The DogSmith

The Critical Socialization Periods of a Pet Dog

2011-10-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

Niki Tudge October 2011 Copyright

A few days ago one of our DogSmith Dog Trainers, Susan Barton, brought a new puppy into their home. I just love puppies of all shapes and sizes and feel very strongly about guiding owners in the right direction for their puppies socialization. Seeing Lucy reminded me that soon many of you will be out looking for your holiday puppies so i felt it was the right time to post a blog on the critical socialization periods of dogs. Susan congratulations on Lucy i am sure she is headed for great things and will become another great ambassador of The DogSmith Dog Training Programs.

The Critical Socialization Periods of a Pet Dog

There are key stages within a dog’s development where they are particularly sensitive to environmental influences. Scot & Fuller, (1965) and Serpell & Jagoe (1995) have described that conditioning of behavior during these sensitive periods is not easily changed in later years. Whereas genetics set the range for physical or behavioral traits the dog’s experiences during these important periods will determine where within that range the dog behavioral tendencies lie. Scott and Fuller (‘O’Heare p 47) concluded that “dogs should be introduced gradually and sensitively to the circumstances that they are likely to experience during their lives.” Socialization during the key sensitive periods is critical as dogs are biologically prepared to learn different things during different phases of their development. An emphasis and focus on socialization should be made around the 6 – 8 week mark as this is considered the peak of the socialization period.

During the prenatal period, studies have shown that environmental influences, such as stress, can affect the behavior of the fetus. If the mother is reactive, emotional or stressed then this may produce similar traits in her offspring.

During the neonatal period (birth to 2 weeks) puppies are slowly learning even though their ears and eyes remain closed. They are very sensitive to touch and smell and careful and reoccurring handling has been shown to be a valuable practice and can produce confident and exploratory behavior even though these learned associations may not carry over to adulthood (O’Heare 2010).

The transitional period (2-3 weeks) prepares dogs for the socialization period. Puppies begin to move, stand and walk during this period and many new behavior patterns emerge such as communication behaviors and simple associations (O’Heare p 46 2010).

During the socialization period (2.5-3 to 9-13 weeks) dogs form attachments to people, places and locations. During the first period of this socialization period puppies will begin to approach strangers and be tolerant of passive handling. This leads on to a period between 8 to 10 weeks where a ‘fear’ period begins. During this ‘fear’ period if a puppy is exposed to aversive stimulation it can have long term effects on a dogs behavior. This is the period where most new puppies are adopted or purchased making the timing of this homing event important. Puppies need time to settle into their new homes before they hit the ‘fear’ period at around 10 weeks of age. Placement prior to 6 weeks of age can also be detrimental to puppies’ behavioral wellbeing as it has been shown that they suffer from distress, lack of appetite and are susceptible to disease (‘O’Heare 2010).

The juvenile period (12 weeks to 6 months) sees puppies become less tolerant to change. There motor capacities emerge and they have an increased learning capacity. Social relationships with other dogs become more stable and at around 6 months of age they reach sexual maturity.

So for all you new puppy owners out there, be aware of the social development periods of your new puppy. If you are still looking and searching for your new puppy think carefully about where your puppy comes from, the early days are also critical on its long term development. Enroll your puppy into a well run puppy class free of aversives and punishment. Choose a force free trainer who can help you shape your puppies future behavior and they will get you quickly on the road to owning a happy and mentally healthy puppy.

O’Heare J. Domestic Dog Behavior 103 (2010)

To find out more about your local DogSmith, go to www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

or call 561-271-3033

The DogSmith® is Giving it Away for FREE!

2011-10-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith of Palm Beach County announces its newest free puppy socialization class to be held at Hobe Sound Dog Beach.
Palm Beach FL – Animal experts agree, properly socializing your puppy during the critical developmental stage (for puppies that takes place between 3 and 12 weeks) provides the foundation on which all future training is based. Not only is this period critical to a puppy’s development but poorly socialized dogs may show behaviors of fear, aggression, or other problems. A good puppy program can head off these potential issues.

Though socializing a new puppy requires commitment it can be a lot of fun for both the owner and the dog if done properly and incorporated into a daily routine. To make the process easier, The DogSmith of Palm Beach County offers a regular series of puppy socialization classes that are free to the public and now available at Hobe Sound Dog Beach. According to Rachel Williams, owner of The DogSmith of Palm Beach County, “We are very excited to be able to offer our popular puppy classes at Hobe Sound Dog Beach. These classes are taught by Susan Barton, our local certified dog trainer. Puppies love her and she loves the puppies and her classes are a lot of fun so everyone should bring cameras to capture the comic shenanigans.”

The DogSmith even provides a handy guide to puppy socialization which can be downloaded for free from their website. Williams said, “Our mission is to help minimize the number of stray and unwanted dogs and we believe the best way to do this, in addition to the work we do with rescue groups and shelters, is by helping families get off on the right paw, showing them how easy, fun and effective training their puppy can be.”

The Puppy socialization classes focus on teaching owners of puppies from 8 to 24 weeks, the essentials of housetraining, crate training, bite inhibition and responsible dog ownership. The course will also include information for owners on canine communication so they can identify indications of stress in their puppy and socially rude behaviors. “The three most important factors of any socialization program is exposure, exposure, exposure. Puppies need to be exposed to as many different people, places, noises, smells and environments as possible in a safe and controlled manner and the best way to socialize your puppy is to enroll in a puppy class” said Williams. Each attendee will receive a copy of the DogSmith Socialization booklet and handouts on how to crate and house train puppies.

According to Williams, “Since Dogs learn self control, restraint and bite inhibition through play, a puppy that can play well is a puppy that can learn.” To enroll your puppy in a free class simply visit www.DogSmith.com and find your local DogSmith Professional Dog Trainer using your zip code.

About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmithFranchise.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

Life's Abundance, Welcome to Jupiter, FL

2011-06-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

I am very excited about Life’s Abundance moving their headquarters to Jupiter and I want to welcome them to the neighborhood. I have been using, recommending and supplying Life’s Abundance to my clients for years because I truly believe in this food and the positive benefits to a pet’s health and appearance is amazing and almost immediate in most cases.
With the DogSmith, we have always recommended Life’s Abundance Pet Food for our discerning, health conscious clients. Since I am also headquartered in Jupiter, it just becomes that much easier to supply my clients with the health and wellness benefits of a holistic, premium quality pet food and I can save them some money by offering it for wholesale price.
Life's Abundance Premium Health Food is veterinarian-formulated with select ingredients to help pet dogs and cats achieve and maintain optimum health. They use a “fast-cook” process to help preserve the nutritional value of each and every wholesome ingredient, maintaining strict inventory controls to ensure the quality and safety of their foods. The President of Life’s Abundance, Lester Thornhill, said, “All-natural pet products may have seemed like an unnecessary perk for puppy when our company began 13 years ago, but over time, consumers have discovered the benefits of healthy eating, both for themselves and their pets. When people find a pet product that provides a benefit, that's the last place they're going to look to save money." I have found that to be the case as well. People consider pets part of the family and will cut back on other expenses before they switch their pet's food to a different brand.

For more information on ordering Life's Abundance all natural, holistic pet food Contact your local representative, Rachel Williams, The DogSmith, Palm Beach & Martin County at 561-271-3033 or on the web at www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

2011-05-24T17:28:00.001-07:00

http://ping.fm/vj6wt

2011-05-23T18:55:00.001-07:00

Be Sure Your Pets are Prepared for Hurricane Season
Another Hurricane Season is upon us and The DogSmith Dog Training and Pet Care Company wants to help you prepare to care for your furry family members if disaster strikes.

Jupiter fl, May 22, 2011 – Animal experts agree, preparing to take care of your pet during a hurricane, tornado or any other natural disaster takes just a little planning and isn’t much more complicated than preparing your pet for a family car vacation. According to Rachel Williams, owner of The DogSmith, Palm Beach&Martin; County, and a Certified Animal Behavior Counselor, “Your pet’s emergency kit will contain almost the same things you would include for your pet when it travels with the family but you may want to keep essentials in a waterproof bag or plastic container.”

The Humane Society advises that you always make sure you have enough food and any medicine needed for your pet for about a week. Be sure to include your pet’s needs when calculating how much water you will take with you; you don’t want to be caught short on food and water if stores are closed, especially if your pet is on a special diet.

“Also, in your kit, include an extra leash, collars or harnesses (preferably a collar with your phone number) and keep copies of ID chip registration or tattoos, recent photographs, vet records (including rabies certificate), any license you may be required to have and your vet’s phone number,” said Williams. Favorite toys and treats, blankets, beds, waste bags, food and water bowls will make sure your best friend can enjoy a ‘home away from home’ while on the road. Williams said, “You will also want an accident cleanup kit containing plenty of paper towels and an organic odor/stain remover. Even the most reliable pet can have accidents in unfamiliar surroundings when stressed.”

Williams emphasizes that the best thing you can do for your pet, at home or on the road and long before a disaster strikes, is to make sure your pet is properly crate trained. “Crate-training your pet pays big dividends. No matter where you go or what you do, your pet’s crate is its mobile home where it can feel safe and secure. A dog or cat that feels happy and safe in its own crate will find any new environment easier to cope with,” said Williams. The DogSmith, Palm Beach&Martin County offers a free guide to crate training at www.DogSmith.com.

The American Automobile Association also recommends that pets should master car travel and being with strangers long before a disaster strikes. Any type of emergency or evacuation can be filled with new and unusual activities. The more comfortable and confident your pet is will help it cope with new sights, sounds and smells. Williams recommends, “If your pet is not comfortable traveling by car you can help it by taking it on local car trips of increasing duration. Here again a crate secured inside your car is a valuable tool to keep your pet safe.” A variety of specialty seat belt attachments and harnesses designed for car travel are also available at most pet stores. Visit www.AAA.com for a list of pet-friendly motels and more information on traveling by car with your pet. You can also get a free guide to socializing your pet at www.DogSmith.com.

As a rule, never leave your pet home alone if you need to evacuate. Plan ahead and know if you will be going to friends, family or investigate the availability of pet-friendly hotels/motels. Identify and establish a relationship with pet sitters and pet hotels/motels/kennels that are outside your evacuation zone. Remember if you are evacuating to an emergency shelter most do not allow pets. With a little planning, you will ensure all of your family members stay safe during times of natural disasters.

About The DogSmith, Palm Beach & Martin County, call Rachel Williams CDT, for more information or email rwilliams@dogsmith.com or on the web www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

Be Sure Your Pets are Prepared for Hurricane Season

2011-05-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

Another Hurricane Season is upon us and The DogSmith Dog Training and Pet Care Company wants to help you prepare to care for your furry family members if disaster strikes.

Jupiter fl, May 22, 2011 – Animal experts agree, preparing to take care of your pet during a hurricane, tornado or any other natural disaster takes just a little planning and isn’t much more complicated than preparing your pet for a family car vacation. According to Rachel Williams, owner of The DogSmith, Palm Beach & Martin County, and a Certified Animal Behavior Counselor, “Your pet’s emergency kit will contain almost the same things you would include for your pet when it travels with the family but you may want to keep essentials in a waterproof bag or plastic container.”

The Humane Society advises that you always make sure you have enough food and any medicine needed for your pet for about a week. Be sure to include your pet’s needs when calculating how much water you will take with you; you don’t want to be caught short on food and water if stores are closed, especially if your pet is on a special diet.

“Also, in your kit, include an extra leash, collars or harnesses (preferably a collar with your phone number) and keep copies of ID chip registration or tattoos, recent photographs, vet records (including rabies certificate), any license you may be required to have and your vet’s phone number,” said Williams. Favorite toys and treats, blankets, beds, waste bags, food and water bowls will make sure your best friend can enjoy a ‘home away from home’ while on the road. Williams said, “You will also want an accident cleanup kit containing plenty of paper towels and an organic odor/stain remover. Even the most reliable pet can have accidents in unfamiliar surroundings when stressed.”

Williams emphasizes that the best thing you can do for your pet, at home or on the road and long before a disaster strikes, is to make sure your pet is properly crate trained. “Crate-training your pet pays big dividends. No matter where you go or what you do, your pet’s crate is its mobile home where it can feel safe and secure. A dog or cat that feels happy and safe in its own crate will find any new environment easier to cope with,” said Williams. The DogSmith, Palm Beach & Martin County offers a free guide to crate training at www.DogSmith.com.

The American Automobile Association also recommends that pets should master car travel and being with strangers long before a disaster strikes. Any type of emergency or evacuation can be filled with new and unusual activities. The more comfortable and confident your pet is will help it cope with new sights, sounds and smells. Williams recommends, “If your pet is not comfortable traveling by car you can help it by taking it on local car trips of increasing duration. Here again a crate secured inside your car is a valuable tool to keep your pet safe.” A variety of specialty seat belt attachments and harnesses designed for car travel are also available at most pet stores. Visit www.AAA.com for a list of pet-friendly motels and more information on traveling by car with your pet. You can also get a free guide to socializing your pet at www.DogSmith.com.

As a rule, never leave your pet home alone if you need to evacuate. Plan ahead and know if you will be going to friends, family or investigate the availability of pet-friendly hotels/motels. Identify and establish a relationship with pet sitters and pet hotels/motels/kennels that are outside your evacuation zone. Remember if you are evacuating to an emergency shelter most do not allow pets. With a little planning, you will ensure all of your family members stay safe during times of natural disasters.

About The DogSmith, Palm Beach & Martin County, call Rachel Williams CDT, for more information or email rwilliams@dogsmith.com or on the web www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

To learn more about the DogSmith or become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmithfranchise.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

The DogSmith

2011-05-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith is a national Dog Training, Pet Sitting, Dog Walking and Pet Nutrition Franchise,The DogSmith,which covers Jupiter,fl,Juno Beach, Jupiter Island, Jupiter Inlet Beach Colony, Singer Island, Palm Beach Island, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Shores, North Palm Beach, Royal Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, Lake Park, Wellington, Loxahatchee Groves, Hobe Sound, Stuart, Tequesta, and all of Palm Beach County. I am a Certified Dog Trainer and Behavior Analyst. I offer private and group lessons, "Board and Train" packages and "Latch Key" training, which is training your dog while you are at work or on Vacation. Training curriculum's, and group classes, are available for puppies, teen dogs, grumpy dogs and older dogs. Private Behavior change programs are also available for dogs requiring behavioral modification. I offer a selection of day care and dog walking services, lunch and dinner time daily breaks, dog park romps and pet shuttle services. Service plans are customized to meet the needs of each client.
www.dogsmith.com

2011-05-03T07:50:00.001-07:00

Take the Bite out of Dog Bites - Jupiter, FL - 80 - AmericanTowns.com http://ping.fm/vyDZR

Take a Bite Out of Dog Bites

2011-05-03T07:46:00.001-07:00

2 May, 2011 (07:35) | Company News & Views | By: DogSmith,Palm Beach & Martin County

The DogSmith Dog Training Franchise and Pampered Paws Pet Resort & Spa join together to support National Dog Bite Prevention Week with Free Dog Behavior Consultations and Puppy Socialization Classes Throughout the Month.

Oxford, MS, May 2nd 2011 – During the third week in May, Doggone Safe Inc., The DogSmith and Pampered Paws Pet Resort & Spa will be calling attention to one of the nation’s most commonly reported public health problems: dog bites. Half of all children will be bitten by a dog by age 12 and the majority of these bites are by the family dog or other dog known to the child.

Doggone Safe, a non-profit organization dedicated to dog bite prevention through education offers free information at its website www.doggonesafe.com to help promote safety messages during ‘dog bite prevention week.’ Doggone Safe also promotes the “Doggone Safe Be a Tree” children’s program. This program, for school age children, is a short presentation with large photos and many activities to teach children to understand the signs dogs send with their body language. The central message of this program is “Be a Tree.” That is, stand still if a strange dog approaches or any dog is threatening or overly frisky. Children learn to be doggie detectives, looking for the clues that dogs give with body language to show how they are feeling. Pampered Paws Pet Resort & Spa offers the Doggone Safe program to local schools as a public service.

The DogSmith, a national dog training and pet care franchise, believes almost all dog bites are preventable if dogs are properly trained, socialized and cared for and if children are taught how to behave and act around dogs. To support Doggone Safe and the National Dog Bite Prevention Week, The DogSmith offers free puppy socialization classes for families and their puppies to help dogs start out on the right paw.

Doggone Safe, Pampered Paws Pet Resort & Spa and The DogSmith offer the following tips for parents and dog owners to help keep kids safe:

The 3 Most Important Things to Teach Your Kids:

1. Dogs Don’t Like Hugs and Kisses – Teach your kids not to hug or kiss a dog on the face. Hugging the family dog or face-to-face contact are common causes of bites to the face. Instead, teach kids to scratch the dog on the chest or the side of the neck.
2. Be a Tree if a Strange Dog Approaches – Teach kids to stand still, like a tree. Trees are boring and the dog will eventually go away. This works for strange dogs and anytime the family dog gets too frisky or becomes aggressive.
3. Never Tease a Dog – and never disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or protecting something.

The 2 Most Important Things Parents Can Do

1. Supervise – Don’t assume your dog is good with kids. If a toddler must interact with your dog, you should have your hands on the dog too. Even if your dog is great with kids and has never bitten – why take a chance?
2. Train the dog – Take your dog to obedience classes where positive-reinforcement is used. Never pin, shake, choke, hold the dog down or roll the dog over to teach it a lesson. Dogs treated this way are likely to turn their aggression on weaker family members. Involve older children in training the family dog while supervising. Don’t allow children to punish the dog. Condition the dog to enjoy the presence and actions of children using positive experiences.

Take the Bite out of Dog Bites - Jupiter, FL - 80 - AmericanTowns.com

2011-05-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

Take the Bite out of Dog Bites - Jupiter, FL - 80 - AmericanTowns.com

Puppy Biting, Appropriate or Not – Teach Your Puppy Bite Inhibition

2011-04-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

What Is BITE INHIBITION

Bite inhibition – when a puppy or dog uses his teeth, how much pressure or force does he apply behind that bite? All dogs can and will bite under the wrong conditions. The difference is that if a dog has acquired bite inhibition the bite will not inflict damage. Bite inhibition cannot be trained into a dog that has missed the window of opportunity during its first 16 weeks of life.

Register for a free puppy class today!

Puppies have to learn at a very early age that they cannot put their teeth onto our skin, clothing or body in any way. They have to be taught a soft mouth. Puppies learn to develop this soft mouth from their mother and siblings through feeding, play and mock fighting. More often than not puppies are removed from their litters before they have completed ‘bite school”. In addition, children or adults inappropriately playing with small cute puppies often encourage biting and only when larger teeth grow in and/or the puppy’s jaw strengthens does the biting suddenly become a problem if the dog has not learned bite inhibition.

If you have a puppy and it is inappropriately biting, bruising or nipping then you MUST get your puppy into a well run, well managed and professional puppy class as soon as possible. Do not punish the dog, use sharp noises to distract them, scream or hit the puppy. Aggression, even low level aggression cannot be resolved using aggression. Punishing a puppy for this biting or nipping behavior will only suppress the behavior and this can lead to trouble in the future.

Like any problematic dog behavior, teaching the dog a new, more acceptable behavior is far more effective than punishing or suppressing the existing behavior. All behaviors that dogs exhibit are to access reinforcers or remove themselves from things they fear. Teach the dog how to access the same reinforcement, or remove themselves from the thing they fear by adding to their behavior repertoire not reducing it.

The DogSmith, Palm Beach holds FREE monthly puppy training classes. Enroll in a free class and learn how to teach your puppy a soft mouth in a non aversive and non invasive manner. You can also download our FREE e-book by clicking here

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!

2011-03-22T09:00:00.001-07:00

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!
October is the American Humane Association's Adopt-A-Dog Month and The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
If you are looking for unconditional love, an exercise buddy, a best friend, a sport partner, a walking companion or simply a happy face to greet you at the front door after a hard day at work, then adopt a dog! Your local shelter is the perfect place to find dogs of every type, size, age and personality -- all waiting for a loving home. Even pure-bred dogs and cats. Or, if you are looking for a particular breed that you don’t see at your local shelter, find a breed-specific rescue group on the internet. They need adopters too.
Niki Tudge, founder of The DogSmith national dog training and pet care franchise, says “animals from shelters make excellent pets, but they may have some easily fixed behaviors so choosing the right dog and finding the right training is important.” In fact, a recent study conducted by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy found that a majority of dogs are surrendered to shelters for behavior problems that are easily corrected or the dog didn’t fit into the lifestyle of the owner. The study can be seen at The ASPCA's web site (http://www.aspca.org).
Tudge said, “By adopting a shelter animal, not only do you end up with a well behaved, wonderful family member but the training you go through with your dog will be fun and helps establish a fantastic bond between you and your pet. We have special programs for dogs adopted from shelters and we offer free puppy classes. All of our training is very easy, even the youngest family members can control the family dog.”
According to The ASPCA, people bringing a companion animal into their lives need to review thoroughly their lifestyle and their level of commitment to the animal's care. The ASPCA advises people to ask themselves the following five questions before adopting a dog:

1. Am I ready to make a long-term commitment? Adopting a pet means being responsible for its health and happiness for the rest of his or her life, this could be up to 15 years for dogs.
2. Is the animal right for my household? A strong, active pet may be too much for a young child or elderly person to handle. Small pets may be too delicate for rough play with children. Always make sure that everyone in the household agrees to the adoption.
3. Who will be the primary caretaker for the animal? One adult in the home should be designated as the primary caretaker so that the pet's needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules.
4. Can I afford the animal? The cost of a pet is more than just the purchase price or adoption fee; remember to include the cost of food, pet supplies, veterinarian bills and training.
5. Am I ready to commit to making this dog a good canine citizen? A well-trained dog is a pleasure and is welcome in public parks, on walks, and as a visitor. Research shows that people who take the time to train their dogs are more likely to keep them longer than people who don’t.
If you are looking to add a dog to your family then consider adopting from a shelter or rescue group! For more information on The DogSmith’s free puppy classes, their Canine Rescue Resource Program or if you’d like help choosing a dog appropriate to your lifestyle visit www.DogSmith/rwilliams.com.

About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!

2011-03-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Pig Ear Recal, March 8th 2011

2011-03-09T18:21:00.000-08:00

Jones Natural Chews Co of Rockford, IL is recalling 2705 boxes of Pig Ears because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Jones Natural Chews Pig Ears were distributed in CT, IA, IL, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NJ, NM, NY, PA,VA, WA, and WI. They were shipped to distributors and retailers between September 15, 2010 and November 2, 2010 where they were available for purchase.

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 2pk bag with header card–item upc 741956001047 lot 2420

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 100ct box-box upc 741956001139 lot 2490, 2560, 2630, 2700, 2840, 2910, 2980

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 50 ct box-box upc 741956001504 lot 2490, 2840

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears bulk 25ct box-box upc 741956001467 lot 2700

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2700, 2840, 2420

Jones Natural Chews Co Pig Ears 10pk printed bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2420, 2560, 2630, 2840

Blain’s Farm & Fleet Pig Ears 10 pieces bag-item upc 741956001405 lot 2560

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001511 lot 2630

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 1pk shrinkwrapped-item upc 741956001146 lot 2420

Country Butcher Dog Chews Pig Ears 12pk bag-item upc 741956001245 lot 2910

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by Washington State Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has no product left in inventory from this batch of pig ears.

Consumers who have purchased any of these pig ears are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-481-2663.

If you are looking for a safe alternative. Look no further

Few things bring your dog more enjoyment that chewing on a tasty treat. And yet, every year, untold numbers of dogs suffer from a variety of digestive issues as a result of consuming rawhide. Not only that, but frequently rawhide is preserved with harmful chemicals.

That’s why we developed a line of chew treats made using pork products, which are much easier on your dog’s entire digestive system and are free from potentially harmful chemicals. Our pork treats are guaranteed to be not only safe, but incomparably appetizing to your sweet pup as well.

Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there’s a pork treat made just for their size. So, say “goodbye” to traditional chew products, and give your dog something he or she can really enjoy – safely!

Visit the following site for a selection of health dog and cat treats. Never involved in a recall made by a respectable holistic pet food company www.superior-dog-food.com

A Survey On The “RISK FACTORS IN THE MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHILDREN AND DOGS”

2011-03-09T17:45:00.000-08:00

This survey does not reveal surprising results to those who work as professional dog trainers or dog behavior counselors.

The aim of the research was

* To map a child’s knowledge of dog’s communication signals
* The understand the perception of a child’s own authority in the relationship with a dog and
* To determine the frequency of individual risk activities in their mutual contact.

