Perfect? None of us.

Have you made a mistake or two in your life?  If you are a normal human, you probably have made more than a few.  I know I have.  Looking back at my life and some of the mistakes I've made causes me to shake my head in amazement.  What was I thinking?   Would I make those same mistakes again?  Heck no, I'll make new ones.  :)  Mistakes are lessons, but that does not mean that everyone will learn from their mistakes or own them.  Plus, there are those who don't see their mistakes as mistakes, so those folks will never learn.

Our dogs make mistakes regularly, just like us.  They are given reactions to their actions and like us; some will learn, others will not.  Dogs use feedback to learn; it is all about association.  Jump up onto the counter and grab some turkey while no one is watching, score.  Lesson learned.  Do it and receive an serious HEYYYY!!!!! and learn what the mistake was.  But then you must go further in the education of counters and seem to be absent; hiding around a corner and then deliver feedback when your dog thinks that the coast is clear.  Dogs learn much more easily than we do and they don't point fingers.

I blog, post and write; I share my opinion on many things canine and more.  This of course opens up the chance for people to dive on me, point fingers and pull out their soap boxes to declare me wrong.  That is fine, I have my opinion and you all have yours.  What bothers me is when people go on the attack.  They read or see something they don't like or don't agree with and go off the deep end about it.  I have learned to let those folks rant, arm flail, name call and throw a fit all on their own.  I will only reply to these sort if they personally attack me, my friends or family.  (That includes my wonderful FB groups)  Typically these folks show their true colors all on their own and people others will sidestep around them from that point on. 

I know when I am contacted by someone who is "one of these" I will end it short or cut off contact immediately. Know it all folks are always behind attacks on others.  So there is no point in trying to discuss anything with a no it all; because they already know everything and cannot learn one minute new piece of information.  Everyone makes mistakes; what you do with that mistake is the important part. 

Dogs make mistakes like us, but they forgive both other dogs and us for making them and move on.  Why do some people like to focus on other's mistakes?  They grab them and make a run for it without considering that everyone makes mistakes throughout their life?  All they know is that they are going to right the world. 

Mistakes are lessons, that is if you learn from them.  We all make them and if you think that you don't, that my friend is a mistake. 

Life is an evolution of oneself, through life lessons and yes, mistakes. 

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Little furry humans?

In the raw and gorgeous

Nope, our dogs are not little furry humans but many people sure treat them as such.  Dressing them up and creating the idea that their dog actually talks seems to be all the rage.  There are advertisements and movies that feature talking dogs.  I am not a fan of talking dogs or having dogs dressed up.  It is my opinion that dogs are amazing as dogs and I do not feel that they need to be transformed or thought of like us to be any more wonderful than they already are.  I want to know more about dogs as dogs; their behavior and everything about them fascinates me.

Social media seems to have transformed many canines into little talking furry humans.  So why is it that we feel we need to give our dogs a human voice?  Dogs can talk, but it is not like we humans do; the have their own language and it is quite fascinating if you take the time to learn about it.  They can communicate far better than we can in many circumstances and have the ability to tell it like it is.  They most definitely do not need us putting words in their mouth.

What about fashion?  Those who dress their dogs as little furry humans.  Nope, dogs don't need a wardrobe.  Although I do believe that they need clothing when they are cold or to protect them from the elements.  Luke has a pair of pajamas that he wears when the tempts drop down low overnight.  Yes, it is our job to make sure that they are warm and comfortable; but dressed when they go out for the sake of fashion?  No. 

Humans seem to enjoy creating a human like image on many different animals, not only dogs.  I don't get the need to dress dogs like humans.  I adore dogs as dogs and don't think they need to resemble us at all to make them any more appealing.  Many of the smallest of breeds and mixes are the ones who get dressed most often.  Is this because we see them as adorable tiny little things made even cuter by dressing them up? 

BBC article - Why humans dress up their dogs.

I feel the same when it comes to photography; I like dogs in the raw.  I do not use gimmicks, accessories or props when shooting dogs.  They are amazing in their own right without anything man made added.  As far as talking?  No, I am not a fan of "talking dogs" for the simple fact that they do not talk as a human.  They talk dog and it is nothing like the way we talk, so let's allow them to be a dog and we can adore them as such.  

Shock collars, yes or no?

                                
                                                   Their lives are in our hands, to protect. 

A shock collar study showed up on my Facebook feed; so I thought I'd share it for those who might be interested in reading it as well.  The test was small and has left many people needing more definitive results.  Shock collars are used for many different things; outdoor perimeter, barking, general training and high level intense training. 

Shock collar test - Is it okay to use a Shock Collar?

In my opinion do we really need tests to know whether or not a shock collar should be used on a dog?   There are those of us who would never resort to strapping an electric shock collar on a dog and those who think nothing of it.  So perhaps a test is needed to scientifically prove that we should not zap our dogs is required. 

Shock collars are commonly used on hunting and police dogs.  The shock comes from a manual switch that is used by the handler.  These dogs are often in a state of high arousal or drive which is why the handler feels the need for a shock collar.  Push a dog to the point of no return and then zap them to bring them down again.  But not everyone uses shock collars for these dogs; there are many amazing dogs who have been trained without them.  In my opinion these dogs who are trained without a shock collar are much more reliable; due to the fact that they listen rather than wait to be shocked.

When we moved to Connecticut we soon discovered that the use of shock collars was the way that people kept their dogs on their property.  Almost no one had an actual physical fence; they relied on the electronic fences.  I was shocked to see how it had become the thing to do and that so many people just complied.  The invisible wire that is underground is where the shock is triggered.  The owner does not need to be present for the shock to happen.   

