I recently saw a video of a trainer teaching relaxation, the dog was tethered to the ground, muzzled, and in both a prong and shock collar. The dog was trembling, any experienced dog person would recognize the tenseness, the stressed eyes, the trembling – it was the farthest thing from relaxed. Was the dog down? Yes. But was it relaxed? No.
Category Archives: Opinion
Compassionate Costumes and Clothes
With Halloween approaching I admit I am reveling in dog costumes! I love dressing up and as it is not socially acceptable for me to go out in costume as an adult, I indulge myself by dressing up the dogs . . . with some caveats. First, they have to like it. When I putContinue reading “Compassionate Costumes and Clothes”
Preparing for the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is one of the hardest times of year for our dogs. It is hot, there are many events, and, there are fireworks. Here are some tips for getting through this time of year successfully. Leave your dog at home. As fun as it is to have our dogs with us atContinue reading “Preparing for the Fourth of July”
How to Pick a Puppy (or Not)
When I met Jasper, I knew he was not your typical happy to lucky puppy. The vet who gave him his second round of shots called him a worried rocket scientist. The plan had been for me to foster him, and I had not been looking for a puppy. In fact, I usually preferred adultContinue reading “How to Pick a Puppy (or Not)”
Double Trouble – A Tale of Two Puppies
Some people have asked me if I think it is better to get two puppies at once, or one. To them I tell the story of Empanada and Nacho. Empanada and Nacho were litter mates from Puerto Rico who I agreed to foster. I knew it would be a lot, but we needed two fosters,Continue reading “Double Trouble – A Tale of Two Puppies”
When the Perfect Dog is not the Perfect Fit
We all have a dream dog, that dog we envision in our lives. Maybe it is based on a dog we had growing up, or a dog we saw in the movies. Or a dog we once met and loved – but it is there in your mind and you hope someday you will meetContinue reading “When the Perfect Dog is not the Perfect Fit”
Tell your dog he is handsome . . .
Tell your dog he is handsome . . . Yesterday I was at the vet, and as there was a long wait we spent some time in the lobby practicing our sits, our downs, and getting lots of treats. It is hard for dogs to be bored, and even harder for them to be boredContinue reading “Tell your dog he is handsome . . .”
Old Dogs New Tricks Dog Training 