K-9 Solutions Dog Training, Inc.: A cute-fest is happening here!

Sunday, May 6, 2007

A cute-fest is happening here!

Jack and I were alone for our Sunday walk this week. Here he is on his way to me during some recall practice. We ran into two off leash dogs on the way back to our car, a Norwegian Elkhound and an Australian Shepherd with their owner. I am happy to report that Jack was a perfect gentleman. Once upon a time this would have thrown me into cardiac arrest but I have learned to be calm and trust myself with dog greetings. It can be challenging when dealing with unknown dogs however.

And here is he posing for me.

This was Missy last night. I'm quite sure she was thinking something along the lines of "All these darn puppies are wearing me out!"

And here is one of those puppies to whom she is referring:

Pretty darn cute isn't he? He will be staying a few days for some beginning training and socialization. He is an 8 week old chow chow puppy.

You put your right paw in.......

Things that make you go AWWWWWW

I ain't afraid of you!

Dash says, "Hey, what you got there? Is it food?"

I had to add this one. Dash is about to pounce.

A perfect example of Dash's lack of spacial issues. He sits where he feels like it.

And now a couple of videos. First is Dash playing with the puppy.

http://s44.photobucket.com/albums/f42/Akitamom2/?action=view&current=IM003736.flv

And Jack playing with the puppy.

http://s44.photobucket.com/albums/f42/Akitamom2/?action=view&current=IM003735.flv

I hope you enjoyed the cute-fest.

*****Just an important reminder, the pet food recall is NOT over. There are new developments every day. Keep an eye on these sites for the up to date info. I HIGHLY recommend you check the food lists EVERY week, if not every day. It is up to US to keep our pets safe. *****

http://www.itchmo.com/

http://www.howl911.com/

www.petconnection.com/blog/

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My Story

In 1992, after serving for 6 years in the United States Marine Corps, I decided to settle down in my hometown in Mid-Coast Maine. I got my first dog, (as a bona-fide adult) an akita, and joined the local kennel club. I also joined akita rescue and learned alot about the breed. In turn I began helping educate others. This taught me how important training is for ALL dogs. Thus began my (unofficial) foray into the world of dog training.

I worked for a few years at a local veterinarians office and then began working at our local humane society. While there I saw many dogs being given up for simple training issues. About that time the kennel club began looking for a new trainer to teach group obedience classes. I decided I might be able to handle that challenge once I had more official training of my own.

MY TRAINING:

I found an excellent trainer to mentor with and in October of 2001 after a year of hands on training and study I completed my apprenticeship under Lloyd Williams of Bear Brook Kennels. During that apprenticeship, in addition to learning all the basics, I got to assist in the training of police dogs in narcotics, tracking and cadaver dogs with the medical examiners office.

Not only did I learn how to be a dog trainer, more importantly, I learned how to teach owners how they could communicate more effectively with their dogs. I consider that training just the beginning in my canine education. I continue to attend seminars and keep current through reading about recent advancements in dog training methods. I am a former member of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers.

My training was sponsored by The Humane Society of Knox County and The Mid-Coast Kennel Club of Maine.

MY METHODS:

I use positive reinforcement methods whenever possible during training sessions. Positive reinforcement helps make the training experience more enjoyable for both the dog and owner, producing a better learning environment. I also utilize hand signals in my training which is very useful with deaf dogs as well as hearing ones. My methods include lure/reward and marker training. (with or without a clicker depending on owner preference)

MY GOALS:

My goal in training is to help pet owners develop a better relationship with their dogs. Many times that includes teaching about canine communication and behavior. I also like to help dogs stay out of the shelters and in their homes whenever possible. Training for those unruly dogs can make that a reality for some families.

MY OTHER JOBS:

I am currently the trainer for the HSKC's K-9 Corrections program. I also work as a receptionist at a local veterinary hospital.

MY FAMILY:

I am happily married and the mother of two fabulous children.

Dog Training and Behavior Seminars Attended

11-09 Self Control and Focus Games with Dee Ganley CPDT/CABC/CDBC
6-09 Dog to Dog Aggression with Patricia McConnell PhD
7-08 Debunking the Dominance Myth in Training with Jean Donaldson
6-08 PitBull Education Seminar with Drayton Michaels
3-08 Aggression and Canine Compulsion Disorders with Dr. Nicholas Dodman
4-07 How to Talk Dog with Sarah Kalnajs
6-06 Understanding Canine Body Language with Trish King
4-06 Aggression in Dogs 2 Day Seminar with Brenda Aloff
10-05 Play with Me and Feisty Fidos with Pia Silvani CPDT,CABC
2005 Canine Communication, Meet your Match and and Intro to "Safer" Training with Emily Weiss PhD