There were a few people who obviously were not okay with having their dog zapped or relying on a shock to keep their dog safe.  Those people had erected a fence around a backyard which kept their dog inside, lucky dog. The whole 'no fence' thing had me so puzzled.  There was a huge tick problem in CT; so keeping the deer out of your yard would be a good thing.  We had no fence around the rental house that we rented but we did put up a small fenced area so that the dogs could go out without being on leash.  The deer were free to come and go anywhere else on the yard and bring ticks with them.  It made no sense at all.  Sure deer can jump fences but they will walk around one before jumping one. 

The question remains; should a shock collar ever be used?  Perhaps if a dog is to be euthanized; then and only it may be the only way to save a dog.  But quality of life is so very important in dogs; being shocked constantly is in no way, quality of life, it is simply life at that point.  So it would really depend on the severity of the behavior issue and what the collar would be used for.   If the issue is that the dog is dangerous to others, so much so that a shock collar is needed; then we rely on the human to be there 100% of the time to save others from the said dog.  That is another debate altogether. 


The Shocking truth - from APBC

Hollys Den - Why you should just say no to shock collars.


As far as I am concerned, the use of a shock collar in training is a big NO.  There is no need for tests for me to know what is right and wrong as far as inflicting shocks to our canine companions. 

Five words - who is your dog?

              Five words is tough, but a picture is worth a thousand.  At the park with Elsa yesterday. 

If I asked you to describe your dog to me in just five words, could you?  Only five single words, could you give me a good idea of who your dog is?  I thought about this for a long time myself and considered what words would best describe Luke and Elsa so that you could really get an idea of who they are.  Of course those of you who are on my Facebook groups or instagram, probably already have a idea because you see them constantly.  ;)

Luke - Funny, focused, devoted, emotional and heart.

Dogs change throughout their life, much like we do.  As they age they often mellow.  Five years ago I might have changed a word or two for Luke.  Things that use to be important to him are no longer a concern; he enjoys the simple things in life, like we all should.  When you look through the eyes of an old dog; life becomes quite clear. 

Elsa - Enthusiastic, intense, brainiac, loving, joy

Elsa has been Elsa since the moment we met.  She came out of her crate at the airport ready to take on the world with an exuberance for life that is amazing.  I sat and looked at the five words for a long time; changed a few and stared some more.

It is not always easy to describe something with just a few words.  Sadly I know some people couldn't come up with even one as their dog is simply that, a dog.  But when you have 'that' connection; the kind that we can all achieve with our dog, you can do it.  It might take a bit to think of only five words; it is hard sifting through all the words that could describe your dog.  I could go on forever about both Luke and Elsa; both are very individual and distinct. 

All dogs are individual, how many times have I said this over the years in my blogs?  As a whole dogs are simple yet complicated.  Once you know how dog's think, it becomes simple to figure them out.  Although the deeper you get with your dog the more complications you find.  Complications come with their individuality; they are all extremely interesting creatures.

Tell me who your dog is, only five words. 

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Stress effects

                                                      Even fun can be stressful if there is too much. 

Stress is a huge part of day to day life.  Humans deal with stress in their own individual way as do our dogs.  All dogs are different so what one dog considers to be a stressful event, another will not.  Even when they are put into a stressful situation; they will all deal and suffer different levels stress itself.  Stress is not a good thing.  A dog's body can deal with small amounts of stress and move on past it but if there is too much stress for too long, it can be detrimental. 

Psychology today - The effect of training methods on stress levels in dogs.

There are many causes of stress in life.  Training can offer a stress response; I have witnessed dogs repeatedly squat in attempts of appeasing a human.  The dog who is trying to continual submit is in a highly stressed state.  This triggers a huge stress response in the body.  Going to the dog park can be a very stressful event; too many dogs or too much interaction.  Many dogs do not like dog park situation even though their owners drag them to the dog park every day.  They may seem okay with the whole thing until someone in the know observes them. 

Too much highly intense activity can trigger stress.  A dog that is continually "on" will suffer stress.  Some dogs are stressed by simple day to day activities; many rescues fall into this category.  They may have lead a sheltered life; received very little early socialization so dealing with the day to day is stressful without any huge stress triggers. 

A Veterinarian visit can cause a huge amount of stress.  So what can we do to help our dogs?  Get into your zen zone and stay with your dog for as long as you can.  Stay calm, the calmer you are the more your dog can stay calm themselves.  All Veterinarian facilities are different, find one that will offer what you feels comfortable with; one that focuses on your dogs needs. 

Whole Dog Journal - Easing your dog's stress

Stress can be created by a new environment, too much anticipation, over exercise, over stimulus, fear and many other different things.  It all depends on the dog; that is what we need to clearly understand, no two are alike.  

Down time is huge for dogs.  I remember when we moved to the house in CT for several months a couple of years ago.  The house was filled with floor to ceiling windows where Elsa could see squirrels all day long.  I literally had to put her away for naps throughout the day due to the ability to watch them.  She needed downtime and was unable to get any with the squirrels running about within her vision.  Without the physical removal of her from the prey trigger, she would become wired and out of control.  She was unable to rest which caused her body to stress.  So I had to take her away from it.  Being "on" all the time is very stressful. 

Moderation is important; the "more is better" is not always true.  Often more is too much.  Watch your dog, know your dog, so that you can see the small signs of stress.  Remember downtime is essential; your dog may need a little or a lot of downtime.  We often push our dogs thinking "this will be fun," but is your dog having fun? 

Veterinarian office etiquette

Zen

I am off to the Vets with Luke again this morning. Just thinking about going and sitting in the waiting room has me going over strategy to keep Luke as calm, comfortable and relaxed as possible.  It truly amazes me while I am there.  Etiquette people, all should know how to act appropriately at the vets office.  

