Confident Canines

It is so important to practice behaviors in all enviorments. Phoebe is a pro at staying focused and rolling through even disruptions in training from other dogs. Know your pooch! Do not bring high value toys into the park (or use food rewards) unless you are prepared to not have them out when there are unknown dogs around. Hazel (the brown terrier) steals Phoebe's frisbee. I know this puppy and know it wont cause problems. Do not risk fights for the sake of dog park training!

Phoebe the service dog in training is learning a new task. She is taking me to the car on cue. We are in the beginnings of this behavior but I hope to have an update video soon for everyone.

If your dog is fearful or aggressive toward the vaccuum, practice removing them every time its in use. Reintroduction to it slowly with treats to creat a positive association will help with unplesant or fearful behavior. Start off just giving treats while bringing the vacuum in the room (a helper can be great! Someone holding the dog on lead and giving treats while you bring in the vacuum or vice versa) and gradually work on bringing it closer to the dog and moving it around... the room while its off. **If the dog seems scared you've gone too far! Keep them calm in the presence of the object at all times.** Add sound in the same room later. If the dog doesnt react in a different room give them a kong while you are actually vaccuuming (OR have someone play a fun game with them the entire time they can hear it!) Gradually decrease distance with noise on. The last step is putting it all together! Giving yourself and your dog some peace is easier than it seems! See more

Today we practiced our vet manners! Fiona had an appointment and behaved beautifully. She sat nicely, preformed behaviors when asked to, and allowed the vet to handle her easily. Is your dog nervous or fearful at the vet? Here are some tips and tricks to help them! -Nervous small dogs that are crate trained will probably be more comfortable in their crate with a nice chew. This helps prevent contact with other animals who might frighten them and helps them relax before havi...ng to deal with the exam. Larger dogs can wait in the car with a person and a nice snack as well if waiting in the building is over stimulating. -Bringing treats for everyone to give your pooch helps enhance their experience and make it positive. -training and practicing the types of handling done at the vet's office at home will help reduce fear and negative responses during exams -DONT BE AFRAID TO MUZZLE TRAIN. Muzzles keep everyone safe, but if your dog needs to be muzzled and doesnt like it, muzzle training at home can help everyone feel safer and keep your pooch from stressing out. -Ask your vet if you can make a trip in to just hang out in the waiting area. Visiting with the staff, practicing obedience and listening skills in your vet office will help to make this place more fun for your dog. Trainers like myself would love to help your nervous or ill behaved dog learn how to be comfortable in a place thats rather scary for a lot of dogs. Ask us if we are willing to come along or watch videos to help you address problems and create a plan to help you and your dog. See more

An innocent chip bag can pose a serious threat to a curious pet. Please help spread the word! http://www.preventivevet.com/pet-suffocation-infographic #petsuffocationawarenessweek