Impawtant Training

11/02/2023

As is cat as well ❤️

20/09/2022

12/09/2022

Esme is learning about impulse control.
She’s a busy little firecracker … and oh so cute 💜

12/08/2022

Yesterday I added this little fella to our mix … he’s on foster from Save-A-Dog Scheme.
He’s not known much other than shelter life yet but he’s well and truely ready for the challenge of taking on the big wide world.
I’m excited to see him succeed and flourish 💙

07/08/2022

My dog Rusty is a tripod 💙
Because he uses his body in a way that compensates for his missing rear limb, he carries a lot of extra stress in his neck and shoulders so we’ve been visiting Fiona Kates Animal Chiropractic to keep his body in the best shape possible.
I highly recommend her services … and so does Rusty 🐶💜

07/08/2022

Bailey may be small but by golly he’s got a big personality 💙
What a clever little fella he is … he’s definitely going to embrace all the enrichment activities we’ve planned for him.

07/08/2022

Jeff and Data are preparing to move in together so are learning to give each other the space and respect they need to live harmoniously under the same roof.
They are both super smart, very engaged and extremely food focussed … the perfect trifecta 🐱❤️🐶
So very proud of them 💙

07/08/2022

Taking your cat to the vet is often stressful … for everyone … humans and cats alike!!

There are ways to make it as stress free as possible, such as …

* Desensitising your cat to their carrier
* Practicing doing trial runs with your cat
* Choosing a carrier with an easily removable top

For this and lots more information on how to ensure your cat is content, anxiety free and psychologically sound, please contact me to book a consultation 🐱

Taking your cat to the vet can be stressful for everyone involved. Here are some tips from Willow to help your cat get more comfortable with being in a carrier. Schedule an annual exam for your cat today.

https://bit.ly/3b2nG5g

04/08/2022

This is great!!
So very, very true 💙

📷 In this photo you see two species, a human and a dog. The human has approximately 1 billion neurons in their brain while the canine has appoximately 500 million. This is a comparison of the two species and the silly expectations people place on dogs:
1) Human - Given two plus years to accomplish potty training.
1) Canine - Human wants canine potty trainined in two weeks or they will have to rehome the dog....Please take the diaper off your eight month old human and let them crawl around your floor, lets just see the results....
2) Human - Gives human babies pain relievers and various numbing agents to help appease the pain of teething.
2) Canine - Demands Dog Trainer tells them how to reprimand their dog for chewing.
3) Human - Encourages young humans to run and play with endless forms of mental and physical stimulation.
3) Canine - “I have got to teach this dog to calm down!!!”
4) Human - Given 20 plus years to complete an education and become a productive member of society.
4) Canine - Expected to behave flawlessly after 6 weeks of training.
5) Human - Given sick and personal days from work and endless excuses for poor performance.
5) Canine - Expects to perfom perfectly 365 days a year with no questions asked. Canines are also not allowed to feel bad or forget.
6) Human - Expects a pay raise anually for the job they perform.
6) Canine - Humans demand their dog perform more every year and don’t believe they should reward the dog for the work they perform.
Dear human....If you don’t train, don’t complain!"
Credit - Yvonne Campbell

21/02/2022

It’s important to know what plants you have growing in your garden and whether they are toxic to animals.

26/01/2022

Please be mindful of your pets during this bad weather.
Keep them indoors with the tv or radio on.
Help them feel safe by keeping everything as normal as possible but giving them the reassurance they need.
It’s not reinforcing their fear based behaviours, it’s letting them know that you are there for them.
If your child was frightened, you would give them a hug … please hug your frightened pets too … if that’s what they want, of course ❤️

www.thelittleworldofliz.com

26/01/2022

Monty has a bit of anxiety when his people leave him at home on his own … he is learning to be a more confident boy by engaging in enrichment and problem solving activities.
What a clever little fella ❤️

25/01/2022

Just in case you’re not sure … it’s really hot!!! 🥵😾

26/11/2021

I give you permission to NOT walk your dog 🐕

Yes, you read that right. I give you permission to NOT walk your dog.