_________________________________

I was growing angrier by he minute; as each person entered the waiting room, I sat astonished by their inability to read the situation.  I had chosen a strategic spot for Luke and I to sit where he would have to walk on the slippery floor for the shortest amount of time.  It was a lot for him to just stand and wait for his appointment; let alone deal with the stress on the slick surface he had to stand on.  I try my best to be "zen" at the Vets., it does no good to try to soothe a dog, you must be what you want your dog to be.  Unfortunately, each person who entered the room allowed their dog to go to the end of their leash; many were extension leashes. (Honestly!!!) The dog wandered just inches from the other dogs and Luke.

When you are at the Vets., you will see a great deal of high stressed dogs.  Most don't like the Vets; Luke does not but at fourteen he's pretty calm about the whole thing.  But he didn't use to be, he use to turn into Cujo; growling at anyone who came his way in attempts to keep them all away.  Once a dog has been left alone at a Vets., their behavior is forever changed after that point in time.  So it goes without saying that going back to the place that has such bad memories puts them into a state of stress.  When a dog is stressed it is extremely important to remain calm and attempt to minimize further stress. 

When someone walks into the Vets. with a dog on the end of a long leash, they are not considering anyone else.  They are at that point, what I call mindless.  Think people!!!!  Should you have your dog wandering around saying "hi" to everyone without knowing or caring how the other dogs are feeling?  NO, NO, NO!!  As you walk into the vets office, look around.  Do a visual scan of who is in the office and where you might sit quietly.  I do this all the time but sadly I cannot control other people (although I do a pretty good job at throwing dagger stares).  

Out of control dogs need to be controlled and that means on a VERY short leash.  NO, I do not want your dog talking to my dog at the Vets.  It is not a social visit; not unless I am sitting without my dog and will chat about other dogs.  But as far as a free for all party social for the dogs, NO.  Enter calmly and keep your dog close.  When you sit down, keep your dog close.  Stress levels are high at the Vets and even the most friendly of dog can lash out when stressed.  Think, consider others.  

Extension leashes should truly be banned. Those who use them are typically the people who should never use them.  The Vets. office is definitely not a place for an extension leash.  Keep your dog with you, in your own private circle and do not allow them to muck about.  Many people at the Vets are there for very sad reasons; some dogs are very sick while others are just freaked out.  

Get your zen on and bring your dog in your zen zone with you.  Once you are done, paid and out of the building you can then go back to life as normal.  

Leave a comment, I love to hear from ya.

Breeding facility?

First let me say that this blog has nothing to do with rescuing dogs.  If you rescued your dogs; then I say wonderful.  Rescuing a dog and sharing your life with them is amazing.  But would you rescue a dog and put her in a kennel to live?  Doubtful.  If you purchase a dog from a miller or facility breeder, you are not rescuing a dog.  You are putting money into the hand of someone who continues to pump out dogs.  This is about purchasing a puppy, and where not to.

A breeding facility, what does that bring to mind?  Herds and livestock, not dogs. 

Facility - Something designed, built, installed, etc. to serve a specific function affording a convenience or service.  Something that permits the easier performance of an action.

The term breeding facility is a way of distancing oneself from the title - Puppy Miller.  These so called "facilities" are a huge part of the reason why shelters and rescues are being filled up, just like the puppy millers.  Oh yes, they may be clean and fancy but they are pumping out puppies and selling them to anyone who has the money to buy their goods.  Think assembly line. 

PLEASE - do not buy dogs from people who do not have their dogs living in their home as family members.  Puppies should be born and raised in a home, not a kennel or facility. 

Breeding dogs should be a family affair; not something that is done by mass.  When a breeder has a couple of dogs who are all health and temperament tested then one or two litters a year is what should be expected.  As soon as it is done 'facility' style, things go big and it becomes more about how many than how good.  It goes without saying that the more dogs you have the more work needs to be done.  Well, if you get too many dogs that you see the need to kennel them all?  Have a breeding facility?  You've crossed the ethical line into mass producer.

Dogs are not large animals like cows or horses that need to be stabled in a separate barn.  Dogs deserve to be in a home and not used solely as breed stock.  Living in a kennel is no life for a dog; add to that many are bred and raise their puppies in a kennel environment, sad.  First and foremost a dog should be a companion.  If they turn out structurally sound, health tested clear and mentally sound then breeding may be a good idea.  But that does not mean that all of a sudden they become livestock.

Many wonderful breeders that I know have puppies in their living room, bedroom or kitchen.  The puppies have around the clock attention and are given every chance in life to thrive.  Having puppies in your home as part of the family is how it should be done.  Doing it on a bigger scale only means selling more puppies.  Greed often gets in the way of compassion and doing what is right.  What happens then is the mass producer becomes less strict about who can buy a puppy.  Soon they have so many puppies that anyone with enough money can have one.  They don't see a problem, it's all working out for them financially.  But is it right?  No.  Not in my opinion.

Now before you all get in a flap, read the blog.  I am talking about giving your money to someone who mass produces puppies vs. someone who does it right.  Many really great breeders only have a litter or two a year; some only have a litter every couple of years.   Typically they have a waiting list and many puppies are sold before they are even born.  Consider those kenneled dogs at night, when they go to sleep; they are not snuggled up to their human or their canine companion, no they are snuggled up to a block wall or chain link.  They are penned in their housing; there for a money making endeavor.   Their lives are not shared with the humans in their life.  They may have fleeting times when they are out running around but they are not true companions as every dog deserves to be.

I do not breed dogs and I have no intention of ever breeding dogs.  But I know that if I did, there would be a pile of puppies in my living room; not out back in a 'dog facility.'  They would be sharing my life as I share theirs, together.

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Thanksgiving

                                                From our home to yours, Happy Thanksgiving. 

