Spokesdog's Canine Couch
A journey about dogs and their people by Diane Rich
Saying “Hi”
I do not recall the last time I was working with a client in real world situations or walking my own dog without running into one of the following 5 dog owners :
1. My dog is friendly
The flexi leash is released to its full extension and dog is allowed to pull the owner towards the victim no matter the response from the other dog owner asking for distance
2. Public Dog Trainer
If the invitation to meet and greet is denied, the public dog trainer gives unsolicited advice on the need for socialization and that their dog is the perfect candidate for this interaction
3. It’s not me it’s You
Owner brings their dog up to the unfamiliar dog to “say hi” without asking and unfamiliar dog snaps or growls at the intruder. The “it’s not me it’s you owner states, “you’re dog is aggressive!”
4. I don’t know if my dog’s friendly I just adopted him yesterday
Owner brings newly adopted dog to dog park to “socialize” with other dogs “just to see” how s/he does at the expense of the other dogs
5. That’s What dogs do
Owner defends their dog’s behavior no matter how inappropriate
Woof,
Diane Rich
Diane Rich Dog Training, LLC
http://www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
http://www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Do You Own One of Those Breeds?
Staffordshire Bull Terrier, one of the Bully breeds.
cDiane Rich 2012
Do you or friends you know cross the street or take your dog out of the dog park when you see a Pit Bull, other bully breeds, Doberman, Shepherd or Rottweiler come near? If you own one of those breeds have you stepped up to train and socialize your dog in the real world?
photo courtesy of Mel and J Debruler.
Their male Rottie and grandchild
Years ago the public viewed German Shepherds and Dobermans as the breeds that would strike concern or fear if viewed in public. Then, in the late 80’s and 90’s Rottweilers had a surge of popularity and bumped those two breeds out of that spot. Now of course the Pit Bull has taken that number one position.
cDiane Rich 2012
Usually when walking one of “those” breeds on city streets or trails and within earshot of an onlooker or brave passerby, one may hear someone mutter words such as aggressive, mean, vicious. Sometimes the words are not muttered under their breath but spoken directly to the owner. Or you may just hear the sound of someone’s footsteps running the other way.
There are breed bans in some zip codes where one cannot own a Pit Bull or any breed in that family. There are bans and restrictions on dog owners trying to rent an apartment or condo advertised as a dog friendly rental property. Even some “dog friendly” vacation rentals won’t allow certain breeds on site. A few insurance companies have a hit list of breeds that won’t be covered should there be a claim.
Responsible and knowledgeable pet parents know when there is a news story about dogs on the rampage attacking people and other pets, the breed will be blamed even though it is the fault of the owner. The dogs may have been dumped somewhere, homeless dogs may pack up with other unwanted dogs, neighborhood dogs may be allowed to roam free, a dog may have escaped from their imprisoned life chained to a tree, post or dog house and undervalued, ignored, abused, not exposed to life, or were sacrificed as an ego boost for a human and stuck with a puppy mill type life.
It is understandable for someone who has been bitten by a dog to have a fear of dogs in general or a specific breed or breed mix that delivered the bite, no matter if it was provoked or not.
Don’t think as a pet lover you are alone in your breed bias. Vets are not immune from breed prejudice along with some trainers and groomers. Maybe their experience with certain breeds has been negative so they are wary. Understandable. Some groomers and Vet techs automatically put a muzzle on certain breeds. Some trainers and owners use harsher training methods just due to breed.
When I brought Chase to a Vet for his first visit after his arrival to Washington state the Vet, who I had not used before, took my 9 week old Dobe pup from me put him on the table which was fine and in a split second put my puppy on his side on the stainless steel table to “test for dominance” since he “was a Doberman.” Needless to say, I haven’t been back to this person nor have recommended this Vet to friends or clients.
cDiane Rich 2012
When I took Fraser, my Doberman to two professional trainers, I thought, for a mock pet therapy test over 12 years ago, these “trainers” were rough and to me abusive with him throughout their process. He performed but became a little shut down due to their manhandling him and they said he would never make a good therapy pet. I asked if they had ever worked with a Doberman before or tested a Doberman for therapy service and both trainers said no. I learned later their handling of him was not policy or procedure for this therapy organization. Their abusive methods and obvious fear and breed prejudice was the reason I became an evaluator for a therapy organization so no one would have their dog endure stupid, inexperienced and biased handling. Meanwhile, Fraser went on not only to pass his therapy test but helped me start two therapy programs in Seattle, one program with children dealing with life threatening medical conditions. Fraser also helped me work with clients who had a fear of dogs in general or my breed in particular due to being bitten at some point in their life.
