K-9 Solutions Dog Training, Inc.: Fun and Games

Monday, November 23, 2009

Fun and Games

Yesterday I took Jenny and participated in a Fun and Games workshop with Dee Ganley. I had no idea what to expect. I went only with the intention of having some fun, and learning new things with my dog. I was not disappointed.

We played a variety of games including "My dog can do that" as well as drill team work, relay races, and tried a couple of scent discrimination exercises among other stuff. Funny enough I blew one of the scent exercises due to over thinking it and bad body language. Ironic considering my last post. The other involved a ball (pic below) and Jenny just isn't a ball driven dog. Now maybe if we smeared some blood on it......

Logan and Suzan above finding their ball.

A leave it exercise. (that's a Petite Basset Griffon Vendeen)

Another Logan moment.

Relay race!

And for anyone who thinks dressing a dog is easy:

I missed the best stuff. The dog in the video was pretty hysterical playing as she tried to dress her/him. Jenny stepped through the neck of her shirt on the way down our lane. She didn't care. It was cute.

A loose leash walking exercise/race.

The afternoon was Self Control and Focus games. It was full so I only audited that one. (all the better to get photos)

Another relay race with mat work.

Sumac and Phoebe above relaxing.

I didn't know everyones names. The dog above is a mix and the one below is a dutch shepherd.

And this pretty girl is Brina and I am obsessed with her. She is an American Staffordshire Terrier.

Seriously, I am her official stalker.

See what I mean? Gorgeous. And a wicked love bug to boot. I got some fabulous cuddle time in with her. (She's a leaner btw and her coat is super soft. I was even lucky enough to get a kiss.)

It was alot of fun and I thought Jenny did great. Especially considering we have never done anything remotely similar. And I have never done anything formal with her either. We went in only knowing some basics. Of course basics are the foundation for everything else so it worked very well for us. I don't think she has ever eaten that many treats in one day before in her life. Being a serious chow hound she thought that was pretty great.

I think a great time was had by all and I would totally do it again. I definitely learned a few things that will come in handy with both my dogs and with clients.

What do you mean we have to go home???

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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