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day which as we all know is the kick off to the Christmas season.  Thanksgiving day and the season to follow can be taxing on our dogs.  We may be heading off and leaving them at home; or having a houseful of guests that they are not use to.  No matter what you are doing for Thanksgiving, make sure to consider your dog/dogs.  Hustle and bustle can lead to stress in humans and canines alike.  Take extra time to make sure that your dog has a great day along with the rest of the family and your friends.

-  Make sure to fit in exercise.

-  Have a place where your dog can slip away for some quiet time and rest.

-  Watch what your dog is eating (handouts from guests).

-  Turkey yes, stuffing, gravy and trimming.....no.  If you feed strictly kibble, a few pieces of turkey is more than enough.  I got a big turkey so that Luke and Elsa will have lots of leftovers :) 

-  Watch your dog closely while guests are coming and going.

-  Stress is bad for us and our dogs, try to have a relaxing and thankful day. 


Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Welcome the season. 

Public friendly dog and guardian

 

Play invitation...waiting for a reply.  Etiquette.

 

I cannot believe how many people just don't understand what having dogs means.  So many people ruin it for the rest of us; those who just go through their day to day without considering others.  That is the biggy here; CONSIDER OTHERS.  Yes you love your dog, yes your dog is the greatest dog in the world, but not everyone feels that way.  Some people are not dogs fans (gasp!!!), others might be afraid of dogs, some people may like their dog but not yours, while others may have dogs that do not want to interact with your dog.  Okay here goes.

-  Pick up your dog's poop.  Do not turn around and pretend that you don't see her pooping.  Be prepared, carry bags with you at all times.

-  Do not have your dog off leash in public areas if there is ANYONE else around.  Even when you trust your dog to be friendly, other people and dogs may not be.  CONSIDER OTHERS.

-  Rein your dog in when passing by other dogs or people.  This one drives me CRAZY.  I love to walk in very public areas and am always astounded by the rudeness of other people.  They let their dog wander to the end of the 'extension leash' with no regard to the other people and dogs around. Teach your dog to walk comfortably by your side for when they need to be close to you.

-  Do not allow your dog to interact with others unless they are specifically invited to do so.  Assuming that all dogs want to meet and talk to your dog is not wise.  So many people just walk right up, head on to other dogs without knowing the least bit about the dog they are approaching.  Do not interact unless both parties have given the okay to do so. 

-  Teach your dog to mind their own business, not all people with dogs want to interact. 

-  DO NOT take other people's word that they dog is friendly.  Learn to read body language.  In general people do not know whether or not their dog wants to interact or not. 

-  DO NOT take your dog into public where dogs are not suppose to be. 

-  DO NOT slap a red vest on your dog and pretend that it is a service dog.  This is becoming far too common and it is very uncool for those who have real service dogs.

-  Train your dog.

-  If your dog has behavior issues in public, address them.

-  DO NOT groom your dog and leave a massive pile of hair in the middle of the park.  (Gross, I hate this)

- If you cannot control your dog when in public; either don't be in public or go to training and learn how to do so. 

The other day while I was walking at the harbor with a friend; I could see a couple up ahead of us with three terriers with their leashes dropped.  Knowing terriers, I veered off quite a distance to give us some reaction room.  Sure enough one of the terriers spotted Elsa and headed our way.  I told the owner that Elsa was not small dog friendly (she has been snapped and lunged at too many times) knowing full well that the dog would most likely lunge at her.  The owner replied "no he's not friendly either" as she allowed him to continue, really?  Lucky for him he stopped at my friends dog who is not bothered by small dogs attacking him.  The terrier did what I thought he would while the owner tried frantically to grab his leash.  This is what I am seeing more and more on my walks.

 It is sad that humans just don't get it.  Yes your dog is wonderful, in fact the best dog in the world; but not everyone thinks the same way that you do.  Be polite and CONSIDER OTHERS. 

This is just a very small list, I could go on forever. 

LEAVE ME A COMMENT, LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU. 

Weekend grooming

Saturday morning I decided that it was grooming day.  Having helped a friend with home grooming earlier in the week, I felt inspired.  I decided to take some of Luke's coat off first as it is easier for him if he has less hair to wash and dry.  So with my 3/4" blade I took off some bulk.  I considered what order I wanted to groom.  Bathe both dogs, dry and then groom?  Or bathe Elsa, get her done and then do Luke.  Hmmmmmm? 

First I wanted to get my equipment out and would then decide on order.  I ran downstairs to grab my dryer and a couple of towels when I spotted the bone sheet.  I had completely forgotten that I'd taken bones out the day before and planned on doing bones.  I thought for a moment and realized that it was stupid to do bath day before bone day.  So I grabbed the bone sheet, dryer and towels and head outside.  Elsa is so unbelievably smart that I confused her by what was in my hands.  She knows what the dryer means and backed away but then she saw the bone sheet.  Luke was spinning around because he saw the bone sheet and didn't care about the dryer; even though he always runs away when it is dry time.  Elsa was puzzled, she stood far away and watched. 

 

I put the dryer down around the corner and left it there.  Then prepared the bone area; Elsa knew then that it was bone time and forgot about the dryer.  Even though both Luke and Elsa are very clean about their bone chewing; they of course get some stuff on them during the chew.  They had their bones and then it was into the shower for Elsa first.  I decided that I would bathe and groom her first and let Luke rest.  When it got warmer in the afternoon I'd attend to him.   Just a bath and dry and save the trimming for the next day.  Luke has a very difficult time standing now so he is groomed in bits and pieces so that he remains comfortable with it all.

Elsa is so good about having a bath.  She knows well before I tell her that it is bath time and sinks a bit.  She goes upstairs and all the way to the bathroom door before putting her brakes on.  Then she just needs a little shove to get her the rest of the way.  Into the shower we go; cotton balls placed into her ears to protect them from water and she has her shower.  Once she's done it's out to the balcony for a huge shake off; then downstairs and outside for a post bath zoom.  She has a bit of time to dry in the sun and finish up with my forced air dryer which makes trimming a whole lot easier.