Therapy dogs need to be trained to not only accept a hug and face to face greeting with strangers, but enjoy that type of interaction. Otherwise, not a smart move to make with an unfamiliar dog.
cDiane Rich 2012
Camp Korey, a summer camp for children
Parenting certain breeds holds owners to a higher standard in the court of public opinion with regard to that dog’s public behavior and training. Should you parent one of “those breeds” it is wise to train and socialize the dog to a higher level than just puppy classes. Hopefully your breed may go on to become a local ambassador for the breed. Something to think about.
When you choose a pet professional be it a Vet, trainer, groomer, or day care provider you have every right to interview this person as to their experience with dogs in general, handling philosophies and their experience with your specific breed so they don’t screw your dog up.
If you daycare or board your dog, observe how they treat all the dogs. Webcams are great but much goes on outside the camera’s watchful eye. If you opt to board and train you must be 100% clear on what methods are used on your dog in your absence.
Bottom line, are there vicious dogs? Absolutely. Are there stupid owners who choose to stay uneducated about proper pet parenting, unfortunately. Are there people with a legitimate fear due to past experiences or learn breed prejudice handed down to them by family members, yes. Is it easy to continue to fear or be concerned about certain breeds, of course. I am hopeful at some point you have the opportunity to meet an ambassador of the breed you fear to help you move forward.
Unbiased Woof,
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training, LLC
http://www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
http://www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Defining and Choosing a Great Breeder
When making a lifetime commitment choosing a dog and a breeder, I want to choose a “great” not just good breeder. A breeder who goes beyond the norm to ensure every pup in a litter, not just dogs chosen for the show ring are handled and prepared for a new home and family.
I encourage you to look for a breeder who asks you many questions and cares where and how the dog will live. A great breeder is not so quick to exchange a pup for a check.
It is easy for any person breeding dogs to create a beautiful website with cute doggy pictures, breed information and the right buzz words to capture your attention. The buzz words are usually, “home raised,” and “bred for temperament and health.” I can assure you this is not always the case no matter the breed.
It pays to do your homework.
Great breeders or even good breeders do not, I repeat, do not sell to pet stores.
I have been privileged and spoiled working with dogs from amazing breeders from all over the country and Europe. These training opportunities and talking with great breeders and dog fanciers over the years has redefined in my mind what a great breeder should be. It has also raised my own standards in selecting a breeder for myself or recommending a breeder to clients and friends.
There are many breeders I would have been proud to include in this blog but there is only so much space. I have included two Seattle area breeders I respect who were nice enough to take their time and provide my readers with answers to 6 questions to help you when interviewing breeders.
Katie Campbell and Sharon Macy
Katie Campbell
Katie Campbell has been breeding Basenjis since 1991 and has over 100 titles across a variety of venues including multiple Best in Show and Best in Field winners. She is an AKC Breeder of Merit, a highly accomplished breeder-owner-handler both in the ring and on the field. She is also an AKC dog show judge, and an acclaimed mentor validated by her breeds’ national clubs’ board of directors.
Katie Campbell with BIS/MBISS GCH Taji’s Klassic “Lil” Black Dress, SC
photo courtesy of Katie Campbell
Taji Basenjis & Ibizan Hounds
Parent Club approved mentor
AKC Judge #94459
West Seattle, WA ~ USA
Sharon Macy
We grew up with English and Gordon setters competing with them both in the conformation and obedience rings. Deciding to downsize in the size of dog we turned our eyes towards the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. We bought our first cavalier in 1991 from a breeder in England. Ch. Leelyn Sun Juan “Macy” later became the foundation of our breeding program. We’re always continuing to learn to improve the quality of structure, health and temperament in our breeding program. We’re members of the local Cavaliers of Puget Sound Club, both Nationals clubs, the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club USA, and The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cub in the UK. We’ve been actively showing our Cavaliers in AKC Breed Conformation competition since 1992.
