepishly, "well, yeah, maybe a little." I proceed to describe all of the things that the dog does - or doesn't do - and all of the things the owner likely does and the nurse's jaw drops. "You're dead on right. That's exactly it. That's my dog. How do you know?" I tell her my "secret" is simple.
I. Understand. Pack.
I understand that a small dog doesn't really KNOW its a small dog and therefore is allowed more freedom and leeway than you'd expect out of a larger dog. A small dog doesn't understand why the supposed pack leader is making baby noises at it. It only understands one thing - its a dog. Its not a baby, its not a child. Its a dog. *Because* its a dog, it only comprehends dog pack mentality. It has no concept of relativity of size.
People get small dogs for a variety of reasons. Most of the time they want the companionship of a dog in a tiny package. The problem with small dogs filling that role is that *typically* speaking the owners tend to baby and spoil them because they're "just so adorable and cute!" The owners also don't immediately put an end to obnoxious and nuisance behaviors because, well, the dog is only 10 pounds!
Wrong.
The mantra for small dog owners is this: "If it would not be acceptable in a larger dog, then it is not acceptable in YOUR dog."
No one likes going to visit someone only to be greeted by a pack of yapping, unruly and undisciplined little squeakers! (I'm getting a migraine just thinking about it) Good manners are good manners - period. As the pack leader you must have a standard of expectation for your pack - whether its an only-dog 10-pound Papillon or an 80-pound Beauceron. Once you establish your baseline, you have to remember that dogs are black-n-white creatures. Its either 'yes, this is ok' - or 'no, it is not acceptable' - there are no 'maybes' or 'sometimes' for dogs.
I've seen a 15-pound Jack Russell Terrier bite an 8-year-old child in the face. If you think your dog cant be JUST as dangerous and terrifying as an untrained 80-pound golden or boxer or newfie - think again. That child was taken to the ER where he had 20 stitches. And before anyone says 'it was all the dog's fault,' it wasn't. The dog was undersocialized, spoiled and then ignored repeatedly, had not been taught any manners or rules and was acting on pure instinct. The dog's fault? Hardly.
So, for all of you 'huggle, snuggle, umpkin, poo' people out there with your trendy toy-sized dogs who think they run the roost, stop and realize that not only are you NOT helping your dog by babying it and treating it like a baby, you're hurting it because you're forcing it to do the only thing it instinctively knows - step up and assume an alpha role. In the absence of leadership, even a timid canine will take a stand - but its stressful on them and they have no context at all for how to BE a leader, so their fear gets channeled into acting out and aggressive behaviors. They're scared and unsure - NOT their faults.
So, next time Schnuckums starts yapping up a storm at you, or lunges on your guests as they walk in or even jumps up onto the couches uninvited and unceremoneously scoots you over - remember, they only know they're a dog. They're doing what dogs do. YOU need to do what alpha leaders do and start taking control of the situation by teaching them what is and is not acceptable.
Ten pounds or 100 pounds - all dogs need the safety and surety the fundamentals of dog training provide.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training - Service Dog Team
Nurse #1 tells a story about her little (toy-sized) dog who is a toy hoarder, yappy, and bolts. I look at her very seriously and say "She's spoiled." The nurse blinks twice and replies sheepishly, "well, yeah, maybe a little." I proceed to describe all of the things that the dog does - or doesn't do - and all of the things the owner likely does and the nurse's jaw drops. "You're dead on right. That's exactly it. That's my dog. How do you know?" I tell her my "secret" is simple.
I. Understand. Pack.
I understand that a small dog doesn't really KNOW its a small dog and therefore is allowed more freedom and leeway than you'd expect out of a larger dog. A small dog doesn't understand why the supposed pack leader is making baby noises at it. It only understands one thing - its a dog. Its not a baby, its not a child. Its a dog. *Because* its a dog, it only comprehends dog pack mentality. It has no concept of relativity of size.
People get small dogs for a variety of reasons. Most of the time they want the companionship of a dog in a tiny package. The problem with small dogs filling that role is that *typically* speaking the owners tend to baby and spoil them because they're "just so adorable and cute!" The owners also don't immediately put an end to obnoxious and nuisance behaviors because, well, the dog is only 10 pounds!
Wrong.
The mantra for small dog owners is this: "If it would not be acceptable in a larger dog, then it is not acceptable in YOUR dog."
No one likes going to visit someone only to be greeted by a pack of yapping, unruly and undisciplined little squeakers! (I'm getting a migraine just thinking about it) Good manners are good manners - period. As the pack leader you must have a standard of expectation for your pack - whether its an only-dog 10-pound Papillon or an 80-pound Beauceron. Once you establish your baseline, you have to remember that dogs are black-n-white creatures. Its either 'yes, this is ok' - or 'no, it is not acceptable' - there are no 'maybes' or 'sometimes' for dogs.
I've seen a 15-pound Jack Russell Terrier bite an 8-year-old child in the face. If you think your dog cant be JUST as dangerous and terrifying as an untrained 80-pound golden or boxer or newfie - think again. That child was taken to the ER where he had 20 stitches. And before anyone says 'it was all the dog's fault,' it wasn't. The dog was undersocialized, spoiled and then ignored repeatedly, had not been taught any manners or rules and was acting on pure instinct. The dog's fault? Hardly.
So, for all of you 'huggle, snuggle, umpkin, poo' people out there with your trendy toy-sized dogs who think they run the roost, stop and realize that not only are you NOT helping your dog by babying it and treating it like a baby, you're hurting it because you're forcing it to do the only thing it instinctively knows - step up and assume an alpha role. In the absence of leadership, even a timid canine will take a stand - but its stressful on them and they have no context at all for how to BE a leader, so their fear gets channeled into acting out and aggressive behaviors. They're scared and unsure - NOT their faults.
So, next time Schnuckums starts yapping up a storm at you, or lunges on your guests as they walk in or even jumps up onto the couches uninvited and unceremoneously scoots you over - remember, they only know they're a dog. They're doing what dogs do. YOU need to do what alpha leaders do and start taking control of the situation by teaching them what is and is not acceptable.
Ten pounds or 100 pounds - all dogs need the safety and surety the fundamentals of dog training provide.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training - Service Dog Team
We got the call!
We got the call on Friday from the Americorps program we've been interviewing for (or, one of them anyway!) - The position I'm being offered is in a different section of the Vandy Health Services, but it deals with outreach to outlying women/children in rural settings. I'd be liason to 18 program sites in 4 states doing monthly progress reviews/updates, bulletins, website development, etc. Lots of office work, but its a very dog/kid friendly office and, honestly, I'm probably much better suited to an office position right now all things considered.
I'm going to touch base with the director of the MIHOW program again when she gets back from vacation next week, but I'm feeling pretty good about it and I like what I'm reading and seeing about their program. The position wouldn't start until the beginning of October, so I have a little time to prepare as well.
Wish us lots of luck and good, positive energy. I'm terrified about going back to an office environment again - especially doing it for the first time with Ranger coming with me every day! I'm sure he will be a rockstar about it and totally mesh with things. I'm still nervous about it - its change and we all know I hate change and this is on the order of cataclysmic change! Its also a 10-month commitment which isnt really *that* bad. (that's what I keep reminding myself anyway!)
It also means that Ranger and I need to keep pushing forward and working on our training more. I've identified situations in which he's 'jumpy' so I really need to get the PVC out and run him through some of the agility things to build his confidence up. We also need to get out more and immunize him to the situations he has problems with. He's an alpha male dog and no matter what I do and no matter how strong of an alpha role I take, I cant change the fact that I'm a female and his instinct is to guard and protect me. I wouldnt mind him checking out behind my back - but turning all the way around so he's FACING the noise, that's not working for me! Oh well, more work on focus and ignore is in store for us!
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
I'm going to touch base with the director of the MIHOW program again when she gets back from vacation next week, but I'm feeling pretty good about it and I like what I'm reading and seeing about their program. The position wouldn't start until the beginning of October, so I have a little time to prepare as well.
Wish us lots of luck and good, positive energy. I'm terrified about going back to an office environment again - especially doing it for the first time with Ranger coming with me every day! I'm sure he will be a rockstar about it and totally mesh with things. I'm still nervous about it - its change and we all know I hate change and this is on the order of cataclysmic change! Its also a 10-month commitment which isnt really *that* bad. (that's what I keep reminding myself anyway!)
It also means that Ranger and I need to keep pushing forward and working on our training more. I've identified situations in which he's 'jumpy' so I really need to get the PVC out and run him through some of the agility things to build his confidence up. We also need to get out more and immunize him to the situations he has problems with. He's an alpha male dog and no matter what I do and no matter how strong of an alpha role I take, I cant change the fact that I'm a female and his instinct is to guard and protect me. I wouldnt mind him checking out behind my back - but turning all the way around so he's FACING the noise, that's not working for me! Oh well, more work on focus and ignore is in store for us!
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
The Hospital - Round 2
As some of you know, Ranger and I had another lovely stay in the hospital last week. This time, though, I went prepared for a stay!
We went armed with the Precision Pet SnooZZy Sleeper Bed, Black , the Wubba, the Wobbler, and antlers, we went in for blood work and stayed for 2 days. Yup, I was down a few pints again! This time we landed on the second floor. Nurses were *amazingly* nice. We're so blessed to have had so many good experiences with great nursing staff!
The Precision mat worked SO much better this time. We'd been using it at home, so he knew at the hospital that it was *his* place. (Note: if you're taking your dog on vacation this summer, it is a great idea to start using one thing constantly that you will be taking with you so the dog acclimates to that. It will make his time in new environments (be it hotels or relatives' houses) much less stressful for you and your dog!)
He was quite vigilant while they managed to have to replace 4 IV sites. No, I'm not kidding - I blew out 3 sites. My arms are still bruised from 2 of them. He really was not a happy monkey about me having those! I will say, though, he was very very good about staying down and in his place on the mat and just raised his head up to lay it next to me while they did the IVs and vamp'ing. He, of course, didn't eat very much and without his trusty water bottle, he wasn't so thrilled about the drinking part either. He has really taken to his Lixit Dog Water Bottle (which we got at Prairieland Feeds in Savoy, IL!) at home and I find it really helps him regulate his own drinking throughout the day. That's quite a feet for my little camel!
He went out with 2 terrific nurses while we were there. I sent him out on his Gentle Leader and they said he did great, but couldn't wait to get back to me! LOL. Even G.T. showed up while I was waiting in the ER and she took him out for the last time that night after I was settled in my room and she said the same thing - he just wanted to get back to me. Far cry from the dog I had 2 months ago!! The bonding exercises seem to have really helped in a lot of ways - in other ways, well, we'll save that for another post!
They replaced my blood (again) in a much quicker fashion (we're getting this down to a science!) and that was that. Had a followup 2 days later with a new doc and *everyone* in the office loved Ranger. (He's SUCH a flirt!!) He did great in a down/stay while I was on the exam table (though he was a picklehead about getting to the down/stay in the first place - it was an 8am appointment, no time to run him tired before hand, and I was anxious as all hell - so he was not exactly in the most centered and focused frame of mind!) But, all things being even, he didn't do a bad job at all.
So we're back home, he's curled up on his SnooZZy Sleeper mat next to my bed, and we're trying to get back into some kind of routine. I have meds to take 4 times a day and we're working on him being my reminder for those. Its the 2 during the day that we have trouble remembering! (I know I could just set an alarm or something - but I shut those off, think about taking the meds and then forget to do it anyway!)
Keep good thoughts for us please as we keep stepping through this long (and tedious) process of healthcare puzzles. We definitely need lots of patience!
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training SD Team
We went armed with the Precision Pet SnooZZy Sleeper Bed, Black , the Wubba, the Wobbler, and antlers, we went in for blood work and stayed for 2 days. Yup, I was down a few pints again! This time we landed on the second floor. Nurses were *amazingly* nice. We're so blessed to have had so many good experiences with great nursing staff!
The Precision mat worked SO much better this time. We'd been using it at home, so he knew at the hospital that it was *his* place. (Note: if you're taking your dog on vacation this summer, it is a great idea to start using one thing constantly that you will be taking with you so the dog acclimates to that. It will make his time in new environments (be it hotels or relatives' houses) much less stressful for you and your dog!)
He was quite vigilant while they managed to have to replace 4 IV sites. No, I'm not kidding - I blew out 3 sites. My arms are still bruised from 2 of them. He really was not a happy monkey about me having those! I will say, though, he was very very good about staying down and in his place on the mat and just raised his head up to lay it next to me while they did the IVs and vamp'ing. He, of course, didn't eat very much and without his trusty water bottle, he wasn't so thrilled about the drinking part either. He has really taken to his Lixit Dog Water Bottle (which we got at Prairieland Feeds in Savoy, IL!) at home and I find it really helps him regulate his own drinking throughout the day. That's quite a feet for my little camel!
He went out with 2 terrific nurses while we were there. I sent him out on his Gentle Leader and they said he did great, but couldn't wait to get back to me! LOL. Even G.T. showed up while I was waiting in the ER and she took him out for the last time that night after I was settled in my room and she said the same thing - he just wanted to get back to me. Far cry from the dog I had 2 months ago!! The bonding exercises seem to have really helped in a lot of ways - in other ways, well, we'll save that for another post!
They replaced my blood (again) in a much quicker fashion (we're getting this down to a science!) and that was that. Had a followup 2 days later with a new doc and *everyone* in the office loved Ranger. (He's SUCH a flirt!!) He did great in a down/stay while I was on the exam table (though he was a picklehead about getting to the down/stay in the first place - it was an 8am appointment, no time to run him tired before hand, and I was anxious as all hell - so he was not exactly in the most centered and focused frame of mind!) But, all things being even, he didn't do a bad job at all.
So we're back home, he's curled up on his SnooZZy Sleeper mat next to my bed, and we're trying to get back into some kind of routine. I have meds to take 4 times a day and we're working on him being my reminder for those. Its the 2 during the day that we have trouble remembering! (I know I could just set an alarm or something - but I shut those off, think about taking the meds and then forget to do it anyway!)
Keep good thoughts for us please as we keep stepping through this long (and tedious) process of healthcare puzzles. We definitely need lots of patience!
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training SD Team
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Not your ordinary post
Today's post is a unique one. Not something you'd expect to find on a dog traning blog.
I just can't help myself.
Today, I'm going to give in to my baser instinct - and give a book review! Oh, I hear you all now... but wait... its dog related!
Two days ago Nora Roberts' "The Search" hit the shelves. As its my birthday this week, and as I always need a birthday book, and as I LOVE Nora Roberts - it was preordered and delivered directly to my Kindle on Tuesday morning. Two days I waited. I can't imagine why now!
