K-9 Solutions Dog Training, Inc.: Happy Birthday to my Jack!

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Happy Birthday to my Jack!

(Updated 11-13-07)

3 years ago today (October 19th) my little Jack was born. He's not so little anymore at 120 lbs though! He is my 3rd akita and I have to admit probably the most perfect. Not that I am biased or anything. VBG His temperment is just fabulous, thanks to the hard work of his breeders. (Thank you Donna and Mike!!!!) I cannot put into words how much I love this dog. Here are just some of my favorite pics of him. Be warned, this post is VERY photo heavy.

Here he was at 6 weeks at the breeders. How cute is that?

With my first akita Kuma who was 13 years old at the time.

At his first playgroup meeting trying to coax a lab out to play.

Back when he could still fit in Missys crate. (she was none to thrilled with sharing it either)

He got big really fast. I just love the diva look he has in this shot.

Another playdate with Tomo and Nani, other akita friends.

Showing off his beautiful wollie coat.

Yard time with a chow friend.

Oh to be young and flexible!

He loves the snow.

Together at tracking practice.

He surprised me by going for a dip in the ocean during a playdate walk. I didn't think he would go in on his own. He saw the other dog and played monkey see,monkey do though.

Cuddle time with DD.

I wish I had more pics of him with his cat. Sadly he passed away.

With a sleepover friend Izzy.He seems to make a great pillow.

A family pic. Notice his paw over Missy.

Another chow chow playtime.

With some dog walk buddies.

These chows are like parasites around here! (I work with a reputable chow breeder friend so we get alot of puppies through for socialization.)

Another cuddle time.

And more pillow time too.

The patient boy. You can see how he fits the stereotype of the vicious akita can't you?

Happy Birthday Jack! May there be many, many more.

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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