Sharon Macy Rhoyal Cavaliers 
AKC (American) and CKC (Canadian) Kennel
Club champion Rhoyal by Design, “Hannah”.
photo courtesy of Sharon Macy
1. What do you think defines a good breeder?
Katie
“A, good breeder is one who breeds pairs with careful intention and selection – balancing health, temperament, purpose, genetic instinct and respect to the history. S/he also takes an active, on-going interest of every puppy that s/he breeds, regardless if they are sold as pets to spay/neuter or as potential breeding stock.”
Sharon
“A good breeder takes a lifetime interest in all the dogs they breed. The breeder wants to know how the dog is doing in its new home. A good breeder is a mentor and best friend to all buyers and dogs.”
2. How can a perspective puppy buyer find a good breeder?
Katie
“The very best place to find an assortment of good breeders is at a dog show. Dog shows are where The Best of The Best come to exhibit in earnest competition. Despite the sometimes competitive spirit amongst the entries, the dog show community encourages each other to strive for higher ideals. This continual “raising of the bar” is a boon to the perspective puppy buyer.”
Sharon
“An ethical breeder is registered with the AKC (American Kennel Club). A good breeder has a set of breed standards to which we all strive to meet. These standards are designed to maintain the most desired qualities of the breed.”
3.What if there are no available dogs or breeders in my area?
Katie
“It is highly unusual to not find at least one responsible breeder of almost any/every AKC recognized breed at an AKC dog show, especially one hosted in a metropolitan area. However, some breeds are scarcer than others. If/when that happens, the buyer needs to be even more scrutinizing of their candidate breeders because competition is not pushing to keep the ethical bar raised high. The web site for the American Kennel Club offers breeder referrals through each breed’s national club (also called a “parent club”) through this link: http://www.akc.org/breederinfo/breeder_search.cfm.
This listing is offered for potential buyers to find breeders, but is not offered as an actual endorsement of any particular kennels.” </strong>
Sharon
“If there are no dogs of the breed you would like, you may need to travel to find the right fit. It is always recommended that you meet both the breeder and the puppy before you make your final choice.”
4. What are the top 3 questions good breeders ask perspective buyers?
Katie
1) “What do you already know about this breed?
I expect quality homes to have already done their homework on the breed. This includes knowing what the common health problems in the breed are – and I expect the buyer to ask me about the history of my bloodline in these regards and ask to see any/all proof of the health testing that I claim to have had performed. This is one way that I weed out the homes that are just into the joy of having a cute puppy versus the ones that understand that a puppy is only a puppy for a year or so before maturing into a dog that will be family members for 14+ years.”
2) “How much time do you have each day to give a dog your undivided attention? Some people are too busy with their schedules to have a dog; They are romantic about the idea of owning a dog but in reality they just don’t have enough time to train one properly and share time and love with the dog in a way that the dog can understand and appreciate.”
3) “Regardless of the age of the buyer, I always ask prospects what plans they will put in place for their dogs in the event of their own death. Just like children, dogs need a home to live out their years in good health with enough time and space offered by their caregivers. Responsible breeders don’t want to see their dogs dumped at the shelter or with a reluctant relative or friend.”
Sharon
1″Why have you chosen this specific breed?
2 What is the family lifestyle – ie. Kids in the home, house or apartment, other dogs in the home?
3. What are the living conditions of the puppy?”
5. What are the top 3 questions a buyer should ask the breeder?
Katie
1) “Why did you choose this particular male to breed to this particular female to create the litter that you’ve planned? This question will evoke sparkling enthusiasm from a quality breeder as s/he will be all too happy to share with you their strategy of how this breeding will achieve their goals. As I stated before, good breeders breed with purpose, meaning A.Definite.Plan. The sire of the litter should be selected to compliment the dam of the litter for very specific reasons that will preserve and/or enhance their health, function/purpose, temperament, and conformation to The Standard. If the breeder is at all shocked by you asking this question, you have every right to question what is motivating the breeder to produce the litter. Is it just for money? Or is his/her intentions truly in the best interest of the breed as a whole?”
2) “Do you offer any type of health guarantee? Many breeders have been performing health tests upon their litters for so many generations that they can confidently offer a general health guarantee particularly against breed specific ailments for which there are tests for. It’s unreasonable to expect any breeder to pay for veterinarian costs, but good breeders can offer a wealth of information about family history and save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars over the course of a dog’s lifetime by sharing their knowledge and understanding of the health history.”