The heroine is who I hope to some day be. A happy, cheerful, no-nonsense dog trainer who owns her own training school, teaches advanced training, and, oh, by the way, has 3 gorgeous labs - all certified S&R dogs (for those of you NOT up on your doggy lingo, that's search & rescue!) Of course she has a past, she wouldn't be who she is without it - but she's good with it. She's made a good life. Enter the romance - one very sexy carpenter with a 4-month-old problem that happens to have 4 legs, no skills, and a bad eating disorder compliments of a worried mother who said it was either a wife or a dog! He kept the dog.
In what has become SOP for Nora Roberts' longer, suspense/romance/thriller novels, this one is divided into "parts." What's NOT SOP for her work - what I wasn't prepared for - was the level of insight and absolute attention to detail she gives. The perfect jabs at new dog owners and their own bad behaviors coupled with such extraordinary writing, you not only "get the gist" of the dog training technique, you feel like you're right there with the heroine as she scolds, cajoles, and soothes you into *her* way of dog training. Yes, you might even find you learn a new trick - or ten - just from reading.
I'm going to take my favorite body warmer, I mean 4-legged companion, and return now to part 2 of "The Search." I will, however, leave you with this:
"The great pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him
and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too."
~ Samuel Butler, as re-quoted by Ms. Nora Roberts.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training
I just can't help myself.
Today, I'm going to give in to my baser instinct - and give a book review! Oh, I hear you all now... but wait... its dog related!
Two days ago Nora Roberts' "The Search" hit the shelves. As its my birthday this week, and as I always need a birthday book, and as I LOVE Nora Roberts - it was preordered and delivered directly to my Kindle on Tuesday morning. Two days I waited. I can't imagine why now!
The heroine is who I hope to some day be. A happy, cheerful, no-nonsense dog trainer who owns her own training school, teaches advanced training, and, oh, by the way, has 3 gorgeous labs - all certified S&R dogs (for those of you NOT up on your doggy lingo, that's search & rescue!) Of course she has a past, she wouldn't be who she is without it - but she's good with it. She's made a good life. Enter the romance - one very sexy carpenter with a 4-month-old problem that happens to have 4 legs, no skills, and a bad eating disorder compliments of a worried mother who said it was either a wife or a dog! He kept the dog.
In what has become SOP for Nora Roberts' longer, suspense/romance/thriller novels, this one is divided into "parts." What's NOT SOP for her work - what I wasn't prepared for - was the level of insight and absolute attention to detail she gives. The perfect jabs at new dog owners and their own bad behaviors coupled with such extraordinary writing, you not only "get the gist" of the dog training technique, you feel like you're right there with the heroine as she scolds, cajoles, and soothes you into *her* way of dog training. Yes, you might even find you learn a new trick - or ten - just from reading.
I'm going to take my favorite body warmer, I mean 4-legged companion, and return now to part 2 of "The Search." I will, however, leave you with this:
"The great pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him
and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too."
~ Samuel Butler, as re-quoted by Ms. Nora Roberts.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9 Training
Monday, June 28, 2010
Responsible Dog Ownership - Housebreaking 101
I'm going to assume at this point that you've read my posts about getting a new puppy/dog and bringing your new puppy/dog home Today, we're going to take the next leap - Housebreaking!
Once again I'm going on record as saying that my methods are not the *only* housebreaking methods. I firmly believe that being a good dog trainer means evaluating and adapting to each individual dog. I encourage owners who have tried these various methods and have not had the success they want or need to reach out to an experienced local trainer in your area. There are dog training clubs, independent trainers, and training schools out there. Make sure you do your research and pick a training who is compatible with your own values and views of raising your dog.
Now... on to the show!
I said it before and I'll say it again. The number 1 best training tool, the best housebreaking tool, is a good dog crate. In addition to all of the previous benefits we talked about, using a crate for housebreaking does make things less stressful on you and your dog. Less stressful means a better experience, less accidents, and a more positive training experience. The things to remember when using a crate for housebreaking:
1. You do *not* want a crate that is too big. You dont want them to have enough room to segment the crate - a part for sleeping a part as a bathroom. Their crate is *not* a master suite!
2. The crate is not a jail cell. Puppies need time out to play and learn and explore, but it *MUST* be highly supervised. A puppy or new dog needs time to learn the "rules" and how to give you the cue that they need to go out. My golden rule: If you can't be watching them, you can't get upse if they have an accident. Would you let a baby or toddler run around the house without a diaper, not watch them, and then be upset when they had an accident?
How do you put this into a positive, practical experience?
1. Remember that puppies have tiny little bladders. They need to go out often and praised each and every time they eliminate in the appropriate place. Using the word you want to associate with this *as they are doing the act* will help them get the idea of going on command. Believe me, this is a huge benefit for you. I highly recommend it. Older dogs can have the same program, however, they may not need to go out as frequently and will more quickly catch on to letting you know. But, again, you have to watch them for cues!
2. Feed on a schedule! Puppies should be fed anywhere from 2 to 3 or 4 times a day. Put their food down for 30 minutes. If they finish early, or after 30 minutes, take them out. If they eliminate, praise of course, but then let them have some play time. Puppies will often wear themselves out after only a few minutes. As they get older, so will their stamina. After play time, give them one more chance to eliminate (and praise of course!) and then bring them into the house. If you cant give the puppy attention, then crate until you can. But, remember, every time you let them out of the crate, you have to let them out to eliminate!
If, however, your puppy does NOT elimiate while outside, when you go back into the house, crate for 20-30 minutes and try again. You really want your puppy to realize that elimiating outside not only gets them tons of great praise from you, but that it also means play and inclusion in family social time. Dogs are pack animals, they *want* to be with their pack, even if its just watching tv together!!
3. While older dogs can usually go longer, puppies are going to need to go out every 2 hours or so. Yes, that often means in the middle of the night. However, if you're on a feeding schedule and you remove food and water at a specific time every night, your dog will get used to the schedule and you'll find overnight trips out will become fewer and further beween!
My biggest hot topic:
4. If you catch your puppy/dog in the act - Use a loud, sharp noise (e.g.: clap your hands loudly, make a vocalization like 'EH!', etc). This should startled (but not SCARE) the puppy/dog and you can immediately take them out to the place where they SHOULD be eliminating. When they continue out there, do remember to lavish praise. If you do NOT catch them in the act - YOU were not paying attention! Once the act is complete, there's no sense in yelling at your puppy/dog. Try yelling at yourself for not keeping the dog tethered to you, watching the dog more closely, or in the crate. Dogs only associate consequences of an action as the action is happening. Punishing a dog later for something they've done is useless and will only foster fear and aggression. Its not worth it, trust me. As frustrated as you are in that moment, stop and think. Was the dog trying to tell you someting? Did you miss a cue? How did the dog get out of your sight? If you gave them more freedom to roam the house, go back a step to less freedoms.
Housebreaking is not always easy. These tips and suggestionns have worked for me. They may not work for you as each puppy/dog is different, but they're sound foundations to build on.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Once again I'm going on record as saying that my methods are not the *only* housebreaking methods. I firmly believe that being a good dog trainer means evaluating and adapting to each individual dog. I encourage owners who have tried these various methods and have not had the success they want or need to reach out to an experienced local trainer in your area. There are dog training clubs, independent trainers, and training schools out there. Make sure you do your research and pick a training who is compatible with your own values and views of raising your dog.
Now... on to the show!
I said it before and I'll say it again. The number 1 best training tool, the best housebreaking tool, is a good dog crate. In addition to all of the previous benefits we talked about, using a crate for housebreaking does make things less stressful on you and your dog. Less stressful means a better experience, less accidents, and a more positive training experience. The things to remember when using a crate for housebreaking:
1. You do *not* want a crate that is too big. You dont want them to have enough room to segment the crate - a part for sleeping a part as a bathroom. Their crate is *not* a master suite!
2. The crate is not a jail cell. Puppies need time out to play and learn and explore, but it *MUST* be highly supervised. A puppy or new dog needs time to learn the "rules" and how to give you the cue that they need to go out. My golden rule: If you can't be watching them, you can't get upse if they have an accident. Would you let a baby or toddler run around the house without a diaper, not watch them, and then be upset when they had an accident?
How do you put this into a positive, practical experience?
1. Remember that puppies have tiny little bladders. They need to go out often and praised each and every time they eliminate in the appropriate place. Using the word you want to associate with this *as they are doing the act* will help them get the idea of going on command. Believe me, this is a huge benefit for you. I highly recommend it. Older dogs can have the same program, however, they may not need to go out as frequently and will more quickly catch on to letting you know. But, again, you have to watch them for cues!
2. Feed on a schedule! Puppies should be fed anywhere from 2 to 3 or 4 times a day. Put their food down for 30 minutes. If they finish early, or after 30 minutes, take them out. If they eliminate, praise of course, but then let them have some play time. Puppies will often wear themselves out after only a few minutes. As they get older, so will their stamina. After play time, give them one more chance to eliminate (and praise of course!) and then bring them into the house. If you cant give the puppy attention, then crate until you can. But, remember, every time you let them out of the crate, you have to let them out to eliminate!
If, however, your puppy does NOT elimiate while outside, when you go back into the house, crate for 20-30 minutes and try again. You really want your puppy to realize that elimiating outside not only gets them tons of great praise from you, but that it also means play and inclusion in family social time. Dogs are pack animals, they *want* to be with their pack, even if its just watching tv together!!
3. While older dogs can usually go longer, puppies are going to need to go out every 2 hours or so. Yes, that often means in the middle of the night. However, if you're on a feeding schedule and you remove food and water at a specific time every night, your dog will get used to the schedule and you'll find overnight trips out will become fewer and further beween!
My biggest hot topic:
4. If you catch your puppy/dog in the act - Use a loud, sharp noise (e.g.: clap your hands loudly, make a vocalization like 'EH!', etc). This should startled (but not SCARE) the puppy/dog and you can immediately take them out to the place where they SHOULD be eliminating. When they continue out there, do remember to lavish praise. If you do NOT catch them in the act - YOU were not paying attention! Once the act is complete, there's no sense in yelling at your puppy/dog. Try yelling at yourself for not keeping the dog tethered to you, watching the dog more closely, or in the crate. Dogs only associate consequences of an action as the action is happening. Punishing a dog later for something they've done is useless and will only foster fear and aggression. Its not worth it, trust me. As frustrated as you are in that moment, stop and think. Was the dog trying to tell you someting? Did you miss a cue? How did the dog get out of your sight? If you gave them more freedom to roam the house, go back a step to less freedoms.
Housebreaking is not always easy. These tips and suggestionns have worked for me. They may not work for you as each puppy/dog is different, but they're sound foundations to build on.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Friday, June 25, 2010
Shout out - @DavidonDemand
Here's a shout-out to Twitter's @DavidonDemand! He's in Canne and he's set up to do whatever we want (as long as its legal and doesnt upset his mom!!!) - Just Tweet him @DavidonDemand - and give him your request. Hopefully you wont get stuck in the bottleneck!!
Here's hoping he'll tweet for us to help us with our fundraising! He has over 4000 followers! If each of his followers donated $1 we'd be at our goal - 2000 followers could each do $2 - 1000 folowers could each do $4 - or 500 followers could do $8! -- Less than the cost of a latte!
Even if we dont get a shout-out to help us - go check out DavidonDemand. He actually really does rock and his Tweets are hilarious!
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Here's hoping he'll tweet for us to help us with our fundraising! He has over 4000 followers! If each of his followers donated $1 we'd be at our goal - 2000 followers could each do $2 - 1000 folowers could each do $4 - or 500 followers could do $8! -- Less than the cost of a latte!
Even if we dont get a shout-out to help us - go check out DavidonDemand. He actually really does rock and his Tweets are hilarious!
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
SD Training - Advanced training being planned
We come with VERY exciting news - I have found a trainer willing to work with Ranger and I to complete his SD training!!!
When a dog is part of a service dog program, most of the time it spends its first 18-24 months with a "puppy raiser." This person/family socializes the dog and gets them comfortable with the world around them, takes them on public outtings and usually does dog training classes with other SD prospect puppies. After their time with their puppy raiser, they then move on to 'boarding school' at the program's facility. Its there where they learn the advanced tasks they'll need to help their human partner. Once the dogs have learned their tasks, are proofed for public work, and ready to be matched with a partner, applicants are selected to come to the training facility and spend 1-2 weeks training with their new partner. They learn grooming, commands, etiquette... everything a human partner needs to know about their dog!
Since Ranger is not part of a program and has been raised and trained by me, its up to me to train the advanced tasks. Normally I could easily walk someone else through the steps of training a task from A to B to C to end task. But, as many of you know, Ranger and I have been struggling of late with our training. I have been frustrated and feel like we've hit a brick wall. The more frustrated I get, the more blocked I am on how to work through and fix. I really felt it was necessary for us to have a hands-on 3rd party trainer to help get us to our goals.
The trainer we found who has agreed to work with us is within driving distance, which is fantastic. She loves and lives the Beauceron breed, so she is the perfect person to help me address his breed-related issues - or tell me if something IS a breed-related issue. She also has a really strong background in SD training and even trains people to BE trainers of service dogs.
Now, our challenge is raising the money to cover the cost of the training plus travel and lodging expenses for our time there. I estimate the total cost will be around $4000, which would be roughly what I'd be fundraising for the same thing were I doing the team training through a program.
Please feel free to pass our website along to anyone you know. Help us spread the word. We're looking for in-kind donations, product donations to raffle off, one-time and ongoing sponsorships, and, of course, monetary contributions would be fantastic. Every dollar donated makes a difference and no donation is too small!
This is something that Ranger and I both need to truly attain where we want and need to be. He has already made a difference in my life and I know, with this training, we will become a stronger, more united team as well as giving us more independence in general.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs
Team #2
When a dog is part of a service dog program, most of the time it spends its first 18-24 months with a "puppy raiser." This person/family socializes the dog and gets them comfortable with the world around them, takes them on public outtings and usually does dog training classes with other SD prospect puppies. After their time with their puppy raiser, they then move on to 'boarding school' at the program's facility. Its there where they learn the advanced tasks they'll need to help their human partner. Once the dogs have learned their tasks, are proofed for public work, and ready to be matched with a partner, applicants are selected to come to the training facility and spend 1-2 weeks training with their new partner. They learn grooming, commands, etiquette... everything a human partner needs to know about their dog!
Since Ranger is not part of a program and has been raised and trained by me, its up to me to train the advanced tasks. Normally I could easily walk someone else through the steps of training a task from A to B to C to end task. But, as many of you know, Ranger and I have been struggling of late with our training. I have been frustrated and feel like we've hit a brick wall. The more frustrated I get, the more blocked I am on how to work through and fix. I really felt it was necessary for us to have a hands-on 3rd party trainer to help get us to our goals.
The trainer we found who has agreed to work with us is within driving distance, which is fantastic. She loves and lives the Beauceron breed, so she is the perfect person to help me address his breed-related issues - or tell me if something IS a breed-related issue. She also has a really strong background in SD training and even trains people to BE trainers of service dogs.