The research abstract detailed that ‘ The research study has revealed alarming deficiencies, especially in the knowledge of communication signals and canine body language. The awareness of signs of the two most hazardous communication signals (threat and attack) was very poor”.

RISK FACTORS IN THE MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CHILDREN AND DOGS

Journal of Nursing, Social Studies and Public Health, Vol. 1, No. 1–2, 2010, pp. 102–109

Marie Chlopčíková, Adéla Mojžíšová
University of South Bohemia, College of Health and Social Studies, České Budějovice, Czech Republic

CONCLUSION
Every relationship, even that between a child and dog, should be based on mutual respect and understanding that allows not only trouble-free interaction, but also creates
a good basis for a positive approach and relationship of both partners. If the child is supposed to create and strengthen the relationship with an animal – a dog – he/she must learn to know and respect not only dog’s basic physiological needs and supervision of the dog’s health status and fitness, but also specific differences seen in the behavior and communication
(communication signals) of his/her animal companion (Fraňková 1999).

Ignorance of divergent patterns of behavior, perception of hierarchy (authority) by the animal in the human family, a variety of communication signals representing aversion
or pleasure of the animal, or just spending free time together (independent activities – walking the dog) puts both individuals into risky situations and represent primary causes
of possible conflict. The decision to let the child grow up together with a dog belongs, without a doubt, to one of the best decisions we can make. However, it is necessary to realize the
responsibility of adults in this relationship. A dog can make a child’s life richer – as a silent companion, a guardian, psychological support, and a loving and faithful friend. A
dog is worthy of our reverence and respect for all these positives. If children are taught to respect all living beings and pass this experience along, the positive consequences of our effort will enrich future generations (Hessler-Keyová 2002).

The full article can be sourced here

Thank you to Doggone Safe for bringing this important study to our attention.

Joan Orr of Doggone Safe added in her email newsletter dated March 9th 2011

Some Key Risk Factors Identified in this Study

* Children considering themselves to be the highest authority over the dog
* Children walking the dog without adult supervision
* Ignorance of dog body language signals – considered by the authors to be the main bite risk factor

The overall bite incidence in this study was 51% (of 200 children age 8-12). This is consistent with finding from our own survey of children in Be a Tree sessions that 54% (of 869 children age 5-9) has been bitten.

The results of this study provide strong support for the Doggone Safe approach of teaching children to read dog body language to help reduce the dog bite risk.

The DogSmith National Training Center will later on this year be rolling out an entire educational program around dog bite safety. This will be in partnership with Doggone Safe and Dogs & Storks. Watch out for our news releases. each locally owned and operated DogSmith Franchise will become a licensed Presenter on behalf of both these organizations

Contact Rachel Williams, Palm Beach county DogSmith for more details, www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

The DogSmith Palm Beach County Fl offers Dog obedience training,

2011-03-03T20:21:00.000-08:00

The DogSmith Palm Beach County Fl offers Dog obedience training, private dog training classes, dog behavior counseling, group training classes, canine board and train programs, latch key dog training, canine good citizen training, puppy star training, puppy socialization classes and a selection of pet care services, in home pet care, pet sitting, canine slumber parties, dog walking, pet waste cleanup and overnight pet sitting services. We service the following areas, Jupiter, Juno Beach, Jupiter Island, Jupiter Inlet Beach Colony, Singer Island, Palm Beach Island, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Shores, North Palm Beach, Royal Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, Lake Park, Wellington, Loxahatchee Groves, Hobe Sound, Stuart, Tequesta, and all of Palm Beach County. www.DogSmith.com

Defying Sluggish Florida Economy, The DogSmith of Palm Beach County Expands

2011-02-16T19:35:00.000-08:00

Defying Sluggish Florida Economy,
The DogSmith of Palm Beach County Expands

Despite the sluggish economy experienced by many Florida businesses, The DogSmith of Palm Beach County continues to grow and now offers dog training and pet care to neighboring areas.

Jupiter, FL - To meet the growing demand for her dog training and pet care business, Rachel Williams, owner of The DogSmith of Palm Beach County, has announced her partnership with Susan Barton, Certified DogSmith Dog Trainer, to expand operations into Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, Palm City, and Stuart Florida. The animal lovers in these cities will now have access to the same free DogSmith puppy socialization classes and canine rescue resource programs enjoyed by Palm Beach County residents.

“We are very excited about increasing our ability to offer unrivaled dog training and pet care to more animal lovers in this area,” said Williams. “We take a lot of pride in our exceptional customer service and professional expertise in every dog training and pet care service we offer, and now we can provide these services to many more pet owners.”

In addition to her years of experience training dogs, Barton qualified for her DogSmith Dog Training certification by completing a comprehensive course of animal learning theory and ‘hands-on’ practical dog handling at the DogSmith National Training Center. “The training was fantastic,” said Barton, “we spent two weeks working with rescue dogs so we were trained on some very challenging behavior cases.”
According to their mission statement, The DogSmith exists to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship and the quality of the life they share by providing professional support and training to Pet Dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden.
For more information about The DogSmith’s free puppy classes or canine resources program visit www.DogSmith.com or call The DogSmith at 1-888-DogSmith (364-7648)

About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about, or to become, a DogSmith Franchise Owner visit www.DogSmithFranchise.com or call 1-888-364-7648

6 Important New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Dog in 2011

2011-01-10T18:23:00.000-08:00

Important New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Dog in 2011 By Niki Tudge- The DogSmith

We can do this!

We all know that many of us set New Year’s Resolutions and as the year progresses they begin to fade. This leaves us feeling frustrated, first we have not accomplished what we set out to do and then we feel like a ‘loser’ as we have failed our own expectations.

I don’t know about your but in our home I always put other things as a priority before myself, ‘they say as women we tend to do this”. Anyway this year I thought it would be fun to develop some New Year’s Resolutions for my pets as I never let them down. So I now know if all else fails with my other resolutions I will at least have accomplished some.

Here are my top 6 New Year’s Resolutions for you to accomplish with your Dog. They are not in order of priority, just the way they came out when I began to think about it.

1. Enhance Your Canine-Human Relationship “The DogSmith’s MTR training eBook is a fantastic resource for all families who are looking to build and maintain basic manners, skills and most of all bonds! This easy to use step by step guide is beautifully designed in a way that invites success for both owner and dog. Once you have this in your hands you will know exactly what you need and how to begin teaching your dog in a fun and rewarding way” (Jennifer Shryock B.A. CDBC – Creator of Dogs & Storks) Download the free e-book here

2. Get Your Annual Veterinarian Examination. Many pet owners underestimate the importance of an annual physical exam because their pet seems healthy. Annual exams provide an opportunity to prevent diseases, detect them early, or even avoid them altogether. Many diseases and ailments such as heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes are not often evident in early stages. Your veterinarian can conduct a comprehensive exam that includes a lab analysis, heart check, and dental exam to ensure top physical shape and optimum health for years to come. Read more

3. Become a More Responsible Pet Dog Owner. I believe owning a dog is a privilege not a right. It should be a privilege to own one and a responsibility to care for it. So in 2011 enroll your dog into a ‘Canine Good Citizen™ program. Started in 1989, the CGC™ Program is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. Not only will your dog learn some really nice manners and be awarded a certificate but you will also have to sign ‘The Owners Pledge which details your role in the partnership. Read more

4. Teach Your Dog To Walk Nicely. Let’s take the ‘choke’ out of training a ‘walk nicely behavior’ and replace it with clear concise instructions that builds your dog’s behavior repertoire, sets your dog up for success and rewards them when they get it right. This is a far more pleasant situation for both owner and dog. In addition to being an ineffective training method, there are real health concerns when a dog’s head is jerked around. Read more

5. Improve Your Pet’s Diet. In the pet industry probiotics are now one of the key ingredients that pet food buyers look to find in the ingredient list of their pet food. However not all foods are alike and there are differing methods used to incorporate probiotics into the manufacturing process of pet food. These methods range from spraying the probiotics onto cooked, dried kibble to the use of microencapsulated forms of probiotics that are introduced prior to the cooking process. Read more

6. Get A PAL Tag Research has shown that most pets that are lost and returned home safely are wearing a collar or tag with their owner’s contact details. Here at the DogSmith® our number one priority is to keep your beloved pet safe and secure. This includes helping you find your pet in the event they are lost. Every DogSmith Pet Care & Training client is eligible for a complimentary identification tag and free registration on our DogSmith PAL® database. The identification tag is imprinted with our toll free number and a unique serial number. Learn more about our PAL® tag system

Call your local DogSmith Rachel Williams 1.888.Dog-Smith (364-7648)

Improve Your Life - Adopt a Dog!

2010-10-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith of the Florida Panhandle & Southern Alabama Becomes an American Kennel Club “CGC” Evaluator

2010-10-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith of the Florida Panhandle & Southern Alabama Becomes an American Kennel Club “CGC” Evaluator
The DogSmith of the Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama has been awarded “Canine Good Citizen (CGC)” Evaluator status by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Washington County, Fl, October 7th , 2010 - The DogSmith National Training Center is pleased to announce that Bethany Jordan, owner of The DogSmith of the Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama, has been certified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a “Canine Good Citizen®” (CGC) Evaluator. CGC Evaluator status authorizes Jordan to conduct Canine Good Citizen® Classes and to assess the manners and behavior of dogs wishing to become “Canine Good Citizens.” Jordan is also a Certified Veterinarian Technician and Certified Pet Dog Trainer.
Since its inception, the Canine Good Citizen® program has become the model for similar programs around the world and serves as the framework for other exams, such as therapy dog programs, and is a good starting point for more advanced dog training. The AKC says “CGC® Program has become recognized as the standard of behavior for dogs in our communities. CGC® resolutions have been passed by 18 state legislatures and the United States Senate since the program was established in 1989. In addition, insurance companies are starting to use the CGC® certification to insure breeds they would not otherwise insure and some condominium associations around the country now require that all dogs in the community attain the CGC® certification.”
Dogs do not have to be registered with the AKC, or any other organization, to earn a CGC nor do they have to be purebred. The goal is to promote good citizenship for all dogs.
As an essential part of the DogSmith’s commitment to being the most progressive Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise in North America, DogSmith Franchise Owners must achieve increasing levels of continuing education and development in their profession. Becoming an AKC “CGC®” Evaluator is a key component to that development and commitment.

The DogSmith recognizes the importance of supporting pet dog owners and helping them achieve a high level of training with their dogs. The DogSmith’s core dog training curriculum includes the 10 essential behaviors required for a dog to be certified as a “Canine Good Citizen”. Each DogSmith is expert at applying positive based training methods to ensure that the training is fun and effective for both owner and dog. DogSmiths are professional Dog Trainers and Dog Behavior Counselors and use the most effective and non-intrusive training methods available. To learn more about AKC’s CGC program visit: www.akc.org.
About The DogSmith- The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about, or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmithFranchise.com or call 1-888-364-7648

YAPPY HOUR at Le Posh Pup (next to Spoto's) in Palm Beach Gardens,florida

2010-09-21T18:40:00.000-07:00

"Save the date! Thursday,Oct 21st from 6pm to 9pm we'll be a having a YAPPY HOUR at Le Posh Pup (next to Spoto's) in Palm Beach Gardens to help raise money and supplies for BIG DOG RANCH RESCUE! Catered by Rock Star Catering, Treats and Prizes from Le Posh Pup, Training Tips by Rachel from The Dog Smith and much more! Please hold the date and we'll have more information for you shortly. Thanks from Something 2 Talk About!"

www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

Rachel Williams 561-271-3033

Come out and meet your local Dogsmith

2010-09-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith of Palm Beach County:

Saturday, September, 25; Responsible Dog Owners Day – 10am – Free Doggie Social - Jupiter dog beach, Jupiter, Fl, Shower #27 North of Marsinski road. Free*Register Free Doggie Social for all Responsible Dog Owners and their dogs. This event is to mark the Responsible Dog Owners Day. Rachel Williams CDT & AKC CGC Evaluator will be holding an ‘ASK’ the Trainer Q&A for all your training and behavioral questions please join us.

call Rachel Williams 561-271-3033
or go on line to www.dogsmith.com
email rwilliams@dogsmith.com

P&G Recalls Small Number of Bags of Cat Food From Stores in Loveland, Colorado

2010-08-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Company Contact:
Jason Taylor, P&G
513-622-3205 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 513-622-3205 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 29, 2010 – CINCINNATI -- Procter & Gamble (P&G) is voluntarily recalling a small number of bags of its Iams Proactive Health Indoor Weight & Hairball Care dry cat food which may have been sold recently in one or two stores in Loveland, Colorado.

These bags have the potential to contain salmonella, although no illnesses have been reported. No other Iams pet food products are affected.

The Iams Proactive Health Indoor Weight & Hairball Care cat food in question is sold in blue 6.8-pound bags. These bags feature a code date of 02304173 (B1-B6) and the UPC number 1901403921.

If you have this product, please discard it and call P&G toll-free for a product replacement at 800-862-3332 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800-862-3332 end_of_the_skype_highlighting Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST.

P&G has worked with its retailers to remove the affected product from stores in the area. P&G believes that only three bags may have been purchased recently by consumers in the area. Yet, as a precautionary measure, the company is initiating this retrieval.

People handling dry pet food can become infected with salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

For a more healthier option go to www.superior-dog-food.com

or contact Rachel Williams with the DogSmith, Palm Beach County. www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

West Palm Beach Unemployment Drops by One!

2010-08-26T12:21:00.001-07:00

Posted on August 26, 2010 by DogSmith

West Palm Beach animal lovers and businesses have banned together to save Louie and give him a home and a job!

Jupiter Fl, August 22, 2010 – Precious Rescue of Palm Beach, with the help of several local businesses, have found a new home and a job for Louie, a 70-pound boxer-mix. According to Debbie Young of Precious Rescue, “We rescued Louie from another facility where he was scheduled to be put down. I could not let that happen, so we brought him in to Precious Rescue until we found him a home with a local family. Louie was & will always be part of our Precious Rescue Family and we are extremely happy that Louie found his fur-ever home and that he is being loved and spoiled as he deserves.” Precious Rescue is a no-kill non-profit organization committed to finding the right homes for the right dogs and dedicated to rescuing homeless felines and canines of Palm Beach County, Fl.

Since Louie needed a ‘fur-ever’ home with an active family, Precious Rescue activated its network of animal lovers. Young says, “Louie loves car rides to the beach, park, and anywhere for that matter. He just loves CRUZIN’ in vehicles! He loves, playing with toys and other dogs and will even get on the first step in the Pool.” Louie’s new home is with the Santos family, owners of Santos Automotive, where Louie can now be found meeting and greeting customers every day or just napping in the customer waiting room. The Santos family spared no expense welcoming Louie to his new home and job with a reception, a welcoming banner, a new leather collar, toys, a leash and more. When Louie is not on a break he is keeping a close eye on business operations, never far from his new family members.

To prepare Louie for adoption Precious Rescue asked Rachel Williams, Professional Dog Trainer and owner of The DogSmith – Palm Beach County, to work with Louie exercising him and providing basic obedience training. In addition, Williams took Louie to numerous dog friendly events to help socialize him. Now that Louie has a new home and job his obedience skills are a big help. “Not only does he obey many commands, he has also learned to trust and enjoy being around people again,” said Williams.

Thanks to the incredible generosity and cooperation of Precious Rescue of Palm Beach, The DogSmith of Palm Beach County, and of course Louie’s new home and family at Santos Automotive of West Palm Beach, Louie has a new home and an important job to do. If you would like more information or to donate to Precious Rescue visit www.preciousrescue.com.

About The DogSmith – The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-888-364-7648 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

2010-08-23T17:59:00.001-07:00

http://ping.fm/nvK2G http://ping.fm/YEuDc

http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=hearsttv

2010-08-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

Beat the Heat – Help Save a Life!

2010-08-02T19:03:00.001-07:00

The DogSmith of East Pensacola and Santa Rosa County Animal Services have teamed up to offer free dog training classes in an effort to help reduce the number of homeless pets.

Santa Rosa County, Florida, August 2, 2010 – The DogSmith of East Pensacola has teamed up with Santa Rosa County Animal Services to help more cats and dogs find their ‘forever homes.’ The DogSmith, a national dog training and pet care company, will provide free 1-hour dog obedience classes beginning August 7, 2010 at 3:00 PM and then held on the first Saturday of each month thereafter. Santa Rosa County Animal services are hosting these classes at their facility located at 4451 Pine Forest Rd, Milton, FL 32583. The DogSmith will also provide free dog bite safety and spay/neuter workshops for facility staff.

According to Christina Horne, Certified Dog Trainer and owner of the local DogSmith, “One of our priorities is to help make dogs more adoptable by providing some of the basic skills dogs need to live happily with their family. Too often dogs are given up to shelters because of easily corrected behavioral problems.”

Social Responsibility is at the heart of The DogSmith’s Corporate Mission, Vision and Values, which include their commitment to help ‘significantly reduce the number of unwanted pets by supporting animal shelters and rescue organizations, through their deeds, efforts and sponsorship.’

“We encourage anyone who wants a new dog to visit their local shelter or breed rescue group to give a forever home to a dog in need,” says Horne. The DogSmith also offers a program designed to help families choose the right dog based on their lifestyle and personal preferences. “And once you’ve adopted your dog we have many programs to help your new pet become family, even free puppy classes,” said Horne.

For more information on Santa Rosa County Animal Services, visit http://204.90.20.174/animals/. To get your free booklets on housetraining, crate training, and puppy socialization visit www.DogSmith.com or contact your local DogSmith Certified Pet Care Expert and ask for a free “What breed is right for me?” consultation.

About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmithFranchise.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

P&G Recalls Two Lots of Prescription Renal Diet Cat Food due to a Possible Health Risk

2010-07-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

Another pet food recall from P&G.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — CINCINNATI, July 25, 2010 – The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE:PG), is voluntarily recalling two specific lots of its prescription renal dry cat food as a precautionary measure, as it has the potential to be contaminated with salmonella.

The following products are included:

Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs

01384174B4

0 19014 21405 1

This product is available by prescription through veterinary clinics throughout the U.S.

No illnesses have been reported. A FDA analysis identified a positive result on the lot codes listed above. Lot codes can be found in the lower right corner on the back of the bag.

Consumers who have purchased dry cat food with these codes should discard it. People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

For further information or a product refund call P&G toll-free at 877-894-4458 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 877-894-4458 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST).

Call The DogSmith,palm Beach today or visit our website, start feeding your pets life's Abundance, a pet food that has never been recalled. Contains only holistic products and is manufactured in small batches with quality control tests. Interested, just look and learn. Read about these products

A Great Relationship Building Exercise – Hand Feeding Your Dog!

Posted on July 27, 2010 by DogSmith

JUST A DOG

2010-07-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

From time to time people tell me, “Lighten up, it’s just a dog,” or, “That’s a lot of money for just a dog.” They don’t understand the distance traveled, time spent, or costs involved for “Just a dog.” Some of my proudest moments have come about with “Just a dog.” Many hours have passed with my only company being “Just a dog.” and not once have I felt slighted. Some of my saddest moments were brought about by “Just a dog.” In those days of darkness, the gentle touch of “Just a dog” provided comfort and purpose to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it’s “Just a dog,” you will probably understand phrases like “Just a friend,” “Just a sunrise,” or “Just a promise.” “Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. “Just a dog” brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person. Because of “Just a dog” I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly into the future.
For me and folks like me, its not “Just a dog.” It’s an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. “Just a dog” brings out what’s good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.
I hope that someday people can understand it’s not “Just a dog.” It’s the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being “Just a man or woman.”
So the next time you hear the phrase “Just a dog,” smile, because they “Just Don’t Understand.”

Author Unknown

We at The DogSmith Palm Beach feel the same way... for more information on Pet care and dog training your Best Friend go to www.dogsmith.com/rwilliams

DogSmith, Palm Beach County servicing, Jupiter, Juno Beach, Jupiter Island, Jupiter Inlet Beach Colony, Singer Island, Palm Beach Island, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Shores, North Palm Beach, Royal Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, Lake Park, Wellington, Loxahatchee Groves, Hobe Sound, Stuart, Tequesta, and all of Palm Beach County.

United Pet Group Voluntarily Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs

2010-07-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

United Pet Group Voluntarily Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs to Include Additional Tablet and Powdered-Form Products for Dogs and Cats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

Consumers Contact:
(877) 399-5226 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (877) 399-5226 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Media Contact:
Carey Phelps (770) 360-5292 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (770) 360-5292 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 2, 2010 – United Pet Group, Cincinnati, Ohio is voluntarily expanding its recent recall of its Pro-Pet Adult Daily Vitamin Supplement tablets for Dogs to include additional pet nutritional supplement products for dogs and cats due to possible Salmonella contamination. The list of recalled products is provided below. The Food and Drug Administration is aware of this recall.

The recalled products are sold nationally at various retailers. The products include various United Pet Group Pro-Pet and Excel branded products for dogs and cats, and certain other private label brands of the same products. All of the affected products are in tablet and powdered form. These products are being removed from retail stores and consumers should immediately stop feeding these supplements to their pets. The affected products are those with expiration dates that include and are between "01/2013" and "06/2013." Products with expiration dates earlier than 01/2013 or later than 06/2013 are not included in this recall. The expiration date can be found imprinted vertically on the right side of the product label.

Laboratory testing has revealed that some lots of some of these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The company is recalling the additional products out of an abundance of caution.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

People who handle these products can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with them or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the product should contact their healthcare providers.

Consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged to contact United Pet Group or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact United Pet Group at 1-877-399-5226 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-877-399-5226 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST.

TABLE OF RECALLED PRODUCTS

Label Sku	UPC	Label Description	Expiry
353	825141273447	Doctors Foster and Smith Brewers Yeast Mega-Tabs with Garlic and Essential Fatty Acids 180 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
5619	18065056191	5619 Nature's Miracle Pet Mess Easy Clean-up Net WT 12oz	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
1152092	800443076576	Petco Breath Tabs for Dogs Liver Flavor 50 TabletsPetco Breath Tabs for Dogs Liver Flavor 50 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
33805	825141059485	Doctors foster and Smith Dis-Taste Small Dog Tablets 250 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
33806	825141008629	Doctors Foster and Smith Ext Strength Dis-Taste Tablets 180 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
33807	825141063680	Doctors Foster and Smith Ext Strength Dis-Taste Tablets 500 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
35908	825141095629	Doctors Foster and Smith Fresh Breath Tablets for Dogs 100 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
36763	825141291250	Doctors Foster and Smith Cran Health Support Normal Urinary Tract Health 60 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
673110 bottle 1094181 box	800443037065	Petco Ear Powder For Dogs 1oz (28g) Box Label	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
72157	825141055043	Doctors Foster and Smith Brewers Yeast Tablets for Dogs and Cats 750 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
9305	825141003921	Doctors Foster and Smith Ear Powder Net WT 1oz (28g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
9306	825141005154	Doctors Foster and Smith Ear Powder Net WT 4oz (113g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J707	26851007074	Excel 3 in 1 Ear Powder Ear Care Net WT 1oz(28g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7110	26851071105	Excel Glucosamine Joint Care 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7113	26851071136	Excel Glucosamine with MSM Joint Care 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J720	26851007203	Excel Deter Coprophagia Treatment Behavioral Aid 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J724	26851007241	Excel Deter Coprophagia Treatment Behavioral Aid 500 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7311	26851073116	Excel Gas Preventative Digestive Aid Digestive Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J7315	26851073154	Excel Calm-Quil Calming Tablets Behavior Aid 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
J74016	26851074014	DDS Dental Breath Mints Breath Control 40 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K1723	26851017233	DDS Dental Breath Tabs Breath Control 200 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K1775	26851017752	Pro-Pet Brewers Yeast Daily Supplement 250 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K701	26851007012	Excel Calcium Daily Supplement 125 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K746	26851007463	Excel Calcium Daily Supplement 500 Tasty Chew tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K776/PR	26851007760	PR Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat 150 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K777/1	26851007777	Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat Care 600 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K778	26851007784	Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat Care 1000 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
K785	26851007852	Excel Brewers Yeast with Garlic Skin and Coat Care Mega Tabs 216 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N1701	26851017011	Pro-Pet Senior Daily Vitamin Supplement 100 Tasty Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N700TR	26851007005	Excel Pupply Multi Vitamin 100 Tasty Chew Tabs Time Release	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N7301	26851073017	Excel Small Breed Multi Vitamin 45 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N7309	26851073093	Excel Lutein Vision Maintenance Eye Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
N845TR	26851008453	Excel Adult Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78030	26851780304	Excel Advantage Adult Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78031	26851780311	Excel Advantage Puppy Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78032	26851780328	Excel Advantage Senior Multi Vitamin 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78033	26851780335	Excel Advantage Skin and Coat Essentials 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78034	26851780342	Excel Advantage Glucosamine Plus 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78035	26851780359	Excel Advantage Glucosamine Advanced Strength 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78065	26851780656	Excel Adult Multivitamin 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-78066	26851780663	Excel Senior Multi Vitamin 120 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82530	26851825302	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Joint Care 60 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82531	26851825319	Pro-Pet Stool-Eating Preventative(Corprophagia Treatment) 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82534	26851825340	Pro-Pet Anti-Stress Calming Tabs 60 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82562	26851825623	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Plus Joint Care 100 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82618	26851826187	Pro-Pet Breath Tabs 40 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82619	26851826194	Pro-Pet Breath Mints 200 Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82654	26851826545	Pro-Pet Gas Relief Digestive Aid 40 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82656	26851826569	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Advanced Joint Powder Net WT 10oz(283g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-82658	26851826583	Pro-Pet Daily Vitamin Supplement Powder Net WT 10oz (283g)	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-83062	26851830627	Pro-Pet Puppy and Small Breed Daily Vitamin Supplement 100 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-83065	26851830658	Pro-Pet Glucosamine Advanced Joint Care 60 Chew Tablets	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-N78012	26851780120	Excel Joint Ensure Moderate Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-N78013	26851780137	Excel Joint Ensure Advanced Care 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13
P-N78014	26851780144	Excel Flare-Away Joint Tabs 60 Tasty Chew Tabs	EXP 01/13 thru 06/13

###

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For a healthier option try Lifes Abundance Pet food www.superior-dog-food.com

The DogSmith Makes Saving Pets’ Lives Its Business

2010-07-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise Company was founded on the principle of social responsibility through their Canine Rescue Resources Program for animal shelters and rescue groups.