3) “If the puppy doesn’t work out, can I return him/her? This is, arguably, the very best reason to buy a puppy from a responsible breeder and not from a pet shop. Pet shops are wholesalers of puppies who do not offer any connection to the dog’s history, much less offer any type of health guarantee or fall-back if the puppy is not a good match for your family.”
Sharon
1. “How are the puppies raised?
2. How intensively are the parents and pedigree lines screened for health issues?
3. How long as the breeder been breeding this specific breed?”
6.What is the biggest red flag that should tell the buyer to run not walk from a breeder ?
Katie
“If your gut feels pity for the animals in the breeder’s home, do not “rescue” any of them by purchasing, instead: RUN. If you rescue any of the puppies by buying from a (sub-standard) breeder, then you are simply encouraging and enabling him/her to breed more of the same in the same manner. Your purchase of a puppy affirms your approval of their breeding practices. If you don’t agree, then don’t buy.”
Sharon
“Poor conditions for the puppy – ie health, environment. Breeder not having knowledge of their own breed.”
Thank you to Katie Cambell and Sharon Macy for your time.
In addition to the great answers provided by Katie and Sharon, I would suggest getting referrals from owners experienced with your breed of choice. There are breed forums online you may want to check out. Also talking with trainers experienced with your choice or choices may be helpful.
Woof,
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training,LLC
http://www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
http://www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Dogs Driving you Crazy?
Many dogs can entertain themselves in the snow which is enjoyable to watch. Some dogs need more direction. Either way, it’s all good!
cDiane Rich 2012
Here are some ideas to entertain your furry friends at home.
1. Get out the snow shoes, grab some trekking poles, fetch the leash and take your dog for a walk in the snow
cDiane Rich 2012
2. If friends with dog buddies can safely travel for a visit, set up a play date
cDiane Rich 2012
3. Review some obedience skills or teach your house bound pooch some new tricks
4. A little indoor agility can be fun
cDiane Rich 2012
Stay safe and Woof at home,
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training,LLC
http://www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
http://www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Happy New Year
1. Get mom or dad off the sofa so I can get
more exercise
cDiane Rich 2012
2. Eat more high quality fresh food
cDiane Rich 2012
3. Keep up the dental hygiene
cDiane Rich 2012
4. Try not to take up too much of my parent’s bed unless of course I have guests
cDiane Rich 2012
5. Spend quality time with friends
cDiane Rich 2012
6. Learn new skills
cDiane Rich 2012
7. Read More
cDiane Rich 2012
8. Relax and enjoy nature
cDiane Rich 2012
9. Give back to my community
cDiane Rich 2012
10. Pay it forward
cDiane Rich 2012
May Your New Year be filled with Happy Woofs,
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training, LLC
http://www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
http://www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Thinking about Donating to an Animal NonProfit?
December 20th, 2011 at 2:21 pm by Diane RichThink Transparency
There are many worthy animal nonprofits to consider for donations. Some charities worth considering are local and others national or international, do your homework.
1.Transparency
A charity should make it easy for donors and potential donors to review the budget. Depending on how much money a nonprofit takes in they may be required to file specific forms with the IRS. These forms such as Form 990 are open to the public. Form 990 gives a breakdown of revenue, expenses and service accomplishments. Ask to see Form 990 and analyze it to ensure you are comfortable with the charity’s operations. Some private charities are not required to file Form 990s and do not have to provide a copy of their IRS tax filings to the public upon request. You will have to do other research on these organizations.
Independent Auditing
Find out if the charity is audited yearly by a reputable accounting firm and ask for the latest report from an independent certified public accountant.
Although most charities abide by strict standards and ethics with finances unfortunately, some nonprofits may misrepresent how funds are used when presenting financial records.
2 How is the Charity Run
Are the board of directors active or passive. Are staff and volunteers respected and heard and is the charity actually living its mission.
3. Skills
A nonprofit is a business. Do people running the charity have the skills to effectively run their department or the total organization? Skills should include fundraising ability and people skills since the heart and soul of nonprofits are the volunteers and donors.