Now, our challenge is raising the money to cover the cost of the training plus travel and lodging expenses for our time there. I estimate the total cost will be around $4000, which would be roughly what I'd be fundraising for the same thing were I doing the team training through a program.
Please feel free to pass our website along to anyone you know. Help us spread the word. We're looking for in-kind donations, product donations to raffle off, one-time and ongoing sponsorships, and, of course, monetary contributions would be fantastic. Every dollar donated makes a difference and no donation is too small!
This is something that Ranger and I both need to truly attain where we want and need to be. He has already made a difference in my life and I know, with this training, we will become a stronger, more united team as well as giving us more independence in general.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs
Team #2
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
SD Product Announcement: Mobility Harness
For those of us who need a good, sturdy mobility harness that isnt going to slip, slide, shift, or otherwise move around when we need it most but is still lightweight enough for all-day wear and comfortable enough not to cause chaffing... hold on to your handles.
Katrina over at Bold Lead Designs has come up with something we think will fit the bill and Ranger and I can't wait to get our hands on one to try it out!!
Bold Lead Designs' Mobility Support Harness:
(Brace and Balance ambulatory/walking assistance harness for service dogs)
Katrina's diagram is much better at pointing out all the best details here. My favorite part is that the handle is adjustable - AND - folds down! (how many times have we gotten a handle caught on a chair or the edge of a table, etc?!) Its also a light-weight coming in at just 2.5 pounds (3 pounds for the big dogs!) but packs a lot of stability into that. Padded to reduce chaffing and metal pieces that will not rust! Truly made to last and withstand all of the different situations we find ourselves in (rain, sleet, snow... puddles, table glass spills at resturants, etc). And, all of the straps are adjustable making it truly able to fit even the most oddly shaped, growing dogs! Since she makes the harnesses herself, Katrina works closely with you to make sure you get exactly the right fit for you and your teammate - how cool is that?! If you're in the Denver area, you can even go to her and have it fitted.
In addition to the harness, I have to share my *happy* thing with all of you. My lost blue leash? The mulit-configurable leash? The one I lost in the move and tried to replace with the costal pets but it just "wasn't quite the same?" -- Guess what? - Katrina makes these multi-form leashes in *leather!* -- YES! For all of you who are not trainers, having a leather leash truly does make a HUGE difference. For one, its easier on your hands, easier to grip and maintain a grip, and it wont fray like the nylon leads do. Katrina makes these in 5, 7 and 8 foot leads, but if that's not the right size for you, let her know! She can work with you on just about anything (and she's SUPER nice!) to make sure you get the product you're looking for!
Of course, Katrina's site has a wide variety of other leashes, head leads, collars, etc - all in leather of course - and all look stunning.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Katrina over at Bold Lead Designs has come up with something we think will fit the bill and Ranger and I can't wait to get our hands on one to try it out!!
(Brace and Balance ambulatory/walking assistance harness for service dogs)
Katrina's diagram is much better at pointing out all the best details here. My favorite part is that the handle is adjustable - AND - folds down! (how many times have we gotten a handle caught on a chair or the edge of a table, etc?!) Its also a light-weight coming in at just 2.5 pounds (3 pounds for the big dogs!) but packs a lot of stability into that. Padded to reduce chaffing and metal pieces that will not rust! Truly made to last and withstand all of the different situations we find ourselves in (rain, sleet, snow... puddles, table glass spills at resturants, etc). And, all of the straps are adjustable making it truly able to fit even the most oddly shaped, growing dogs! Since she makes the harnesses herself, Katrina works closely with you to make sure you get exactly the right fit for you and your teammate - how cool is that?! If you're in the Denver area, you can even go to her and have it fitted.
In addition to the harness, I have to share my *happy* thing with all of you. My lost blue leash? The mulit-configurable leash? The one I lost in the move and tried to replace with the costal pets but it just "wasn't quite the same?" -- Guess what? - Katrina makes these multi-form leashes in *leather!* -- YES! For all of you who are not trainers, having a leather leash truly does make a HUGE difference. For one, its easier on your hands, easier to grip and maintain a grip, and it wont fray like the nylon leads do. Katrina makes these in 5, 7 and 8 foot leads, but if that's not the right size for you, let her know! She can work with you on just about anything (and she's SUPER nice!) to make sure you get the product you're looking for!
Of course, Katrina's site has a wide variety of other leashes, head leads, collars, etc - all in leather of course - and all look stunning.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Friday, June 11, 2010
Fundraising & Sponsorship - Goal: An every day harness!
One of the things we've decided to do to help Ranger and I in our 9-month intensive training is to get him an 'every day' harness to wear while we're working around the house and in general. The hope is to get him used to wearing it more and to remind him he's 'on duty' - even at home where he's gotten to have the most relaxed behaviors. It would also be a visual reminder to my family and friends that he's 'on duty' which I think would help tremendously aas well as give me a handle and harness to use during vertigo attacks and instability.
Duty Harness by All K-9s.com
The vest is a very sturdy, but lightweight harness with a detachable handle and detachable pouches (for quick impromtu walks on my good days or to help me carry smaller items through the house (like inhalers and meds) on my bad ones. Of course, my patches would say 'Service Dog' and/or 'Do Not Pet' on them - but there are places for 3 velcro patches (where this photo shows 'Police' - those are the velcro patches) - one on each side and one across the chest. The reason for this harness in particular, is the placement of the handle across the shoulders (not in the middle of the back like some of the other harness have, which is harder on a dog's spine!) as well as the heavy-duty material it is made out of. Truly a harness that will keep meeting our needs for a long time to come
The other harness being considered is from fullgripgear.com
Again, this one has a handle up at the shoulders. The handle is padded as is the vest and the straps, which would make it more comfortable for Ranger during the day.
Of course, living in Arcola and working with Lunar K9s, we'd love to have this in Purple and Silver.
I've heard only the best things about FullGrip Gear and know they make top-quality harnesses, leashes, and other gear for SDs, Police K9, Search & Rescue, and Schutzhund teams.
So our first and current fundraising project would hopefully cover the cost of the harness, pouches, handle, patches, tax and shipping. I'm exciting to and very much looking forward to having and using our new gear in the 9-month intensive training and beyond.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Duty Harness by All K-9s.com
 |  |
The other harness being considered is from fullgripgear.com
Of course, living in Arcola and working with Lunar K9s, we'd love to have this in Purple and Silver.
I've heard only the best things about FullGrip Gear and know they make top-quality harnesses, leashes, and other gear for SDs, Police K9, Search & Rescue, and Schutzhund teams.
So our first and current fundraising project would hopefully cover the cost of the harness, pouches, handle, patches, tax and shipping. I'm exciting to and very much looking forward to having and using our new gear in the 9-month intensive training and beyond.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
SD Training - Ranger stumbles and I fall down (metaphorically speaking)
Sometimes having a SD makes your life MUCH easier. When my legs are going numb or when the room is spinning, having him there partnering with me, it helps. He helps me stand by bracing and standing very still so I can stand and steady myself. He helps by leaning against me when the vertigo hits and the room spins so that I can steady myself and he'll help navigate me to a chair so I can sit down. Sometimes he is just there with me through the vertigo so that I dont panic. Sometimes he helps me move forward when my limbs feel leadened and frozen. -- Sometimes he makes my life so much easier and independent.
Other times, we have bad days. Sometimes having an SD is hard. Its hard work. Its frustrating. Its physically and emotionally exhausting.
Just under a year ago Ranger was coming along great. He loved being with me. He loved working with me. He was always focused on me. We were a team.
After moving back in with my parents, that mutual feeling continued. We had each other and Jazzy. We were a pack-o-3. Life was good. With Jazzy passing and us spending more time out of our room and with the parents and their dog, our little pack-o-2 meshed into the family and we found ourselves folded into the family pack. He was playing with my parents' 5-year-old Bichon. He was getting less focused. He was walking around more freely wandering further and further away from me to explore the rest of the house. Little by little the changes happened. So slowly, in fact, that I didnt really recognize them for what they were and course correct when I should have.
Then, it happened. He started displaying signs of having bonded with my dad. He wanted to be with my dad. He loves my dad (and the feeling is QUITE mutual). Of course, this weakened and fractured the bond that I'd spent his whole 18 months building. He *wanted* to be with my dad. -- My wonderful dog who I had been able to let lay on the wood landing outside my bedroom door (with the door open) because it was cooler there with no doubt he'd stay right there - got up and wandered not only away from my door, but through the house and downstairs! The final straw was us coming in one night and me trying to give him a command only to have each of my parents give one simultaneously - and have him listen and go to my dad.
I was absolutely devistated.
Of course, lest anyone think my parents were doing something wrong on purpose, they weren't. They wanted to make him feel at home and part of the family. They wanted him to feel safe and loved. They really were doing what they could to make us happy. It was me. I fell down. I relaxed the rules about running and playing in the house and about running up to people to greet them whenever he/they wanted. Of course, I wanted him to be well socialized. I wanted him to be comfortable too. I wanted to make the upheavals tha we'd had less stressful and traumatic. I was wrong.
So, this week I was staring at a dog who I felt had zero bond left with me. We were both fractured and broken. Something had to give. I was ready to "wash him out" (retire him from SD work) because I couldn't see how this could be fixed. I refused to make him work if he was unhappy doing it. I want us to be a team - one that *wants* to work together. We weren't and I was devistated, frustrated, depressed, and miserable.
Enter trainer friends 1 and 2. They let me have my breakdown. They let me fall apart and have the afternoon/evening to cry and convince myself that he'd need to be rehomed (which hurt the worst!) because he'd be miserable (and he would) if he couldnt go with me when I left, etc. -- They let me have my moment. During the moment, though, Ranger kept nudging me and even laid on my legs and never moved. It was like he knew I was giving up on us and he was trying to tell me not to. -- The next morning I was still convinced. Then TF-1 and I talked. We talked and talked and talked. She was convinced this was not hopeless. Give it 9 months of an intensive training/bonding program. He's old enough now that he could do it - and we're not starting from scratch on the training - so 9 months is reasonable. Give it 9 months and he'd be 2-1/2. Give it 9 months and then reassess. See if things feel better, more solid. Nine months of no one else giving him any kind of attention or even eye contact. Completely ignoring him - everyone - including my family.
Oh yeah, THAT is the hardest part. They're all trying so hard (and so far doing well) to not love on him - not make eye contact - act like he isnt even there.
Ranger is trying too. We had to go out yesterday and make several stops. He was better than he has been in a long time. He was more focused (not great by any means, but I'm taking progress for what it is - progress!) - and he was more able and willing to move *with* me. We're not a team - but that team didnt break down over night and its not going to be rebuilt in a day.
For now, we're just pushing forward.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Other times, we have bad days. Sometimes having an SD is hard. Its hard work. Its frustrating. Its physically and emotionally exhausting.
Just under a year ago Ranger was coming along great. He loved being with me. He loved working with me. He was always focused on me. We were a team.
After moving back in with my parents, that mutual feeling continued. We had each other and Jazzy. We were a pack-o-3. Life was good. With Jazzy passing and us spending more time out of our room and with the parents and their dog, our little pack-o-2 meshed into the family and we found ourselves folded into the family pack. He was playing with my parents' 5-year-old Bichon. He was getting less focused. He was walking around more freely wandering further and further away from me to explore the rest of the house. Little by little the changes happened. So slowly, in fact, that I didnt really recognize them for what they were and course correct when I should have.
Then, it happened. He started displaying signs of having bonded with my dad. He wanted to be with my dad. He loves my dad (and the feeling is QUITE mutual). Of course, this weakened and fractured the bond that I'd spent his whole 18 months building. He *wanted* to be with my dad. -- My wonderful dog who I had been able to let lay on the wood landing outside my bedroom door (with the door open) because it was cooler there with no doubt he'd stay right there - got up and wandered not only away from my door, but through the house and downstairs! The final straw was us coming in one night and me trying to give him a command only to have each of my parents give one simultaneously - and have him listen and go to my dad.
I was absolutely devistated.
Of course, lest anyone think my parents were doing something wrong on purpose, they weren't. They wanted to make him feel at home and part of the family. They wanted him to feel safe and loved. They really were doing what they could to make us happy. It was me. I fell down. I relaxed the rules about running and playing in the house and about running up to people to greet them whenever he/they wanted. Of course, I wanted him to be well socialized. I wanted him to be comfortable too. I wanted to make the upheavals tha we'd had less stressful and traumatic. I was wrong.
So, this week I was staring at a dog who I felt had zero bond left with me. We were both fractured and broken. Something had to give. I was ready to "wash him out" (retire him from SD work) because I couldn't see how this could be fixed. I refused to make him work if he was unhappy doing it. I want us to be a team - one that *wants* to work together. We weren't and I was devistated, frustrated, depressed, and miserable.
Enter trainer friends 1 and 2. They let me have my breakdown. They let me fall apart and have the afternoon/evening to cry and convince myself that he'd need to be rehomed (which hurt the worst!) because he'd be miserable (and he would) if he couldnt go with me when I left, etc. -- They let me have my moment. During the moment, though, Ranger kept nudging me and even laid on my legs and never moved. It was like he knew I was giving up on us and he was trying to tell me not to. -- The next morning I was still convinced. Then TF-1 and I talked. We talked and talked and talked. She was convinced this was not hopeless. Give it 9 months of an intensive training/bonding program. He's old enough now that he could do it - and we're not starting from scratch on the training - so 9 months is reasonable. Give it 9 months and he'd be 2-1/2. Give it 9 months and then reassess. See if things feel better, more solid. Nine months of no one else giving him any kind of attention or even eye contact. Completely ignoring him - everyone - including my family.
Oh yeah, THAT is the hardest part. They're all trying so hard (and so far doing well) to not love on him - not make eye contact - act like he isnt even there.
Ranger is trying too. We had to go out yesterday and make several stops. He was better than he has been in a long time. He was more focused (not great by any means, but I'm taking progress for what it is - progress!) - and he was more able and willing to move *with* me. We're not a team - but that team didnt break down over night and its not going to be rebuilt in a day.
For now, we're just pushing forward.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Training Days - Clicker Training - Phase 1
I'll admit, I've been an on and off fan of clicker training for years, but I just couldn't break my old habits and come over to the 'clicker side.' After reading Teamwork I and Teamwork II and going through the Leerburg site and watching the streaming videos on training with markers (clickers), well I decided if we were starting over anyway, why NOT give this a shot. What I was doing was clearly not getting the desired results - what harm could it do? (Shameless plug: Barbara Handelman works a lot with clicker training assistance/service dogs - she has a great website with videos and great articles and a yahoo group to boot! I highly recommend checking her out.)