She wasn't really long or unruly so it was a quick clean up for her.  I used my 3 3/4 blade, back and forth, back and forth until she resembled velvet.  I love the softness of her coat after a fresh trim.  She is like a giant plush teddy bear; and like a teddy bear, I could cuddle her all night long.  So Elsa was complete and looking beautiful, Luke's turn.

Luke had his bath; he is also very good and goes in without a fight.  A few brake moments but nothing big.  I have to say that it was sad soaking him down and seeing his small frame; he seems like a small dog now.  He has lost weight and his loss of muscle loss is a bit shocking; especially compared to Elsa who is so beefy and well muscled.  Luke also goes out to the balcony for his first shake off and towel rub down which I'm sure feels wonderful.  Then like Elsa he was set outside in the sun to start drying and the rest was done with my dryer.  

The rest of Luke's haircut was saved for Sunday.  Having a bath and being dried is big when you are a frail fourteen year old.  So on Sunday morning after Elsa and I returned from our walk it was time to shave Luke's body.  I knelt on the ground and he stood.  I wish I could lie Luke down on the table but he hates it so, he has to stand.  It didn't take long but long enough for an old man.  Back legs were done in the afternoon and the front legs will wait until this afternoon.  Then he will be done for another good long while.  He looks great and I know he feels great.  

 

Finally it is here!!!!

 

Feedback for you and your dog. 

For many years I have been working on a new puppy training book.  Over the years it has evolved a great deal; things I wanted to include in a 'first' how to book changed.  What I wanted to give new puppy owners is a book of answers to the most common questions I received while working with my clients and their puppies.  For many new puppy guardians, taking the step into the dog world is confusing.  My book clears much of the confusion up and gives a precise way to deal with many of the issues that your puppy will throw at you. 

Having worked with so many new puppy guardians and understanding their need for quick answers; the book is written to deliver this.  Each chapter starts with a quickie version; for those times when you need an answer and need it fast.  Then each quickie version is followed up with a longer, full explanation.  There is far more to getting a puppy than just paying for them and bringing them home.  Educating and guiding them through the first weeks and months is so important in how they deal with the rest of their life; your life together. 

I love to write and I love to help others to better understand how to coexist with their dog in a more harmonious way.  After all this world of ours is geared around humans; it is up to us to teach our dogs how to live in it so that they can thrive and enjoy.  I am very excited to have completed this first step dog book; now onto the next.  Enjoy!

A new friend

Yogi checking out Luke with Elsa in the forefront trying to entice play.  :)

The day finally arrived when Elsa would meet Yogi,  (previously Simba) Lucy's little brother.  Lucy is Elsa's good friend, they have been friends since Elsa was little.  Lucy comes over regularly for play days but this time it was the little mans turn.  Yogi is four and a half months old and as cute as all get out.  I was so curious as to how this would play out with Elsa.  The last time Lucy came over to our house; Yogi had been added to Lucy's family.  When Lucy arrived. Elsa had stopped dead in her tracks to sniff the new smells that Lucy had carried with her.  So Elsa had already got a whiff of Yogi.

Obviously Elsa would think that it was Lucy at first, but for how long?  How long would it take her to feel like he was a friend?  I was very interested in the logistics of it all.  So yesterday was the day; Mr. Yogi arrived and I told Elsa that Yogi was coming over.  Being that she had never heard the name before; she was excited by the "someone's coming over" part but not the name.  You could see the difference just by the fact that she didn't know the name that I was saying.  

Yogi and his Mom walked into the backyard; but Luke and Elsa had gone inside to see who was coming.  So I had to let them out of the kitchen to see him.  Elsa was already excited just because she knew someone was coming over.  What a girl.  I released the hounds and they pounced him.  It is a lot for a little guy; a new place with two big dogs charging you.  Yogi slunk a little but not much, he's a pretty confident guy.  Elsa sniffed him like crazy; she wasn't sure about this guy who looked like Lucy but wasn't.  You could see the confusion and figuring out process.  He was there with Lucy's Mom who Elsa loves so he had to be pretty good.  

It didn't take more than a minute for Elsa to be convinced that he would be a satisfactory substitute for Lucy.  Yogi took about the same amount of time and began a game of chase right away.  He was drawn to Luke as many puppies are for a bit but soon discovered who the "play" dog was.  

It was a great play date and extremely good for Yogi to do without his big sister along.  He will be back next week for more play and I can guarantee when I tell Elsa that 'Yogi' is coming over, she will be very excited.

Luke is very patient.

Checking out Luke.

Elsa's tries every tactic and toy to entice play.  She ADORES playing with friends.

Elsa's body language screams 'having fun.'

Tails are so important. 

Yogi is a very confident little man.

I love this shot of Elsa, she is so freaking agile.  Her drink of water flying out of her mouth.

Honestly!  Handsome little devil.  

Didn't take much to tucker him out.  

Yogi sniffing Luke with Elsa watching closely.  If Luke gets annoyed she will get Yogi away, it's what she does to take care of Luke.  

 

 

LEAVE ME A COMMENT; I LOVE HEARING FROM YOU GUYS.

Two tired days

Luke followed us outside but slept as Elsa retrieved. 

Yesterday and the day before were the first days that I have ever been able to sneak away from Luke.  I got up from my desk glancing over to see if he was awake.  He was not, he was sound asleep with his little feet twitching.  I quietly walked out of the office and into my bedroom; then came back to check on him.  I don't want him going up and down stairs without assistance so if he is up I need to know.  Elsa and I headed downstairs where I had many things to do.  I kept an ear out to hear the sound of his feet up and in the hallway, nothing.  I have never in all of Luke's life been able to move without him following; these past two days are a first.