Washington County, FL, July 2010 - The DogSmith is a Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise company that aims to promote the principles of corporate social responsibility in its internal practices. The DogSmith is convinced that corporate social responsibility is a viable and necessary ‘best practice’ of its business model that motivates and unites its franchise owners. The DogSmith does this through their Canine Rescue Resource Program (CRRP) which provides valuable tools, consultation, training, and volunteer hours to animal refuge facilities and rescue groups.

From its very inception The DogSmith business model was designed around what the founder, Niki Tudge, observed in her work cofounding an animal refuge and as a Humane Society Executive Director. According to Tudge, “As a professional dog trainer and dog behavior counselor I noticed that a significant number of pet animals were being surrendered or abandoned because of easily fixed behavior problems. Owners just didn’t seem to know where to go for help,” she said. “I also noticed that many pet dogs adopted from shelters were being returned for these same behavior problems. What was worse was that some of these problem behaviors were developed or increased while in a shelter environment. We address these issues by providing our expertise to shelter groups at no cost,” said Tudge.

Tudge always believed she could develop a business concept that would include the commitment to support shelters and rescue groups with resources that would be otherwise unaffordable given their tight budgets.
“One of our main corporate missions is to minimize the number of abandoned and homeless dogs and cats,” said Tudge. The DogSmith business model would also ensure that affordable, convenient and hassle-free dog training and pet care would be available to pet owners. “In addition to the other resources we offer, we also provide free puppy classes to help owners get off to the best start possible with their new dog. All of this, I believe, will greatly reduce the number of stray and abandoned pets in our communities,” said Tudge.

Corporate Social Responsibility is at the heart of The DogSmith’s Mission, Vision and Values which include their commitment to help ‘significantly reduce the number of unwanted pets by supporting animal shelters and rescue organizations, through their deeds, efforts and sponsorship.’ In addition to their active commitment to the animal rescue world The DogSmith’s home-based business model and pet waste cleanup service naturally minimize individual environmental impact and reduces the contribution pet waste makes to water pollution.

About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Franchise Owner http://www.DogSmithfranchise.com or call 1-888-364-7648

DogSmith Palm Beach, Servicing area…Jupiter, Juno Beach, Jupiter Island, Jupiter Inlet Beach Colony, Singer Island, Palm Beach Island, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Shores, North Palm Beach, Royal Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, Lake Park, Wellington, Loxahatchee Groves, Hobe Sound, Stuart, Tequesta, and all of Palm Beach County.

Dangerous Gardens

2010-07-02T10:27:00.001-07:00

By Jill Richardson, DVM

It’s finally summer, but can all of the pretty flowers in bloom spell trouble for you and your kitty? Make sure to check all fresh and garden flowers to make sure that they are not dangerous — or deadly — for your pets.

There are hundreds of plants that may be poisonous, and even nonpoisonous plants can cause mild stomach upset if they are ingested in quantity. The following are some of the most dangerous plants that you should make sure to keep away from your pets.
Dangerous GardensLilies

Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum), tiger lilies (Lilium tigrinum), rubrum lilies or Japanese showy lilies (Lilium speciosum and Lilium lancifolium), and various day lilies (genus Hemerocallis) are highly toxic to cats. These beautiful and colorful plants are grown as ornamental flowers and are commonly found in bouquets and flower arrangements. While the exact toxic component is unknown, cats appear to be the only species sensitive to its deadly effects. A cat licking or chewing on the plant may develop kidney failure that could be fatal. Even small ingestions, such as a few bites on a leaf or ingestion of pollen, can be deadly.
Rhododendron

Rhododendron species contain a toxic substance known as grayanotoxin. Grayanotoxins can be very dangerous if the plants containing it are ingested. This type of poison causes stomach upset, but it can also affect the heart rate and nervous system. As few as two leaves may cause dangerous toxicity. A common plant found in this family is the azalea, which is often used as an ornamental plant.
Plants That Contain Cardiac Glycoside

Cardiac glycoside is a poison; the most commonly recognized is digitalis, which is sometimes used in medication to treat cardiovascular disease in people and pets. Plants that contain this type of poison are highly toxic because they can cause life-threatening damage to the heart. Examples of these types of plants include oleander (Nerium oleander), lily-of-the-valley (Convallaria majalis), foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), certain milkweeds (Aesclepias spp.) and squill (Virginea maritime). All parts of plants that contain cardiac glycoside are toxic, and even small amounts can be deadly.
Castor Beans (Ricinus communis)

The castor bean plant is used as a decorative plant and as jewelry, and sometimes the oil (castor oil) from the plant is used medicinally. The toxic ingredient in this plant is ricin, which is one of the most potent toxins known to man. Castor bean seeds contain the highest concentration of ricin in the plant and are most commonly associated with poisoning. The beans must be crushed to release the toxin, but even small amounts of ricin can be fatal.
Cycad Palms (Cycas, Zamia)

These ornamental plants are found naturally in areas of sandy soil, like in Texas, Florida and California. This plant is also becoming a popular bonsai-style houseplant. Cycasin is the toxic component of this plant. Cycasin is found throughout the plant, although it is more concentrated in the seeds. This toxin can cause severe liver failure if it is ingested by a cat. Ingestion of one or more seeds has resulted in severe symptoms and even death in pets.
Yews, Taxus Genus

Many types of yew bushes are used in landscaping, and they also grow naturally. The toxic ingredient in these bushes is taxane. Most cases of poisoning from yew bushes typically result from trimmings fed to grazing animals; however, a bored cat may chew on the bush. In cattle, horses, and goats, the toxic ingredient results in heart failure and sudden death. In dogs and possibly in cats, the animal usually experiences seizures following its ingestion.

17 Most Common Poisonous Plants for animals to ingest

2010-07-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

17 Most Common Poisonous Plants

* Lilies
* Marijuana
* Sago Palm
* Tulip/Narcissus Bulbs
* Azalea/Rhododendron
* Oleander
* Castor Bean
* Cyclamen
* Kalanchoe
* Yew
* Amaryllis
* Autumn Crocus
* Chrysanthemum
* English Ivy
* Peace Lily (Mauna Loa Peace Lily)
* Pothos
* Schefflera

Feline's Pride Issues Nationwide Recall

2010-07-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

Feline's Pride Issues Nationwide Recall of its Natural Chicken Formula Cat Food Due to Salmonella Contamination

Feline’s Pride is announcing a voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

For a more healthy option go to www.superior-dog-food.com

Lifes Abundance Dog Food, Free Samples

2010-06-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

Lifes Abundance Dog Food, Free Samples

The Ten Rules to Housetrain Your Dog in Ten Days.

2010-06-21T11:14:00.000-07:00

Depending on your dog, your family and your lifestyle, housetraining a dog can be anywhere from easy, to almost impossible. Many dog owners get lucky and in spite of mistakes they unknowingly make, they find themselves with a housetrained dog. On the other hand, some dog owners need help from a dog trainer or dog behavior counselor. Even a small number of these pet owners may become desperate when everything they do, even under professional counsel, seems futile.

The more difficult house training cases to crack are those of dogs that, by mistake, have become ‘reverse’ house-trained by their owners. ‘Reverse’ house-training results when dogs have been allowed to go to the bathroom inside the home and then been inadvertently reinforced for doing so. Another difficult house-training example to correct includes puppies from pet stores, puppy mills and backyard breeders where the puppies have been raised in contained, unsanitary conditions. Since they have no alternative these puppies eat and sleep in the same area they use as their bathroom.

So, when you bring a new puppy or rescue dog into your home, or if have an older dog that is not yet house-trained, follow our “Ten Rules to House-training” and you should be relieved (no pun intended) to find in ten days you have a house-trained dog.

Managing the Environment

1. The first thing you need to do before you start your house-training plan is to ensure your home is free from urine stains and residual odors. Purchase a black light and a pet odor remover from your local pet store. When it is dark, turn off all the lights and thoroughly inspect your home, carpets, furniture and tiled area. The black light will reveal any old stains so you can effectively clean and remove them. There are many very effective pet stain/odor cleaning products available on the market.
2. If you don’t already have one, purchase a good quality wire crate that is large enough for your dog to stand up, lie down and turn around in. Position the crate in a quiet, but not isolated part of your home. You will also need three Kongs (chew toys you can stuff with treats), a squeaky toy, a nylon collar and a 6 foot nylon leash.
3. Develop and follow a 24 hour management schedule of potty breaks. This is critical because you don’t want your puppy to have an accident. Your schedule should include meals, play time, training time, bathroom breaks and sleep time for the entire 10 day program. Bathroom breaks should be scheduled every four hours except overnight when you can allow 6 hours. The plan should also include two or three feeding sessions, one in the morning, one midday and the last one no later than 6pm. Your dog should not have access to drinking water after 8pm or three hours before it goes into its crate to sleep for the night.
4. If you can’t be home during the midday break, either schedule some time off work or hire a dog walker or pet sitter that can help you with that portion of your house-training schedule. This will be vital for success.
5. Keep a daily journal on your dog’s eating schedule and bathroom habits. Note when your dog urinates and defecates. Note the exact time your dog eats and any other treats it is given during the day. Your journal will help you determine how long after eating and drinking your dog typically needs to use the bathroom. You can use this information to adjust your schedule if necessary.
6. Your dog’s day will include meals, sleep, play, training and bathroom breaks. During each of these periods the dog is either in its crate or tethered to you. Give your dog a Kong stuffed with yummy treats for mental enrichment while it is in its crate. Your dog must be supervised 100% of the time during the house-training period. When the dog is tethered to you, watch for signs of needing to go to the bathroom. If you notice your dog sniffing the ground, walking in circles or looking uncomfortable then quickly take the dog outside to its designated bathroom area and follow rule number 7.

Training the Behavior

1. At the scheduled bathroom times take your dog from its crate, on a leash, and take it to its designated bathroom area. Keep your dog on its 6 foot leash but let it explore while you stand in one spot. Initially ignore your dog. Because your dog isn’t getting any attention from you and there will be limited things of interest to explore in the restricted area defined by the leash, your dog will eventually go to the bathroom.
2. Once your dog has finished, praise it with ‘good doggie.’ Give it lots of attention and treats. Have a little celebration with your dog. This lets your dog know that its behavior is remarkable and deserves praise. You MUST create a situation where your dog wants to go to the bathroom in that particular area.
3. Only after your dog has been to the bathroom should it be let off the leash to play or taken for its ‘long’ walk. This ensures that your dog will soon learn that the more quickly it completes its bathroom behavior the more quickly it gets its reward of treats, play, its walk or all three. ALWAYS exercise or play with or train your dog for at least ten minutes before you take it back inside to its crate.

Developing the Relationship

1. Show your dog you are a trusting and benevolent leader. Never punish your dog for mistakes. Your dog’s accidents are your accidents. If, as described in rule 6, you notice your dog displaying signs of needing the bathroom while inside and you are slow getting your dog outside, simply get their attention with a loud clap of your hands and immediately take your dog outside to their bathroom area (you can clean up any inside accident later).

When dogs are exposed to consistent, accident-free house-training systems you will be surprised at how quickly they learn. With the right level of commitment and conscientious use of a training schedule you can train a dog to be solidly house-trained in ten days.

For a FREE copy of the House training plan contact your local DogSmith www.DogSmith.com or 1-888-Dog-Smith (364-7648)

MyBirthdayWish_0002.wmv

2010-06-16T18:42:00.000-07:00

2010-06-16T09:35:00.001-07:00

Whispering is not Enough, Learn to Talk Dog â€“ They will love you for it!

All behaviors that dogs exhibit are designed to either access pleasurable situations or avoid and escape unpleasant situations. A dogâ€™s communication systems are much ritualized and designed to avoid or cutoff conflict. This has made dogs as a species very successful in terms of their numbers and their variety. Things go awry when we humans misread the signals dogs send us leaving them helpless to effectively communicate their feelings to us. We cannot know or understand what dogs think and vice-versa. What we can do is understand canine body language, observe them as we interact with them and then respond appropriately. â€˜Talking dogâ€™ is simple if you remember a few important rules and it will make interacting with dogs fun and safe. The dogs you come into contact with will really appreciate it.

The types of social behaviors dogs demonstrate can be broadly grouped into either distance decreasing or distance increasing. A dog uses distance decreasing behaviors to promote approach, play and continued interaction. A lumbering soft gait, relaxed body and a relaxed face indicate the dog is encouraging interaction. Dogs who want to engage in play will demonstrate the â€˜play bow,â€™ a posture where the dog bows the front of his/her body so that the front legs are parallel to the ground while the hindquarters remain in the standing position, the dog may offer you a paw, lean into you or rub against you.

Distance increasing signals vary and can be easily misread. The distance increasing signals we all seem to â€˜getâ€™ are when a dog stands upright making each part of their body appear as large as possible, weight on the front legs, upright tail, upright ears, piloerection (the hair on their back stands up), and the dog will bark or growl. We seem to instinctively react to these signals and take them as the warning they are.

The distance increasing signals that we commonly misinterpret are the more appeasing behaviors dogs demonstrate. Dogs use these appeasement behaviors to make friendly encounters more reliable and to help them pacify what they anticipate to be a hostile encounter if escape is impossible for them. These behaviors are a nonaggressive way to â€˜cut offâ€™ conflict. When a dog displays these behaviors we have to recognize that this is the dogâ€™s way of showing us that they are unsure and a little scared.

You may see appeasement signals in one of two ways. Passive appeasement behaviors are easily misunderstood and are often labeled as â€˜submissive.â€™ Dogs displaying passive appeasement will present themselves in a recumbent position exposing the underside of their body. The dogâ€™s ears are typically back and down against the head and the tail is often tucked between the upper legs. Sometimes the dog will expel a small amount of urine while it waits for the attention to cease. The active appeasement dog is often incorrectly labeled as â€˜excitedâ€™ or â€˜overly friendly.â€™ They will often approach you with the whole rear-end wagging in a â€œUâ€ shape allowing both its face and genital area to be inspected and they may be desperate to jump up and â€˜get in your faceâ€™.

For humans then, it is important when meeting and greeting dogs to be able to recognize if a dog is friendly and wanting to greet you or if the dog is experiencing stress or fear. A conflicted dog will want to approach but is too scared or unsure of the outcome. Their body language will vacillate between displays of distance decreasing behaviors and distance increasing behaviors. Interacting with a dog that is conflicted can be risky. If you make a wrong move and the dog cannot avoid the approach then they may become aggressive. This is often the case with a fear biter. If a dog is demonstrating ambivalent, mixed signals then it is advisable to avoid sudden movements, and to allow the dog an escape route. Donâ€™t force the meet and greet by moving toward the dog or having the dogsâ€™ owner manipulate the dog toward you.

In general when you meet and greet a dog make sure you have a relaxed posture. Let the dog approach you, turn slightly to the side as this is less threatening for the dog than you standing in a full frontal position leaning over them. Always ask permission from the dogâ€™s owner to pet their dog. Talk gently to the dog without making eye contact. It helps to crouch down and keep your hands by your side without making any sudden movements. When you have determined the dog is not showing any signs of stress or fear and their body language is relaxed and happy then you can slowly move your hand under their chin to stroke them. If the dog is showing passive appeasement signals, as described above, then step away, give them space and allow them to approach you on their terms and in their preferred timing.

It is important that we recognize a dogâ€™s â€œcut offâ€™ behaviors. â€˜Cut offâ€™ behaviors are designed to cut off the social contact. If, when greeting a dog, you donâ€™t recognize that the dog is scared or stressed or you choose to ignore the dogâ€™s communication and push forward with your approach you are unfairly pushing the dog into a situation where it may only be left with one option and not a favorable option to either dog or human.

Dogs will typically give plenty of warning if they are uncomfortable with something that another dog or a person is doing. These warning signs may include a direct stare, a rigid body, a growl and showing â€œwhale eyeâ€ (flashing the whites of their eyes). The dogâ€™s ears will be flat against the head and they may have a closed tense mouth, if you see any of these signals then stop what you are doing immediately and allow the dog to slowly back away.

Dogs are wonderful animals that love and need to be a part of our social lives. But, like people, their personalities range from being social butterflies to wallflowers. Tailor your approach and greeting style based on the communication they are giving you. Dogs are very clear with their intentions and emotions and respond appropriately to ours. Remember our body language and approach speaks louder than our words to a dog.

Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, Americaâ€™s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise.

Please contact www.dogsmith.com or 1-888-dog-smith (364-7648)

2010-06-16T09:24:00.001-07:00

Got Dog? Need Training !

Enroll for a DogSmith specialist training class. Donâ€™t pay for skills or time you donâ€™t need.

Walk Nicely
This class focuses on taking walking nicely into a more controlled heel behavior. This class is ideal for owners wanting to eventually advance to ring obedience or to take longer strolls with their dogs.

Enroll today www.dogSmith.com or call Rachel Williams 561-271-3033 or 1-888-dog-smith (364-7648)

2010-06-16T09:12:00.001-07:00

Just finished a very important meeting with Tom Brodigan, renowned pet photographer for palm beach county. We will have lots of new photos of the DogSmith, Palm beach, Gang, to post shortly. www.dogslifephotography.com check out his website for unique candid photography. The dogsmith Palm beach is happy to be partnering with such a talented photographer.

Just finished a meeting with Pet photographer Tom Brodigan

2010-06-16T09:06:00.001-07:00

check out www.dogslifephotography.com for cool candid shots of dogs and their family.

2010-06-03T14:29:00.001-07:00

How to Help Your Nervous Dog While You Are Away

Trouble When Home Alone

Does your dog demonstrate signs of fear and nervousness when left alone? Separation anxiety has become a bit of a â€œcatch-allâ€ phrase in the dog world but dogâ€™s can experience varying levels of anxiety, fear and nervousness when left on their own. For serious cases with complex causes, especially if your dog has become self destructive, consulting a Dog Trainer who is a qualified Behavior Analyst is recommended.

When trying to help your pooch become relaxed and calm when left alone the first thing you should do is take it to your vet so you can be sure its nervous behavior isnâ€™t caused by a medical condition.

Once your vet has determined your dog is physically fit the next step is to make sure your pooch is getting adequate exercise and mental stimulation. And however much physical and mental exercise Fido may be getting now, increase it. Just like humans, exercise will help your dogâ€™s brain regulate mood and reduce nervous behavior. Exercise alone will often reduce your pooches anxiety and nervousness. A dog that is well exercised will be more relaxed and less likely to display destructive behaviors. A tired dog is a happy dog.

Diet can also be a factor. Poor quality foods use ingredients like corn which can alter the brainâ€™s ability to moderate mood by causing an imbalance in amino acids and brain functioning. The result of these imbalances can be an animal that becomes agitated, impulsive, obsessive and over-reactive. Always ensure your pet is fed a high quality diet free of corn, wheat, soy, hormones/steroids, by-products, artificial colors/flavors, or chemical preservatives.

Dogs often display anxiety, (pacing, whining, barking, inappropriate chewing, etc.) out of pure loneliness and boredom. If you suspect that boredom may contribute to your dogâ€™s anxiety look into some of the excellent interactive toys now available for pets. You can even use toys that will dispense your dogâ€™s meals keeping it mentally stimulated figuring out how to get its breakfast. Your pooch may not even notice youâ€™ve gone to work.

Another important technique for your dogâ€™s general well being is to make sure your dog is getting quality â€œfaceâ€ time with you and your family. They are pack animals and we are their pack. And there is nothing like enrolling your dog in an obedience or agility course, using strictly positive methods, to help build a strong relationship between you and your dog. Also, consider putting your pooch into daycare or hiring a dog walker. Your dog will greatly benefit from the additional exercise and companionship.

Finally, one of the most effective methods of ensuring a happy, confident and well-mannered dog in general is to â€˜crate-trainâ€™ it. A properly crate-trained dog feels relaxed, safe and secure in its crate (download our free e-book on crate-training).

Whichever of these techniques you use, success will come with time, patience and consistency. And under no circumstance should you punish your dog for anxious behaviors as that tends to make the condition worse. Remember, if your dogâ€™s condition seems severe, especially where it may harm itself, consult a Canine Behavior Analyst. A Behavior Analyst is equipped to identify the root cause of your dogâ€™s destructive behaviors and can guide you through a customized program of training tailored for your particular situation.

Who is The DogSmith

The DogSmith provides professional pet care services to homes and multi-family communities. Since 2006 The DogSmith has been providing the best in dog training, pet care, pet sitting, group dog training, home alone visits, dog walks and pooper scooper service to hundreds of clients across America. For more information contact The DogSmith at www.DogSmith.com. We also offer Pet Business Franchise opportunities.

Do you know what The DogSmith does?

Here are a number of things that we specialize in : pet franchise, dog training, dog behavior counseling, pet sitting, dog walking, pet nutrition, pet waste station servicing, group dog training, private dog training, obedience dog training, puppy training, in home pet care, dog day care, canine good citizen testing, puppy star classes, dog behavior modification.

We service the following areas. Palm Beach County.
www.dogsmith.com

2010-05-07T05:46:00.001-07:00

Ok so I had forgotten, how much work having a new little puppy around the house can be. This is Day 2 of Bentley's Board and Train stay at The DogSmith, Palm Beach training center.

He is definitely coming out of his shell and showing some confidence and along with that came his voice! oh and what a voice it is, sharp high pitched yelp, and a low hoowwwl its quite a comical sound but not at 3am!!Lol, he likes to make himself heard when I go out of sight! we are working on some separation anxiety the little man is experiencing, but that is all normal for a little puppy his age, he is so dependent on us for everything, he doesn't want to loose sight of me for one second.

Crate training is going really well he goes in and out of the crate on cue "In your crate" ok "Out" by putting this on a cue/command and rewarding him EVERY single time he goes into the crate, he will soon become conditioned to associating the crate with good happy thoughts.

He has had NO accidents in the house and this is because I keep a keen eye on his every move he is never out of my sight unless he is contained. So there is no chance of a mistake inside. I take Mr B out after he wakes up from a nap, when he is finished playing, or after a period of time goes by that he has not been to bathroom for a while.