Last week we worked on the 'click/treat' portion. You associate the clicker with a reward (treat) - so the dog starts to make the two synonymous. This way, when you click it begins to think 'yes, that's what she wanted!'
This week, I'm working on 'attention.' Every time he freely offers up looking at me (giving me his attention), I'm clicking and then treating. Its easy in the house where there are no distractions. He looks, I click, I treat - I've got his undivided attention. I keep a treat pouch on my body or at my side and a clicker on my wrist so even when we're in the house - he looks, I click, he gets a treat. Again, easy to do in the house.
The challenge comes when we work outside each morning. We spend about 20 minutes out there doing our clicker training (which also drives my dad's dog crazy - but what can I do about that!?) - during that time there's almost certain to be at least 1 or 2 cars drive by, a kid on a bike, a mailman... combiations there of. Heck even a tweet of a bird can have him snapping his head around. So I sit there, patiently waiting - saying nothing - and as soon as he looks at me - I click and treat.
Clicker training is *not* about immediate gratification; its about consistency. There are no short cuts you can take to get your desired behaviors. The dog has to think and figure it out. Sometimes that means going through every 'trick' they have in their book (sit, down, stand, bow, ... ) until they figure out what it is you want. They know they have it right when they hear the *click*.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Last week we worked on the 'click/treat' portion. You associate the clicker with a reward (treat) - so the dog starts to make the two synonymous. This way, when you click it begins to think 'yes, that's what she wanted!'
This week, I'm working on 'attention.' Every time he freely offers up looking at me (giving me his attention), I'm clicking and then treating. Its easy in the house where there are no distractions. He looks, I click, I treat - I've got his undivided attention. I keep a treat pouch on my body or at my side and a clicker on my wrist so even when we're in the house - he looks, I click, he gets a treat. Again, easy to do in the house.
The challenge comes when we work outside each morning. We spend about 20 minutes out there doing our clicker training (which also drives my dad's dog crazy - but what can I do about that!?) - during that time there's almost certain to be at least 1 or 2 cars drive by, a kid on a bike, a mailman... combiations there of. Heck even a tweet of a bird can have him snapping his head around. So I sit there, patiently waiting - saying nothing - and as soon as he looks at me - I click and treat.
Clicker training is *not* about immediate gratification; its about consistency. There are no short cuts you can take to get your desired behaviors. The dog has to think and figure it out. Sometimes that means going through every 'trick' they have in their book (sit, down, stand, bow, ... ) until they figure out what it is you want. They know they have it right when they hear the *click*.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Thursday, June 3, 2010
There should've been a warning!
"Warning - Your dog may not want to eat its food anywhere but in the Wobbler!"
Yes.... He's a Wobbler addict. Couldn't eat the food in his FULL bowl... Noooooo.... Take out the Wobbler full of the *SAME* kibble... Yeah, he'll eat that!
Seen in the picture above, Ranger with his most "prized" Kong posessions - His Wobbler, Camo Wubba, and the K9-Blue Original Kong. *shakes head*
Funny story behind that. Lest you think your dog toys have to cost a fortune for your canine to be thrilled to pieces - That Milkbone squeaky-floopy dog cost me a whopping $2 at Walgreen's!
We were in there around Christmas time two years ago - just after I got him. Ranger had been going after Jasmine's pink piggy like a posessed demonic dog. She, of course, at 8 was NOT amused. In fact, she'd thought she'd taken enough, and she had. So, my sweet little Jasmine began to put this new 'thinks he's hot stuff' puppy in his place by rolling him and pinning him every time he came within feet of her pig. *I* decided *I* had had enough of this. Normally I'm more than happy to let dogs 'work out the pack' themselves - but we were bordering on dangerous and disturbed and my nerves were SHOT.
So, we go into Walgreen's to pick up a prescription and low and behold, they have a Milkbone dog toy display. And my 14-week-old little snit decides to find one he likes which was constructed, remarkably, like the 7-year-old pink piggy. It was stuffed, floppy, and, most importantly it squeaked. (Note to those who DON'T know me - I despise most dog toys that squeak. I have a serious aversion to them!) -- So, for $2 I figured if he needed his very own 'floopy squeaky' thing to keep the peace in my home - so be it.
Of course, it didn't. He still wanted Jasmine's pig. The pig that she lovingly carried around with her always. (Actually, it was "the pink pig III" - the first two met.. untimely and unsightly demises. This one, though, she carried and snuggled and groomed like a baby! The pig now keeps guard over Jazzy's ashes in a drawer in my dresser. I thought it only right for now.)
So, the wheel of morality says thus: 1. You never know what your dog is going to latch on to. It could be a $2 'but I have to have this' toy - or a $20 Kong. and 2. Much like children, your dog will most likely want what it sees the other dog playing with. Its the nature of the beast. You can't fight it. My advice? As my friend Lyss would say - Take a Xanax, have a raspberry Smirnoff, and enjoy the ride. At least your home will SEEM more peaceful! -- And, like most siblings, start to worry if you hear a scream or start to see blood.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Responsible Ownership: Picking up Puppy and Making a Happy Homecoming!
So you've read about breeds, you've talked to trainers, breeders, and your vet. You found the breed. You found a good, solid, reputable breeder. Or, maybe you went to your local shelter and found the perfect dog and you just can't wait to get them home. --- Following a few simple things will help insure your new dog's homecoming is a happy and successful transition into your family.
1. Buy a crate! I can not stress this enough. Crate training is so very essential. Dogs are 'den' animals. In the wild, a pack will live together in a den. Your dog's crate will become its 'den.' Its not cruel. Its not punishing. Its *natural*. Trust me, your dog will thank you!
There are several kinds of crates on the market. Do *NOT* (read this in bold with blinky lights) get a collapsible, portable, soft-side crate with mesh doors/windows as your dog's 'first crate.' They sound like a GREAT idea. Trust me... don't do it. If you're getting a puppy, they're going to be obsessed with climbing, digging, scratching, chewing. Plus, they're likely to have an accident or two while they're housebreaking. Soft-side crates don't hold up to 'puppy.' Likewise, if you're getting an older, shelter dog, you really have no idea how they'll act when they get home and settle in. They could very well have had previous experiences where being in a crate is difficult for them. In time and with lots of patience and love, they'll adjust, but having them in a soft-sided collapsible crate that they can gnaw and claw their way out of only teaches them one thing - If I'm trapped in a crate and I continue to persevere, I can get out. BAD IDEA!
Instead, if you *must* have a collapsible crate, go for something like the Midwest Lifestages double-door metal crate. Again, I'm more a fan of the traditional Petmate variety of crate; hard-sided, plastic crates which create a more 'den-like' atmosphere for your dog. However, practically speaking, the Midwest Lifestages is great for a puppy because of the removable bottom tray (easy to clean!) and the adjustable/removable divider. This is really great if you have a large-breed puppy just coming home from the breeders. You can adjust the length of the crate so the puppy doesn't have too much room to roam. (Puppies who are placed in crates which are too big for them often develop the bad habit of going to a far corner to do its "business" instead of letting you know it needs to go out!) If you do decide to go with a wire crate, get a large sheet, blanket, comforter (whatever the weather allows for) and drape it over the crate to make it more den-like and cozy!
Just like you have a bedroom, your dog has its den... err... crate. :) -- When you go to bed, so does he. *IN his crate!* When you can't have your dog immediately at your side, for whatever reason. Crate. If you're leaving the house and the dog will be home alone. Wait for it.... Yup... CRATE.
It may seem like I'm telling you to crate your dog 24/7. I'm not. But, I am telling you to use it wisely. Dogs that are crated when left alone are safer, less likely to become destructive, and honestly are just happier dogs. It makes a huge difference! You, in turn, do not have to spend your evening out worrying if the container of chocolate got left on the counter or if the couch cushions are going to need to be re-covered! I know of more dogs who have been rushed to Vet ERs because their owners refused to learn to use a crate and the dog made a poor choice while not being watched. Its sad and pointless and COMPLETELY avoidable. At 9, 10, and 11 years old, my girls STILL were crated when I left the house or could not have them within my immediate vicinity in the house. I never ever wanted to be the dog owner standing in the vet's office saying 'I wish I would have just...' I knew better Now, so do you.
Once you are sure your dog is housebroken and is sleeping completely through the night and can be trusted in a secured, danger-free environment, if you still feel like you WANT to let them sleep out on a dog bed - that's your choice. But, having done this for this many years, I can tell you *my* dogs have always ended UP in their crates at night because they like the routine and feel safer there. It will become a routine for you and your canine companion. Just like putting a child to bed - you'll have a 'bedtime' routine at night and before you know it, your dog just might be tapping its toe telling you its time for bed!
2. Use the "tether method." - Whether you're starting with a brand-new puppy or a rescue, until you know for sure your dog is housebroken and has acclimated to your home, take a short leash and tether the dog to you. This does several things:
--- It begins a strong bonding process. As you go through your day/evening with your dog tethered to you, talk to it. I can promise you it will not care if you're talking about Cheryl's latest gossip or the casserole you're making... hearing and getting used to the sound of your voice is soothing. Your new dog will soon learn the inflections and syncopation of your voice and tune into them.
--- If the dog seems to be distracted or fidgety, it might need to go out, and you're right there to notice the behaviors. The more your dog is attached to you, the more YOU will tune into its body language and alerts. Whether its that someone unfamiliar is in its territory or that it just needs a quick potty break, you'll start picking up on the cues.
--- You know your dog is not getting into dangerous trouble! Puppies, like babies, explore their surroundings by mouthing, chewing and eating everything. Yes, this could mean your brand new $1200 Jimmy Choos or it could mean the electrical cord to the dryer. Likewise, rescue and shelter dogs can often feel overwhelmed and frightened in another new situation and may run for the smallest corner they can find - even if its behind the refrigerator! If your dog is tethered to you in the beginning, they get the lay of the land by walking around the house *with* you, so they can still learn about their surroundings, but they cant get into anything you don't know about!
--- Most importantly, it establishes a pack order. In the wild, dog packs are much like wolf packs. There is an alpha dog. The alpha controls *everything* in the packs existence. Where the others sleep; when they eat; WHAT they eat; and even their movements. A strong alpha leader does not just willy nilly expose their pack to a new situation or location. They scout first and then begin to hand down decrees through body movements, vocalizations, and, if necessary, physicality. By tethering your dog to you, you're relaying the signal that the dog *MUST* pay attention to you. It is an EXCELLENT groundlaying for leash work and heeling later on. For now, though, it just means, "I'm in charge. You're in *my* pack. You're safe." Yes, dogs, like children, find order and structure very comforting!
3. Have a place for your new dog to lay that is *not* on your couch or bed. Alpha dogs sit and sleep on the highest places in the pack. Until you know what kind of demeanor your dog has - whether or not it will challenge your alpha status - better to be safe and maintain order and sanity. Give them a dog bed and let them use it.
4. Pick durable toys! I can not stress this enough, especially if you have a puppy. Get toys that your puppy can chew on, heavily. Puppy teething process causes more headaches and heartbreaks than almost anything else (except housebreaking!) -- Make sure you've always got something on hand to 'trade' them - take away the inappropriate item they're chewing on and replace it in their mouths with something that's acceptable. Kong makes *GREAT* chew toys. Filling them with healthy treats is a way to not only keep your dog chewing on the RIGHT thing, but get their minds to engage. A "thinking" dog is a dog who can learn better later when you start to work on basic obedience.
5. Speaking of "basic obedience" - find an obedience class that is appropriate for your dog. If you have a puppy, find a "Puppy Kindergarten" class. If you've gotten an older dog, go for a home companion class that offers the option to take the AKC's Canine Good Citizenship test. This is a great opportunity not only for your dog to learn *necessary* skills, but for you to bond with your dog, get them well socialized and adjusted, *AND* have some great quality time with your canine companion! You'll meet lots of new people and I promise will learn how to crack even the toughest behaviors.
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting! Its also nerve wracking and sometimes exhausting. Following the simple things I outlined above will make that process more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Next time: Housebreaking 101
1. Buy a crate! I can not stress this enough. Crate training is so very essential. Dogs are 'den' animals. In the wild, a pack will live together in a den. Your dog's crate will become its 'den.' Its not cruel. Its not punishing. Its *natural*. Trust me, your dog will thank you!
There are several kinds of crates on the market. Do *NOT* (read this in bold with blinky lights) get a collapsible, portable, soft-side crate with mesh doors/windows as your dog's 'first crate.' They sound like a GREAT idea. Trust me... don't do it. If you're getting a puppy, they're going to be obsessed with climbing, digging, scratching, chewing. Plus, they're likely to have an accident or two while they're housebreaking. Soft-side crates don't hold up to 'puppy.' Likewise, if you're getting an older, shelter dog, you really have no idea how they'll act when they get home and settle in. They could very well have had previous experiences where being in a crate is difficult for them. In time and with lots of patience and love, they'll adjust, but having them in a soft-sided collapsible crate that they can gnaw and claw their way out of only teaches them one thing - If I'm trapped in a crate and I continue to persevere, I can get out. BAD IDEA!
Instead, if you *must* have a collapsible crate, go for something like the Midwest Lifestages double-door metal crate. Again, I'm more a fan of the traditional Petmate variety of crate; hard-sided, plastic crates which create a more 'den-like' atmosphere for your dog. However, practically speaking, the Midwest Lifestages is great for a puppy because of the removable bottom tray (easy to clean!) and the adjustable/removable divider. This is really great if you have a large-breed puppy just coming home from the breeders. You can adjust the length of the crate so the puppy doesn't have too much room to roam. (Puppies who are placed in crates which are too big for them often develop the bad habit of going to a far corner to do its "business" instead of letting you know it needs to go out!) If you do decide to go with a wire crate, get a large sheet, blanket, comforter (whatever the weather allows for) and drape it over the crate to make it more den-like and cozy!
Just like you have a bedroom, your dog has its den... err... crate. :) -- When you go to bed, so does he. *IN his crate!* When you can't have your dog immediately at your side, for whatever reason. Crate. If you're leaving the house and the dog will be home alone. Wait for it.... Yup... CRATE.
It may seem like I'm telling you to crate your dog 24/7. I'm not. But, I am telling you to use it wisely. Dogs that are crated when left alone are safer, less likely to become destructive, and honestly are just happier dogs. It makes a huge difference! You, in turn, do not have to spend your evening out worrying if the container of chocolate got left on the counter or if the couch cushions are going to need to be re-covered! I know of more dogs who have been rushed to Vet ERs because their owners refused to learn to use a crate and the dog made a poor choice while not being watched. Its sad and pointless and COMPLETELY avoidable. At 9, 10, and 11 years old, my girls STILL were crated when I left the house or could not have them within my immediate vicinity in the house. I never ever wanted to be the dog owner standing in the vet's office saying 'I wish I would have just...' I knew better Now, so do you.
