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   Another fun day with Tulip and Mac!  

Too Many Lost Dogs

So many lost dog posts on Facebook. Here's a couple tips on preventing it. First periodically check your fence for weak spots. I always look out after a big storm before my dogs go out to be sure the fence isn't compromised by a fallen tree or branch. Next, unless your dog has perfect RECALL, don't trust it out without a fence or leash. It just takes one pesky squirrel to send some dogs chasing. Third, be sure your collar/leash is secure. A loose fitting collar or harness has been the demise of more than one dog. Fourth, keep on eye on your dog outside even in a fenced yard. A careless maintenance person can leave a gate open and there goes your dog. And you know what I'm going to say next: training, training, training. Teach emergency recalls, distance downs, emergency stops, wait at the door, come when called, attention and focus. They can all save your dog's life and prevent them from being the next LOST DOG poster child. Do it today!!!

What Training is

Training your dog is a bonding experience. It's learning all about your dog and your dog about you. It's communication between species. And a relationship builder. I consider it fun. An adventure. Last night in class we had a new husky/shepherd mix. Totally lovable but totally untrained. A blank slate. His owner struggled because he is so strong. But she never once looked mad or hopeless. She'll be back next week. I'm sure. She's committed and she will know this dog on such a close level. Folks that send their dog away won't get that experience. They don't get it, that it is a relationship, an adventure and a privilege. I see my folks in class grow each week, more and more in love with their dog. Their dog pays more and more attention to them and their relationship blossoms. Our pack walk last night was so much fun. We had 8 dogs walking in a pack in the park with their owners. One better than the next. It was awesome.

Different Expectations, Different Perspectives

I have always had and have a wonderful relationship with my dogs based on respect, trust and love. I'm not a control freak. I don't want a zombie, robot dog that jumps in fear when I command him. I guess some folks do. Their dog will obey or else. Or else they will hurt them. Yank on the prong or choke collar, shock them, hit them. Always thinktheir dog is trying to get one over on them. I am sure dogs don't stay up late plotting how to take over your life. I don't think they'll be out driving your car anytime soon or out using your credit cards. Why do folks have to use such harsh methods? I just don't get it. Why is it SO important that your dog HEEL at your ankle always? I know they can't run amuk but why SO much control and SO much pain and harshness? My dogs can walk nice on a leash but we have fun. We work together. We are a team. I'm not going to hurt my teammate. That's not a team but dictatorship. And not the way I roll. EVER.

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   Sweet Garcia.  

Happy Friday!

Hope your week was great and that your weekend is even better. Tulip continues to be a joy to us all. Mac has never been happier. They are friends and playmates and it's so fun to watch them together. I think Mac's storm anxiety is made so much better by Tulip's calm presence. We all love her calm presence. Garcia my old guy is slowly going downhill. He will be 15 in a few weeks. Not sure he will make it there. Nothing in particular wrong but just nearing the end. Not eating much. Having a hard time getting around. I love Garcia. He is the last of the original hound pack: Tyler, Gable, Oreo and Garcia. He's a gentle soul with soulful eyes. I baby him so much now not knowing how long he'll be here. I'm keeping an eagle eye out for any pain or renal failure. I don't want him to suffer. Sweet Garcia.