Last night was a long night, he went to his crate on command and made not one sound, he was sleeping like a baby, until that is 2.45am. No one can mistake that sound a frantic yapping squealing howling ....... it's Mr B. He had had an accident and wanted outta the mess! I got to him and we quickly went outside on the grass and waited and waited and waited what seemed like forever! until finally I was able to reward him for a pee pee outside, this was well worth the wait. He got a reward for making pee pee outside so soon he will want to HOLD all bodily functions, so he can get "rewarded" for it he will learn pretty quickly that this "reward thing" only happens when he is OUTSIDE doing his business.... today we will be spending more time alone in the crate, make it short periods at first, even put your puppy in the crate when you are not leaving the house this way you are not always having him associate him going into the crate when you leave! if he is resting make him rest in the crate... Rachel Williams, Owner of The DogSmith, Palm beach County. www.dogsmith.com

2010-05-06T04:33:00.001-07:00

Today at the DogSmith Palm Beach, Dog training center, we met Bentley, he is a 13 week old GoldenDoodle that we are going to be seeing a lot of over the next few months as he is coming to board and train at The DogSmith, Palm beach for all his puppy training and obedience training. He is here this week for housebreaking and potty training along with crate training. Most importantly he is going to get as much socialization as I can possibly fit in. Today I took him with me to an appointment I had at the groomers, just "to go" nothing to be done, just to get him used to the different noises, smells and a new strange environment. Bentley will be going to the groomers quite a bit throughout his life so even though he is only 13 weeks old this is a good time to go just "for fun", I will be visiting a vet also just "for fun" nothing needed, we will go just for fun! Bentley got to meet some new friends today, a 6 month old Wheaten terrier called Lexi, a 6 year old German Shepard called Fina, a 3 month old Shiatsu, and a 2 year old Maltese and my 3 year old yellow lab called Chloe, its important to get puppies socialized with different breads as well as different age dogs. They have to learn not all dogs like to play like puppy s do! believe it or not the German Shepard wanted to play with the little Golden doodle! very sweet. It was a busy first day for Bentley he got to experience so much of what is in store for him in his life in just the first day at The DogSmith. Take your puppy out and about as much as possible these first few months are a critical time for getting your dog used to all kinds of things, car rides, different surfaces to walk on, wet ones dry ones, sand, hard, soft ones, steps, stairs, meet as many different people as possible, Bentley met a tall guy, blond lady with shopping bags, a group of teenagers, an older man and his dog, and lots of sounds while we were walking in the neighborhood. We worked on introducing the crate and Mr B did really well he actually spent his first night in the crate from 11.30pm until 5.45am. he cried for 6 minutes at first and then he slept through the night. We worked on name recognition a new puppy is hardly ever called by his actual name, we tend to use "baby names" like sweetie, honey bunny, cutie etc etc. name recognition is important for training a dog to come when called..

2010-04-19T15:34:00.001-07:00

Free Puppy Socialization Class this coming Saturday at Jupiter dog beach, 10am
GOT PUPPY? then you need to join The DogSmith at Jupiter Dog Beach this coming Saturday April 24th at 10am. for A FREE puppy Social. It is for puppies aged up to 6 months and we will be having fun and an informal discussion on bite inhibition, crate training, house breaking. And all things puppy. Every one who attends gets a doggie information pack that includes Free sample of Life's Abundance dog food, free puppy socialization work book and other information.

Please go on line to www.dogsmith.com to register or call Rachel Williams on her cell 561-271-3033 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 561-271-3033 end_of_the_skype_highlighting for more information.

Free Puppy Socialization Class this coming Saturday at Jupiter dog beach, 10am

2010-04-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

GOT PUPPY? then you need to join The DogSmith at Jupiter Dog Beach this coming Saturday April 24th at 10am. for A FREE puppy Social. It is for puppies aged up to 6 months and we will be having fun and an informal discussion on bite inhibition, crate training, house breaking. And all things puppy. Every one who attends gets a doggie information pack that includes Free sample of Life's Abundance dog food, free puppy socialization work book and other information.

Please go on line to www.dogsmith.com to register or call Rachel Williams on her cell 561-271-3033 for more information.

2010-04-13T12:03:00.001-07:00

What Is A Dog Training Professional
Posted on April 8, 2010 by DogSmith

The dictionary would have us understand professional to mean “Engaging in a given activity as a source of livelihood or as a career” but in terms of Dog Training what does this actually mean?

Dog Trainers like other areas of the Pet Industry, such as food and nutrition are not meticulously regulated. This has left the dog training industry with practicing professionals operating at extreme ends of the professional spectrum. One end of this spectrum has professionals operating as trainers who are qualified through their commitment and passion for animals through years of animal involvement. At the other end of the spectrum are the animal behaviorists, those dedicated through education to understanding animal behavior as a science an important part of animal psychology.

Canine behaviorists unlike many Dog Trainers can not only help you teach your dog a few commands but can actually help you modify unwanted behaviors such as aggression, anxiety issues and phobias. Training skills are one of the many tools found in the behaviorist repertoire of skills. Canine behaviorists unlike many trainers do not work with predefined recipes but are able to select from many areas of learning theory to address each dog and its unique behavioral challenges.

So how do you choose a trainer for Fido? An internet search will inundate you with organizations, clubs, on line experts all promising you success in training Fido and making him the perfect family companion. Well there are several highly reputable professional organizations with extensive member directories. These organizations have ridged codes of conduct for professional members. They list member’s qualifications and areas of expertise making your search easier.

The American Pet Dog Trainers Association APDT.com, there vision is “All dogs are effectively trained through dog-friendly techniques and therefore are lifelong companions in a relationship based on mutual trust and respect.

The National Association of Pet Dog Trainers NADOI, NADOI.org states in their code of ethics for members “Always will I advocate training by such methods that will keep the best interest of the dog, the handler, and the fancy in mind”.

The DogSmith®, a national dog training franchise that has a rigid code of conduct, and all the DogSmiths are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and work within that code of conduct too.

DogSmith Certified Dog Trainers are a competent body of professionals. Competence is the most ethical obligation a professional has in their field of expertise. To be competent means the professional is knowledgeable, is schooled in the theory and research of their industry and has the necessary skills to actually apply that field of knowledge to a working situation with their clients. Within the companion animal training and behavior field “necessary skills” refers to the professional’s interviewing skills, their ability to use functional assessment procedures to determine the most appropriate behavior change program required and technical skills, their ability to use appropriate behavior change interventions (Welfel 2009).

Competence is the measure of actual professional performance, not the level and amount of education an individual has. Like in all professions it is unlikely that one companion animal trainer or behavior analyst will be competent across all their industry interventions. The services offered by a companion animal trainer or behavior professional are referred to as their “scope of practice”. DogSmiths as competent professionals only work within the boundaries of their knowledge and skill body.

Professionals recognize that it is the right and responsibility of every individual to advance their welfare. Clients have freedom of choice and do this voluntarily when they have adequate disclosure of information regarding the services to be provided and an appropriate understanding of the circumstances and the expected results. Clients have ethical and legal rights to this information when embarking on a professional relationship with a companion animal trainer or behavior professional (Welfel 2009).

DogSmiths acknowledge that clients in the companion animal behavior consulting and training relationship have the full responsibility for their animals. Professionals must fully disclose all aspects of the professional client relationship in terms of confidentiality, role of each partner in the relationship, the cost of services, payment methods, cancellation and reimbursement terms and liability and indemnity policies (O’Heare 2009).

DogSmith professionals are diligent and focus their attention on the needs of the client. DogSmith companion animal trainers and behavior professionals consider the client to also include the animal. The pet dog is the vulnerable component in the consultation process as they cannot offer informed consent and the priority is always on using non invasive and non intrusive interventions that are successful. The DogSmith is always concerned with the animal’s welfare, the behavior change methods to be employed and the parameters of confidentiality and privilege relating to local and state animal controls, ordinances and laws (O’Heare 2009).

Each of these organizations will help you to find a dog trainer, or canine behaviorist that will meet the needs of you and your pet, humanely, safely and conducted by a Professional who not only engages in the activity as a source of income but one who has you and your pets best interests at heart. There are members of these associations in most geographical areas. So having made the responsible decision to train you dog, spend some time to select the right trainer, one who has a mandate of ‘do no harm, seek to do good”
To find a local DogSmith in your area go to www.dogsmith.com or call Rachel Williams owner of DogSmith Palm Beach County, 561-271-3033

2010-04-13T11:41:00.001-07:00

Be The Benevolent Leader Your Dog Deserves – Dispelling The Alpha Myth
Posted on April 9, 2010 by DogSmith

It is first important to understand some basics of canine social systems. Dogs live in social groups and they establish a social structure, called a hierarchy, within the group. This hierarchy or “pecking order” serves to maintain order, reduce conflict, and promote cooperation among pack members. This social order must be established and maintained with a minimum of combat in order to prevent pack members from being injured. This is accomplished by a variety of subtle signals and ritualized behaviors such as vocalizations, body postures and maneuvers, and eye contact. Without a hierarchy, these social cues are not respected and full-scale fighting results. A position within the hierarchy will be established by each member of the group, based on the outcomes of the interactions between it and other pack members. The more dominant animals can control access to valued items such as food, den sites, and mates. For domestic dogs, valued items might be food, toys, sleeping or resting places, and attention from the owner

There are several models of dog hierarchies.

- A Despotic hierarchy which is a single individual who is dominant over the rest of the group.
- A linear hierarchy where there is a clear pecking order
- Triangular hierarchy which is unstable as there is no dog in charge

However, the hierarchies are not set in stone and can vary based on the day of the week, male or female and whether there are puppies. Females tend to have their own hierarchy and on some days they will decide that they will impose their leadership over the males in the pack, sound familiar! Hierarchies also change based on the individual dogs preferences. We never know what a dog is thinking but we do know from their actions what their preferences are based on where they choose to rest, the toy they choose to play with or the person they choose to offer their attention too.

Many of us were raised on the myth that we have to be the Alpha and at the top of the hierarchy and to a certain extent, yes, we do. The misunderstanding is how we do this and what actually being Alpha means. I have often been asked this type of question in the context of “I need to be at the top of the pecking order”. Unbeknown to students or dog class members who say this, it actually generates a small internal chuckle as there is much more knowledge about chicken pecking orders than dog dominance models. There have in fact been hundreds of studies done on chickens and there complicated “pecking orders” within their social groups. The research is fascinating to read and I find it amazing that there has been very little empirical research done on dog social groups and their hierarchy considering many more of us own dogs than chickens.

Previous assumptions on dog social hierarchies and dominance models were developed from short term studies of wolf packs in the 1940s. These studies were a great start but did not recognize that wolves are distant cousins of dogs. Hundreds of years ago dogs and wolves took different forks in the evolutionary road and have adapted to different environments. The wolf adapted to the wild and the dog to a life of domestication. Because of this dogs and wolves are very different animals living to different social rules in different environments.

Dr. Ian Dunbar spent nine years studying the social behavior of dogs during a 30 year study performed by Dr Frank Beach at Yale and UC Berkeley. Specific focus was devoted to the social behaviors of a beagle dog pack. In short the findings of this research showed that male dogs have a rigid hierarchy, females have a hierarchy too but with much more variation and when the two are mixed together the males try to follow the structure, often with difficulty, as the females create their own rules depending on how they feel on any given day. Within this social structure it was found that puppies have a “puppy license”. They get away with almost everything until they are about four months of age when it is quickly revoked. Most importantly to pet dog owners, the study showed that there is no physical domination, top ranking dogs accomplish things using psychological harassment, ritual behaviors that the pack responds too. Most alpha dogs rule benevolently and because they are so confident in their position there is no need to fight or squabble. In fact the squabbling and scrapping is done by the middle ranked animals that are insecure and want to advance over other middle ranked animals.

So Alpha means to control the resources, something we can all do with our pet dogs without using physical corrections, alpha rolls or verbal abuse. Take your dog to training and using positive methods you can establish yourself as the alpha. Apply the NILFF mantra (nothing in life for free). Have your dog work for their treats, their dinner, and their toys confirming once again that you control the resources. Reward all the wonderful things your dog does and not only will you assert yourself as alpha you will develop a trusting bond with your dog that will ensure you have a well balanced social order where everyone feels secure, trusted and happy.

To learn more about canine hierarchies or how to be a benevolent leader of your canine pack contact NikiTudge@Dogsmith.com or visit http://www.Dogsmith.com to find your local DogSmith who can help you become the benevolent leader your dog deserves. If you cannot find a DogSmith, then why not become one. Open a DogSmith Franchise in your area.
Rachel Williams is the owner of DogSmith Palm beach County, call 561-271-3033.

2010-04-13T11:38:00.001-07:00

The AVSAB Position Paper on Puppy Socialization
Posted on April 11, 2010 by DogSmith

The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life.

During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing overstimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated. Because the first three months are the period when sociability outweighs fear, this is the primary window of opportunity for puppies to adapt to new people, animals, and experiences. Incomplete or improper socialization during this important time can increase the risk of behavioral problems later in life including fear, avoidance, and/or aggression.

Behavioral problems are the greatest threat to the owner-dog bond. In fact, behavioral problems are the number one cause of relinquishment to shelters.3 Behavioral issues, not infectious diseases, are the number one cause of death for dogs under three years of age. While puppies’ immune systems are still developing during these early months, the combination of maternal immunity, primary vaccination, and appropriate care makes the risk of infection relatively small compared to the chance of death from a behavior problem.

Veterinarians specializing in behavior recommend that owners take advantage of every safe opportunity to expose young puppies to the great variety of stimuli that they will experience in their lives. Enrolling in puppy classes prior to three months of age can be an excellent means of improving training, strengthening the human-animal bond, and socializing puppies in an environment where risk of illness can be minimized.

The Process of Socialization: Puppies should be handled from birth, learning to accept manipulation of all body parts. Every effort should be made to expose them to as many different people, well-socialized animals, situations, places, etc. as possible. Puppies should be encouraged to explore, investigate, and manipulate their environments. Interactive toys and games, a variety of surfaces, tunnels, steps, chutes, and other stimuli can enrich the puppy’s environment. Puppies should accompany their breeders/owners on as many car trips as possible. These exposures should continue into adulthood to maintain an outgoing and sociable dog. Puppy socialization classes can offer a safe and organized means of socializing puppies and more quickly improve their responsiveness to commands. Each puppy should have age appropriate vaccinations and be disease and parasite free before entering the class.

Where possible, classes should be held on surfaces that are easily cleaned and disinfected (e.g. indoor environments) . Visits to dog parks or other areas that are not sanitized and/or are highly trafficked by dogs of unknown vaccination or disease status should be avoided. Classes and at-home training should be based on positive reinforcement with frequent rewards praise, petting, play and/or treats. Positive and consistent training is associated with fewer behavioral problems and greater obedience than methods that involve punishment and/or encourage human dominance.4,5,6

Time must be scheduled for puppies to play alone with their favorite toys (such as stuffed food toys) or take naps in safe places such as crates or puppy pens. This teaches puppies to amuse themselves, and may help to prevent problems of over attachment to the owners. Continuing to offer dogs a wide variety of experiences during their first year of life is also helpful in preventing separation-related behavior.7 Proper confinement training using pens or crates helps to ensure that puppies have safe and secure places for rest and confinement. Puppies that are used to being crated will be less stressed if they must be hospitalized or be confined for travel by plane or car. Crates should serve as comfort or play areas.

Early and adequate socialization and programs of positive training can go a long way to preventing behavior problems and improving bonding between humans and dogs. While the first three months is the most important socialization period in a puppy’s life, owners of puppies that have passed this milestone are strongly encouraged to continue to socialize their puppies to as many people, pets, and locations as is practical. However, owners of puppies displaying fear should seek veterinary guidance.

In general puppies can start as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first de-worming, and should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.

References: 1. Serpell J, Jagoe JA. Early experience and the development of behaviour. In Serpell J (ed). The Domestic Dog, p.82-102, Cambridge University Press 1995 2. Freedman DG, King JA, Elliot O. 1961. Critical periods in the social development of the dog. Science, 133, 1016-1017 3. Miller DM, Stats SR, Partlo BS, et al. Factors associated with the decision to surrender a pet to an animal shelter. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:738- 742 4. Duxbury MM, Jackson JA, Line SW, Anderson RK. Evaluation of association between retention in the home and attendance at puppy socialization classes. JAVMA, 223 (1), 2003, 61-66 5. Eskeland GE, Tillung RH, Bakken M. The effect of punishment, rewards, control and attitude in obedience and problem behaviors in dogs. Proceedings IVBM 2007;103-104. 6. Hilby EF, Rooney NJ, Bradshaw JWS. Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare. Animal Welfare 2004;13: 63-69. 7. Bradshaw JW, McPherson JA, Casey RA, Larter LS. Aetiology of separation-related behavior in domestic dogs. Vet Record 2002;191:43- 46.

Visit www.DogSmith.com to find a safe and well run puppy class near you. Or call Rachel Williams, DogSmith Palm Beach County, on 561-271-3033.

2010-04-13T11:31:00.001-07:00

Common Household Chemicals That Can Be Dangerous To Your Pet
Posted on April 12, 2010 by DogSmith

Many commonly used products found in our homes that we use everyday can pose a serious threat to the health of our pets. By nature, animals are very curious, especially puppies and kittens who use their mouths to discover the world. As responsible pet owners, it is up to us to be aware of harmful chemicals and take measures to make them inaccessible to our pets. In addition, you should always check product labels and consult with your veterinarian before applying any over-the-counter product to your pet. Some of the more commonly found dangers include chemicals used for flea and fly control, insecticides, automobile antifreeze, rodent poisons and even some household glues.

Permethrin is a common chemical approved for topical use as flea control and large animal fly control. It is also used for insect control on crops, ornamental plants and human use. Permethrin can be found in shampoos, dips, foggers, spot-on treatments and various sprays for animal use. Cats are extremely susceptible to permethrin toxicity because their liver can’t efficiently metabolize the chemical and some dogs may be sensitive as well. Toxicity may occur from an application of a spot-on treatment or if the cat actively grooms, or comes in close physical contact with a dog that has been recently treated. The severity of the reaction can vary with each animal. Signs to look for include muscle tremors, seizures, excess salivation, depression, vomiting, anorexia, and even death.

Organophosphates include a widely distributed group of chemicals used to control a variety of insects on crops, lawns, plants, several species of animals, and around our homes. Organophosphates can also be found as the primary chemical in flea collars. Toxic effects can be seen following direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of fumes. Signs to look for include muscle tremors (especially along the back, neck and top of head), weakness, depression, and seizures. Some toxic signs may not be seen for up to 18-20 days after exposure. Organophosphates can appear on product labels as Chlorpyrifos, Disulfoton or Rabon.

Ethylene Glycol, commonly known as Antifreeze, can be extremely toxic if ingested by your pet. Because of its sweet smell and taste, pets are naturally attracted to antifreeze. In dogs ingesting as little as 1 ½ teaspoons per pound of body weight, and ½ teaspoon per pound of body weight in cats, can be lethal. Effects of the toxin include vomiting, depression, weakness, and rapid breathing and can be observed with in the first few hours after ingestion. This is followed by complete kidney failure within 2 days. If ingestion is suspected, get to a veterinarian immediately! Treatment can be successful if responded to quickly.

Rodenticides, or various rat poisons can all be deadly to your pet. There are many different types of rat poison and each product will affect your pet differently. If you suspect that your pet has come in contact with any form of rat poison take the poison packaging with you to your veterinarian (not just a sample of the bait). Products such as D-con, Warf, and Prolin are anticoagulants which result in internal bleeding. Brands such as Trounce, Assault, and Vengeance cause fluid to build up around the brain and commercial products such as Quintox, Rampage, and Hyperkill result in complete kidney failure. Regardless of the product, immediate action and treatment is necessary to limit the damage caused by these toxins. If you need to use rodenticides in your home, consult your veterinarian in order to select one that is safest for use around your pet.

Some glues, such as Gorilla Glue, expand greatly once ingested and require surgical removal. Just one ounce of glue may expand to the size of a basketball! Therefore, always keep pets away from any area where you are using glue.

The most important rule of thumb when dealing with any chemical around your pets is this: If you’re not sure about the safety of the ingredients of any product you may be using on or around your pets, consult with your veterinarian before using. Taking simple steps, such as storing household chemical products in secure areas and in properly marked containers, will significantly reduce the chance that your pet will come in contact with a toxic substance.

2010-04-12T19:08:00.001-07:00

Free Puppy Socialization class to be held on Saturday April 24th 10am at Jupiter dog beach. call Rachel Williams for directions. for all puppies aged 6 month or less.

Annual Pet Examinations: Are they necessary?

2010-04-10T05:43:00.000-07:00

Many pet owners underestimate the importance of an annual physical exam because their pet seems healthy. Annual exams provide an opportunity to prevent diseases, detect them early, or even avoid them altogether. Many diseases and ailments such as heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes are not often evident in early stages. Your veterinarian can conduct a comprehensive exam that includes a lab analysis, heart check, and dental exam to ensure top physical shape and optimum health for years to come.
Dogs age more rapidly than humans. In one calendar year the average dog can physically age 5-10 years in comparison. Medically, many changes can take place in that time. Once a dog reaches 8 years old it is considered to be geriatric. At this time, it is important to consider performing a “Senior Wellness Profile” which provides a more thorough work-up on major body systems such as the heart, liver, and kidneys as problems such as organ failure or cancer may develop and progress quickly if not detected. Many problems owners commonly assume are “old age changes” may actually be signs of underlying disease and can be very treatable.
What does a physical exam include? Your veterinarian has special training and experience in detecting subtle illness in pets and will conduct a very thorough “nose to toes” exam. Listening to the heart your vet can detect murmurs. Increased lung sounds may indicate early illness. Abdominal palpation may reveal pain in certain areas or abnormal size and shape of various organs or even tumors. Evaluating joint mobility may reveal arthritis. Checking out the eyes can detect early signs of cataracts or other ocular problems. Ears may be in need of cleaning or medication. Dental disease may be detected as well as signs of allergies or skin problems during a routine exam. It’s easier for someone who doesn’t see your pet every day to detect lumps and bumps that you may not have noticed. Comparing annual weights as well can determine if your dog is heading down the path to obesity or is slowly losing weight due to a latent illness or disease.
Annual examinations also give you an opportunity to talk to your Vet about training, hygiene, nutrition, and any other questions you may have. A few simple hygiene tasks added to your daily schedule can be very beneficial to your pet’s quality of life and feeding a proper diet rates as one of the most important considerations in health maintenance. Obedience training is important for your pet's health because behavioral problems account for more deaths in dogs than any known disease. In fact, a well-trained and obedient dog is more likely to live to a ripe old age than a poorly trained one. Contact your local DogSmith at www.DogSmith.com for information on training your dog. for more information on pet nutrition go to www.superior-dog-food.com

© 2010 B Jordan CVT, CDT The DogSmith To contact Bethany via email Bjordan@DogSmith.com
You can reach Niki Tudge the DogSmith Founder via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or to learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com

People food is not only bad for your pet, it could be toxic!

2010-04-10T05:09:00.000-07:00

Because we love our pets, we often want to show our love by sharing our food with them. But did you know that some of your favorite foods can actually be harmful to your furry friends?

Chocolate Coffee and Sodas

Chocolate, coffee, and sodas contain a chemical called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao plants. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines, can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. It is important to note that dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate, and baking chocolate is the most dangerous. The possibility of a reaction can occur, in a 10 pound dog, with as little as 1.5 ounces of milk chocolate, 0.6 ounces of dark chocolate, and 0.2 ounces of baking chocolate.

Grapes and Raisins

Eating grapes has proven to cause sudden kidney failure in pets. The actual chemical ingredient causing the toxic reaction is unknown and the amount required to cause a problem could be a small serving to a few ounces or pounds. Since they are dried, raisins contain a higher concentration of toxins. An animal that has eaten grapes or raisins may be vomiting, having diarrhea, and be hyperactive within the first 24 hours. Later, they may experience loss of appetite, and depression. Additionally the dog’s abdomen may be in pain, the dog may stop drinking and urinating. Ultimately, the kidneys fail, and without aggressive treatment, many dogs may die.

Onions

Onions are very common in the food we eat and are often included in a variety of processed foods, including baby food. Onions contain the chemical Sodium n-Proplylthiosulfate which has toxic effects in dogs causing a form of anemia where the red blood cells are unable to function properly to carry oxygen throughout the body. It is unclear just how much of the chemical contained in onions will cause anemia, so it is best to avoid giving onions to pets altogether. It is important to note that onion powder contains a more concentrated amount of Sodium n-Proplylthiosulfate, therefore products such as Funions are more dangerous than the actual onion. Signs of onion poisoning in dogs includes general weakness, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, depression, blood in the urine, and jaundice appearance as a yellowing of tissues such as eyes, gums and skin.

Bread Dough

Bread dough containing yeast poses a hazard to pets who consume it in large quantities. The risks to pets are two-fold. The first risk is that the dough may continue to rise in the stomach after ingestion causing an intestinal blockage or rupturing the stomach. Secondly, the action of the yeast will ferment sugars, creating a secondary problem of ethanol (alcohol) poisoning in the animal. Early signs of ingestion may include repeated non-productive attempts to vomit, abdominal distention, and depression. As alcohol intoxication develops, the animal becomes weak and disoriented. Eventually, depression, coma, low body temperature, seizures or death may be seen.

Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and toothpastes. This sweetener is popular in human products due to its natural ability to decrease dental disease, but can have very negative effects if ingested by pets. Humans only absorb a certain percentage of Xylitol. However, in dogs it triggers significant insulin release, which then lowers the blood sugar to dangerous levels. A relatively new discovery in the danger of Xylitol from the ASPCA NAPPC database since 2003, reveals that eleven dogs that consumed products containing Xylitol developed liver failure. A 22 pound dog can be affected by ingesting only 3-4 pieces of gum containing the sweetener. Initial signs of toxic ingestion include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to extreme lethargy and seizures and liver failure can be indicated within a few days.

There are also many other types of human food that can be dangerous to your pet such as macadamia nuts, avocado, and moldy leftovers. Be sure to check with your veterinarian for healthy options you can both enjoy safely before sharing your favorite snacks with your best friend.

Watch a great FREE DVD on what and how you should feed your pet so you can ensure they get the best and most complete nutrition without damage or obesity. Visit www.superior-dog-food.com

B Jordan CVT, CDT © 2010

Bethany Jordan is the owner of The DogSmith Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama. You can reach Bethany at Bjordan@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com

Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise. CPDT, E-Nadoi, CBC, AABP- PDT, DIP. ABT, Pet Care Services CPCT, CAPCT, AKC “CGC” Evaluator

You can reach Niki via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com

To learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com

Take the Choke Out Of Walking Your Dog on A Leash

2010-04-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking lately about the practice of using choke collars and jerking the lead as a “correction” that many people still use when training and handling their dog. The most common ‘use’ of the ‘jerk’ correction I have noticed is when a dog owner wants their dog to ‘heel’. Over the years, I have witnessed many dog handlers telling their dog ‘heel’ as they have issued a big leash correction. And usually the result of this ‘correction’ is frustrating to the dog owner as the dog pulls even harder against the leash. ‘Heel’ is supposed to be the cue for walk in the appropriate place. Think about it. If you were constantly jerked, pulled or tugged when you were next to, slightly in front of, or behind your owner, would you choose to be in a ‘heel’ position or would you forge ahead or fall behind to escape or evade any future corrections. If I had experienced a correction like that while hearing the cue ‘heel’ I would also want to head for the hills when I heard that word. Inadvertently sometimes the ‘heel’ cue becomes a warning signal to the dog that a correction is coming and thus the cue evokes a ‘move away behavior’ from the owner.

It is far more pleasant and effective for a dog to learn appropriate leash manners when they are taught where to walk nicely in relation to their walking partner rather than being corrected for getting it wrong. If the dog is reinforced for correct placement and pace then they will no longer forge ahead or lag behind. A dog training ‘cue’ should be music to the ears of a dog. A dog who has been trained using effective, efficient and pleasant methods will happily respond to a ‘cue’ and training your dog will be a more pleasant experience for all. So let’s take the ‘choke’ out of training and replace it with clear concise instructions that builds your dog’s behavior repertoire, sets your dog up for success and rewards them when they get it right. This is a far more pleasant situation for both owner and dog. In addition to being an ineffective training method, there are real health concerns when a dog’s head is jerked around.

Karen Overall (MA, VMD, PhD, DACVB, Clinical Behavioral Medicine for small Animals) says “In a retrospective study on spinal pain, injury or changes in dogs conducted in Sweden, Hallgreen (1992) found that 91% of dogs with cervical anomalies experienced harsh jerks on a leash or had a long history of pulling on the lead. The use of choke collars was also over represented in this group. This strongly suggests that leash corrections are potentially injurious”

Robin Walker (BVetMed MRCVs) says “In 30 years of practice (including 22 as a veterinary advisor to a police dog section) I have seen numerous severely sprained necks, cases of fainting, transient foreleg paralysis and hind leg ataxia after robust use of the choke chain. In the 1970’s, when the practice of slamming the dog sideways with a jerk that brought the foreparts clear off the ground and two or three feet towards the handler became popular, the resulting painful condition was known as “Woodhouse neck” in this practice. Some of these cases exhibited misalignment of cervical vertebrae on radiographs. It suggested that an existing spondylopathy renders these dogs more vulnerable to injury. My ophthalmology colleagues have decided views on the relation between compression of the neck, intraocular pressure disturbances and damage to the cervical sympathetic nerve chain resulting in Horner’s syndrome. I personally have seen a case of swollen eyes with petechial scleral haemorrhage and a number of temporarily voiceless dogs.”

To learn the steps and mechanics of teaching your dog to ‘walk nicely’ or to ‘heel,’ contact your local DogSmith. Your local DogSmith will take you through the stages of a) teaching your dog to stand while on a leash without pulling and lunging, b) teaching you the ‘walk nicely’ behavior in steps so you build on a solid foundation, and c) of introducing you to some great management tools to use while you teach your dog new and acceptable behaviors allowing you to walk and exercise your dog without reinforcing the old and unacceptable behaviors. Visit www.DogSmith.com or Rachel Williams your Palm Beach DogSmith. 561-271-3033.

Got Talent? We Provide Skills! We are searching for the next DogSmith®

2010-03-31T18:58:00.001-07:00

Got Talent? We Provide Skills! We are searching for the next DogSmith®

Are you one of those people that dreams of becoming a dog trainer and working with animals all day?
Are you desperate to help homeless animals and help rehabilitate shelter dogs?
Would you like to work side by side with animal rescue organizations helping dogs become more adoptable?
Are you reliable, do you understand what professional conduct is?
Do you have integrity; yes the ability to do what is right even when your actions may go undetected?
Do you have a natural ability with people and the intrinsic desire to help people solve their problems?
Are you looking for flexible independent work that can help you turn your passion into your career?
If so then you may have the natural talent to become A DogSmith Certified Dog Trainer and professional Pet Care Provider. If you bring your natural talent we can provide the education and support so you can prepare, open and operate your own DogSmith business.
Why not talk to us?
Call us today and find out more about the DogSmith, America’s Dog Training & Pet Care Business. Share with us your future goals, see if it is a good fit?
Take the first step and do something! Call me on my direct line and learn more
Niki Tudge
DogSmith Founder & President
888-364-7648

Save Your Pet’s Life!

2010-03-31T18:36:00.000-07:00

The DogSmith National Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise joins Pet Tech®, Inc. encouraging all animal lovers to participate in the eleventh annual Pet First Aid Awareness Month™.

Florida, April 1, 2010 – The month of April is this year’s designated Pet First Aid Awareness Month™, established to acknowledge the importance of knowing your pet’s health and knowing what’s “normal” for your pet so you can quickly recognize what’s “not normal” and be able to administer basic first aid. According to the Pet Safety Guy, Thom Somes, "Preventable accidents are the leading cause of death & disability among pre-senior dogs and cats."
In its eleventh year, Pet First Aid Awareness Month continues to be a focal point for pet owners and Pet Care Professionals. Each year the importance of education and training, as part of being a caring, conscientious, responsible and loving pet owner and Pet Care Professional, is emphasized. Pet First Aid is the immediate care given to a pet that has been injured or suddenly taken ill. This includes home care and when necessary veterinary help. Knowing the skills and techniques of pet first aid can mean the difference between life and death; temporary and permanent disability; and expensive veterinarian bills and reasonable home care. When pet owners hire professional pet care professionals it is absolutely essential they ensure the person entrusted with the care of their pet has these skills. It is estimated that 1-out-of-4 additional pets could be saved if just one basic skill or technique was applied before receiving veterinary care.

Along with their ongoing message on the importance of the necessary skills of CPR, first aid and care for our four-legged, furry, family members, this year’s Pet First Aid Awareness Month theme features “Pets & People Staying Healthy Together.” The five elements for optimal
wellness and health include 1) Human-Animal Bond, 2) Knowing Your Pet’s Health, 3) Exercise, 4) Diet & Nutrition / Water and 5) Quality Supplementation.

Niki Tudge, founder of the DogSmith, says “Our pets provide us with so much joy and unconditional love we need to return their love by making sure they lead happy and healthy lives by properly training them, feeding them a quality diet and being prepared to administer first aid.”
For tips on how you can participate in The Pet First Aid Awareness Month or to find a Pet First Aid class near you visit www.PetTech.net or contact your local DogSmith Certified Pet Care Expert.
About The DogSmith - The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about The DogSmith or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648. Rachel Williams, palm Beach county.

The DogSmith Opens in the Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama

2010-03-31T09:40:00.001-07:00

The DogSmith National Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise, announces its newest locally owned and operated location serving the Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama.

Chipley, FL – March 15, 2010. DogSmith Franchise Services proudly announces the Grand Opening of its newest DogSmith providing Dog Training, Dog Walking, Doggy Day Care, In-home Pet Sitting (including Farm Animal Care) and Pet Waste Cleanup Services in Holmes, Washington, and Jackson County, Florida and Coffee and Houston County, Alabama. The newest DogSmith Franchise is locally owned and operated by Bethany Jordan, a certified Vet Tech with extensive experience caring for all types of domestic and farm animals. The DogSmith is the nation’s only full service pet care franchise offering a wide variety of individually tailored Dog Training, Pet and Farm Animal Sitting, Pet Waste Cleanup, Dog Walking and Pet Nutrition services which can be customized to suit individual needs and schedules.
Whether you need your farm critters and pets cared for while on an extended vacation or you simply want the family pooch walked while you are busy at work, the DogSmith has an affordable program for you. And all DogSmith technicians are fully insured, bonded and certified in Canine/Feline first aid.

Jordan says that The DogSmith services set a new standard for dog training, in-home pet care and dog walking. “We are professionals with the training, skills and experience to care for a wide variety of family pets and farm animals. Pet sitting requires specialized skills and every DogSmith staff member is a fully certified Pet Care Technician, qualified to look after pets of all kinds including aging dogs or pets with special needs,” says Jordan. The DogSmith pet care program is unique in that it is managed

by certified dog trainers and pet care professionals. Because of this their level of understanding and expertise is unmatched in the pet care industry. The DogSmith’s mission is to provide affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. “We care for your pet’s needs one woof at a time” says Jordan.

For additional information on The DogSmith contact Rick Ingram by phone on 1.888.364.7648 or by email at ringram@888dogsmith.com. You can also visit their website at http://www.DogSmith.com.

About The DogSmith
The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about the DogSmith or become a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648.

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The DogSmith Pet Care News & Advice – Spring brings Ticks and Fleas

2010-03-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

Spring is upon us, and the flea population is flourishing. Are your pets protected appropriately?

There are many flea products on the market so making an informed choice can be confusing. Consulting with your Veterinarian will assist you in choosing the most effective, safest and appropriate option for your pet.

Some treatments can be administered orally, such as Sentinel, (which provides a small amount of flea control in conjunction with heartworm prevention), Comfortis (which provides protection from fleas for 30 days), and Capstar (which is an effective initial treatment to kill fleas but only remains effective for 24 to 48 hours so a monthly preventative is recommended in conjunction with Capstar).

Other treatments are applied to the skin along the back of the neck such as Advantage, ProMeris, and Frontline Plus. These topical treatments provide flea control for 30 days but exposure to water and most soap products can weaken their effectiveness.

In addition to fleas, ticks also flourish in the spring. Ticks carry many harmful diseases which can be transmitted to your pet. If your environment exposes your pet to ticks there are specific products available such as Preventick collars which provide protection for 30 days. Advantix and Frontline and other topical treatments also prevent ticks from finding a home on your pet.

As with all medicines, always follow your Veterinarian’s recommendations and dosing directions before administering any flea or tick prevention since some may be dangerous or inappropriate for your pet. Use extreme caution if handling any products which contain permethrins as they are highly toxic to cats and pocket pets. It is usually best to get your flea medications from a licensed Veterinarian because some over-the-counter flea treatments may contain harmful chemicals.

© 2010 Bethany Jordan CVT, CDT

The DogSmith Florida, West Palm Beach,

www.DogSmith.com

5 Reasons To Earn the CGC Award with Your Dog

2010-03-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

5 Reasons To Earn the CGC Award with Your Dog
Posted March 12, 2010 by caninegoodcitizen

We get this question nearly every day here at AKC…”Other than the certificate and beautiful gold Canine Good Citizen medal I can get, what are the benefits to training for CGC?”

1. We know you’re a responsible owner.

Earning the CGC award marks you as a responsible owner who cares enough about your dog to have completed a basic training class. CGC is becoming recognized as the gold standard of behavior for dogs in our communities and you’ll have earned a recognizable distinction.

But, enough about you already. Let’s talk about your dog.

2. Trained dogs are happy dogs.

When dogs are participating in the training process through classes and daily training activities, they have something to wrap their minds around. We see these dogs as having fewer behavior problems, even when training is at a basic level.

3. Training opens up the lines of communication between you and your dog.

In CGC classes, you’ll learn to give commands to your dog in a clear and consistent fashion. You’ll also learn how to reinforce only the behaviors you want to see. You’ll also learn how to not inadvertently reward behaviors that you don’t like such as fearfulness.

4. Well-behaved dogs have a better life.

If you have a dog that is a pleasure to take on outings, this will be a dog you’re likely to take to the park or for a walk in the neighborhood. A dog that lunges at other dogs or tears hotel rooms apart is often sentenced to a lonely life in his own house and backyard. This makes the world a very small place for the dog and actually results in behavioral issues such as inappropriate reactions to strangers and other dogs (Items 1, 2, 5 and 8 on the CGC test).

5. CGC Training provides a foundation for all other training.

Sit, down, come, and stay along with all of the other basics taught in CGC classes lay the groundwork for any future training you’ll do with your dog. Canine Good Citizen training is just the beginning. There is a world of fun you can have after CGC in rally, obedience, agility, and tracking.

To find a CGC evaluator/trainer near you, see: http://www.akc.org/events/cgc/cgc_bystate.cfm

Sophia McGoldrick, a Bichon Frise from Abacoa, Jupiter, Florida, is officially a “Canine Good Citizen” ®

2010-03-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

(CGC) and has her sights set on becoming a Registered Therapy Dog.
Jupiter, Florida, March 7, 2010 – Sophia and her owner Lucille McGoldrick, passed the American Kennel Club‟s CGC test with flying colors on March 1, 2010, according to Rachel Williams, CGC Evaluator and owner of The DogSmith Palm Beach County. What is even more remarkable about Sophia‟s achievement however is that Lucille is legally blind! “This demonstrates the huge advantage in using The DogSmith‟s positive ARRF® approach to dog training rather than harsher training methods,” says Williams. “Because one of The DogSmith‟s key values is „to do no harm‟ we don‟t bark at, growl at or “roll” dogs so anyone can master our techniques and safely apply them. We don‟t whisper, we translate!”
The CGC is a two-part certification program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs and is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. Dogs that pass the 10-step CGC test are certified by the American Kennel Club (AKC). According to Williams, who is a Certified DogSmith Dog Trainer, “Sophia is less than two years old and successfully mastered each of the required skills after only a few hours of our DogSmith CGC training curriculum. We give the CGC evaluation in a public place to challenge the dog and there are 10 tests which must be passed including, 1) accepting a friendly stranger, 2) sitting politely for petting by a friendly stranger, 3) allowing handling by vets, groomers or friends, 4) walking on a loose lead, 5) walking through a crowd politely and under control in public places (no jumping allowed here), 6) „Sit‟ and „down‟ on command and „staying‟ in place, 7) coming when called, 8) reacting politely to another dog, 9) reacting to distractions with confidence, and 10) supervised separation from their owner to demonstrate that the dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, while maintaining their training and good manners.”
Before enrolling in the DogSmith CGC curriculum and taking the test, owners must sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge which is a key part of the CGC concept. By signing the pledge, owners agree to take care of their dog's health needs, safety, exercise, training and quality of life. Owners also agree to show responsibility by doing things such as cleaning up after their dogs in public places and never letting dogs infringe on the rights of others.
Williams started working with Lucille and Sophia when some issues developed after they moved to a new home. “I noticed Sophia‟s potential to become a CGC when I first began training Sophia to help her adjust to her new surroundings after they moved to a new house. She is very sweet natured and loves people,” says Williams. Sophia‟s next goal is to become a Registered Therapy Dog so she and Lucille can go to hospitals and nursing homes and bring a little bit of joy into the lives of others.
If you would like more information on these and other programs visit The American Kennel Club‟s CGC website (www.akc.org/events/cgc/). To learn more about Sophia visit the official Bichon Frise website at www.bichon.org/ or www.bischonrescue.org. For more information on Registered Therapy Dogs visit www.tdi-dog.org. To explore ARRF® training methods and pet care visit The DogSmith at www.DogSmith.com.
About The DogSmith
The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about DogSmith Dog Trainers or to become one visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648

Pet Dog Owners Love “Drop-In” Dog Training Classes

2010-02-28T06:18:00.000-08:00

The first DogSmith “Drop-In” Class started in Jupiter Florida and the comments from all who participated are great. Pet dog owners do want to get their dogs trained and the flexibility of The DogSmith Dog Training “Drop-In” class helps them achieve that. The program was developed to support pet dog owners doing right by their dogs. We are all busy with work commitments, social events, kid’s school functions and family commitments. Many people looking for dog training program have come to accept that when the only pet dog obedience offerings are 6 or 8 week programs with no flexibility, training just cannot be done. Those that do commit to the set programs are left feeling unfulfilled as they miss classes and do not have the chance to cover all the skills or achieve their obedience goals. So if you are looking for a great pet dog obedience class with the flexibility to meet your schedule then talks to Rachel Williams, The DogSmith Palm Beach County. You can contact Rachel 561-271-3033 or at www.DogSmith.com where you will find the registration page for the “Drop-In” Program. The DogSmith “Drop-In” program is available at several locations across Florida.

The DogSmith Palm Beach sponsors Friends of Jupiter beach clean up, March 6th 2010

2010-02-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

JUPITER - Friends of Jupiter Beach continue the “clean & dog-friendly beach” campaign with a volunteer cleanup on Saturday, March 6. This cleanup is co-sponsored by Ocean Magic Surf Shop of Jupiter (www.oceanmagicsurf.com ) the DogSmith, Rachel Williams (www.dogsmith.com )and Sandy Paws Surfer Girl, Maggie Poetz (www.sandypawssurfergirl.com ).

Volunteers gather at 8am SHARP at the Anita Lankler Pavilion in Ocean Cay Park, off Marcinski Road and US Hwy 1. They divide into teams, clean the 2 1/2 mile stretch of dog-friendly from Marcinski Road to the south end of Carlin Park, and return by 9:20am for a complimentary continental breakfast. Some teams walk to the cleanup areas, most teams drive to the designated spots. Beach cleanups are SHINE ONLY; if weather is iffy, volunteers should call the FJB message line at 561-748-8140 by 7:15am to listen for a possible cancellation message.

School community service hours are awarded for students arriving by 8am. There is no need for individuals to register in advance but organized groups must leave a message on the FJB phone line, 561 – 748 – 8140.

FJB has been organizing beach cleanups on the first Saturday of the month since 1994. In 2006, the group began weighing the collected garbage (rather than simply counting the garbage bags), and the cumulative total of trash and recyclables removed from the beach is over 22,000 pounds.

THE FOLLOWING BEACH CLEANUP is SATURDAY, SATURDAY, APRIL 3 SPONSORED BY CSNGLOBAL.

For more information, visit the website at www.FriendsOfJupiterBeach.com.

Join us! Beach Cleanups
First Saturday Every Month
8am-10am Ocean Cay Park
Anita Lankler Pavilion
Shine only! 748-8140
www.FriendsOfJupiterBeach.com

Why do half of all bites involve children and the family dog?

2010-02-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

1. Why do half of all bites involve children and the family dog? Is it simple proximity, kids provoke dogs; dogs are frightened of children, etc?

In my opinion most people who are dog owners do not have much if any education or understanding of dog communication systems. Dogs communicate their frustrations, dislikes or fears in many subtle ways, these subtle ways are missed so their communication progresses through a hierarchy of events until eventually the dog bites. In most of the cases we take on where a dog has bitten a family member we are informed “the bite came from nowhere”. We then discover during our functional assessment process that the dog had been giving of signals for months if not years in the way of appeasement signs or minor signs of aggression such as freezing, snarling or snapping. Subtle distance increasing signs that were ignored and thus failed are replaced by more overt signs. Dog aggression can be either nonaffective dog aggression or affective aggression and they are very different. Nonaffective aggression involves components of the natural modal action patterns of a dog, their predatory behavior. Affective aggression is an emotional response that involves a package of operant’s and respondents. In both cases the aggression can be resolved or prevented with the correct socialization and management of dogs through their critical learning phase.

Dogs bite under an array of circumstances. Resource guarding, the dog has not been trained to relinquish something they value and thus a child or adult attempts to remove a dogs bone, toy or food bowl and the dog bites. The family pet is fearful and is placed in a situation where it bites to escape or avoid something. The dog displays predation, chases, grabs and bites small quickly moving objects such as children. The dog is in pain and is approached or touched in a sensitive area. The dog is mistreated, punished or threatened and bites to avoid the punishment. The aggression is misdirected when the dog is prevented or stopped from some other activity. The median age of dog bite patients is 15 years old and boys aged from 5 to 9 have the most incident rates. It is not a surprise to learn that 77% of dog bites on children are in the facial area, where as with adults and mail men it is the lower extremities.

2. Are most of the bites involving children simply accidents or misunderstandings since most dogs I know usually adore all the family members?

When dogs bite it is not an accident, dogs have huge control over the speed and effectiveness of their mouths. Teaching puppies bite inhibition is the most important thing we can do and they can learn. Bite inhibition teaches dogs the power of their jaws. The only difference between a bite that does significant damage and a bite that just bruises is whether or not the dog has “acquired bite inhibition”. Dogs cannot write to their congressman, or email their family members, they communicate in dog language. When pushed they will bite. It is our responsibility to ensure we understand our dogs, know when they are in pain, showing fear or in need of training to relinquish objects and to prevent and manage resource guarding. This is one of our key roles as dog owners, we must raise socially savvy dogs who are polite family members and we must do this by exhibiting benevolent leadership so they can live safely in our world.

3. What is a dog trying to communicate when they do actually bite a family member or child?
Dog biting is aggression, in the canine world aggression can mean any act or behavior that intimidates or harms. We consider growling and snapping as aggression, it is the first stage. When a dog bites they have reached the last stage of the aggression ladder. There are lots of reasons dog’s bites but fundamentally they are attempting to create distance between themselves and something they fear or need to avoid.

4. Can you give some tips on how parents can make sure children and the family dog live in harmony? Maybe some important do's and don'ts

When you bring a dog into the home enroll it into a good obedience class. This not only gives you verbal control of the dog but also builds trusting relationships. Have children involved in the training. The training methods used now are so dog friendly that small children can quickly gain control of a 100 or more pound dog. Make sure your dog is well socialized, desensitized to having its collar grabbed; having food taken from its mouth and having people pick up its toys and the things the dog considers of value. Teach the dog bite inhibition. The mother does not have time to fully do this because we take puppies from their “bite school” before they have learned this crucial skill from mum and their litter puppies. Teach children to respect animals and treat them kindly. Do not allow children to grab at the dog, pull tails, ears etc. Crate train the dog so it has somewhere quiet to go if it needs, and have children respect that the crate is the dogs private space. Ensure the dog gets adequate exercise and mental stimulation, do not tether dogs for too long and ensure they are a part of the family. Dogs that are tethered, not sufficiently exercised or isolated are more likely to be involved in a bite incident.

5. Of these do's and don'ts, what is the most important thing a parent can do to make sure no problems occur?

Train the dog starting from when it is a puppy. Teach the dog to have a soft mouth. So in the event the dog is ever stressed or pushed and an emotional response results in a bite, the damage is minimal.

6. Does it matter whether the dog or the child arrives first in a household. How does this affect their interaction going forward? For example, a dog has been the "child" in a household and then a new baby arrives.

In my opinion they are both unique situations and will need to be assessed based on the household, the dog and other variables.

7. Anything else you would like to add?

At the first sign of any aggression contact a professional trainer so it can be rectified. Do not wait until you are dealing with an actual bite. A small financial investment in training a dog can ensure a healthy and happy union between dog and human.
Written by Niki Tudge, Founder of the dogsmith, copied with permission.

For Training advise please contact your local DogSmith at www.dogsmith.com or call Rachel Williams 5610-271-3033 for service in Palm Beach County, florida.

Nature’s Variety Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall On Raw Frozen Chicken Diets With A "Best If Used By" Date Of 11/10/10

2010-02-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

Nature’s Variety Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall On Raw Frozen Chicken Diets With A "Best If Used By" Date Of 11/10/10

Company Contact:
Jeff Dezen/JDPR
864-233-3376

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 11, 2010 – Nature’s Variety has initiated a voluntary recall of their Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet for dogs and cats with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10 because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The only products affected are limited to chicken medallions, patties, and chubs with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10. No other Nature’s Variety products are affected.