Once you are sure your dog is housebroken and is sleeping completely through the night and can be trusted in a secured, danger-free environment, if you still feel like you WANT to let them sleep out on a dog bed - that's your choice. But, having done this for this many years, I can tell you *my* dogs have always ended UP in their crates at night because they like the routine and feel safer there. It will become a routine for you and your canine companion. Just like putting a child to bed - you'll have a 'bedtime' routine at night and before you know it, your dog just might be tapping its toe telling you its time for bed!
2. Use the "tether method." - Whether you're starting with a brand-new puppy or a rescue, until you know for sure your dog is housebroken and has acclimated to your home, take a short leash and tether the dog to you. This does several things:
--- It begins a strong bonding process. As you go through your day/evening with your dog tethered to you, talk to it. I can promise you it will not care if you're talking about Cheryl's latest gossip or the casserole you're making... hearing and getting used to the sound of your voice is soothing. Your new dog will soon learn the inflections and syncopation of your voice and tune into them.
--- If the dog seems to be distracted or fidgety, it might need to go out, and you're right there to notice the behaviors. The more your dog is attached to you, the more YOU will tune into its body language and alerts. Whether its that someone unfamiliar is in its territory or that it just needs a quick potty break, you'll start picking up on the cues.
--- You know your dog is not getting into dangerous trouble! Puppies, like babies, explore their surroundings by mouthing, chewing and eating everything. Yes, this could mean your brand new $1200 Jimmy Choos or it could mean the electrical cord to the dryer. Likewise, rescue and shelter dogs can often feel overwhelmed and frightened in another new situation and may run for the smallest corner they can find - even if its behind the refrigerator! If your dog is tethered to you in the beginning, they get the lay of the land by walking around the house *with* you, so they can still learn about their surroundings, but they cant get into anything you don't know about!
--- Most importantly, it establishes a pack order. In the wild, dog packs are much like wolf packs. There is an alpha dog. The alpha controls *everything* in the packs existence. Where the others sleep; when they eat; WHAT they eat; and even their movements. A strong alpha leader does not just willy nilly expose their pack to a new situation or location. They scout first and then begin to hand down decrees through body movements, vocalizations, and, if necessary, physicality. By tethering your dog to you, you're relaying the signal that the dog *MUST* pay attention to you. It is an EXCELLENT groundlaying for leash work and heeling later on. For now, though, it just means, "I'm in charge. You're in *my* pack. You're safe." Yes, dogs, like children, find order and structure very comforting!
3. Have a place for your new dog to lay that is *not* on your couch or bed. Alpha dogs sit and sleep on the highest places in the pack. Until you know what kind of demeanor your dog has - whether or not it will challenge your alpha status - better to be safe and maintain order and sanity. Give them a dog bed and let them use it.
4. Pick durable toys! I can not stress this enough, especially if you have a puppy. Get toys that your puppy can chew on, heavily. Puppy teething process causes more headaches and heartbreaks than almost anything else (except housebreaking!) -- Make sure you've always got something on hand to 'trade' them - take away the inappropriate item they're chewing on and replace it in their mouths with something that's acceptable. Kong makes *GREAT* chew toys. Filling them with healthy treats is a way to not only keep your dog chewing on the RIGHT thing, but get their minds to engage. A "thinking" dog is a dog who can learn better later when you start to work on basic obedience.
5. Speaking of "basic obedience" - find an obedience class that is appropriate for your dog. If you have a puppy, find a "Puppy Kindergarten" class. If you've gotten an older dog, go for a home companion class that offers the option to take the AKC's Canine Good Citizenship test. This is a great opportunity not only for your dog to learn *necessary* skills, but for you to bond with your dog, get them well socialized and adjusted, *AND* have some great quality time with your canine companion! You'll meet lots of new people and I promise will learn how to crack even the toughest behaviors.
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting! Its also nerve wracking and sometimes exhausting. Following the simple things I outlined above will make that process more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Next time: Housebreaking 101
Product Review: Everlasting Treat Ball (Large)
1. Ranger can be an aggressive (read: *destructive*) chewer when it comes to his things.
2. I *hate* to spend money on something without at least a fair amount of certainty that it will last us.
So, when I saw the Everlasting Treat Ball, I figured there was *no way* I could get it and have it last more than a day - tops. I mean, Ranger tore through the Tug-a-Jug and that was supposed to be airplane-grade, bullet-resistant plastic! Thus far the only Kong (other than his Camo Wubba and Purple Snugga Wubba!) that he hasn't managed to mangle and destroy is our favorite Blue Kong - which is intended for K9 units and schutzhund dogs. Yup... that's my baby!
Of course, not being able to FEEL one made it hard as well. The packaging makes it look like its a hard plastic blue ball. Au contraire! Its actually a very flexible rubber. I'm still looking for the right material to liken it to - but its... not "plastic" that's for sure! And yet, still, I hemmed and hawed, stopping every time I was in a store that carried it. Do I; don't I?
Then, I saw it on the streaming video at leerburg.com Ed Frawley. My idol among dog trainers. HE recommended it? I watched the demonstration. I saw the 4-year-old one left out in the yard to be played with by German Shepherds, Malinois... working dogs... hard-as-nails working dogs.... TOUGH dogs. And it withstood THAT?
Yup, you guessed it - We had to see how it would do against "the Ranger Test!"
We got the Everlasting Treat Ball home and I opened the package, filling the inside with his kibble, leaving only ONE treat dome in it (saving the second one as a 'spare' for another time!). That's one of the nice things, it DOES come with an 'extra,' though to tell the truth, both sides of the "ball" are designed to take one dome, so truthfully you probably could (should) insert one, put your kibble or treats in the center and the insert the other dome in the other end.
Ranger, however, did not mind in the least. As soon as I put it on top of the food containers, he had to go check it out - and then when I said 'take it,' it was all he could do not to pounce on it! He was *definitely* motivated!
He figures out that the 'dome' is a treat and starts to go to town! You can see the large is really made for "large breed" dogs! His mouth DID fit around the dome though and probably I would have gotten him an 'extra large' if they'd had one because as you'll see in the next picture, he was able to *easily* pop the dome treat out!
And there you go. Dome treat out. Dog kibble everywhere. He was still enjoying licking/chewing on the dome! --- All this mayhem in UNDER 15 minutes. (I even put the dome back IN there and it took him only seconds to pop it out and start gnawing on it.
I had hoped, as Mr. Frawley says in the video, that it would "keep him busy for hours." It did not. It was 35 minutes start to finish - including the kibble that he got on the floor! But, the ball is still intact. I have no concerns about him chewing on it because of the material it is made out of, and most importantly - he enjoyed it.
SO, while it claims to be the "everlasting" treat ball, I think what they mean to say is "everlasting ball that holds treats!" For an industrious chewer, it seems to be a good fit. Replacement treat domes can be purchased on Amazon for anywhere from $3 to $8 per 2 pack in a variety of flavors (everything from chicken to BBQ, liver to peanut butter, hypoallergenic (wheat, corn, and soy free!) to vanilla-mint!) - Will it keep your dog happy for hours? I don't know. Ranger's a rather unique and special dog. He tends to figure out the fastest way to do something and he's off running, but your mileage may vary on that one.
All in all, we give it 4/5 paws for entertainment and (so far) for standing up to the 'Ranger Test.'
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Training Days - "Charging the Marker" and Focus
Ranger and I took advantage of my feeling slightly human this morning and we went outside and trained for a bit.
When we walked out, there was someone standing at my dad's car talking to dad. Ok. so I waited until he went back to his car and then Ranger and I did some offlead attention and heeling. I made him 'think.' Instead of giving him an automatic correction, I just told him 'nope' and waited for him to try again (and again and again) until he got a 'Yes!' and lots of praise - even some treats!! We worked on some recalls too. I was trying to get him excited and motivated for training. An excited-to-work dog is a much better dog to train with. They're going to be excited and engaged.
We worked on "charging the marker" - its the first step in clicker training. Yes, I'm going WAY back!! I said "Yes" and clicked (so there's a verbal marker and the clicker for him to associate) and gave him a treat. You're not really looking for any behavior at this stage - just click-treat, click-treat... or in my case click/say-treat, click/say-treat. -- Why did I use both a verbal and a click? Because I wont *always* have the clicker on me, I want to be able to use a verbal marker as well.
Since this is a 'refresher' for Ranger - I threw him a twist. I would say his name and each time he looked at me, I'd yes/click and give him a treat. He's still SUPER distracted. We've got to get that under control. I dont need 100% of his attnetion 100% of the time - but I need more than what I've got now. We're going to keep working.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
When we walked out, there was someone standing at my dad's car talking to dad. Ok. so I waited until he went back to his car and then Ranger and I did some offlead attention and heeling. I made him 'think.' Instead of giving him an automatic correction, I just told him 'nope' and waited for him to try again (and again and again) until he got a 'Yes!' and lots of praise - even some treats!! We worked on some recalls too. I was trying to get him excited and motivated for training. An excited-to-work dog is a much better dog to train with. They're going to be excited and engaged.
We worked on "charging the marker" - its the first step in clicker training. Yes, I'm going WAY back!! I said "Yes" and clicked (so there's a verbal marker and the clicker for him to associate) and gave him a treat. You're not really looking for any behavior at this stage - just click-treat, click-treat... or in my case click/say-treat, click/say-treat. -- Why did I use both a verbal and a click? Because I wont *always* have the clicker on me, I want to be able to use a verbal marker as well.
Since this is a 'refresher' for Ranger - I threw him a twist. I would say his name and each time he looked at me, I'd yes/click and give him a treat. He's still SUPER distracted. We've got to get that under control. I dont need 100% of his attnetion 100% of the time - but I need more than what I've got now. We're going to keep working.
Jessica and Ranger
Lunar K9s Service Dogs Team #2
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Growing Pains and Going Insane...
Every dog has to 'grow up' at some point. There comes a day where you decide, "maybe I'll try this and see what happens." Some days, its a horrible idea. You realize you forgot the mantra "Slow is Fast" and you've got to back up a few steps. Some days, however, like today, you realize your little darling is ready for that step. Much like a child's first mastery of a new concept/boundary/etc, these moments are your 'markers.'
Ranger's marker this week came in the form of a transition. Off came the prong collar and on went the gentle leader.
I will not stand here and say that every way - or even *MY* way - will work for every dog. Each dog is different. Each dog needs different things. Ranger *needed* his prong. That's not to say that he might not need it again in the future. Its also not to say that just because the gentle leader works for him now, that it will still work for him in 6 months.
Anyone who tells you dog training is an exact science, that they have all the answers, they're full of crap.
So, while we were going back to square 1 and trying to teach him to watch me and pay attention and stay focused on me, we tried out the gentle leader to see how he would respond and if it would make any difference. I can tell you unequivocably, it did.
Armed with a gentle leader and the multi-configuration leash around my waist, we persevered. I re-watched some of the Leerburg DVDs and onine streaming training videos. What I really *wanted* to do was to step back, regroup his focus work *AND* charge a marker (or clicker). But I refrained remembering once again that 'slow is fast!'
There are times when he's still mking 'puppy' mistakes. Truthfully, he *IS* still a puppy! - But, he's also paying better attention to me - he's moving with me as a unit most of the time - and when he doesn't, I'm giving him an 'uh uh' (which tells him, nope, that's not right... try again!) --- I'm making him think and problem solve. I'm making him figure out what to do to get my praise, which is part of the marker theory too!
Of course, he's not thrilled with being tethered all the time. He's not so thrilled with the gentle leader... but he's starting to adjust. He's not trying to paw it off any more. He's walking up/down the stairs slowly and *with* me.
My dad has been working hard at ignoring Ranger - or at least asking if he can pet him before he does it - which I very much appreciate. Its not that I dont want them to be 'buds' but Ranger needs to listen to ME first and foremost. He wasn't.
All in all today I could see our first rays of 'hope.' with him. Let's all pray that the light in the tunnel continues on tomorrow as well!
Ranger's marker this week came in the form of a transition. Off came the prong collar and on went the gentle leader.
I will not stand here and say that every way - or even *MY* way - will work for every dog. Each dog is different. Each dog needs different things. Ranger *needed* his prong. That's not to say that he might not need it again in the future. Its also not to say that just because the gentle leader works for him now, that it will still work for him in 6 months.
Anyone who tells you dog training is an exact science, that they have all the answers, they're full of crap.
So, while we were going back to square 1 and trying to teach him to watch me and pay attention and stay focused on me, we tried out the gentle leader to see how he would respond and if it would make any difference. I can tell you unequivocably, it did.
Armed with a gentle leader and the multi-configuration leash around my waist, we persevered. I re-watched some of the Leerburg DVDs and onine streaming training videos. What I really *wanted* to do was to step back, regroup his focus work *AND* charge a marker (or clicker). But I refrained remembering once again that 'slow is fast!'
There are times when he's still mking 'puppy' mistakes. Truthfully, he *IS* still a puppy! - But, he's also paying better attention to me - he's moving with me as a unit most of the time - and when he doesn't, I'm giving him an 'uh uh' (which tells him, nope, that's not right... try again!) --- I'm making him think and problem solve. I'm making him figure out what to do to get my praise, which is part of the marker theory too!
Of course, he's not thrilled with being tethered all the time. He's not so thrilled with the gentle leader... but he's starting to adjust. He's not trying to paw it off any more. He's walking up/down the stairs slowly and *with* me.
My dad has been working hard at ignoring Ranger - or at least asking if he can pet him before he does it - which I very much appreciate. Its not that I dont want them to be 'buds' but Ranger needs to listen to ME first and foremost. He wasn't.
All in all today I could see our first rays of 'hope.' with him. Let's all pray that the light in the tunnel continues on tomorrow as well!
Friday, May 28, 2010
When good dogs go down the wrong path...
Now, lest anyone think Ranger is an angel... Oh, he's not. He's a good dog - dont get me wrong. 95% of the time he's a really good dog; 3% of the time he's got some work to do - and that last 2%? Oh, watch out, cause he has a mind and will of his own!
Enter... last Saturday.
Last Saturday we got a call to go help with the last day of an Eagle Scout project. Now, I would've done it anyway because we like to support the scouts - but this was special because its one of Baby Brother's best friends, and I love him to death, so of course I'm going to go across the street to help. Of course, being 1 day out of the hospital, Ranger is going with me.
Of course, THIS is one of those 2% days!
Ranger is off-lead but I have a hold of his collar and have his leash attached to me because I'm not sure WHO is at the scout cabin - but if its all people he's really comfortable with well then, he's fine and I dont have to worry. Even have his little mat and his antler. Sounds perfect, right?
The scout cabin is across the street, behind the library. As we're walking, he sees a pre-teeny-bopper at the library and, amazingly, makes no motion towards her. I'm really glad because I have a hold of his collar and that would've been *bad*. We get to the cabin - we walk inside - its all people he knows really well - I let go of the collar - he takes off out the door.