4. Conflict of Interest
Is there any conflict of interest with a board member, the President or staff and their outside interests that may influence them when making decisions for policies or procedures for the charity? Are there conflicts of interest if people are running both a nonprofit and for profit business that may overlap?
Mission Statement
Every nonprofit is required to create a mission statement when applying for non-profit status which generally is called a 501(c)(3). There are other nonprofit categories. The mission statement is normally included on a website and promotional material. Are the people running the charity in touch with this statement or are the words just warm and fuzzy to entice animal lovers to open their wallets.
Charities To Consider
1.If your choice is an animal shelter then I am hopeful you choose a no kill shelter.
2.You may choose to donate to one of many wonderful breed rescue organizations. If money is tight ask the rescue group or shelter what they need. Donating unopened pet food or gently used pet supplies may be appreciated.
3.There are small nonprofits in various areas in the country set up to help pet parents on low to fixed income with Veterinary costs.
4.Other animal nonprofits to consider train dogs for various disabilities such as guide dogs for the blind, the hearing impaired or other medical challenges. Some of these organizations breed their own dogs for this service.
5.There are also animal sanctuaries such as Best Friends in Utah.
www.bestfriends.org
6. There is Intermountain Therapy Animals in Utah that created a program called R.E.A.D. A literacy program for kids that is the model for all the other reading programs around the country. www.therapyanimals.org
7. I recently learned of an organization called Patriot Rovers based out of N. Carolina that sounds wonderful. Am doing further research on it.
www.patriotrovers.org. Patriot Rovers is committed to training service dogs that will enhance the lives of veterans and provide a trained dog free of charge, to servicemen and women with psychological trauma (PTSD).
Privacy Policies
Inquire as to the charity’s privacy policy to ensure your name won’t be sold or traded with other non-profits or telemarketers.
Here is a link that will provide additional information to help review a charity. Some of your local smaller charities will be more challenging to research.
www.cashmoneylife.com/is-a-charity-legitimate
Woof,
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training,LLC
www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Is Your Dog’s Name on the List?
cDiane Rich2011
Banfield Pet Hospital has compiled the top 50 pet names of 2011, similar to the BabyCenter list of baby names that was released a few days ago. As the world’s largest veterinary practice, Banfield has a patient database with over 780 hospitals across the country.
Due to space, I am posting the top 25 of the 50 names sent to me.
1 Bella
2 Max
3 Buddy
4 Daisy
5 Bailey
6 Lucy
7 Molly
8 Coco
9 Charlie
10 Rocky
11 Chloe
12 Maggie
13 Sadie
14 Princess
15 Sophie
16 Lucky
17 Roxy
18 Jack
19 Lola
20 Harley
21 Toby
22 Bear
23 Sasha
24 Jake
25 Ginger
Woof by any other name is still a woof!
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training, LLC
www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
www.twitter.com/spokesdog
Pet Parenting
Whether you go to a training class, hire a seasoned professional for private training or send the dog away to doggie boot camp the bottom line is that without practicing what you and the dog have learned and reinforcing the training, the results gained will start to wane.
Trust and Respect
My philosophy has always been that the foundation of all animal training should be trust and respect. Trust and respect does not come with the sales receipt, adoption papers or class diploma. Just because the dog was given cookies to learn and perform in class does not mean the dog will respect a family member. The dog may love and depend on the owner but trust and respect must be earned.
cDiane Rich 2011
Realistic Expectations
It is not rocket science to lure a puppy into a sit or down command or to show a pup a treat and get the pup to come to that handler. It is only the beginning and in many cases the end of a dog’s education even though some pet parents expect more advanced behavior without actually doing more training.
Going the Distance
If a pet parent wants a reliable off leash dog and the breed is one that can be reliable off leash, then best not press enter on a trainer’s PayPal account for a class if you don’t want to go the distance. Reliable off leash response takes time, practice, patience, reinforcement, then more time and more reinforcement. This advanced training must include proofing and training the dog in many situations.
cDiane Rich 2011
People Training
Dog training is at least 50% people training. In many cases more than 50% of a training session is people training.
Owner Resistance
As trainers, we can only demonstrate skills and coach clients through the training process. Even with private training where we are more hands on than in a class structure the truth is that in the end, long lasting results rest on the pet family’s follow through. The same goes for sending a dog away to training camp.