The affected products are limited to the Nature’s Variety Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet packaged in the following forms:

* 3 lb chicken medallions (UPC# 7 69949 60130 2) with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10
* 6 lb chicken patties (UPC# 7 69949 60120 3) with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10
* 2 lb chicken chubs (UPC# 7 69949 60121 0) with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10

The “Best If Used By” date is located on the back of the package above the safe handling instructions. The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States, and in limited distribution in Canada.

If you are a consumer and have purchased one of the affected products, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement. If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle. Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.

Nature’s Variety became aware of a potential problem after receiving a consumer complaint. Subsequent testing indicated that the lot code related to the consumer complaint tested negative for Salmonella. However, additional subsequent testing found the "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10 to be contaminated with Salmonella.

No pet or human illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this lot code.

Reed Howlett, Nature’s Variety CEO, stated, "Because pet health and safety are our top priority, Nature’s Variety takes every step necessary to ensure the quality and safety of our products. In addition to our industry best manufacturing practices, and in an abundance of caution, all Nature’s Variety raw frozen products now will undergo a ‘test and hold’ period before being released for sale."

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. Even though no illnesses have been reported, consumers should follow the Safe Handling Guidelines published on the Nature’s Variety package when disposing of the affected product. People handling raw frozen pet foods may become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not followed the safe handling guidelines set forth by the company.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, or urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the affected product should contact their health care provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever, or abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products and is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers with additional questions can call our dedicated Customer Care line 24 hours a day,
7 days a week at 800-374-3142. Or, consumers can email Nature’s Variety directly by visiting naturesvariety.com1.

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RSS Feed for FDA Recalls Information2 [what's this?3]

The blogger suggestion for a more healthy option is www.superior-dog-food.com

Information on Canine and Feline Heart Worms.

2010-02-13T08:37:00.000-08:00

DogSmith Information on Canine and Feline Heart Worms.
DogSmiths not only look after your pet care and training needs we are also on hand with tidbits of education to help you stay on top of your pets annual medical needs. A DogSmith will always refer you to your own veterinarian for medical care and expertise. Are you aware of Heart Worms and how they can infect your dog. Read more.
Many pet owners are unaware of the significant affect heartworms can have on their pet’s health. Heartworms are solely transmitted by mosquitoes which leave animals in the south, and especially Florida, at risk year round. After biting an infected dog, the mosquito injects circulating microfilaria (the worm larvae) into another animal where they then migrate to the heart, maturing over time until the worms eventually obstruct blood flow and damage the heart muscle. If untreated, heartworms will result in significant health complications and eventually death of the infected animal.
It is important to note that cats are also at risk of infection; however, there is currently no treatment available for the mature stages in the heart. Administering monthly heartworm prevention functions by cleaning out circulating microfilaria before they can reach the heart. If an animal has not been receiving prevention, the first step is to visit your veterinarian for a heartworm test and a thorough physical exam before administering any form of heartworm prevention. Heartworms require six months to be diagnosed through a blood test. If the first test is negative it is always a good idea to repeat again six months later. There are many prevention options available for both dogs and cats and you should consult with their veterinarian to choose which preventative is appropriate for each individual situation. Once a prevention regimen has been implemented it is vital that it be performed year round.
Call your local DogSmith Today, Rachel Williams, owner of Palm Beach County, Dogsmith, 561-271-3033, or visit us on the web at www.dogsmith.com. Unrivaled Pet Care, Your Neighborhood Expert.

Bethany Jordan copyright 2010. Copied with Permission

The DogSmith National Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise Adds Pet Waste Cleanup to Services

2010-02-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

The DogSmith National Dog Training and Pet Care Franchise Adds Pet Waste Cleanup to Services
The DogSmith, a national Dog Training, Pet Sitting, Dog Walking and Pet Nutrition Franchise now offers Pet Waste Cleanup as a new service.
Washington County, Florida, February 10th, 2010 – The DogSmith Franchise Services, the nation’s only full service pet care franchise has now added Pet Waste Cleanup to its service offerings. “Our mission is taking care of the entire pet, from training, walking, and sitting to behavior and nutrition and now we will even pickup the messes they leave behind. We take care of both ends of the leash,” says DogSmith founder Niki Tudge.
Tudge points out that The DogSmith services set a new standard for in-home pet care and dog walking. “As a dog trainer and pet care professional responsible for looking after a client’s family pet, being an animal lover is not enough. You also need the training, skills and experience that qualify you as a DogSmith Pet Care Technician. And who better to take care of your pet’s every need than a certified DogSmith Dog Trainer & Pet Care Technician?” says Tudge.
The pet waste cleanup service offered by locally owned and operated DogSmith Franchises adds to a wide array of DogSmith pet care programs such as canine slumber parties, dog romps, and daily dog walks as well as private and group dog training programs including “latch-key,” and “board and train” programs. All DogSmith technicians are fully insured, bonded and certified in Canine/Feline first aid.
About The DogSmith
The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about, or to become, a DogSmith Dog Trainer, visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648

This is what our DogSmith Customers are saying about us

2010-02-09T15:52:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in opening a Dog Training Business and enjoying the benefits of being part of a small team of professional business owners who only offer unrivaled pet care services?

DogSmith’s offer a range of exception pet care services to pet care owners. DogSmith’s are trained proficiently in the use of scientifically proven dog training methods and DogSmith’s have a true understanding of how important your pets are to you.

These are the kind of testimonials DogSmith customers send to local DogSmith business owners.

“A Note of Thanks” to Rachel Williams – “The Dogsmith” Dog Trainer and Pet Care Expert in Jupiter Beach Florida
I have to write to thank you for taking care of my Golden Retriever, Abbey (2 yrs. Old), over a four day weekend while I was busy with my Catering Company.
I did consider boarding Abbey with a local vet. Wow… what a mistake as I thought about it. Being confined in a kennel, maybe exposed to unhealthy animals, and bombarded by multiple handlers, in a hectic business environment that is closed and empty at 6 pm.
What an extreme contrast I found in your care. Abbey was in a family environment, introduced to your home and family pet (Chloe), protected, exercised, loved, and handled by a professional dog TRAINER!!!
I can say with great confidence, that my decision to leave Abbey in your care during a busy time with my business was calming to me and an absolute “adventure” for Abbey.
I was impressed at your level of attention, care, and great communication with me over the time that you were caring for Abbey. It was a bonus to receive phone text msgs. and even a quick photo to keep me informed of what she was doing. The caring service you provided extended beyond the treatment of my puppy. I was impressed with your careful attention to activity, any diet concerns, and importance of making a comfortable environment for Abbey by suggesting her favorite toy and her bed.
Lastly, I appreciate you delivering Abbey to my home at the end of her stay with you… I was amazed that you were thoughtful enough to give her a bath. I actually teach “Customer Service” in the Hospitality Industry and I feel that your level of care far exceeded all my expectations and felt compelled to write this note to recommend your business to anyone that is searching for outstanding care and thoughtful training of their family pet.
Sincerely,
John Carlino

“A Note of Thanks” to Rachel Williams – “The Dogsmith”

2010-02-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

I have to write to thank you for taking care of my Golden Retriever, Abbey (2 yrs. Old), over a four day weekend while I was busy with my Catering Company.
I did consider boarding Abbey with a local vet. Wow… what a mistake as I thought about it. Being confined in a kennel, maybe exposed to unhealthy animals, and bombarded by multiple handlers, in a hectic business environment that is closed and empty at 6 pm.
What an extreme contrast I found in your care. Abbey was in a family environment, introduced to your home and family pet (Chloe), protected, exercised, loved, and handled by a professional TRAINER!!!
I can say with great confidence, that my decision to leave Abbey in your care during a busy time with my business was calming to me and an absolute “adventure” for Abbey.
I was impressed at your level of attention, care, and great communication with me over the time that you were caring for Abbey. It was a bonus to receive phone text msgs. and even a quick photo to keep me informed of what she was doing. The caring service you provided extended beyond the treatment of my puppy. I was impressed with your careful attention to activity, any diet concerns, and importance of making a comfortable environment for Abbey by suggesting her favorite toy and her bed.
Lastly, I appreciate you delivering Abbey to my home at the end of her stay with you… I was amazed that you were thoughtful enough to give her a bath. I actually teach “Customer Service” in the Hospitality Industry and I feel that your level of care far exceeded all my expectations and felt compelled to write this note to recommend your business to anyone that is searching for outstanding care and thoughtful training of their family pet.
Sincerely,
John Carlino

The DogSmith, pet care in our home, pet sitting in your home, dog walking, www.dogsmith.com
call Rachel Williams 561-271-3033

An Invitation to Learn More about The DogSmith and How To Become A Professional Dog Trainer

2010-01-26T07:46:00.000-08:00

An Invitation to Learn More about The DogSmith and How To Become A Professional Dog Trainer
Join The DogSmith Founder Niki Tudge on a webinar in February and learn more about how you can become a professional dog trainer. In fact, through the DogSmith Franchise you can become a professional pet care provider offering product and services across several business units. The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking & Pet Care Franchise, invites you to join this webinar so you can learn all about The DogSmith, our training approach, business model and our mission, vision and values that steers our course every day.
The DogSmith® Unrivaled Pet Care - your Neighborhood Expert.
Visit our website to learn more about our company and see if you qualify for the DogSmith opportunity .

1. Please join my meeting on February 3rd at 8 pm Eastern Time, 7pm Central Time, 5 pm Pacific
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/join/320913120
2. Use your microphone and speakers (VoIP) - a headset is recommended. Or, call in using your telephone.
Dial 218-844-4924
Access Code: You will receive this by email
Audio PIN: Shown after joining the meeting
Meeting Password: You will receive this by email
Meeting ID: 320-913-120
GoToMeeting® Online Meetings Made Easy™

Email Niki Tudge and receive the conference access code and password.
NikiTudge@DogSmith.com
Niki Tudge
President & Founder
DogSmith® Franchise Services Inc
CPDT, E-Nadoi, CBC
AABP- Professional Dog Trainer
Dip, ABT, Diploma. Animal Behavior Technology
Pet Care Services CPCT, CAPCT
AKC “CGC” Evaluator
www.DogSmith.com
Toll Free 1-888-Dog-Smith (364-7648)
Fax 1-888-694-3433

The DogSmith Home Made Treat Guide

2010-01-21T10:08:00.000-08:00

The DogSmith Home Made Treat Guide

By Catherine M. Zehner, CDT
The DogSmith of Florida's Emerald Coast
Delta Society Pet Partner, Member, IAPDT
AKC CGC Evaluator, Member, APDT

As a dog trainer, I am constantly on the hunt for tasty, nutritious and affordable treats. Unfortunately, I have found that “tasty,” “nutritious” and “affordable” rarely come in the same package.

Santa brought me the solution this holiday season – a food dehydrator!

Before you yawn, “ho-hum,” read on: I can make a gallon freezer bag full of treats for less than $5 – with all human-grade ingredients right out of my pantry/refrigerator. (You can also make human treats too, such as beef jerky, dried fruits, fruit roll-ups, trail bars at a huge cost-savings.)

A dehydrator works by forcing hot air over food, removing the moisture. As a result, your treats are dried, so there is no refrigeration necessary. This is a big bonus for avid dog people who might occasionally on a hot summer day leave the treat bag in the car. With homemade dehydrated treats, you not only don’t have a stinky mess to remove – you can still use them!

And the best part is – your dogs will never know the treats are good for them! But you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that only foods that meet your standards have gone into these treats. You’ll never have to worry about missing a pet food recall alert. I use these treats with so many different dogs, that I always use oats as the starch since many dogs are sensitive to corn, wheat and soy products. Knowing what’s in my treats gives me great peace of mind when dealing with dogs that may have allergies. However, if your dog isn’t sensitive to those ingredients, you can use flour or corn meal.

The sky is the limit as far as the recipes. They can be as simple as dehydrating sliced deli meats to more elaborate recipes using cooked vegetables and meats. The favorite so far is simply chicken breast sliced through my food processor and dehydrated with nothing added. Runner up was a leftover Boston butt roast that we smoked one weekend. Tired of eating barbecue, I sliced it up and dehydrated it. Instant dog treats out of leftovers! And I looked like the pied piper at the dog park the next day.

I’m still experimenting, but I’ve had about two dozen canine quality-control inspectors indicate to me that these also are favorite recipes.

Happy drying, and “Bone Apetit!”

For the recipes visit The DogSmith Website FREE E-Book Download

How is the decision made when training dogs to use aversive training methods?

2010-01-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

How do professional dog trainers and behavior counselors determine which training and behavior interventions to use and when is the application of aversive's in training pet dogs justified?

The decision making process used by a companion animal professional to determine how intrusive training and behavior interventions should be is driven first and foremost by the professional’s ethical obligations. The companion animal professional must use the least intrusive and effective intervention available. The companion animal professional has an obligation to use effective protocols to address the target behavior but must also recognize that they are responsible for the animal’s entire well being (O’Heare p 14 2009).

When developing training programs or behavior change interventions the professional needs to decide if they are adding to the animal’s behavior repertoire, training a new behavior or reducing the strength of an existing problematic behavior. When choosing an intervention or a training program, the risks and benefits must be considered particularly when taking into consideration whether to use aversive stimulation. Intrusiveness is on a continuum and the professional, having completed a function assessment and developed a contingency statement, should proceed forwards using the least intrusive procedure available to them from a recognized behavior change strategy (O’Heare p 10 2009).

The companion animal professional should start their intervention at the lowest level of “the least intrusive effective behavior intervention algorithm and levels of intrusiveness table” (LIEBI). If the least intrusive behavior change program is unsuccessful the professional trainer needs to reconsider and revaluate the components used to determine the contingency statement and then make the necessary adjustments to the behavior change program.

If the professional has continued failure in achieving the behavior plan goals using the intervention then before considering an increase in the intrusiveness of the intervention it would be wise to obtain another perspective on the problem from a more qualified professional and either work under their supervision or consider referring the case to them. The professional trainer can also decide at this point to move to level 2 or level 3 on the LIEBI model as both of these levels are considered minimally intrusive (O’Heare p 14 2009).

If the behavior change program is still not effective and the companion animal professional is considering more intrusive interventions a decision should not be made prior to or without considering if the client needs to explore psychopharmacological solutions. The professional also needs to, in concert with the animal’s owner, consider if the behavior is an unacceptable safety risk or is unmanageable. It may be necessary, based on these factors, to make a decision on whether the environment can be manipulated through antecedent control measures to “mitigate the effect of the problem behavior” (O’Heare p 15 2009).

The professional should consistently be looking at the risks and benefits prior to making any decisions particularly as they move further along the algorithm. The decision to make use of more intrusive interventions is weighed against doing the least harm and the animal’s dignity. The decision to increase the intrusiveness of the intervention needs to be well thought through and justified. Could the consequences of a failed behavior change program be more aversive to the animal then a behavior change program with a more intrusive intervention? If a companion animal professional is considering using an aversive behavior change program they need to decide if they are competent enough to ethically carry it out and if not, they should decide between referring the case or working on the case under the supervision of a more competent professional (O’Heare p 14 2009).

O’Heare, J. (2009). The least intrusive effective behavior intervention (LIEBI) algorithm and levels of intrusiveness table: A proposed best-practice model. Journal of Applied Companion Animal Behavior. 3(1), 7-25.

Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise. To learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.888dogsmith.com/franchise.html
CPDT, E-Nadoi, CBC
AABP- PDT
DIP. ABT
Pet Care Services CPCT, CAPCT
AKC “CGC” Evaluator
You can reach Niki via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com
For all your training needs contact your local DogSmith or Rachel Williams 561-271-3033

Good Dog, Smart Dog

2010-01-18T06:31:00.000-08:00

By SARAH KERSHAW
Published: October 31, 2009

Life as a Labradoodle may sound free and easy, but if you’re Jet, who lives in New Jersey, there is a lot of work to be done.

He is both a seizure alert dog and a psychiatric service dog whose owner has epilepsy, severe anxiety, depression, various phobias and hypoglycemia. Jet has been trained to anticipate seizures, panic attacks and plunging blood sugar and will alert his owner to these things by staring intently at her until she does something about the problem. He will drop a toy in her lap to snap her out of a dissociative state. If she has a seizure, he will position himself so that his body is under her head to cushion a fall.

Jet seems like a genius, but is he really so smart? In fact, is any of it in his brain, or is it mostly in his sniff?

The matter of what exactly goes on in the mind of a dog is a tricky one, and until recently much of the research on canine intelligence has been met with large doses of skepticism. But over the last several years a growing body of evidence, culled from small scientific studies of dogs’ abilities to do things like detect cancer or seizures, solve complex problems (complex for a dog, anyway), and learn language suggests that they may know more than we thought they did.

Their apparent ability to tune in to the needs of psychiatric patients, turning on lights for trauma victims afraid of the dark, reminding their owners to take medication and interrupting behaviors like suicide attempts and self-mutilation, for example, has lately attracted the attention of researchers.

In September, the Army announced that it would spend $300,000 to study the impact of pairing psychiatric service dogs like Jet with soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with post-traumatic stress disorder. Both the House and Senate have recently passed bills that would finance the training and placement of these dogs with veterans.

Hungarian researchers reported in a study last year that a guide dog for a blind and epileptic person became anxious before its master suffered a seizure and was taught to bark and lick the owner’s face and upper arm when it detected an onset, three to five minutes before the seizure. It is still somewhat mysterious how exactly dogs detect seizures, whether it’s by picking up on behavioral changes or smelling something awry, but several small studies have shown that a powerful sense of smell can detect lung and other types of cancer, as the dogs sniff out odors emitted by the disease.

Beyond these perceptual abilities, in which trainers can use the dogs’ natural instincts, some research has examined dogs’ actual cognitive ability, and found not just good doggie, but smart doggie.

“I believe that so much research has come out lately suggesting that we may have underestimated certain aspects of the mental ability of dogs that even the most hardened cynic has to think twice before rejecting the possibilities,” said Stanley Coren, a psychology professor at the University of British Columbia and an author of several books on dogs.

Dr. Coren’s work on intelligence, along with other research suggesting that the canine brain processes information something like the way people do, has drawn criticism. And there is good reason. For most of the last century the specter of a horse named Clever Hans hung over anyone who tried to prove that dogs were acting in thoughtful ways — not merely mimicking or manipulating people into believing that they in fact grasped human concepts.

Clever Hans was said to be able to count, make change and tell time by tapping his hoof, until investigators in the early 1900s learned that Hans was merely responding to his trainer’s body language, tapping when the trainer nodded his head. This provided an enduring example for those who believed thought was the exclusive domain of humans.

But in 2004, German researchers reported that a border collie named Rico could learn the name of an object in one try, had 200 objects in his repertoire and remembered them all a month later, all very human. Even skeptical animal behavior researchers found the Rico results impressive and sound. Is it possible that Rico turned the tide on the Clever Hans problem, even though there is debate about how we can reliably measure what dogs know?

By giving dogs language learning and other tests devised for infants and toddlers, Dr. Coren has come up with an intelligence ranking of 100 breeds, with border collies at No. 1. He says the most intelligent breeds (poodles, retrievers, Labradors and shepherds) can learn as many as 250 words, signs and signals, while the others can learn 165. The average dog is about as intellectually advanced as a 2- to 2-and-a-half-year-old child, he has concluded, with an ability to understand some abstract concepts. For example, the animal can get “the idea of being a dog” by differentiating photographs with dogs in them from photographs without dogs.

But Clive D. L. Wynne, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Florida who specializes in canine cognition and has himself said he met a border collie who knew 1,500 words, takes issue with efforts to compare human and canine brains.

He argues that it is dogs’ deep sensitivity to the humans around them, their obedience under rigorous training, and their desire to please that can explain most of these capabilities. They may be deft at reading human cues — and teachable — but that doesn’t mean they are thinking like people, he says. A dog’s entire world revolves around its primary owner, and it will respond to that person to get what it wants, usually food, treats or affection.

“I take the view that dogs have their own unique way of thinking,” Dr. Wynne said. “It’s a happy accident that doggie thinking and human thinking overlap enough that we can have these relationships with dogs, but we shouldn’t kid ourselves that dogs are viewing the world the way we do.”

For all your pet care needs and Training Advise go to www.DogSmith.com to find your local DogSmith or call Rachel Williams, DOgSmith Palm Beach county at 561-271-3033.

DogSmith Dog Trainer Professional Ethics

2010-01-15T09:40:00.000-08:00

DogSmith Dog Trainers & Behavior Analysts are guided by The DogSmith’s mission, vision and values and a set of professional ethics. Professional ethics covers the moral issues that can arise from the specialist knowledge that a professional body has. The industry’s ethics govern how this knowledge is used when providing a service. The dimensions of ethics collectively represent “the positive, ethical ideas and values of the profession” to the benefit of the client, the professional and the industry(Welfel p 4 2009).

The public benefits from professional ethics as they recognize and respect the client’s autonomy and dignity. Ethics detail that individuals will be treated with respect and that the professional will do no harm through their professional conduct. Professionals will not only practice non maleficence but also beneficence and the professional will seek informed consent from their clients, be fair, confidential and loyal.

Professional ethics are also important to the individual professional because the individual professional benefits from the trust earned by being part of a professional body that is governed by a set of professional ethics. The individual professional also has access to a valid and reliable body of scientific knowledge so they can continue their education and collaboration with other like minded professionals (O’Heare 2009).

Professional ethics are important to the profession itself because they bring credibility to the profession. Professional ethics govern that professionals will adhere to a code of conduct, will act competently and will only consult within the range of their competency. When necessary, professionals will refer clients to another professional.

The DogSmith Professional Ethics are as follows.

1. A DogSmith will always hold the dog’s welfare as our top priority. The dog is the vulnerable component in the consultation process as they cannot offer informed consent

2. The role of a DogSmith is one that is beneficial to the dog and never to its detriment. We seek to do no harm.

3. A DogSmith will not condone or endorse any treatment by a dog’s owner that is physically or mentally cruel. We will opt out of a consulting agreement rather than attempt to manage an unethical course of action.

4. A DogSmith will only consult with clients who offer cases that we have the professional competence to deal with.

5. A DogSmith will only use procedures, protocols and training tools that are empirically based and have a proven track record.

6. A DogSmith trainer considers communications with their clients privileged. We will only break that confidentiality if a dog is being abused and the client cannot be dissuaded from changing their current approach. We will act according to local and state laws in terms of reporting animal cruelty.

7. A DogSmith recognizes that the owner is responsible for their dog and the owner has the right to make decisions about the professional treatment of their dog.

8. A DogSmith will apply the following ethical principles to each situation we encounter:

* Respect for the freedom and dignity of others
* Do no harm
* Do good
* Act fairly
* Be faithful to promises made

O’Heare, J (2009) AABP A Guide to the Association of Animal Behavior Professionals’ professional practice guidelines

Welfel, E.R, (2009) Ethics in Counseling and Psychotherapy. Fourth Edition. Brookes Cole USA.

Tudge, N.J (2007) DogSmith Professional Ethics. www.DogSmith.com

call Rachel Williams your local DogSmith at 561-271-3033

Stop Complaining and start Training!

2010-01-12T19:28:00.000-08:00

The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Pet Care, Dog Walking, and Pet Nutrition Franchise, encourages all dog owners to participate in the Association of Pet Dog Trainers National Dog Training Month.

January 2010: The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) has designated January as the national “train your dog” month to promote the benefits of positive training methods and socialization as a way to create a healthy, long-lasting relationship between dogs and their owners.

Hundreds of thousands of dogs are turned in to animal shelters every year because their owners did not know how to deal with behavior problems that could have been easily fixed. DogSmith Franchise Services joins with the APDT in this important mission because a “trained dog is a retained dog” and with so many families starting out the new year with four legged additions to their family, The DogSmith wants to help new pet parents start off the year in the best way possible.

By training your family dog using modern, scientifically based, positive methods, such as those taught by The DogSmith, you can establish an exceptional bond with your non-human family members allowing actual communication to take place. And the training is fun and easy. The DogSmith emphasizes methods that are kind, gentle and have a positive impact on building a trusting relationship with your dog.

The DogSmith offers a comprehensive variety of training and pet care plans to fit every budget and lifestyle. From private 1-on-1 training lessons, Group Classes and “Latch Key” Training (in your home with your dog while you are at work), there is a suitable program for every dog. Even those dogs whose owners are too busy but are still committed to their dog’s education can enroll in the popular DogSmith “board and train” program.

In addition, The DogSmith website provides a variety of free dog training e-books available for download as well as information on how to contact your local DogSmith. Visit www.DogSmith.com and start communicating with your furry best friend.