I remember leaving Tilley sound asleep in my office.  I could go out shopping for an hour and come back to her in the exact same place.  She never even knew that I was gone.  Old dogs need to sleep and there is nothing more peaceful than watching them do so.  But Luke has always been my shadow and his hearing is still pretty darn good as are his other senses.  I believe a big part of it is just that he feels me moving, even without hearing me.  I try to sneak so that he can have some uninterrupted sleep when I need to move around.  Walking without creaking is not easy; either the floor creaks, I creak or my chair creaks. 

Of course Elsa is on it; I imagine I'll have the same thing with her unless she totally looses her hearing as she grows old.  Her sense of my whereabouts is scary.  I cannot even move my chair in the office without her in the ready.  Elsa and I are joined; where I go, she goes.   Where I sit she sits and where I sleep she sleeps; even  more so than Luke and I.  Not all dogs follow so intensely.  Tilley followed but nothing like Luke and Elsa.  Jessie followed more than Tilley but as she aged she would find a spot and rest her head until she was done.

Monday and Tuesday, Luke was very tired.  Not getting up and following, sleeping for hours at a time, deep sleep.  I love that my dogs follow me wherever I go; but now I want Luke to take what he needs.  He needs to sleep and following me around at 14 years of age is tough.  I have put a baby gate at the bottom of the stairs that go up to our bedroom and my office.  I often place it there when I'm running up and down.  This lets him know that I will be back and he cannot follow me.  I often come back down the stairs to find Luke and Elsa right behind the gate waiting.  But they are starting to get use to it now.

Life is ever changing but it seems like only yesterday that I was tip toeing away as Tilley and Jessie slept.  I would hand signal to Luke to come with me.  It is now Elsa who is reading sign language and following as Luke sleeps.  Life doesn't stop for anyone. 

Sleeping with dogs

Reasons why you SHOULD sleep with your dog.

 

Elsa this morning, making getting up a tough decision.

1.  The first and most important reason to sleep with your dog is that dogs naturally sleep with their pack.  No, you don't have to have them in your bed but they should be in your room.

2.  It is a great bonding time.

3.  Sleeping alone, away from the pack is sad for a dog.   They need to be with a pack member.

4.  Often the act of having your dog sleep in your bedroom with you says a lot about your relationship.

5.  They are snuggly to sleep with.

6.  It can be a time to build the who's who in your relationship.

7.  Some dogs should  never sleep on your bed but they should still sleep in your room. 

As we get older, the important things in life sometimes become clearer.  Sometimes because it doesn't always happen with everyone.  A close relationship with your dog is one of those things.  As the relationship grows so does the amazingness.  Dogs sleep together with their pack; just lie down anywhere on the floor and see what happens. 

Of course there are times when your dog/dogs cannot sleep in your room.  You may have too many dogs, be a really light sleeper or some other reason.   But if at all possible, before you close your bedroom door at night, make sure your pooch in there with you. 

 

A Retirement Party

I have been cooking and baking for a couple of days.  Yesterday was my Pet Sitters (Joan) retirement party at our house.  We had a celebration for an amazing woman; one who has taken care of my dogs for years.  She turned 80 this year at my house with Luke and Elsa to celebrate with.  When we left for our trip I left a bag full of chocolate for her to enjoy while I was gone for her Birthday.  She is one in a million.  Never in all the years that she has cared for my dogs, did I ever have a worry or concern when I am away.  I have been spoiled now for sure; having that type of care for your dogs is an amazing thing.  When you find someone that cares so much about your dogs, you want them to be available forever. 

Luke resting his head on Joan's lap.

                                            One hand opening gifts, the other on Luke.  Priceless. 

I'm sure that Luke and especially Elsa thought the party was for them.  Elsa was beyond excited; a house full of new throwers!!!!! She brought her ball to everyone and anyone who would throw.  Once it was put away she got another and then another until she'd run out of balls and started on her stuffed toys.  Luke made the rounds, he is so very social and loves having friends over.  

Joan has always described herself as "over the top," but over the top is what I want in a sitter.  I want someone to care for my dogs like their own, and more.  I do not want someone just popping in and checking that they are alive; I want compassion, love and real care given to my dogs.  Joan gave us this and more.  Joan sat for Jessie, Tilley and Luke and when that changed she welcomed Elsa to the family and cared for Luke and Elsa.  Most recently after Luke's bad fall; Joan cared for him while I had to be away.  I would have not gone if it were not for Joan.  She was there around the clock to care for my old man; it was all about Luke all weekend. 

So last night we celebrated a wonderful pet sitter, my pet sitter and the others who attended the party.  Joan LOVES chocolate so I made the party a chocolate theme.  We had pasta with chocolate, cocoa roasted brussell sprouts, chocolate dinner rolls, chocolate cheesecake and chocolate coconut cake.  We talked about all of our dogs and the years that Joan has cared for them.  She shared stories from over the years and her love and care for all of our dogs. 

When someone cares for your family like this; they are family themselves.  To the best pet sitter EVER; Joan, may you enjoy every moment of your retirement.  Of course petting and talking to as many dogs as you can.  We love you. 

Leave it, really leave it.

 

 

My voice rang out over the hush of the neighborhood.  It was early and as I let Luke and Elsa out for their morning pee, she spotted it first.  A rat was in our yard and probably suffering from the effects of poison.  The poison is not from me but I know that other people put out poison.  I was freaked out that she might touch it so screamed "leave it."  To my surprise, she did.  Oh it wasn't easy as she was in prey drive mode.  Her body was tense and ready.  I must have yelled five times; being afraid that she might actually grab it. 