Although teaching pet parents dog training skills is rewarding, not everyone is easy to teach. There could be resistance to suggestions, opting out of practicing the homework due to limited time, energy or motivation or expecting the trainer to do it all and thinking the dog will always be the same as the last day of a training session.
Owners may get upset with the dog for not coming when called but opt out of suggestions to shape and maintain a successful recall response.
Owners may ask a trainer how to stop the dog from jumping up on family members or guests, we successfully address the issue then observe a family member encourage or reward the family dog for jumping up.
Some owners do not believe in confinement but get upset with the puppy and possibly the trainer for the dog having accidents all over the house or chewing up personal items.
Some pet parents get a dog to fulfill something in them and may forget about fulfilling a dog’s needs.
Bottom Line
Some say you get the dog you train for. I agree with this statement up to a point but take into consideration other factors on both ends of the leash. When I hear a pet parent complain about a dog’s behavior but then opt out of being part of the solution, not much can be done to help.
Dogs may not end up to be everything we want but maybe we are not everything they would wish for if they had a choice.
Woof!
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training,LLC
www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
http://www.twitter.com/spokesdog
The Seattle Humane Society (SHS)
cDiane Rich 2011
It is easy to get caught up in emotion and saddened by the circumstance that led each special dog to this shelter. So, I asked Rhonda Manville, Marketing Director at SHS in Bellevue, WA., how do you do it? Rhonda smiled and said, “one of the reasons is SHS has a 94.1% save rate for dogs and cats and I know when I come to work the following week that most of the animals will have been adopted.” She adds proudly they had a record breaking October 2011 and placed 634 dogs and cats in loving homes, the most pets adopted in a single month in the shelter’s 114 year history.
The Seattle Humane Society, which shelters more than 5,000 homeless pets per year, is ranked number 3 in the country with regard to “save rate.” Among animal shelters, the “save rate” is the percentage of surrendered, stray and abandoned animals who leave a shelter alive and are placed into adoptive homes, rescue groups, or returned to their owners.
Pets Receive 4 Star Treatment
All dogs that come to SHS go through an admissions process which includes a full Vet check, treatment if needed, are vaccinated, microchipped and spayed or neutered. Once a clean bill of health is determined, a behavioral assessment is completed by Emily Keegans, the Behavior Program Manager and her team, photos are taken and the dog is ready for adoption. Emily and her team help oversee various activities. The total experience for each dog is impressively organized.
I also asked Emily how she does it especially knowing that some dogs such as seniors or dogs that present behavioral challenges are not as easy to adopt out. Her response was, “I feel lucky to be a part of the process.”
cDiane Rich 2011
Volunteers
Volunteers interested in hands on activities with the dogs are trained for specific interactions and through experience are promoted to different levels of care. Depending upon their level, a volunteer may take a dog for walk, engage in play time or accompany the dog during play group. Dogs usually get 2 to 3 walks a day.
There are a over a dozen volunteer positions to suit skill and passion. Please go to the SHS website for more information on volunteer opportunities.
I need to make a comment about the volunteers. If Disneyland is the happiest place on earth, then the SHS runs a close second. When I walked in to the lobby every single person who wore a volunteer shirt was smiling, kind, helpful and passionate about being a part of this well run nonprofit. SHS boasts approximately 1400 volunteers. Isn’t that amazing? SHS could not help so many deserving animals without these devoted volunteers, the staff and our animal loving community.
More than just a Shelter
The humane society offers a Jog- a- Dog program. Seasoned runners who qualify for this program through on site training may run with a canine companion up to a 5K. A wonderful service for high energy dogs.
The humane society also has a foster program so some dogs may go to foster care while waiting for adoption. Some of the more challenging behavior cases where a dog cannot be safely adopted out may go and live out their life at a sanctuary
The humane society also offers educational seminars and training classes. Most adoptions include one free 6 week class. I will give you more information on these services on another blog. Adopted pets also receive one free month of pet insurance.
Community Service
H.S. offers free spay and neuter via a grant from Petsmart for Pit Bulls.
Over 700 PB’s have been spayed or neutered thanks to Petsmart’s generous grant. SHS offers free spay and neuter and a food bank for pets of low income pet families or disabled or senior pet parents. In addition, SHS offers free vet clinics, vaccines and flea prevention for pets belonging to people disabled by AIDS through SHS’s Pet Project program.