Now, my *GOOD* Ranger knows not to go out doors without me. He knows *I* go out first. My *GOOD* Ranger knows that he is supposed to stay right next to me... demon Ranger is a WHOLE other entity.
Ok so I try to page-recall him on his ecollar (with a vibrate) while I'm walking to the door. My GOOD Ranger would come haulin' butt back. THIS Ranger, ignores me. I get to the door, pull out the 'Ranger Come.' and wait as he thinks about it. - This earns him a quick nick shock on his ecollar. Whe momma says 'come' - you dont stop and THINK about it. That doesnt work for me. So, yeah he comes back. Great. He gets TO the door - and turns around and takes off back down the block - again - me standing there muttering about him and glue factories... Again, a page to the eCollar as I'm giving him a recall - because this time, I'm past "not playing around." And still, he thinks about it. Another nick and he's coming back to me. Repeat once more and I'm out of patients and too tired and weak to care. FOURTH time I JUST about get my hand on his collar and he walks in the door way 2 steps turns around and waltzes RIGHT PAST ME and out the door. Luckily, for me I was ready this time and as he stepped through the doorway, he got a 10-second continuous zap. Now, its not at ALL common for me to use the 'cont' function on our ecollars. I almost never do. Why did I this time? Because running out the door is dangerous - for him and for me. Running down the block, equally as dangerous. It is unacceptable. Not coming back on a recall, again, dangerous and unacceptable.
So back he comes, of course I tell him he's a good boy for coming back - through gritted teeth - but that leash is snapped on *so* fast even the others in the room were shocked!
For 2 days Ranger sat in the hospital room with me and was pretty good, all things considered. By the end of day one he'd staked his claim on the room and started to alert to the door opening and people coming and going. I wasnt thrilled, but its his job - he was doing what he's supposed to do - alert and shut up. I can live with that. I was more upset by it and about the possibility of bothering the other patients/nurses/etc. But, really, he didnt have to WORK for anything. Two days with no work and no real exercise... I should've known better and realized he was going to be pushing his limits, but I didnt think about it honestly.
SO, he's on puppy probation. He's reminded through my actions that he's NOT the pack leader, all things come from me, and he MUST pay attention and listen to me. First order of business, he's been kicked off the bed and relegated back to the floor. Why? Because in dog world, being on the bed is being equivolent or higher than I am in the pack order - Nuh uh. He has to stay on the floor. He's tethered to me. Why? Because he needs to be reminded to *watch* me, *stay* with me - he goes where *I* go and *I* go first. He's sleeping in his crate - because he needs to re-earn the privilege of sleeping out of the crate. He can slowly earn these things back - he wont be on probation for ever. But right now, he's got to learn he's not in charge and he doesnt call the shots.
Around here we employ a training philosophy called 'Nothing In Life Is Free' or NILIF. He has to work for food, praise, treats, playtime... he has to give me something. Sometimes its a sit/wait or sit/down and stay. Sometimes its a set of puppy pushups (down, sit, stand, down, stand, etc). In the wild, he'd have to hunt his food and work for it. His brain is wired that way. He needs to keep it busy.
He's starting (slowly) to fall back in line. Its one of those things with this kind of dog - you have to stay on top and hold your place. You have to keep them busy - mentaly and physically - or the "inmates" will be running the show!
Enter... last Saturday.
Last Saturday we got a call to go help with the last day of an Eagle Scout project. Now, I would've done it anyway because we like to support the scouts - but this was special because its one of Baby Brother's best friends, and I love him to death, so of course I'm going to go across the street to help. Of course, being 1 day out of the hospital, Ranger is going with me.
Of course, THIS is one of those 2% days!
Ranger is off-lead but I have a hold of his collar and have his leash attached to me because I'm not sure WHO is at the scout cabin - but if its all people he's really comfortable with well then, he's fine and I dont have to worry. Even have his little mat and his antler. Sounds perfect, right?
The scout cabin is across the street, behind the library. As we're walking, he sees a pre-teeny-bopper at the library and, amazingly, makes no motion towards her. I'm really glad because I have a hold of his collar and that would've been *bad*. We get to the cabin - we walk inside - its all people he knows really well - I let go of the collar - he takes off out the door.
Now, my *GOOD* Ranger knows not to go out doors without me. He knows *I* go out first. My *GOOD* Ranger knows that he is supposed to stay right next to me... demon Ranger is a WHOLE other entity.
Ok so I try to page-recall him on his ecollar (with a vibrate) while I'm walking to the door. My GOOD Ranger would come haulin' butt back. THIS Ranger, ignores me. I get to the door, pull out the 'Ranger Come.' and wait as he thinks about it. - This earns him a quick nick shock on his ecollar. Whe momma says 'come' - you dont stop and THINK about it. That doesnt work for me. So, yeah he comes back. Great. He gets TO the door - and turns around and takes off back down the block - again - me standing there muttering about him and glue factories... Again, a page to the eCollar as I'm giving him a recall - because this time, I'm past "not playing around." And still, he thinks about it. Another nick and he's coming back to me. Repeat once more and I'm out of patients and too tired and weak to care. FOURTH time I JUST about get my hand on his collar and he walks in the door way 2 steps turns around and waltzes RIGHT PAST ME and out the door. Luckily, for me I was ready this time and as he stepped through the doorway, he got a 10-second continuous zap. Now, its not at ALL common for me to use the 'cont' function on our ecollars. I almost never do. Why did I this time? Because running out the door is dangerous - for him and for me. Running down the block, equally as dangerous. It is unacceptable. Not coming back on a recall, again, dangerous and unacceptable.
So back he comes, of course I tell him he's a good boy for coming back - through gritted teeth - but that leash is snapped on *so* fast even the others in the room were shocked!
For 2 days Ranger sat in the hospital room with me and was pretty good, all things considered. By the end of day one he'd staked his claim on the room and started to alert to the door opening and people coming and going. I wasnt thrilled, but its his job - he was doing what he's supposed to do - alert and shut up. I can live with that. I was more upset by it and about the possibility of bothering the other patients/nurses/etc. But, really, he didnt have to WORK for anything. Two days with no work and no real exercise... I should've known better and realized he was going to be pushing his limits, but I didnt think about it honestly.
SO, he's on puppy probation. He's reminded through my actions that he's NOT the pack leader, all things come from me, and he MUST pay attention and listen to me. First order of business, he's been kicked off the bed and relegated back to the floor. Why? Because in dog world, being on the bed is being equivolent or higher than I am in the pack order - Nuh uh. He has to stay on the floor. He's tethered to me. Why? Because he needs to be reminded to *watch* me, *stay* with me - he goes where *I* go and *I* go first. He's sleeping in his crate - because he needs to re-earn the privilege of sleeping out of the crate. He can slowly earn these things back - he wont be on probation for ever. But right now, he's got to learn he's not in charge and he doesnt call the shots.
Around here we employ a training philosophy called 'Nothing In Life Is Free' or NILIF. He has to work for food, praise, treats, playtime... he has to give me something. Sometimes its a sit/wait or sit/down and stay. Sometimes its a set of puppy pushups (down, sit, stand, down, stand, etc). In the wild, he'd have to hunt his food and work for it. His brain is wired that way. He needs to keep it busy.
He's starting (slowly) to fall back in line. Its one of those things with this kind of dog - you have to stay on top and hold your place. You have to keep them busy - mentaly and physically - or the "inmates" will be running the show!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Product Notes and Reviews - portable dog water containers
After our day out and about in 90-degree weather yesterday, I'm inspired to talk about "on-the-go" hydration for us non-hiking crowd. Just like humans (moreso!) we all know our dogs need hydration when they're out and about, especially when the temperature and humidity climbs. But HOW? When you have a service dog, this becomes truly more challenging since you do not want them to get the idea that they are fed/watered while you're sitting down in a restaurant, etc. Feeding before you leave, or, if your dog prefers (like Ranger), after you get home, is certainly a standard for us. I usually carry a small 'emergency ziploc' of food a collapsible bowl in the car for times when its just going to be too late to NOT feed him. This is *never ever ever* done in a restaurant or any place where he might associate getting food and it is HIGHLY uncommon for me to do it while I'm out unless I'm hanging at a friend's house, etc. but I've got the back-up in case I absolutely need it.
In situations like yesterday, though, when I *know* we're going to be out for an extended period of time, in the heat and humidity, and being active (UIUC is a LARGE campus!!!), its vital that I have a hydration source on us at all times.
If you're a hiker, Ruffwear's "Single Trak Pack" is the ultimate in mobile hydration. Its got the platypus bladder in the pocket and allows you to fill up for a day trip. Very nice. I love Ruffwear's line of packs and harnesses and they're more than worth their price. However, for me, its not exactly practical for a day trip in Urban-land.
A few years back, during the ASPCA's awareness month, Walmart carried an ASPCA line and in it was a collapsible bowl. What's special about this collapsible bowl from all other ones? Not a darn thing! I like that part of the proceeds went to help animal shelters. I got 2. - Here's one available from Amazon.com by Kurgo - or, for a truly small and portable solution Fold-n-Go -- As I said earlier - I keep one of my collapsible bowls with the emergency food stash and if I'm going to be some place that I dont know the water quality or the availability of water, I snag the other one on my way out the door. They're light and very easy to just stow-n-go. Downside... the water *does* eventually make the material 'damp' on my versions - but, I havent tried the Kurgo or Fold-n-Go yet - so, as always, your mileage may vary!
Ok, so round two... how do you carry water with you - from home - when going out of town for the day? I have a couple of suggestions! (I bet you knew I would!!!)
Option 1: You can carry your collapsible bowl and buy bottles of water for your dog. Not the most economically (or ecologically!) sound option - but your dog will likely have fresh cool/cold water at any location that's not going to upset their system. Ok... that's important, but...
Option 2: Handi-Drink 2 - This is a water bottle, nested inside a drinking tray, with its own (albeit plastic) clip to attach to your bag/purse/etc. Take water from home that your dog is used to or refill it while out. The one we have holds 17 ounces, so its a pretty good size and a great, affordable price!
Option 3: If you're like me and dont want to buy designer water for your dog while on the go (or hate the though of adding MORE plastic bottles to the landfills) let's look at option 3 - the doggy eco-canteen. No, I'm not kidding. You had to know it would happen sooner or later! - Actually there are two!
H2O4K9 Stainless Steel Dog Water Bottle - From our friends at Pawmark.com. This is an interesting design in that the cap is your drinking tray. Stainless steel and refillable (of course) this is a sturdy option for on the go. Downside? Take the lid off your own Nalgene bottle and hold it at your side, and your canine companion might think they're supposed to hydrate themselves! *YUCK!*
Good Life Gear Stainless Steel BPA-Free Dog Water Bottle - Now, this one is really cool! It has one of those 'rollerball' things in the top - so instead of the water just pouring out - or the dog having to drink out of the lid - they lick/lap at the ball and they get the water. Just like the little hamster cage bottles. Cool, right?! For the supremely messy dog - or for dogs who need discrete options for watering (ie: not pouring into a bowl) I could see this being very beneficial. -- Downside? Well, I dont think I want my dog to get in the habit of licking the cap of every bottle I have in my hand upside down! But, to me, that's probably preferable to the thinking he's going to lick the lid of my nalgene/eco-canteen because it looks just like his!
Whatever your choice, as we head into the blistering hot days of summer - a water source of some kind for your canine companion is something you should never be without! Pick a mode of transport, get your dog used to it, and make sure you always have it available. You never know when a 'quick trip' could turn into an overheated car or a lengthy series of errands!!
In situations like yesterday, though, when I *know* we're going to be out for an extended period of time, in the heat and humidity, and being active (UIUC is a LARGE campus!!!), its vital that I have a hydration source on us at all times.
If you're a hiker, Ruffwear's "Single Trak Pack" is the ultimate in mobile hydration. Its got the platypus bladder in the pocket and allows you to fill up for a day trip. Very nice. I love Ruffwear's line of packs and harnesses and they're more than worth their price. However, for me, its not exactly practical for a day trip in Urban-land.
A few years back, during the ASPCA's awareness month, Walmart carried an ASPCA line and in it was a collapsible bowl. What's special about this collapsible bowl from all other ones? Not a darn thing! I like that part of the proceeds went to help animal shelters. I got 2. - Here's one available from Amazon.com by Kurgo - or, for a truly small and portable solution Fold-n-Go -- As I said earlier - I keep one of my collapsible bowls with the emergency food stash and if I'm going to be some place that I dont know the water quality or the availability of water, I snag the other one on my way out the door. They're light and very easy to just stow-n-go. Downside... the water *does* eventually make the material 'damp' on my versions - but, I havent tried the Kurgo or Fold-n-Go yet - so, as always, your mileage may vary!
Ok, so round two... how do you carry water with you - from home - when going out of town for the day? I have a couple of suggestions! (I bet you knew I would!!!)
Option 1: You can carry your collapsible bowl and buy bottles of water for your dog. Not the most economically (or ecologically!) sound option - but your dog will likely have fresh cool/cold water at any location that's not going to upset their system. Ok... that's important, but...
Option 2: Handi-Drink 2 - This is a water bottle, nested inside a drinking tray, with its own (albeit plastic) clip to attach to your bag/purse/etc. Take water from home that your dog is used to or refill it while out. The one we have holds 17 ounces, so its a pretty good size and a great, affordable price!
Option 3: If you're like me and dont want to buy designer water for your dog while on the go (or hate the though of adding MORE plastic bottles to the landfills) let's look at option 3 - the doggy eco-canteen. No, I'm not kidding. You had to know it would happen sooner or later! - Actually there are two!
H2O4K9 Stainless Steel Dog Water Bottle - From our friends at Pawmark.com. This is an interesting design in that the cap is your drinking tray. Stainless steel and refillable (of course) this is a sturdy option for on the go. Downside? Take the lid off your own Nalgene bottle and hold it at your side, and your canine companion might think they're supposed to hydrate themselves! *YUCK!*
Good Life Gear Stainless Steel BPA-Free Dog Water Bottle - Now, this one is really cool! It has one of those 'rollerball' things in the top - so instead of the water just pouring out - or the dog having to drink out of the lid - they lick/lap at the ball and they get the water. Just like the little hamster cage bottles. Cool, right?! For the supremely messy dog - or for dogs who need discrete options for watering (ie: not pouring into a bowl) I could see this being very beneficial. -- Downside? Well, I dont think I want my dog to get in the habit of licking the cap of every bottle I have in my hand upside down! But, to me, that's probably preferable to the thinking he's going to lick the lid of my nalgene/eco-canteen because it looks just like his!
Whatever your choice, as we head into the blistering hot days of summer - a water source of some kind for your canine companion is something you should never be without! Pick a mode of transport, get your dog used to it, and make sure you always have it available. You never know when a 'quick trip' could turn into an overheated car or a lengthy series of errands!!