Slowly she turned her head; she was still in prey mode.  I called her to go and pee which I never thought would happen with a rat sitting there.  Very methodically she tip toed away and onto the grass where I told her to "hurry up."  She did, and as she left the grass I motioned for her to go inside which she also did while her body and mind remained in the prey zone.  What a good girl, that is how a good "leave it" should look.  Of course it was much harder than most leave it exercises; this was nearly impossible to leave for her.  That along with the fact that she saw it before I did.  It is always much more difficult to stop a behavior once it in process. 

There are a few things that all dogs should understand.  Leave it needs to be taught and proofed.  That means you need to practice, practice, practice.  Not just under normal situations but weird places like at the park, with very high value items and when they don't expect it, not training time.  Clearly Elsa understood by my frantic tone of voice that I meant business, this was a very serious "leave it." 

Leave it is very strict in my house; each one of my dogs over the years has clearly understood that when something is dropped it is not a free for all.  Dropped things belong to me and if I don't say anything then they will eventually check it out.  I was cooking yesterday and dropped a mushroom; it was cooked in butter so Elsa probably would have eaten it.  If it was raw, she wouldn't touch it.  So as it fell I calmly said "leave it" and she did; then she was rewarded with a piece of meat for not touching the mushroom.  This was a much calmer "leave it" than with the rat. 

You should be able to ask for a "leave it" at a distance but this takes time.  I was quite far from Elsa and the rat when I belted it out.  A solid "leave it" means training and it means following up your verbal cue.  That means when you say it, mean it.  If you allow your dog to take something once you have told them to leave it then you are actually teaching them to disobey you.  Think about it. 

Parking lots

Across the country with my son and four dogs?   Not diving out when the hatch was open was essential. 

Walking towards the parking lot, I always stop and check.  Too many times the parking lot has been the place of a charge, unruly dogs or near miss.  People in general do not have control over their dogs; mix that with a parking lot and you've got a dangerous situation.  Guardians who allow their dog to dive out of a car unattended while they finish up whatever it is they are doing is a big mistake.  Don't do it.  One of these dogs charged my very old girl Tilley, knocking her to the ground.  Boy did I let that owner have it; she was at the receiving end of a grizzly bear guardian.  I hope that my words, posturing and demeanor moved her enough to change her ways. 

Owners who do not have control over their dog; allow them to jump out of their vehicle as soon as the door or hatch opens.  Not okay.  Teaching your dog to wait before exiting a vehicle is one of the most important things that you can teach then.  It is also important for everyone involved in your dogs life to do the same.  (consistency is a big problem)  Each time someone else in the family allows the dogs to dive out of the vehicle without any rules, they undo all your hard work (not mentioning any names). 

Another parking lot incident that we had was just a couple of weeks ago that I wrote about.  A woman who had her head stuck in her car while her very tall German Shepherd wandered around free.  Once he spotted us he picked up his pace heading our way.  The owner finally saw him and followed him along nonchalantly.  Not okay. 

Dogs running around parking lots unleashed are a danger to drivers, other dog owners and themselves.  It is just plain stupid. 

First, leash your dog/s as soon as you open the door/hatch.

Have them sit before they are told that they are allowed to get out; sitting makes things more official. 

Use the term wait and mean it. 

The only way that they get out is with their release word. 

If they do happen to get out before you say, get them back in and start over.  Do not allow them to enjoy a walk after breaking the rules. 

Proof your dog, use lots of words, arms swinging etc to be sure that they understand the only word that means they can get out. 

Practice, practice, practice, practice.

When you do drive into a parking lot, look around.  Scan the surroundings before letting your dog out.  I've been able to stop a problem from happening just by looking before leaping.  There are often unleashed dogs running around the parking lot at popular parks; leave your dogs in until that said dog is leashed.  I do not care how well trained your dog is, leash them for their own safety. 

You will never regret taking the time to teach your dog to wait until invited out.  I remember crossing the country with Jessie, Tilley, Luke and Elsa.  We had to make an emergency stop on the side of the highway and I was never so glad that they knew not to dive out of the car.  There are a few things that I am very serious about as far as training; boundaries is a biggy and that means your vehicle. 

Can you watch her?

We sat down to enjoy our Mexican food.  I hadn't had a chicken taco in a while and I was really looking forward to digging in.  The weather was beautiful; a bit warm but with a nearly hidden cool breeze hinting of cooler temperatures this week.  My husband and I sat outside on the patio as a gentleman walked by with his little minpin mix.  I said immediately "she looks older" as I noticed her cloudy eyes.  I am drawn to old dogs; there is something very special about them and their story.

The man tied her leash around a chair and noticed us looking at his little dog.  "Could you watch her while I go in?" he asked.  "Of course" we assured him.  He explained that he'd just be a minute so if we could just keep an eye on her.  We smiled and nodded "no problem."  As he opened the door he turned and asked "do you have dogs?"  I smiled thinking "do we have dogs?"  My husband let him know that we do indeed have dogs and the man smiled.  He'd given himself a little extra reassurance that his little girl would be fine under our watch.  Smart. 

I see dogs left out in public all the time.  Tied to a pole somewhere outside a store or restaurant and it actually horrifies me.   So many things can go wrong by leaving a dog just tied alone.  Someone can steal your dog; can you imagine if you came out and your dog was just gone?  What if someone walks up with a little child and the child hugs your dog tight?  What if your dog is not okay with strangers hugging them?  Anything can happen and you have left your dog tied, to deal with it.  Not okay, dogs should NEVER, EVER be tied to a post and left alone. 

This man was very wise to ask us to keep an eye on his dog.  Even though he could still see his little dog through the restaurant window, he added extra protection to had given her extra protection.   By asking us, he instilled a protective cloak over all of us; we felt like it was our job to watch and protect her.  He also had others watching her because of our discussion; everyone around was watching the little dog.  He had a patio full of volunteer watchers that he had unknowingly enlisted.  So when the door of the restaurant closed behind him and she started barking, no one minded.  Everyone was now involved in the watchful eye over her.  Smart. 