Donor Funded
Seattle Humane Society is 100% donor funded, so this nonprofit receives no government funding. The H.S. puts on various fundraising events throughout the year including their annual star studded Tuxes and Tails.
Humane Society is NOT affiliated with HSUS
Do not confuse Seattle Humane Society with HSUS which is the Humane Society of the United States. They are not affiliated so if you wish to donate contact SHS directly.
Matters of the Heart
I have been a long time fan of the SHS. So, what was my emotional response when I completed my interview and tour of the SHS? Instead of feeling totally sad for these special pets looking for a forever home, I drove away with a smile on my face knowing the pets that find themselves at the Seattle Humane Society are in the best possible hands and hearts of our pet loving community. Well, maybe a little tear was shed.
Woof
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training, LLC
www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
www.twitter.com/spokesdog
What is your Dog’s Style?
There is nothing cuter or more enjoyable than watching puppies or adult dogs play well with each other. Every dog has their own style of engagement.
Play may begin with a dog presenting the play bow which is k9 body language for soliticing play; front end on the ground, bum in the air.
A Triple Play…. Bow
cDiane Rich 2011
Some dogs solicit play by pawing at another dog, nipping at another dog or barking at another dog. If a small dog plays with a larger dog, the smaller dog may rear up to the larger play buddy
Stick em up! (thx, Victoria)
cDiane Rich 2011
Shibas in play, Havanese Soliticing Play wanting to Join in
cDiane Rich 2011
Some dogs instigate play by stealing another dog’s stick or toy or poke a dog with that toy to engage in a chase game. Some dogs love to play tug with a buddy.
Some dogs love to wrestle, engage in mock fighting including biting the neck of their playmate or use various forms of body contact as their play style.
c Diane Rich 2011
Notice the total body language of both dogs. Both are relaxed but are engaged in mouthy display and play. The lips are not pulled up showing the gum area or full canine. Eyes and ears are relaxed.
The self control is presented by both dogs and these dogs were enjoying this type of controlled play.
c Diane Rich 2011
c Diane Rich 2011
Dogs may also model or be influenced by the play style of a buddy. Some dogs enjoy play with other dogs only if there is no body contract and if that playmate does not get too close.
Some breeds are hardwired to play using more body contact. Boxers and Bulldogs, many Labs and some Terriers tend to enjoy more physical play.
Many dog owners do not like to have their dog body slammed or jumped on by another dog. Some dogs are tolerant of this type of physical play and engage wholeheartedly but not all appreciate this type of interaction.
The Portie Tolerates the Mini Doodle cross Jumping on her then Disciplines him
cDiane Rich 2011
If you parent a dog that plays rough and you get complaints from various park users then maybe that is a heads up the dog’s behavior is over the top. It is responsible dog parenting to manage, prevent or redirect this behavior and choose your dog’s playmates that also enjoy physical play.
Some dogs engage in play by rearing up on their hind legs and even include a chest bump. This type of interaction can escalate into a fight if it is the same sex dogs but may be more benign, just depends on the dogs.
Some Dogs Love to Chase and be Chased.
cDiane Rich 2011
Dogs that enjoy wrestling tend to exchange top positions and take turns with mock fighting. If both dogs appear to be enjoying this type of play, your dog may have found a suitable play buddy.
The Tackle
c Diane Rich 2011
Some dog play may be vocal in nature. The vocalizations could include barking and growling. In some circumstances nothing to worry about based on how the specific dogs are engaging and body language presented.
Some Dogs love to Belly up to other Dogs
cDiane Rich 2011
When dogs do not learn to present or read proper canine communication with other dogs, play can spiral out of control. This can be observed on any given day at dog parks or day care. Dogs need an opportunity to learn but not at the expense of someone else’s dog.
Keep in mind, that everyone taking their dog to a dog park has their own idea of what is appropriate dog play. You can only manage your own dog and are your dog’s advocate at a park. If you take your dog to day care it is prudent to observe how the employees manage a pack of dogs. Day care owners and employees must have an understanding of appropriate play so they can match your dog up with suitable play groups.
Be observant when watching dog play. It is a wonderful education.
Playful Woofs,
Diane
Diane Rich Dog Training, LLC
www.spokesdog.com
askdiane@spokesdog.com
www.twitter.com/spokesdog