Ranger - the big pup on campus... (aka: My brother's orientation day at UIUC)
Poor Ranger....
Baby brother had his transfer student orientation at UIUC yesterday and we all scurried along with him. Well, ok - some of us hobbled.... me... I hobbled. I was SO thankful to have Ranger with me by the end of the day! With all the excitement radiating off baby brother, we should've had hazmat suits, really... it was cute.
Our day started out with a brand new experience - waiting at a bus stop in the shuttle lot to ride an MTD bus! Now, I know someone who was going to college with a SD and had a horrible accident on an MTD bus - so I was a nervous WRECK about this. (Of course this also disregards the fact that I know TONS of people who have had GREAT experiences on buses with a service dog!) Ranger, however, was a pro. He stepped right on, walked with me to the back - didn't disturb any of the passengers, and laid down at my feet. So much for ME being the professional!
And so the day went. From crossing the campus at least 4 times - to inside buildings, classrooms, lecture halls, Follinger Auditorium.... he was a trooper. I was so proud of him.
Funny thing happened while sitting in the ECE Advising office. Of course, as usual, the secretaries were falling all over themselves fawning over him. They asked his name and I said 'Ranger.' Secretary A says to B "Oh my! Just like in the Janet Evanovich books! And doesn't he LOOK like Ranger would too??" --- FIRST TIME I've ever had someone nail the reference. I grinned and we started talking!
Then in the bookstore, while waiting for Baby Brother to read ALL the fine print of the bank account he had to open to attach to his iCard (wth ever happened to the days when it was just 'there?') - the bank staff attendants were just tickled to death over "how absolutely WONDERFUL he was!"
All in all, worn out and dead on his feet, he really did a great job. It was a long day that started at 6a and ended well after 6p last night. Today he's got the day off and he's sleeping.... a lot!
Baby brother had his transfer student orientation at UIUC yesterday and we all scurried along with him. Well, ok - some of us hobbled.... me... I hobbled. I was SO thankful to have Ranger with me by the end of the day! With all the excitement radiating off baby brother, we should've had hazmat suits, really... it was cute.
Our day started out with a brand new experience - waiting at a bus stop in the shuttle lot to ride an MTD bus! Now, I know someone who was going to college with a SD and had a horrible accident on an MTD bus - so I was a nervous WRECK about this. (Of course this also disregards the fact that I know TONS of people who have had GREAT experiences on buses with a service dog!) Ranger, however, was a pro. He stepped right on, walked with me to the back - didn't disturb any of the passengers, and laid down at my feet. So much for ME being the professional! And so the day went. From crossing the campus at least 4 times - to inside buildings, classrooms, lecture halls, Follinger Auditorium.... he was a trooper. I was so proud of him.
Funny thing happened while sitting in the ECE Advising office. Of course, as usual, the secretaries were falling all over themselves fawning over him. They asked his name and I said 'Ranger.' Secretary A says to B "Oh my! Just like in the Janet Evanovich books! And doesn't he LOOK like Ranger would too??" --- FIRST TIME I've ever had someone nail the reference. I grinned and we started talking!
Then in the bookstore, while waiting for Baby Brother to read ALL the fine print of the bank account he had to open to attach to his iCard (wth ever happened to the days when it was just 'there?') - the bank staff attendants were just tickled to death over "how absolutely WONDERFUL he was!"
All in all, worn out and dead on his feet, he really did a great job. It was a long day that started at 6a and ended well after 6p last night. Today he's got the day off and he's sleeping.... a lot!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Another day - another adventure
First off, let me commend the staff at Sara Bush Lincoln Health Care. They're *fantastic* about Ranger. everyone has been as pleasant, accommodating and eager to check on both of us and make sure we're both comfortable as possible. Even during his cranky, "I'm *ready* to go home" times - they've just smiled and been super friendly.
Now... why we're here. Came in yesterday for muscle spasms in my chest/back that were making it hard to breathe (couldnt get any air into my lungs). In doing the routine labs, they found out that I have microcytic iron-deficiency anemia. yay, right?? *rolls eyes*
So... into the hospital I went to get 2 units of blood - and Ranger has been with me the whole way. He's been a champ. His whole schedule is messed up. He's been laying one place or another (floor next-to-bed, bed, chair... ) but he's starting to get antsy. He's alerting to all sounds - foreign and domestic. He's having an issue with being cooped up. He's not happy.
!Like with all Kong toys, it turned out to be a fantastic, mind-stimulating way for him to get food in smaller doses. Being in the hospital - that's a must because I have to work his going out time around when my family is here visiting or a nurse comes in and asks if they can help. I put some of his dry kibble into the kong and he chased it all over the floor. (Thankfully he cleans up afrer himself!) He had a good time and it was a quiet thing he could do, sturdy enough that I didnt have to worry about him chewing it or breaking pieces off, and entertaining enough to let him feel like he was getting to do something other than just lay with me!
Review: 5/5 paws! This one definitely takes the blue ribbon for quality and entertainment. I'll update about durability!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
New Dog Advice: "Puppy Please!"
The school year is winding down, the nice weather is here, spring litters are being weaned, and the plea of children heard all over the country is making shelters, rescue workers, and trainers alike cringe - "But can't we get a puppy... pllleeaasse?!"
Oh, they're adorable alright! But, as the old addage goes, looks fade. What happens after the cute and cuddly wears off? When the "new dog" novelty wears off and the kids are "too busy" to walk or play or feed the new member of your family? What happens when life gets crazy with soccer, softball, baseball, tennis, swim meets? The list goes on and on. It happens every year, twice a year in fact, like clockwork. The time most people look forward to is the time rescues and shelters dread the most - Summer and Winter. We dread it because we know, without a doubt, in a couple of months we're going to get the phone calls and drop offs with the parents shifting uncomfortably side-to-side saying with some chagrin, "We just can't get him to stop having accidents in the house," or "he's driving us crazy; he's eating all the shoes," or, maybe my personal pet-peeve, "We just don't have time for him." -- Well, gee. Do you think that should've been a consideration before you brought your new dog home? Sadly, for most people, it is not.
So, I'm starting a theme in the blog - "Making the Responsible Choices" - where we'll cover all the things you need to think about before, during and after bringing Mr. Cuddles home.
Before you run off to get that dog from the newspaper or flyer on the wall at your grocery store or even *cringe* worst of all, the pet store - STOP! - Do not pass the fire hydrant. Get out of your car, go back inside and sit down. A few simple things now will safe you heartache (and financial stress) later on.
1. Be realistic about your time. If you dont already do this, take a calendar and mark down *everything* everyone in your family has going on in a day. Making it visual makes it more realistic. If you're getting a puppy, remember he will need to go out every couple of hours and will still need to eat 3 meals per day! If you factor in eating alone (leaving the puppy's food down for 30 minutes at a consistent time and then picking it up will help get your dog on a good schedue!) - that's 90 minutes - every day. A puppy also needs extra time outside to "do their business." They're still learning and exploring and if you want a healthy, happy self-assured puppy, you want them to do that! So factor in another hour of "potty time" - that's JUST after meals. Now think about a good 15 to 20-minute "potty break" every 2 hours or so, depending on the age and breed of dog. Yes, this means quite possibly even in the middle of the night. Puppies are like babies. Just because *you* can sleep through the night, does not mean they automatically can! And we still havent factored in 'play time' and 'socialization' yet!
Figure out who is going to realistically be responsible for the aspects of the dogs care. A child under the age of 12 is not able to take responsibility for a dog, let alone a puppy, without reminders and backup from parents. Certainly, no child under the age of 10 should even have this expectation entertained. They're kids. There's a reason why society frowns on kids having kids. The responsiblity we're talking about here is pretty close to equivocal. There are, of course, rare exceptions to this rule. But in general, parents need to be ready (and willing) to step in and step up if its needed - without detriment to the dog. One person should be 'in charge' of the pack. That means one person takes responsibilty for the feeding, walking, grooming, and training. Once a pack order (which we'll talk about in a later post) is established. You can then move on to spreading out the responsibility somewhat. But, ultimately, the adults in the house have the overall responsibility for the new family member you're bringing in!
2. Be realistic about your finances. Puppies can be a drain on any budget - and you're making a life-long commitment to them, just like a child. In the first year alone, there are at least 3 vet visits, 3 sets of shots, heartworm preventative (if you live in an area of the country where this is an issue), flea/tick preventative... the list goes on and on. That's not to even start factoring in the amount of dog food a new puppy needs. We personally choose to feed a higher-quality dog food, which is more readily absorbed so the dogs eat less overall but get better nutrition, but not everyone can do this. Then there are toys, dog beds, bowls, leashes... that first year can be astronomically overwhelming. Its like bringing home a new baby, without the baby shower to help defray costs! Then, hopefully, you settle into a budgetable expense for dog food and vet care. But, wait, what if they get sick. Or there's an accident. Are you prepared for those bills too? Especialy if there's ongoing treatment? What about when they get older? Vet visits (and bills) can increase again later in life to insure they have a good, solid quality of life. Will you have pet insurance? If not, do you have an emergency fund that can help sustain the dog if unexpected vet bills arise?
3. Know your breeds. This is one of the two biggest mistakes people make. I cant stress this one enough. Know. Your. Breed. Do your homework. You wouldnt buy a car without examining all the options and features, right? Why, then, would you bring home a new puppy "just because it looked cute/lonely/runtish/etc" without knowing what's under the hood (or in the brain)?? Each breed has traits and needs that are *very* specific to that breed. Most breeds of dogs have been bred over many decades, or centuries, to enhance certain traits or minimize others. Certainly, the neighbors miniature poodle might look adorable, but did you know they have very high energy levels? What about grooming? Poodles must be groomed daily and will need monthly trips to the groomers to keep the coat trimmed and healthy. A whippet looks like a really cute miniature greyhound. It also requires a lot of activity, just like a greyhound! Are you prepared to take a dog through obedience classes to get their basic manners and socialization and then on to some form of dog sport to give them an outlet for their excessive energy? Looking at a beagle? Can you live with howling for the next 8-12 years? See, each breed has great traits and traits that you have to have a plan in place to deal with.
Take, for instance, Ranger. (Yes, that's the same dog as the puppy picture above, taken about 16 months after the puppy picture. Amazing how they grow!) He's a Beauceron (aka: French Shepherd). Not a breed you hear of often. He's a working dog. He's a guardian. He's NOT meant for a first-time owner with little to no real training experience. I knew this going in. I spent almost a year researching the breed, its traits, its quirks, its health issues. I talked to other owners of Beaucerons. I joined a discussion group specifically about Beaucerons. Why did I got through all these steps? First, because I was looking for a service dog prospect. I needed to be sure that he had all the positive traits I was looking for to do the work I needed and that the negative traits could be handled and trained to be kept under control. Second, though, because I wanted to know unequivocally what I was getting into - before I got into it. Would I have the time to train and work him *every* day? Would I be able to exercise him as needed? Would I have the emotional and mental strength and agility to keep up with a dog that chalenged my pack status every day? For me, the answer to all those was "It will be a challenge, but I can honestly say I'm up for it." As you read the blog, you'll realize it doesn't mean I'm up for it *every* day. There are days when he really runs me through my paces and I'm flat out exhausted. There are days when I know I'm not giving him the 110% that he needs. But *most* days, I'm in there with him and it works for us. Dogs are, by nature, generally forgiving creatures. If you're having an off day - or you're just not up to your normal level, they'll forgive you and likely love you through it. Ranger does. But, like most Beaucerons, he's *my* dog - no doubt about it. I walk out of a room, he wants to know where I am and what I'm doing ad he's RIGHT on my heels. Not because he cant function without me, but because he wants to make sure *I* am ok without him.
So, after all this, you're still entertaining the notion of getting a dog. I have one last thing to say for today:
4. Know your breeder! Ok, I couldnt stress that enough if I had put it in caps, bold, and blinky lights. Do your homework. Know your breeder. Newspaper ads, dont cut it. Make arrangements to go see the place where the puppies are. Are they kept in the house with the family? Are the parents of the litter on site? Are there "too many" puppies from different liters/breeds running around? Can you just "drop in" unannounced? Are the living conditions of the puppies clean? Are they socialized with the humans? Do they get to hear the daily living sounds (dishwasher, washer/dryer, doors closing abruptly, vaccum cleaners, etc)? Do they all appear healthy and thriving? A good breeder will ask you a *LOT* of questions about your home, your family, your life, your finances, your living conditions. Some breeders will want references - be prepared. A good breeder will ask which vet you plan on using; if you've ever had other pets. They want to know it all. They want to know that their puppies are going to outstanding families who understand exactly what they're getting into - both with getting a dog and with getting a dog of their particular breed. It might seem intrusive, but they're doing it for your benefit too. If you cant answer a question, you need to consider why that is.
Now, I'm going to hit a 'hot topic' for me, so please bear with me.
Pet Stores. Please, please, please, if you take nothing else away from this article today, remember this - Pet stores are interested in selling cute, adorable, loveable-looking puppies. That's it. They have no true, strong knowledge of the breeding process, the breed itself, or honestly where the puppies come from. They arrive, they're put into the holding cells or windows, and they're sold. What's the problem, right?
The problem with pet stores, and I'm going to put this as delicately as one can, is that those adorable little 6- to 8-week old puppies... they were shipped, as cargo, from a place called a puppy-mill, where they were taken from their mothers at around 4 weeks (MUCH too young to be removed from their mother and litter!) to make sure they arrived within the cute-n-cuddly looking window, before that 'baby puppy' look starts to fade. They sell faster when they're 'cute baby puppy.' Oh, they'll tell you they came from breeders and never removed before 6 weeks (still WAY too young! Optimally, a puppy should stay with mother and litter until 10 to 12 weeks!). Hell, they'll even give you "papers" for the puppy. Do the papers name a place in MO, OH or PA? Chances are real good, the puppy came from a puppy-mill.
A puppy-mill is... well, its a place where dogs are bred to have litters, period. *MOST* of the time the dogs do not have adequate food or water let alone medical care. They're nothing more than livestock meant to bring in a paycheck. They live in wire cages and hutches, in the heat and the cold. There's no care or planning of litters except in that the "breeders" hope they have their next one as soon as possible so they can make more money. Some of these dogs, after they've been bred hard and often, are then put up on auction. Some continue to breed as long as they produce good litters. And the ones that cant produce or have a genetic defect? Well... they're "dispose of." No, I wont go into all the ways that happens. I've been to puppy-mills. I've seen it first hand. I've pulled litters of dogs out of those conditions to be rehabed and rehomed. It is something that will stay with you forever.