DogSmith’s Don’t Whisper, They Translate!®

About The DogSmith

The DogSmith Franchise Services Inc. is a Florida based company whose mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship, and the quality of the life they share, through providing professional support and training to pet dog owners, supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and offering affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden. To learn more about, or to become a DogSmith Dog Trainer visit www.DogSmith.com or call 1-888-364-7648 your local Dogsmith Rachel Williams 561-271-3033

Socialize your dog now!

2010-01-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

Whether your new puppy is from a breeder, a breed rescue group, an animal shelter or a neighbor’s ‘oops’ litter, socialization is paramount to ensuring your pup becomes a healthy, happy and friendly four legged member of your family. Because many dogs come to us with an unknown history, to a large extent the breed of your new dog is now irrelevant. You have adopted your puppy or dog and the genes have played their part but now it is your turn to positively affect your puppy’s future behavior through appropriate nurturing and socialization.

Socialization is not a small task and it is the foundation on which all future training will be based. Though socializing your new pup will require your commitment it can be fun for both you and your dog if done properly and incorporated into your daily routine. There are also many great resources available to assist you with this job.

The development period for puppies takes place between 3 and 12 weeks of age. There is a primary socialization period from age 3 to 5 weeks where behavior patterns and emotional tendencies take place and then a secondary socialization period from age 6 to 12 weeks when the mother’s job is almost complete. At this stage the puppy is, hopefully, weaned and has developed good interaction skills with its littermates. It is never too late to socialize a puppy or an older dog but it may be more difficult for any dog not properly socialized during these critical learning periods.

Canine socialization is more difficult than with most other animals. We expect our dogs to be social with a variety of other dogs, domestic animals and to be comfortable and relaxed around many different people. An unconfident and/or unsocial dog may develop behaviors of fear, aggression, or a host of other problems in later months. A good puppy program can head off these potential issues.

The three most important factors to any socialization program is exposure, exposure, exposure. Puppies need to be exposed to as many different people, places, noises, smells and environments as possible in a safe and controlled manner. Exposure to a variety of environments needs to be positive for the puppy so it can learn to be confident in any situation. Make a list of all the places you visit and expose your puppy to these situations, one by one, for short periods (a handy free guide including a checklist can be downloaded from www.dogsmith.com).

Enrolling your puppy into a puppy class is always a good idea and a highly effective method of further socializing your pooch. A good puppy class run by a professional trainer will be a safe and controlled environment for your puppy to meet many other dogs of a similar age. Make sure any class you are considering is structured so your puppy is encouraged to play with the other dogs so they develop good play skills, tolerance, trust and affection towards other dogs and people. You will also want to enroll in a puppy class that is conducted mostly off-leash so the dogs have the greatest opportunity to interact and play.

Another great socialization technique is to play “pass the puppy” at home with family and friends. Form a closed circle with your family members and have the puppy run to everyone in the circle. As you reward your puppy touch your puppy all over its body, paws, mouth, ears etc. Your veterinarian will thank you for this when your puppy behaves nicely when being examined. Puppy play also helps social learning between different dogs and between dogs and people. Through play dogs learn self control and restraint and they learn bite inhibition. A puppy that can play well is a puppy that can learn and if we want our dogs to reach their full potential they need to know that learning through exploration is fun and reinforcing.

To find a professional trainer in your area visit the DogSmith website at www.DogSmith or call 1-888-Dog-Smith. Check Out The DogSmith Free Puppy Socialisation Classes

Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise. To learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com

Niki achieved her Canine Behaviorist Diploma in England and Dog Obedience Training Diploma in the US. Niki is an Endorsed member of the National Association of Dog Obedience Trainers and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and The Association of Animal Behavior Professionals. Niki is also certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. You can reach Niki via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com

Call your Palm Beach County local DogSmith Rachel Williams on 561-271-3033 for more information on Training, pet sitting, Dog Walking.

January National Dog Training Month Announced by The APDT

2010-01-05T14:34:00.000-08:00

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers Declares January “National Train Your Dog Month!” www.APDT.com
The APDT announces new annual campaign to promote the benefits of positive training and socialization to create a healthy relationship between dogs and their owners.

December 15, 2009: Hundreds of thousands of dogs have been turned into animal shelters because their owners didn’t know how to deal with behavior problems and couldn’t find a reliable resource to help them. We, at the APDT, think it is long overdue to dedicate a month where we can bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training, and most of all, to inform the public that training your dog can be simple and fun! The APDT has selected January as the perfect month because, as we all know, so many dogs and puppies are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays. Our desire is to help these new pet parents start off the new year with their newest family member in the best way possible.

The APDT is planning a variety of events in January 2010 to celebrate National Train Your Dog Month. It is our hope that the everyday dog owners will visit the event web site, www.trainyourdogmonth.com, so that they can see how easy and fun training can be, and how patience, consistency and a deeper understanding of their dog’s behavior can lead to happier, healthier and harmonious households. We have a wide range of topics that we’ve covered so that pet owners will recognize themselves & their dogs. We have provided a great deal of information that will help using methods that are kind gentle and that have an emphasis on building your relationships with your dogs.

Your local DogSmith, a Certified Dog Trainer can offer you a selection of different training services

Private Dog Training Classes – Private lessons are suitable for dog owners who, due to time constraints or certain dog behavioral issues, do not find class training a viable option.

Group Training Courses – DogSmith Dog Trainers offer a minimum of 11 different Dog Training group classes to meet the needs of you and your dog.

DogSmith Dog Training Board & Train Packages – Your dog can stay in the home of a Certified Dog Trainer and will receive a minimum of 2 hours training each day. The remainder of the dog’s time will be spent with the Dog Trainer managing their new and unwanted behaviors through interaction and play and enjoying a family environment.

Latch Key Dog Training – While you are on vacation a DogSmith Certified Dog Trainer can care for your dog in your home and train your dog. Alternatively a DogSmith Certified Dog Trainer can visit your home daily or on an agreed schedule to train your dog.

To learn more about our DogSmith training services that can meet the needs of every dog owner visit www.DogSmith.com or call Rachel Williams direct on 561-271-3033 for more information.

A Dog is for Life! not just for Christmas!

2010-01-05T07:46:00.000-08:00

I find it fascinating to consider a person’s choice of breed for a family pet. It seems that with some owners, there has clearly been careful consideration choosing the “right dog.” With other owners, less thought appears to have gone into choosing their pet than in deciding where to vacation for a weekend. This has always seemed a little strange to me as the latter they will experience for a few days and the former will be a companion for many years.

When I am asked for advice on how to choose a breed, I encourage families to carefully choose a dog whose temperament and needs will be compatible with the family’s lifestyles and I caution them not to make the mistake of choosing a dog based on an advertising image or one made popular by Hollywood. When deciding whether to adopt a dog there are some important points to consider prior to even exploring breed choices. These include:

1. How much time does your family have to commit to raising a well-socialized, happy dog? Your new family member will need to be cared for and exercised. With busy families, I often advise against bringing a puppy into the home as puppies are a tremendous responsibility initially and need a significant commitment to ensure the pup is properly trained and socialized. An older more mature dog may already be trained.

2. Who is the dog for and what role in the family will the dog play. General companion, running partner, recreation, etc. Into which category does your dog breed choice fall? Is it a sporting dog, a herding dog or a working dog? Dog’s that are bred to perform a specific purpose may need more mental and physical stimulation than your lifestyle permits. In choosing a dog, you want a breed best suited to your family and lifestyle or you may find your new shepherd herding your children around your backyard.

3. Most importantly for me, are all members of the family prepared to welcome a dog as part of the family and is there a genuine commitment to doing right by the dog?

4. And finally, does the family have the necessary disposable income to care for a dog over its lifespan? One does not have to be extravagant when it comes to caring for a family pet, but there are some basic necessary expenses.

Once these questions have been considered, the next important question is whether to buy a dog from a reputable breeder or to rescue a dog. Also consider whether a puppy or an older dog would be more suitable. There are pros and cons to each. Buying a puppy from a reputable breeder does give you greater assurance of the dog’s pedigree and you will have more accurate knowledge of the dog’s eventual size and breed characteristics.

However, rescuing a dog can be very rewarding and there is always a wide variety available for adoption from the Humane Society, City and County shelters and private rescue groups.

Once you have decided between a puppy or adult and whether to use a breeder or a rescue organization, you are ready to choose your dog. Wherever you decide to get your four-legged friend, do some research on the breed and the individual dog’s history (if possible) to assess the dog’s compatibility and suitability for your family and lifestyle. Spend some time with the dog to understand its individual personality and characteristics.

I recommend choosing a breed and then, considering the breed characteristics, needs and attributes, find every reason why the breed would not fit into your lifestyle. It is very easy for us to justify our initial decision after falling in love with a particular dog and then come to regret that decision when your dog begins to exhibit natural breed characteristics that do not fit into your lifestyle. If, after identifying reasons why your potential pet would be unsuitable, you find your lifestyle and your dog’s needs are still compatible, then it is time to adopt. If not, then keep looking until you find a more suitable breed. Do not be afraid to enlist the advice of a professional to help guide you in this decision.

Be an informed dog adopter, research, explore and make the right choice for your family and your future dog.
For more advise or help with finding the right pet for you go on line to WWW.DogSmith.com or call Rachel Williams direct on 561-271-3033.

What is Guaranteed Analysis?

2010-01-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

We love our dogs and cats. We buy them gourmet treats, designer apparel and lavish them with our time, love and attention. They share our lives, our woes and are by our side throughout all of our ups and downs. They are purely and simply an important part of our family. But how many of us stop to think about what we are really feeding them until it becomes a front page headline or a news alert on the web about yet another food safety recall?

Pet nutritional experts believe that our dogs and cats have the genetic potential to live up to 20 years, yet many of our four legged family members are considered long in the tooth if they reach eleven or twelve. The National Institute on Aging (2006) has stated that the average human life expectancy has almost doubled in the last century mostly due to improvements in nutrition and the control of disease. Maybe it is time to expect the same for our pets. As we demand more from our own food source we should be asking the same tough questions about our pet’s food.

Where is our pet food prepared? Is it a USDA certified facility? Are the ingredients ‘cast-offs’ from our food supply chain rejected because of their poor quality or are they human grade quality? Has the food been prepared using chemicals such as BHA and BHT, known carcinogens, and Ethoxyquin, a rubber stabilizer? Last of all, who from the company we buy our pet food from, can we talk to for advice and honest answers concerning the nutritional welfare of our pets?

Most people are surprised when they learn that the pet food industry, a multi million-dollar industry, came about during World War II. Cereals and grain considered waste from factories was bagged and sold as pet food. The industry then evolved as manufacturers recognized that to ensure animals were not undernourished they would have to incorporate meat into their products; meat that had been rejected from our food supply chain due to its poor nutritional quality, dubious source, condition or health risk.

Read More. Download the FREE DogSmith E-BOOK
www.DogSmith.com

Watch a short video on the ingredients in pet food and what you should be looking for when you buy pet food .

Free Samples of Life’s Abundance Cat Food and Dog Food
Dog food samples are approximately 3.8 ounces and cat food samples are 2.2 ounces. The samples are NOT meal-size and are enough to satisfy the taste, feel and smell senses. Since Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food For Dogs and Cats has a 30-day money back guarantee, rather than ordering a sample, you might consider ordering the smallest bag of Life’s Abundance Dog Food. This is a great way to try our other HealthyPetNet products, too! What have you got to lose?

Happy New year 20010

2010-01-01T07:53:00.001-08:00

Happy New year from The DogSmith, Palm Beach County.

www.dogsmith.com
561-271-3033

Rachel Williams

Train Your Dog Month: January 2010

2009-12-22T06:27:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of thousands of dogs have been turned into animal shelters because their owners didn’t know how to deal with behavior problems and couldn’t find a reliable resource to help them. We, at the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, think it is long overdue to dedicate a month where we can bring awareness to the importance of socialization and training, and most of all, to inform the public that training your dog can be simple and fun! The APDT has selected January as the perfect month because, as we all know, so many dogs and puppies are adopted and brought home during the winter holidays. Our desire is to help these new pet parents start off the new year with their newest family member in the best way possible.

The APDT is planning a variety of events in January 2010 to celebrate National Train Your Dog Month. We hope everyday dog owners you can see how easy and fun training can be, and how patience, consistency and a deeper understanding of your dog’s behavior can lead to happier, healthier and harmonious households. We have a wide range of topics that we’ve covered and provided a great deal of information to promote using methods that are kind gentle and that have an emphasis on building a relationships with your dog.

In addition the APDT has more than 5000 members who are willing and able to help dog owners who need help with their dogs. If there is one thing that current television shows about dog training have taught the public it's that there are solutions to help dogs with behavior problems and there are alternatives to try before giving up your dog.

The APDT is a professional educational organization of trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through using positive, dog friendly methods based on sound scientific principles. With over 5,000 members worldwide, the APDT provides professional dog trainers with a respected and concerted voice. The APDT promotes caring relationships between dogs and people and works to increase public awareness of dog-friendly training techniques. For more information, visit the Web site at www.apdt.com.
Or call your local DogSmith Rachel Williams on 561-271-3033.

Train Your Dog Efficiently and Effectively – The DogSmith Way

2009-12-21T07:23:00.000-08:00

To train a dog efficiently you should set quickly achievable criteria. This means splitting the behavior into very small increments and training each increment to a high level of fluency. With dogs we believe that fluency at each level should be 80% before you move onto the next level or criteria. If you set good criteria then you should be able to achieve each criteria or level of behavior within 5 to 8 trials. At the DogSmith we work on 1 set of 5 trials and establish from the results if the animal has learned. We decide then if we can move onto the next criteria, repeat the current criteria or sometimes if necessary make a decision to drop down to the criteria below until the behavior is solid.

For example when teaching a dog to sit/maintain, or sit stay. The criteria may look like this

1. Dog places bum on ground for 1 second with a lure
2. Dog places bum on ground for 3 seconds with a lure
3. Dog places bum on ground for 5 seconds with a hand signal
4. Dog places bum on ground for 5 seconds with a verbal cue
5. Dog Places bum on ground for 8 seconds with either a hand signal or a verbal cue

This builds a duration behavior. To build a distance behavior you may start your training with a sit for 3 seconds 1 step away and then increase your criteria, the distance a step at a time.

For each step, criteria you would repeat the behavior 5 times, if the fluency level is 80%, then you can move onto the next level. The dog has shown that not only have you trained but they have learned as the new behavior has been demonstrated. Where most trainers go wrong is that they get fluency at the lower levels and then jump too quickly to building distance and duration behavior.

Train effectively and efficiently. Have a plan and follow it.

Call your local DogSmith Rachel Williams on 561-271-3033 or on the web at www.dogsmith.com

The DogSmith Guide to Holiday Pet Travel

2009-12-15T05:19:00.001-08:00

NEWS RELEASE
Contact:
Rick Ingram
The DogSmith
ringram@888DogSmith.com
888.364.7648

The DogSmith Guide to Holiday Pet Travel

Jupiter FL? November 2009- The holiday season is almost upon us and many pet owners are starting to make their travel plans. The DogSmith knows how important pet care is -- whether you travel with your pets or if you are leaving them home.

If you cannot travel with your pet you may want to book your pet into a boarding kennel which can range from high-end luxury boutique style pet hotels and catteries to traditional kennels. If available, many pet owners choose to let their pet stay with their veterinarian. Whichever you choose it is always a good idea to get to know the staff beforehand. Check to see if the facility is a member of the Pet Care Services Association (PCSA, formerly the ABKA ? www.petcareservices.org) and if this will be your pet?s first stay away from home, make several practice visits of increasing duration prior to leaving them. Remember to make these visits a lot of fun for your pet. This will be especially helpful if your pet has never stayed in a kennel facility before.

As an option to kennels, you may want to consider a pet-sitter who can either care for your pet in their home or yours. This approach can have huge advantages including more personal attention and reduced stress on your pet by keeping them in their familiar environment. Much like acclimating your pet to a kennel environment, it will help any transition to slowly introduce your pet to the sitter to ensure your four-legged family member is comfortable. Most professional sitters will include this as part of their service. With a pet-sitter, you also get a house sitter who will take in mail, packages and other similar duties. Again, check to see if the sitter you are considering is a member of an accredited organization and is insured and bonded. It is a bonus for your peace of mind if your sitter is also a dog trainer and animal first aid qualified.

When traveling, having your pet ?crate-trained? pays big dividends. No matter where you go or what you do, your pet?s crate is its mobile home where they can feel safe and secure. To download a free guide to crate-training your dog visit www.888DogSmith.com.

If you will be traveling by air, check with your airline for container specifications, size limits on cabin travel of pets, check-in times and any other information necessary. Though many airlines have stricter rules concerning pet travel you should also review federal regulations at the FAA website www.faa.gov.

Under even the most ideal conditions traveling by air will be stressful for your pet so visit your veterinarian well in advance of traveling to make sure your pet is up to the trip and you have all of the paperwork required by the airline. Your vet can also advise you on available options if your pet is prone to anxiety when traveling by plane.

By a huge margin, most family pets will travel this holiday season over our nation?s highways. If your pet is not comfortable traveling by car you can help them acclimate by taking them on local car trips of increasing duration before you set out on your journey. Make your car a safe, fun place for your pet by rewarding them and using the proper restraints. Here again a crate secured inside your car is a valuable tool to keep your pet safe. A variety of specialty seatbelt attachments and harnesses designed for car travel are also available at most pet stores. Stopping every two hours or so for a walk and a rest will help you and your pet stay fresh, alert and comfortable. But never leave your pet in the car alone for any length of time. A car?s interior can become dangerously hot for your pet even when the outside temperature is cool. Visit www.AAA.com for a list of pet-friendly motels and more information on traveling by car with your pet.

However you travel this holiday season, it is important to keep your pet comfortable, safe and secure. Pack favorite toys and treats, food, appropriate leads, collars, harnesses, crates, blankets, beds, waste bags, food bowls, water bowls, required medicines, and plenty of fresh water so you can provide your best friend with a ?home away from home.?

For your free comprehensive guide to traveling with your pet visit www.888DogSmith.com.

About The DogSmith
The DogSmith was founded in 1998 by Niki Tudge, a leading proponent of positive animal training techniques. The DogSmith mission is to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship and the quality of the life they share through; 1. Providing professional support and training to Pet Dog owner;, 2. Supporting and assisting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals and; 3. Offering affordable and professional care for family pets. To learn more about the DogSmith and its ARRF? and MTR? methodologies visit www.888DogSmith.com.
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DogSmith Holistic Pet Food Gift Certificates and Holiday Baskets

2009-12-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

It is so easy to order a Gift Certificate. Just click on this link and simply select from three attractive designs, choose the amount of your gift and enter the recipient’s email address. You can even include a personalized message.

The recipient will receive an email with a unique gift certificate code, along with a printable version of the gift certificate. With no hidden fees and no expiration dates, recipients can redeem these gift certificates for any Trilogy or HealthyPetNet products on the web sites or by phone order. Persons who purchase Gift Certificates can view their balances by logging on to the “My Account” section of the web site and scrolling to the “Gift Certificate Options” section.

There is also a great selection of Holiday Gift Baskets for dogs and cats, so if you are thinking about purchasing a gift basket, please order now.
Dog Treat Sampler Pack

Dog Treat Sample Pack

The Dog Treat Sampler Pack is a great way for you to try HealthyPetNet’s nutritious and delicious treats.

It contains a sampling of our five most popular dog treats:

– Three Gourmet Dental Treats
– Three Antioxidant Health Bars
– Three Wholesome Hearts
– One-quarter-ounce Bag of Tasty Rewards
– One Porky Puff

Priced at $3.49.

Click here to view this product on the web site.

In this amazing collection you’ll find: three Antioxidant Health Bars – Oatmeal & Apple Recipe (with oatmeal, flaxseed meal, peanut butter, apples, honey, eggs, cranberries, carrots, vitamin C, beta-carotene and vitamin E); three Gourmet Dental Treats – Honey Peanut-Butter Recipe (featuring harvest grains, top-quality proteins, calcium, vitamin C and parsley); three Wholesome Hearts – Low-Fat Treats (with pumpkin, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, apples, yellow field peas, cranberries, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and nutmeg); one-quarter-ounce of Tasty Rewards Nutritional Training Treats (mouthwatering morsels containing high-quality proteins, lecithin, vitamin B12 and pumpkin seeds); and one Porky Puff, delicious, hickory-smoked pig snout.

Dogs will rejoice with our Dog Treat Sampler Pack!

Back yard dogs....

2009-12-11T08:33:00.001-08:00

If being in jail or solitary confinement is expected to punish a human being, a social being, then surely when a dog is isolated to a back yard or chained or tethered in one spot it has the same effects on the canine soul. Dogs are domesticated, the most domesticated animal there is. Through the domestication process we have selected and bred dogs that have highly social genes. As a result of this selective breeding we now have dogs with personality traits that need our attention our time and our kind leadership. If our attention and participation in their lives is missing then dogs become lonely and bored. This loneliness leads to frustration and stress that leads to behavioral problems. Excessive barking, pacing, self mutilation and destructive behaviors are all symptoms displayed of a dog that is not having his mental and physical needs met by its guardian.

Dogs are not only very social beings they are also very inquisitive and like to explore. Dogs need to explore sniff and smell; they need the mental stimulation brought about by being exposed to new environments and new sight and sounds. Dogs also need the opportunity to meet and interact with their own species, other dogs. If they are restricted from companions or there life is reduced to a tedious environment then they suffer a horrible mental punishment. For a dog Loneliness is abandonment.
Many dogs find themselves reduced to a life in the yard isolated from their human pack because their behavior is such that living in the house is very stressful for their owners. Below is an example of the downward spiral we see in a dogs behavior because they receive no training and inadequate exercise

1. Dog enters the home as a puppy or young dog ? Owners are excited, dog is a bundle of fun but no management plan for the puppy is put into place.
2. Dog is not housetrained correctly - Accidents occur outside the period that new owners deem normal so human frustrations begin.
3. Dog is not leash trained ? Puppy grows so leash pulling is now an aversive to the owners and walks become a chore.
4. Dog is highly active ? The dog has no leash manners so any social outings are reduced resulting in the dog not having its physical needs met.
5. Dog becomes destructive ? The dog is left alone in a state of arousal due to lack of exercise so the dog finds ways to mentally and physically stimulate itself. Chewing and destructive behaviors are observed.
6. Dogs? behavior gets worse ? The owners become increasingly frustrated, the dog gets punished and the relationship breaks down. The dog is seen as an inconvenience.
7. Dog is reduced to living in the yard.
8. Dog now digs holes, chews at fencing or attempts to escape.
9. Dog is now restrained to control its behavior.

Solutions
Invest in some dog training lessons right off the bat whether you bring home a puppy or a mature dog. Teach the dog the basic skills that will ensure your dog can integrate into your life in a positive way.
Take the time to socialize and house train your dog. Teach your dog solid sit/down/stay behaviors and some nice leash skills then your dog is set up for a successful life sharing your home.
Call your local DogSmith Rachel Williams 561-271-3033, or go to WWW.888DogSmith.com for more training advise.

Pet Carousel Conducts Nationwide Recall of Beef Hoof Products and Pig Ears Becasue of Salmonella Risk

2009-12-10T11:22:00.001-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 9, 2009 Sanger, CA-- Pet Carousel has initiated a recall of all Pig Ears and all varieties of Beef Hoof pet treats because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The problem was discovered after FDA testing found positive results for Salmonella in pig ears and beef hoof products.These products were recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products.Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.The following products have been recalled: The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight, Pork Tasteez and Pet Carousel
Item No.:

* 18100-P Bulk
* 18016-P 10-pk red mesh bag
* 18120-P 20-pk red mesh bag.

The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley?s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel
Item No.:

* 1506-K 5 lb. bulk
* 1507-K 10 lb. bulk
* 1520-K 20 lb. bulk
* 12125-T 10-pk vinyl bag
* 12110-T 10-pk, vinyl bag
* 12111-T 10-pk, vinyl bag
* 12122-T 10 lb., bulk
* 1503-K 3-pk, vinyl bag
* 1510-K 10-pk ,vinyl bag
* 1405-S 5 lb., bulk
* 1408-S 10-pk, vinyl bag
* 1410-S 10 lb., bulk
* 1420-S 20 lb., bulk
* 90058-H Cheese/& Bacon Stuffed Hoof, bulk
* 90056-H Peanut Butter Stuffed Hoof, bulk
* 17005-R Rope toy with Hooves.

The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores throughout the country. All sizes and all lots of these pork ears purchased on or after 08/16/2009 and all beef hoof products in all varieties purchased on or after 09/16/2009 made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.