She soon stopped barking and just sat frozen; she wasn't taking her eyes off the door.  We ate our meal and watched her; no one was taking this little cutie, not under our watch.    He had asked the right people to watch his little dog; we would protect her like our own while she was under our watch.  He soon came out to her great joy.  He unhooked her leash and brought her to our table to thank us.  She was sweet and he shared her story.  He'd had her only four years; but in those four short years you could see the love and devotion shared between them.  She had been adopted from a hoarding situation where she had lived with  many other dogs who were all very overweight.  He told us how he'd got the weight off her and how they exercise together.  Her cloudy eyes were twelve years old; but if she remains healthy they have many years to share.  I told him "she's lucky to have found you" and he smiled saying "I'm the lucky one."  I love stories like this. 

They moved to a table further away and enjoyed their lunch together.  We finished our meal and said our good-byes as we head out.  I smiled at the connection they shared.  I love great dog relationships and stories. 

Rough night

I opened my eyes and tried to read the clock.  It took a minute as I focused on it across my bedroom.  2:38am.  Why was I awake?  Then I heard Luke stumbling around and jumped up to see where he was; he was standing in front of the door.  Funny how you just know when things are not right.  The smallest  noise that means Luke is up can wake me from a deep sleep.  I threw my covers off and grabbed my bathrobe before opening the door.  Luke had to go out and when he's in that frame of mind I have to get a hold of him.  Otherwise he will charge down the stairs without even giving it another thought; and he can't do that anymore.

I grabbed the hand towel that sits at the top of the stairs; and wrapped it around him quickly.  We ran down the stairs together with Elsa following.  Into the kitchen and out; but where was Elsa?  My house is all windows in the back so I looked out the kitchen door to see Elsa looking out the living room window, watching.  I called to her and she went out too; although she was back in a flash.  Luke was out a long time. 

This is becoming a more regular thing.  Finally he came back in and we all head up to bed again.  Unfortunately sleep was illusive for me as is customary these days as well.  So for two hours I lay there listening to Luke move around.  I'm not quite sure what the pacing is about.  He wants up on the bed; so he stands staring at me with his pleading eyes.  The bed has been off limits for a long time; unless it is morning and I am awake and watching.  He spends some time on the carpet; tries to fluff it for a while and then settles again.  He has a couple of drinks, looks outside and is on and off his bed again and again until hours later he settles for the night. 

He is always in the same place when I wake up each morning, his place.  He has his place in many different locations in the house.  His corner of the couch in the living room, his corner of the couch in the family room, his spot in my office and his corner in the bedroom.  The unsettling pacing is new; but it is also a symptom of liver disease.  Last Saturday, Sunday and Monday were bad nights; then he had two good nights until last night.  It is all about watching and figuring out what is okay and what is not at this point.  I fell asleep last night researching blood panels and results. 

I'm tired and no doubt Luke is tired as well.  But he'll have a chance to catch up on his rest today in one of "his" spots.  I feel like it was just yesterday that I was in the same place with Jessie and Tilley.  The sleepless nights of old dogs; I feel blessed to have had such old dogs to be sleepless with.  Early to bed tonight.   

Humans and communication

Communication - the imparting or interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs.

Every living thing communicates in their own way.  Some are better than others at the art of communication.  Have you ever tried to communicate with someone who offers the most minimal reply in their communications?  Could it even be considered communication when you have to work so hard to get it?  You want some feedback and it is literally like pulling teeth trying to get anything that you can use.  It is frustrating for us and frustrating for dogs.  I have often watched dogs in their daily life who receive little or no communications from their human guardian.  The dog may be wary, fearful, aggressive, overly bold, defiant etc. but they receive no feedback.  What a horrible thing for a dog. 

Life is all about communicating with others.  Communicating with our dogs should be an ongoing and never ending process.  The fact that humans communicate little with their body and more with words is already a handicap in the dog world.  Can we learn to communicate through body language for our dogs?  Most definitely.  Of course how well you communicate will be determined by how much you watch and are aware.  Throwing out meaningless communications are just as bad as not communicating at all.  When you learn to communicate with your dog in silence, it is a beautiful thing. 

I use body language a great deal with dogs; both with my own and others.  Dogs 'get' body language communications very quickly; it is a quick and easy way to send a message. ie.  Luke has taken up a new favorite spot in the last couple of weeks.  I think it is because he wants to know where I am at all times.  The spot is directly in the path for me going up or down stairs.  This means that he will know when I am moving and can follow.  But he is very old and I do not want him getting up every time that I have to run upstairs to grab something.  So when I approach his 'spot' I change my body posture to let him know that I am coming right back.  I lower my posture and turn slightly so he understands that I am saying something and put my hand out.  This is all it takes for him to know that he does not have to get up and I can run upstairs and back down; without him struggling to get to his feet for nothing. 

I am very much a 'need to know' type of person.  It drives me mad when I want information that is not given to me.  This can be the result of a lack of communication.  There are good communicators and bad communicators.   Communication is about sharing information; but just because someone talks a lot does not mean that they are a good communicator.  Often the more that is said the less is communicated.   In the human world we have speech; our words can say a lot but the lack of words can as well.  We also have reading between the lines; do you get what someone says when they don't actually say it?  When we communicate through text, email or IM; much is lost because we have a lack of tone in our voice and the absence of visual body language.  People often misinterpret what I say in an email or text because this important part of communicating is missing. 

Communicating is so very important in our day to day.  When there is a lack of communication or poor communication, much is lost in the sharing of information.  Our dogs can grow frustrated with no communication just like we humans do.  Watch, listen, share and give feedback.