My Bianca was a puppy-mill rescue. It took almost 9 months before she wasnt scared to come out of her crate and be with the humans and other dogs - and that was only if it was myself and another person she loved and trusted. It was almost another 9 months after that before she jumped up on the sofa - way at the WAY FAR end of it and shook, but she was up there. Six months later? She jumped on my lap - shaking like a leaf, but she was there. We delighted in *EVERY* inch of milestone she gave us in the 8 years we had her. We always said 'if she never got any better... never made one more inch of progress, we'd love her just the same' - and we kept that promise to her every day of her life with us. But, honestly, why? Why should anyone or anything have to live like that? The answer is, they dont. But until people stop buying dogs from petshops. Until the demand for 'on demand' dogs is so low that puppy mills can no longer use dogs as a means to support themselves - there will always be dogs like Bianca. The ones who make it out and find a safe, loving home to live out the rest of their lives - they truly are the *lucky* ones.
[ In the interest of full disclosure, I want to state that I actually DO know a couple in Indiana who has a pet store who will *ONLY* buy puppies for the store from breeders they know personally, will pick UP the puppies in person (which means there's a certain short radius they'll even consider dealing with), and they will ONLY do so after 10 weeks of age. There are no exceptions to these rules - ever. If there are no puppies of a particular breed left from a litter - or no puppies they think are up to the standards they will sell, they go back empty handed. They also *NEVER* sell a breed they are not 100% familiar with and will ALWAYS volunteer the breeder's name and contact info so the new owners can call them if there are any questions or quirks they need to discuss! -- THAT is a "pet store" I would trust.]
If you're not going to show and there are no *real* issues why you *MUST* have a certain breed (allergies being the #1 reason that comes to mind) - or even if there are issues - Please. Look at your local shelter first! Ever year thousands, in some cases hundreds of thousands, of dogs end up in shelters and rescues all over the country. Most of the time, they're really GREAT dogs who have no idea what "we just dont have time anymore" means. They dont understand that Sally and Jim got to be older and started in more activities and Mom and Dad got promotions and are also in charge of the PTA and sports boosters and drama coaches and there's just "no time" for the dog. They are just great dogs that need homes - need familes to love them. They need a second chance at a forever home. Most of the time the dogs at the shelter are already spayed or neutered and up-to-date on shots and medical tests. They may even be microchipped. All of that and you'll still end up paying a *LOT* less than if you went to a breeder - especially a reputable one. (We're not going to talk about the money you'd save over a pet store because I'm praying that you're NOT going to succumb to that!)
Yes, Ranger came from a breeder. It killed me to do that, but I needed *VERY* specific genetic traits. I needed height, weight, temperment, etc to do the kind of work I need from him. Would I have done a shelter dog? In a heartbeat. In fact, the first service dog prospect I raised and trained for a year - Skillz (below) - he was from a shelter in Indiana.
Unfortunately, because of his unknown lineage, he never did get tall enough for me to be able to use. The hard part was that he was an OUTSTANDING service dog in every other way. Rehoming him was one of the hardest things for me to do. He went to a terrific home and is a 24/7 companion to a single gentleman who thinks the moon and stars were hung on Skillz. He's forever grateful to me that I gave him Skillz and Skillz is happy, healthy, thriving and LOVES his new home. They're best friends. Its hard to hold onto the hurt of letting him go when I can see that in their relationship.
By far the best dog I've ever had, my "canine soulmate" was Nalla. She was a 3-time returnee to our local shelter. She was on her last chance. We saw her and *instantly* were connected. The shelter people were shocked. I was in love. That dog was everything for me. She was my best friend, my confidant, and my companion through all of life's best and worst times for 8 years. I still miss her - and as close as I am with Ranger, there will never be another dog for me that was what Nalla was. She loved me and at 13 pounds, would defend me without hesitation to anything that came near. She didnt *look* perfect. Her teeth were bad and she had a funky underbite. She had her attitudinal moments too. But I've never had a better best friend - or someone I trusted as completely as I trusted her.
And, not to be left out - my Jasmine (seen here - 04/2009 - cuddled under her favorite blanket at the foot of my bed while I worked). As easy as the words come for my Nalla, they catch on me when I try to talk about my Jasmine. She came to us as a puppy, injured, and alone. Abandoned after she was hurt and left to fend for herself. A co-worker brought her to me knowing that I did rehab and rehoming. She never left. I'll spare you the life details, but going through the hardest parts of my life to date, that dog never left me. Her body gave out and still she hung on, trying desperately to be there for me. In March of this year I had to do the only thing I could for her and I held her as she closed her eyes for the last time, fighting the drugs the whole way. Her heart and soul did not want to leave me - and I'd have given anything not to have to let her go, but I couldnt fix a body that was old and tired and failing.
The moral of these stories? Check out your local shelter and rescues. Four of my best dogs, ever, were from shelters and rescues. They're there - waiting - they just need someone to give them a chance.
If you're really set on a particular breed, ask the shelter if know of any breed-specific rescues. Research online. Petfinder.com is an *outstanding* place to search - locally and nation-wide - for your new family member. And, make no mistake, that's what we're talking about here. It may not be coming home from a hospital wrapped in a pretty little blanket, but it is just as much a new arrival that will change your life for the next 8 to 15 years. Unlike a baby, however, armed with the right knowledge, you have the ability to choose the perfect dog for your family - Please, choose wisely!
Next time: Picking up Puppy and Making a Happy Homecoming!
So, I'm starting a theme in the blog - "Making the Responsible Choices" - where we'll cover all the things you need to think about before, during and after bringing Mr. Cuddles home.
Today's topic - "Things to Know Before You Go"
Before you run off to get that dog from the newspaper or flyer on the wall at your grocery store or even *cringe* worst of all, the pet store - STOP! - Do not pass the fire hydrant. Get out of your car, go back inside and sit down. A few simple things now will safe you heartache (and financial stress) later on.
1. Be realistic about your time. If you dont already do this, take a calendar and mark down *everything* everyone in your family has going on in a day. Making it visual makes it more realistic. If you're getting a puppy, remember he will need to go out every couple of hours and will still need to eat 3 meals per day! If you factor in eating alone (leaving the puppy's food down for 30 minutes at a consistent time and then picking it up will help get your dog on a good schedue!) - that's 90 minutes - every day. A puppy also needs extra time outside to "do their business." They're still learning and exploring and if you want a healthy, happy self-assured puppy, you want them to do that! So factor in another hour of "potty time" - that's JUST after meals. Now think about a good 15 to 20-minute "potty break" every 2 hours or so, depending on the age and breed of dog. Yes, this means quite possibly even in the middle of the night. Puppies are like babies. Just because *you* can sleep through the night, does not mean they automatically can! And we still havent factored in 'play time' and 'socialization' yet!
Figure out who is going to realistically be responsible for the aspects of the dogs care. A child under the age of 12 is not able to take responsibility for a dog, let alone a puppy, without reminders and backup from parents. Certainly, no child under the age of 10 should even have this expectation entertained. They're kids. There's a reason why society frowns on kids having kids. The responsiblity we're talking about here is pretty close to equivocal. There are, of course, rare exceptions to this rule. But in general, parents need to be ready (and willing) to step in and step up if its needed - without detriment to the dog. One person should be 'in charge' of the pack. That means one person takes responsibilty for the feeding, walking, grooming, and training. Once a pack order (which we'll talk about in a later post) is established. You can then move on to spreading out the responsibility somewhat. But, ultimately, the adults in the house have the overall responsibility for the new family member you're bringing in!
2. Be realistic about your finances. Puppies can be a drain on any budget - and you're making a life-long commitment to them, just like a child. In the first year alone, there are at least 3 vet visits, 3 sets of shots, heartworm preventative (if you live in an area of the country where this is an issue), flea/tick preventative... the list goes on and on. That's not to even start factoring in the amount of dog food a new puppy needs. We personally choose to feed a higher-quality dog food, which is more readily absorbed so the dogs eat less overall but get better nutrition, but not everyone can do this. Then there are toys, dog beds, bowls, leashes... that first year can be astronomically overwhelming. Its like bringing home a new baby, without the baby shower to help defray costs! Then, hopefully, you settle into a budgetable expense for dog food and vet care. But, wait, what if they get sick. Or there's an accident. Are you prepared for those bills too? Especialy if there's ongoing treatment? What about when they get older? Vet visits (and bills) can increase again later in life to insure they have a good, solid quality of life. Will you have pet insurance? If not, do you have an emergency fund that can help sustain the dog if unexpected vet bills arise?
3. Know your breeds. This is one of the two biggest mistakes people make. I cant stress this one enough. Know. Your. Breed. Do your homework. You wouldnt buy a car without examining all the options and features, right? Why, then, would you bring home a new puppy "just because it looked cute/lonely/runtish/etc" without knowing what's under the hood (or in the brain)?? Each breed has traits and needs that are *very* specific to that breed. Most breeds of dogs have been bred over many decades, or centuries, to enhance certain traits or minimize others. Certainly, the neighbors miniature poodle might look adorable, but did you know they have very high energy levels? What about grooming? Poodles must be groomed daily and will need monthly trips to the groomers to keep the coat trimmed and healthy. A whippet looks like a really cute miniature greyhound. It also requires a lot of activity, just like a greyhound! Are you prepared to take a dog through obedience classes to get their basic manners and socialization and then on to some form of dog sport to give them an outlet for their excessive energy? Looking at a beagle? Can you live with howling for the next 8-12 years? See, each breed has great traits and traits that you have to have a plan in place to deal with.
So, after all this, you're still entertaining the notion of getting a dog. I have one last thing to say for today:
4. Know your breeder! Ok, I couldnt stress that enough if I had put it in caps, bold, and blinky lights. Do your homework. Know your breeder. Newspaper ads, dont cut it. Make arrangements to go see the place where the puppies are. Are they kept in the house with the family? Are the parents of the litter on site? Are there "too many" puppies from different liters/breeds running around? Can you just "drop in" unannounced? Are the living conditions of the puppies clean? Are they socialized with the humans? Do they get to hear the daily living sounds (dishwasher, washer/dryer, doors closing abruptly, vaccum cleaners, etc)? Do they all appear healthy and thriving? A good breeder will ask you a *LOT* of questions about your home, your family, your life, your finances, your living conditions. Some breeders will want references - be prepared. A good breeder will ask which vet you plan on using; if you've ever had other pets. They want to know it all. They want to know that their puppies are going to outstanding families who understand exactly what they're getting into - both with getting a dog and with getting a dog of their particular breed. It might seem intrusive, but they're doing it for your benefit too. If you cant answer a question, you need to consider why that is.
Now, I'm going to hit a 'hot topic' for me, so please bear with me.
Pet Stores. Please, please, please, if you take nothing else away from this article today, remember this - Pet stores are interested in selling cute, adorable, loveable-looking puppies. That's it. They have no true, strong knowledge of the breeding process, the breed itself, or honestly where the puppies come from. They arrive, they're put into the holding cells or windows, and they're sold. What's the problem, right?
The problem with pet stores, and I'm going to put this as delicately as one can, is that those adorable little 6- to 8-week old puppies... they were shipped, as cargo, from a place called a puppy-mill, where they were taken from their mothers at around 4 weeks (MUCH too young to be removed from their mother and litter!) to make sure they arrived within the cute-n-cuddly looking window, before that 'baby puppy' look starts to fade. They sell faster when they're 'cute baby puppy.' Oh, they'll tell you they came from breeders and never removed before 6 weeks (still WAY too young! Optimally, a puppy should stay with mother and litter until 10 to 12 weeks!). Hell, they'll even give you "papers" for the puppy. Do the papers name a place in MO, OH or PA? Chances are real good, the puppy came from a puppy-mill.
A puppy-mill is... well, its a place where dogs are bred to have litters, period. *MOST* of the time the dogs do not have adequate food or water let alone medical care. They're nothing more than livestock meant to bring in a paycheck. They live in wire cages and hutches, in the heat and the cold. There's no care or planning of litters except in that the "breeders" hope they have their next one as soon as possible so they can make more money. Some of these dogs, after they've been bred hard and often, are then put up on auction. Some continue to breed as long as they produce good litters. And the ones that cant produce or have a genetic defect? Well... they're "dispose of." No, I wont go into all the ways that happens. I've been to puppy-mills. I've seen it first hand. I've pulled litters of dogs out of those conditions to be rehabed and rehomed. It is something that will stay with you forever.
[ In the interest of full disclosure, I want to state that I actually DO know a couple in Indiana who has a pet store who will *ONLY* buy puppies for the store from breeders they know personally, will pick UP the puppies in person (which means there's a certain short radius they'll even consider dealing with), and they will ONLY do so after 10 weeks of age. There are no exceptions to these rules - ever. If there are no puppies of a particular breed left from a litter - or no puppies they think are up to the standards they will sell, they go back empty handed. They also *NEVER* sell a breed they are not 100% familiar with and will ALWAYS volunteer the breeder's name and contact info so the new owners can call them if there are any questions or quirks they need to discuss! -- THAT is a "pet store" I would trust.]
If you're not going to show and there are no *real* issues why you *MUST* have a certain breed (allergies being the #1 reason that comes to mind) - or even if there are issues - Please. Look at your local shelter first! Ever year thousands, in some cases hundreds of thousands, of dogs end up in shelters and rescues all over the country. Most of the time, they're really GREAT dogs who have no idea what "we just dont have time anymore" means. They dont understand that Sally and Jim got to be older and started in more activities and Mom and Dad got promotions and are also in charge of the PTA and sports boosters and drama coaches and there's just "no time" for the dog. They are just great dogs that need homes - need familes to love them. They need a second chance at a forever home. Most of the time the dogs at the shelter are already spayed or neutered and up-to-date on shots and medical tests. They may even be microchipped. All of that and you'll still end up paying a *LOT* less than if you went to a breeder - especially a reputable one. (We're not going to talk about the money you'd save over a pet store because I'm praying that you're NOT going to succumb to that!)
Yes, Ranger came from a breeder. It killed me to do that, but I needed *VERY* specific genetic traits. I needed height, weight, temperment, etc to do the kind of work I need from him. Would I have done a shelter dog? In a heartbeat. In fact, the first service dog prospect I raised and trained for a year - Skillz (below) - he was from a shelter in Indiana.
The moral of these stories? Check out your local shelter and rescues. Four of my best dogs, ever, were from shelters and rescues. They're there - waiting - they just need someone to give them a chance.
If you're really set on a particular breed, ask the shelter if know of any breed-specific rescues. Research online. Petfinder.com is an *outstanding* place to search - locally and nation-wide - for your new family member. And, make no mistake, that's what we're talking about here. It may not be coming home from a hospital wrapped in a pretty little blanket, but it is just as much a new arrival that will change your life for the next 8 to 15 years. Unlike a baby, however, armed with the right knowledge, you have the ability to choose the perfect dog for your family - Please, choose wisely!
Next time: Picking up Puppy and Making a Happy Homecoming!
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