Pet Carousel has completed notifying its consignees and requested the consignees return affected products and remove them from retail sales. Out of an abundance of caution and concern for public safety, Pet Carousel is issuing this press release to inform consumers of potential risks and to ensure that all affected product has either been returned or otherwise removed from use.
Consumers who have purchased the products described above should cease use and return the product to their place of purchase. Additionally, consumers with questions may contact Pet Carousel at 800-231-3572 from 8:00am to 4:00pm PST.

As far as a more Healthy Option is concerned by this blogger,choose Life's Abundance all natural, holistic pet food for products that are safe and healthy for your pet. or call your Local DogSmith on 561-271-3033 for more information on Healthy products for you and your pets.

Don’t Let Them Bite the Hand That Feeds Them

2009-12-08T10:14:00.000-08:00

If you or your friends have a dog that still nips or bites inappropriately during play then you may have a “Bite School Drop Out” on your hands. Because most dogs are adopted into our homes as 8 week old puppies we take them from the “bite school” of their mother and siblings before they have learned important “bite inhibition” skills. So we have to pick up where mom left off and teach our puppies how to use their mouths appropriately.
Puppies explore the whole world with their mouths, they learn about sizes, shapes, textures and the pain they can inflict when they bite too hard. Puppy mouthing is cute when they have little pincers but when they reach 80 pounds and have big teeth even mouthing should not be acceptable. It will be hard to explain to friends that your 80 pound German Shepherd that puts its teeth on their daughter is ok because “our dog will not bite”. All dogs can bite and if pushed or threatened they will defend themselves by fleeing or biting. A dog that has learned appropriate bite inhibition however will cause little or no damage even if pushed to the extreme of biting.
But puppies need to bite and chew, especially when teething, so we must provide them with the correct things to bite and chew on. For example, it is not a good idea to give your puppy one of your old shoes to chew on. Your puppy does not understand the concept of ‘old.’ They do however know what a shoe is so shoes and other personal non-dog items of ours should be off limits.
Teaching a puppy not to mouth and not to bite are two different exercises. And we won’t try to completely stop them from doing both right off the bat because then they may not learn about bite pressure if we do. It is more important and critical to their development that they learn what mouth pressure is acceptable and what is unacceptable. One of the best ways for puppies to learn bite inhibition is to enroll them in a well run, safe puppy class where they can play and learn the fight and play rituals with their own kind. Dogs teach other dogs great lessons about bite inhibition so playing with other dogs is an important part of your puppy’s education.

Bite inhibition Training

Puppies have to learn at a very early age that they cannot put their teeth onto our skin, clothing or body in any way. They have to be taught a soft mouth. Puppies learn to develop this soft mouth from their mother and siblings through feeding, play and mock fighting. In addition, children or adults inappropriately playing with small cute puppies often encourage biting and only when larger teeth grow in and/or the puppy’s jaw strengthens does the biting suddenly become a problem if the dog has not learned bite inhibition.
For the FREE E Book download on this topic visit http://www.888dogsmith.com/ebook.php
or call Rachel Williams cell 561-271-3033 for more information.

How to Become a Dog Trainer

2009-12-07T07:24:00.001-08:00

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers recommends that you look for a training school that offers a good training program. There website describes a good training program as covering the following topics. a) History of Dog Training, a complete history of dog training from late 19th century to the present and a comparison and contrast of dog training with other animal training endeavors. b) Animal Learning, classical and operant conditioning, positive and negative reinforcement, positive and negative punishment, conditioned reinforcers, discrimination, generalization, habituation, sensitization and desensitization, blocking and overshadowing, motivation, establishing operations, conditioned emotional responses. A comparison of dog learning to human learning. c) Dog Behavior, dog development and ethology, genetics of behavior, fixed action patterns, social signals, body language, social development, critical periods, hormonal influences, breed characteristics. d) Designing Classes, how to design your courses/instruction materials once you graduate. How to counsel individuals, motivate handlers/owners, how to screen and steer clients.

There are many schools and online courses that can be attended to learn and gather the required theoretical knowledge to learn about dog training. However as James Kesel in his article titled, A Career in Dog Training quotes ?more dog training businesses fail as a result of poor business practices then because they are doing a poor job of dog training? Peggy Prudden in her article on the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors website says ?to be a good dog trainer one must be physically fit, goal oriented, self-starting, and love dogs. It takes a lot of stamina, patience, understanding, insight, common sense, and fortitude to dedicate one?s life to training dogs?

Becoming a Dog Trainer like many professional services requires that you also have a broad knowledge of business skills if your goal is to make a career and earn a living out of the profession. Many service professionals are good technicians, are able to perform the actual skill of their trade, but are lacking in the knowledge and experience of opening and operating a business. Business finance and marketing are equally as important to the success of a business as being able to actually perform the dog training skill and these skills are acquired through business degrees and years of experience in a business environment.

Online courses offer an academic overview of dog training whereas on site dog training schools also compliment the academic studying with practical hands on dog training experience. Once you have completed your studies you then join the business sector as a small business owner. Unless you bring to your new career an academic background in business management or have previously worked in a business environment your endeavors? are going to be difficult.

Dog Training franchises offer both the academic dog training curriculum and the hands on practical skills and provide a lifelong partnership and business relationship that has all the necessary support functions, skills and experience to assist you in your business success. Dog Training Franchises that are not selling systems with a huge capital outlay at the beginning are seriously invested in your business, if you succeed they succeed. A good dog training franchise will be on hand pre-launch, during your launch and continually to support your business growth. A good dog training franchise will have a leadership team with a proven track record of owning and operating pet care businesses. The leadership team will offer expertise in business finance, marketing, operational effectiveness and will have offer a dynamic and benevolent leadership style committed to your personal business needs.
Sources
Sourced http://www.apdt.com/trainers/career/default.aspx December 4th 2009
Sourced at http://www.nadoi.org/howdoi.htm December 4th 2009

Visit this website and review the following pages to get a clear understanding of how a dog training franchise can help you. http://www888dogsmith/franchisephp
Click here to learn more about a professionally developed Dog Training School Curriculum
http://www.888dogsmith.com/nationalcenter.php
Or call Rachel Williams your local Palm Beach DogSmith on 561-271-3033

Separation anxiety? or not?

2009-12-03T19:07:00.000-08:00

Does your dog demonstrate signs of fear and nervousness when left alone? Separation anxiety has become a bit of a “catch-all” phrase in the dog world but dog’s can experience varying levels of anxiety, fear and nervousness when left on their own. For serious cases with complex causes, especially if your dog has become self destructive, consulting a Dog Trainer who is a qualified Behavior Analyst is recommended.

When trying to help your pooch become relaxed and calm when left alone the first thing you should do is take it to your vet so you can be sure its nervous behavior isn’t caused by a medical condition.

Once your vet has determined your dog is physically fit the next step is to make sure your pooch is getting adequate exercise and mental stimulation. And however much physical and mental exercise Fido may be getting now, increase it. Just like humans, exercise will help your dog’s brain regulate mood and reduce nervous behavior. Exercise alone will often reduce your pooches anxiety and nervousness. A dog that is well exercised will be more relaxed and less likely to display destructive behaviors. A tired dog is a happy dog.

Diet can also be a factor. Poor quality foods use ingredients like corn which can alter the brain’s ability to moderate mood by causing an imbalance in amino acids and brain functioning. The result of these imbalances can be an animal that becomes agitated, impulsive, obsessive and over-reactive. Always ensure your pet is fed a high quality diet free of corn, wheat, soy, hormones/steroids, by-products, artificial colors/flavors, or chemical preservatives.

Dogs often display anxiety, (pacing, whining, barking, inappropriate chewing, etc.) out of pure loneliness and boredom. If you suspect that boredom may contribute to your dog’s anxiety look into some of the excellent interactive toys now available for pets. You can even use toys that will dispense your dog’s meals keeping it mentally stimulated figuring out how to get its breakfast. Your pooch may not even notice you’ve gone to work.

Another important technique for your dog’s general well being is to make sure your dog is getting quality “face” time with you and your family. They are pack animals and we are their pack. And there is nothing like enrolling your dog in an obedience or agility course, using strictly positive methods, to help build a strong relationship between you and your dog. Also, consider putting your pooch into daycare or hiring a dog walker. Your dog will greatly benefit from the additional exercise and companionship.

Finally, one of the most effective methods of ensuring a happy, confident and well-mannered dog in general is to ‘crate-train’ it. A properly crate-trained dog feels relaxed, safe and secure in its crate (download our free e-book on crate-training).

Whichever of these techniques you use, success will come with time, patience and consistency. And under no circumstance should you punish your dog for anxious behaviors as that tends to make the condition worse. Remember, if your dog’s condition seems severe, especially where it may harm itself, consult a Canine Behavior Analyst. A Behavior Analyst is equipped to identify the root cause of your dog’s destructive behaviors and can guide you through a customized program of training tailored for your particular situation.

WWW.888DogSmith.com or call Rachel Williams 561-271-3033 for training advise

Free Puppy Socialization class at Jupiter Dog Beach

2009-12-03T06:55:00.000-08:00

Free Puppy Socialization class at Jupiter Dog Beach
Please join The DogSmith for the second of its free puppy Socialization classes, being held at Jupiter Dog Beach this coming Saturday December the 5th, 9am until 10pm. All puppies up to the ages of 6 months are welcome.

Call Rachel Williams on 561-271-3033 for more details or directions, we will be set up on the beach at shower # 4.

Go on line to Register at WWW.888dogsmith.com

The DogSmith Holiday Gift Guide

2009-12-01T18:18:00.001-08:00

The holidays are upon us and while you are rushing around shopping, attending office parties and planning for family gatherings don?t forget to include your dogs and dog loving friends in the festivities. Interactive toys and healthy treats are the most appreciated and valued gifts you can give your dogs at this time of year. Healthy, wholesome treats can help offset some of the holiday food your furry friend will inevitably find around the house or in the hands of well meaning toddlers. Nutritious treats like Premier?s Liver Biscotti which the Whole Dog Journal says ?is the best treat we have ever come across? or their Buddy Berries, Buddy Ohs or Freeze Dried Liver Treats, also from Premier, are a healthy choice for training or every day rewards. You can also find an assortment of premium holistic dog food and treats as well as holistic cat food at the DogSmith Store (www.888dogsmith.com).

Interactive toys are a great gift idea because your dog will love them and they provide hours of mental and physical activity for your pooch. You can keep your pooch entertained for every one of the 12 days of Christmas with a different challenge from Premier?s range of interactive toys fitted with their patented ?treat meter? that allows treats to be randomly dispensed as your dog plays and manipulates the toy. The range of interactive toys includes the Chuckle, Squirrel Dude, The Waggle, Twist ?n Treat, Football, Tug-a-Jug, and the Kibble Nibble. We use these treat dispensing toys to give our dogs their meals. Feeding them this way appeals to their natural instinct to pounce, stalk and chase prey for their food. Premier also has a range of chew toys with replaceable healthy treats which can be adjust to provide just the quantity of treat you desire. These toys stimulate chewing, clean teeth and give your pup plenty to chew even after the treats are gone. Bristle Bone, Bouncy Bone, and Funny Bone all provide hours of healthy fun. And the Waggle, Twist ?n Treat, and Squirrel Dude come in puppy sizes that are gentle for puppy teeth but durable enough for extended play. Let your new puppy gnaw on these not the table leg.
For the dog lovers in your life that may need some help with the new puppy they found under their tree on Christmas morning how about a DogSmith gift certificate good for training, sitting or walking services. Help your friends and family get their new puppy off to a great start in their new home.
For these and other gift ideas visit www.888DogSmith.com.
Or Call Rachel Williams 561-271-3033.

Crate Training your dog, Humane?

2009-11-25T05:26:00.001-08:00

Crate training a dog can help ensure the dog has a humane life, what do I mean? Well when dogs are not crate trained, the odds are they will not be 100% reliably house trained. As they get older their freedom is restricted and they are often banished to a life as a yard dog. If crate trained when small as they grow without the accumulation of bad habits their freedom increase and they tend to become stable, reliable house pets, enjoying many years sharing our home.

When I discuss the concept of crate training with pet dog owners they often look a little befuddled. I know exactly what they are thinking in most cases before they even open their mouths. Pet owners think of their dogs as family members, loved ones in some cases even our furry kids. Why would we want to put them in a crate?

There are many benefits to crate training a dog, especially if you have a puppy or a young dog and you are in the process of house training. I often ask people, especially those with small children, if they ever used the baby pens. ?Of course they reply, I would have never had any peace or quiet?. Well a crate for a puppy is the same concept as a baby pen. You would never leave your baby or child unsupervised, free to wander the rooms of your house where they could injure themselves. Puppies, like small children need a place they can go when you are not available to watch every move they make, a safe place where they can hear, see and smell you without being underfoot. A crate is a safe, quiet place your dog can go when they want peace and quiet, to snooze or just to withdraw into their own sanctuary. I have never met a dog that does not enjoy their crate if the crate is introduced into their world correctly.

There are many benefits of crate training your dog not just for housebreaking but also to prevent destructive behaviors such as chewing, counter surfing and trash exploring, especially while you are away. When a pet is injured or sick a crate is an ideal location for them to rest and, should you ever need to evacuate your dog you will be grateful if you can safely contain your dog on a long journey, in a shelter or in compliance with a hotel?s pet policy.
Contrary to what many may think, a crate is not a tool for punishment, or a long term confinement tool. With training, an adult dog can remain in a crate for up to 8 hours but will need plentiful amounts of exercise before and after crating and an assortment of toys for mental stimulation during its time in the crate.

There are many different sizes, models and varieties of crates. The more durable crates designed for airline travel, in my opinion, do not make the best crate for home use as they tend to be bulky and restrict the dog?s view of their environment. For my dogs, I use the canvas/mesh style of crates for their daily use and that is where they often disappear to be alone while we read or watch television. This design provides for shaded visibility, they fold easily, are durable and can be moved or stored with little problem. Many pet stores provide the metal wire crates that collapse and can be easily moved around the house. These are good crates for large dogs and dogs that may chew. They also come with accessories such as water bowls, fans to keep your pooch cool, and fabric covers to blend them into your home d?cor.

To start the crate training process make going into the crate a game. Dogs should be encouraged, not forced, into their crates. To generate interest feed them in the crate with the door left open, throw in the odd treat or toy and within a short period of time you will find them happily exploring the inside of their new place delighted to find a surprise. As time goes by gently close the door giving them treats for staying quietly inside, progress on to actually fastening the door and then extend the period of time you leave them in their crate. Remember, offer treats and toys to go in and do not let them out if they are barking or pawing at the door. You want to let them out when they are calm and quiet or they will learn very quickly that if they bark or paw the door opens. If you work on this and make it a fun happy place for your dog you will soon find them choosing to snooze in their crate as happy as can be.

Download a FREE Crate Training E-Book. Visit http://www.888DogSmith.com and look under the resources tab
or Call Rachel Williams 561-271-3033

Introducing Pets to a New Baby

2009-11-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

It is important to remember that no child should ever be left alone with a pet;
even the "best" pet may hurt a baby. Close supervision is mandatory
when an infant/toddler and a pet are together.

Anticipate schedule and household changes that may occur when the baby arrives; try to implement these changes well in advance of the actual arrival of the baby. This may mean spending less time with the pets, pet segregation from certain areas of the house, teaching the pet to stay off the furniture, awakening at night, etc. Practice Tranquility Training Exercises with your pet prior to the arrival of the baby.

Prior to the arrival of the baby, obtain a recording of a baby crying. One resource is www.soundsscary.com, Soothing Sounds CD with baby noises. Play on low volume for 5–10 minutes multiple times daily. During sessions, have the dog do basic obedience commands and reward good, obedient, calm behavior. Gradually increase the volume at successive training sessions until the recording is played at true baby crying volume. If at any time during increases in the volume the dog appears to be agitated, return to a lower volume and progress more gradually. It may be beneficial to start carrying around a baby doll and rewarding the dog for good behavior around the "baby." Get the pet used to new baby product odors and furniture by having them in the house prior to arrival of the baby.

Get pets used to pulling on hair/ears by initially doing it very gently and rewarding them for good behavior with a treat/affection. Gradually increase the intensity of the pulling until you mimic what a toddler may do.

Do not allow pets to get into the crib or sleep in areas where the baby will be sleeping/resting.
For particularly anxious dogs/cats, consider placing a canine pheromone product (DAP—dog appeasing pheromone R ) or Feliway R (cat calming pheromone) diffuser in the house about 2 weeks before the baby's arrival.

After the baby is born, bring some of the clothing that the baby has worn in the hospital home for the pets to smell.

When you bring the baby home, have another person hold the baby so that you can greet the pets.

Once things have calmed down, introduce your pets one at a time to your new baby. The pet must be controlled during the introduction. Leashes and head halters or harnesses can be helpful. Have one person hold the baby while sitting comfortably on a chair. Another person should be carefully monitoring your pet's behavior. At any sign of aggressive or unacceptable non aggressive behavior (i.e., crawling on top of baby), interaction with the pet and the baby should be immediately interrupted. Aggressive behavior should result in immediate isolation of the pet and contact with your veterinarian. Unacceptable, non aggressive behavior should result in redirection of the pet to do an alternative behavior (e.g., sit); desirable behavior is rewarded.

If there is only one spouse at home during the first few weeks that the baby is at home, then the pets should be restrained or confined in the presence of the infant. Tethers, crates, or baby gates may be helpful.

Usually when a new baby enters the household, the adults ignore the pets when the baby is active and give the pets attention when the baby is sleeping. Inadvertently this teaches the pet that the baby is something negative (baby equals no attention) and that the absence of the baby is a good thing. This is the opposite message that we want to give our pets. Therefore, make a point of trying to pay attention to the pets when the baby is active/present. This can be done with verbal engagement or if two adults are present, one adult can attend to the baby and the other adult can pet or play games with the pets. When the baby is sleeping, you should pay less attention to the pets.

From Blackwell's 5 Minute Veterinary Consult
For more information on Training contct your local DogSmith www.888dogsmith.com or Rachel on 561-271-3033

Does your dog demonstrate signs of fear and nervousness when left alone?

2009-11-16T16:54:00.000-08:00

Does your dog demonstrate signs of fear and nervousness when left alone? Separation anxiety has become a bit of a “catch-all” phrase in the dog world but dog’s can experience varying levels of anxiety, fear and nervousness when left on their own. For serious cases with complex causes, especially if your dog has become self destructive, consulting a Dog Trainer who is a qualified Behavior Analyst is recommended.

When trying to help your pooch become relaxed and calm when left alone the first thing you should do is take it to your vet so you can be sure its nervous behavior isn’t caused by a medical condition.

Once your vet has determined your dog is physically fit the next step is to make sure your pooch is getting adequate exercise and mental stimulation. And however much physical and mental exercise Fido may be getting now, increase it. Just like humans, exercise will help your dog’s brain regulate mood and reduce nervous behavior. Exercise alone will often reduce your pooches anxiety and nervousness. A dog that is well exercised will be more relaxed and less likely to display destructive behaviors. A tired dog is a happy dog.

Diet can also be a factor. Poor quality foods use ingredients like corn which can alter the brain’s ability to moderate mood by causing an imbalance in amino acids and brain functioning. The result of these imbalances can be an animal that becomes agitated, impulsive, obsessive and over-reactive. Always ensure your pet is fed a high quality diet free of corn, wheat, soy, hormones/steroids, by-products, artificial colors/flavors, or chemical preservatives.

Dogs often display anxiety, (pacing, whining, barking, inappropriate chewing, etc.) out of pure loneliness and boredom. If you suspect that boredom may contribute to your dog’s anxiety look into some of the excellent interactive toys now available for pets. You can even use toys that will dispense your dog’s meals keeping it mentally stimulated figuring out how to get its breakfast. Your pooch may not even notice you’ve gone to work.

Another important technique for your dog’s general well being is to make sure your dog is getting quality “face” time with you and your family. They are pack animals and we are their pack. And there is nothing like enrolling your dog in an obedience or agility course, using strictly positive methods, to help build a strong relationship between you and your dog. Also, consider putting your pooch into daycare or hiring a dog walker. Your dog will greatly benefit from the additional exercise and companionship.

Finally, one of the most effective methods of ensuring a happy, confident and well-mannered dog in general is to ‘crate-train’ it. A properly crate-trained dog feels relaxed, safe and secure in its crate (download our free e-book on crate-training).

Whichever of these techniques you use, success will come with time, patience and consistency. And under no circumstance should you punish your dog for anxious behaviors as that tends to make the condition worse. Remember, if your dog’s condition seems severe, especially where it may harm itself, consult a Canine Behavior Analyst. A Behavior Analyst is equipped to identify the root cause of your dog’s destructive behaviors and can guide you through a customized program of training tailored for your particular situation.

The DogSmith website has a great collection of Dog Training and Pet Care articles. Articles range from simple training tricks for pet dog owners to more academic articles written for those wanting to become dog trainers. Check out this link to the article section.

The DogSmith also offers a selection of FREE E-Book downloads, crate training, house training, pet nutrition and more. To download a FREE E-Book visit this link

Sign up for The DogSmith monthly newsletter where The DogSmith has a recommended featured product each month, training advise and tips for pet care.

WWW.888DogSmith.com or call your local DogSmith Rachel Williams on 561-271-3033

Manage our dog’s barking

2009-11-13T11:21:00.000-08:00

So our goal is to manage our dog’s barking so that it isn’t a nuisance. In order to properly do this we need to set reasonable goals so rather than try to eliminate all barking let’s start with an achievable goal such as reducing the frequency of the barking or shorten the duration of the barking.

Our first step will be to determine what triggers the undesirable barking. In many cases what triggers a dog’s bark can be quite complex and difficult to determine. In these situations you are far better off consulting with a professional dog trainer who is an accredited behavior analyst. If you suspect the barking is caused by fear or anxiety then you will definitely need the help of a professional. Both fear and anxiety are incredibly complex emotions in a dog which will require a detailed plan to resolve.

But if the cause of your dog’s barking is straightforward (the doorbell, passing pedestrians, other dogs, children etc.) then you may be able to simply manage the situation. If management techniques do resolve the problem and you can easily maintain them then this approach may be the most effective for you.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure your pooch is getting adequate exercise. And however much they may be getting now, increase it. Much like humans, exercise will help the dog’s brain regulate mood and reduce impulsive behavior. Exercise alone will often reduce excessive barking. A dog that is well exercised will be more relaxed and less likely to react to whatever may normally trigger their barking. A tired dog is a happy dog.

The next step is to make sure your dog is getting quality “face” time with you and your family. Dogs often bark out of pure loneliness and boredom. They are pack animals and we are their pack. If it is boredom that you suspect is the primary trigger for your dog’s barking then look into some of the excellent interactive toys now available for pets. You can even use toys that will dispense your dog’s meals keeping it mentally stimulated figuring out how to get its dinner. Consider putting your pooch into daycare or hiring a dog walker. They will greatly benefit from the additional exercise and companionship. And a properly crate-trained dog feels safe and secure in its crate (download our free e-book on crate-training).

When problem barking is caused by a specific trigger like a doorbell, then you will need to concentrate on 1) not rewarding them for the barking when the bell rings and 2) replacing the barking with a different behavior when the door bell rings.

We often unconsciously reward our dogs for undesirable behavior. For example; if our dog reacts to the doorbell by barking and then jumps on guests we often try to control their behavior by holding them and talking to them. This attention is just what your dog was looking for.

Instead, if you teach your dog an alternate behavior, such as finding its favorite toy whenever the doorbell rings, then it will be distracted and physically unable to bark at the doorbell as it holds its favorite toy in its mouth. So first teach your dog to find its favorite toy using plenty of rewards. Once your pooch is reliably and enthusiastically finding its toy when you tell it to “get your toy” then you are ready to practice the new behavior (getting the toy) when the doorbell rings.

Have a friend or family member ring the doorbell. Just when your dog starts to react send it to find its toy. When it returns to you with the toy, reward it generously. Do this repeatedly over a period of days. And don’t forget the rewards. Don’t be surprised if your pooch looks for its favorite toy at the sound of the doorbell without any prompting from you. If you successfully master this behavior you can then apply it to a number of situations where you want your dog to “get your toy” rather than do whatever it is doing. Remember, even after your dog has mastered this behavior you will need to occasionally reward it with treats or lots of love to remind it of the value of “get your toy.”
Niki Tudge

Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise. To learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.888dogsmith.com/franchise.html Niki achieved her Canine Behaviorist Diploma in England and Dog Obedience Training Diploma in the US. Niki is an Endorsed member of the National Association of Dog Obedience Trainers and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and The Association of Animal Behavior Professionals. Niki is also certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. You can reach Niki via email at NTudge@888dogsmith.com or http://www.888DogSmith.com

Call Your local DogSmith, Palm Beach County, Rachel Williams, 561-271-3033