The obvious disclaimer here is that dogs need appropriate exercise and mental enrichment (the amount varies from dog to dog). We are strong advocates for meeting dogs’ needs (physically and mentally).

BUT. There is this idea in our culture of the walk as a “thing dog owners must do,” and sometimes it can cause more harm than good. A few examples:

- your dog is reactive, and walks are filled with explosive reactions and stress for everyone. Suggestions instead: do training exercises in the back yard, get outside your neighborhood to somewhere quiet for a “decompression walk” (and talk to a qualified behavior consultant)

- your dog is terrified of the outside, and shakes and trembles during the entire walk. Suggestion: keep outdoor potty breaks short, and play games indoors. You can try fetch, some wrestling/chase, or even “find it” games. (And talk to a qualified behavior consultant)

- your dog pulls like a freight train on walks and tries to chase every squirrel and leaf and you end every walk with a sore arm and lots of frustration. Suggestion: train your leash walking skills indoors, in your yard, or in another quiet space without distractions! Use a flirt pole, fetch, and other active games to burn off some energy. (And talk to a qualified trainer)

- you’re having a bad day and know that going for a walk is likely to upset you when your dog pulls, reacts, etc

- there are so many other reasons why a “walk” might not be the best option for you and your dog. If your dog is stressed during walks, or you feel emotionally exhausted after them- it’s probably time to reconsider whether a walk is your best option!

Saying no to walks (temporarily or long term) doesn’t make you a bad owner. It means you’re thinking carefully about how to meet your dog’s needs, and your own!

Remember, we still have to meet our dog’s needs for exercise and mental enrichment, and there are TONS of other ways to do that!

But a walk isn’t the only way to do this, and it’s ok to NOT walk your dog.

12/11/2021

Underlying medical issues are so often the cause of behavioural changes in our companion animals. Their ability to endure pain and discomfort often results in their condition being well advanced by the time they are exhibiting clear physical signs.
There is ALWAYS a reason why your cat or dog is behaving differently 😺🐶

How acute and chronic pain can contribute to behavior problems.

25/09/2021

Definitely something to consider if you are having issues with your pets.

ARE LAUNDRY CHEMICALS AFFECTING YOUR PETS’ SKIN & HEALTH?

If you wash your pet blankets and beds using popular fabric softeners and dryer sheets, that “just washed” fresh smell comes from chemicals called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can negatively impact your pets’ health (coughing, rashy, itchy pets, anyone?).

Dr. Anne Steinmann’s UW-Seattle research team found more than 25 VOCs emitted from dryer vents using these products, including well-known respiratory irritants like Acetone, Formaldehyde, Acetaldehyde, but also Pentane (which causes skin rashes and upset stomach), Ethyl Acetate (on the EPA’s Hazardous Waste list; causes anemia, changes in white blood cells and can damage the liver and kidneys), Benzyl Acetate (can be absorbed through the skin and is linked to pancreas problems) and Alpha-terpineol (causes headaches and nervous system disorders).

Our pets can do without having to breathe in these chemical residues or having to lay on them, so here’s our Forever Dog Tip of the day: replace chemical-laden fabric softeners with a non-toxic DIY option!

Recipe: Mix 6 cups white vinegar with 1 cup baking soda, let it fizz. When the fizz stops, pour mixture into a large glass container with a lid. Use 1 cup per load of laundry.

We highlight all of the of home chemical risks that can negatively impact your dog’s health in the The Forever Dog book, available now for pre-order by clicking here: https://foreverdog.com/about/ -window

17/08/2021

In this economic climate, it’s more important than ever to support small business.
These fantastic trees are made by my friend Candice Revuelta ❤️
How much would your kitties like one of these??

When I asked the mum of 2 lucky purbabys what they would like on their custom tree…and the answer was ‘I want them to have it all’ 🥰

Also have Just started on 2 new trees that will be available in acouple of weeks 🔨

22/07/2021

I love this … so very true ❤️

Learn your dog’s silent language so you can understand what he is trying to communicate.

Be open to listening. Let go of human expectations.

Gently, without coercion, try to teach skills (not obedience training) to help your dog navigate the human world.

Try to remain flexible although some things might not make sense from the human perspective. Trust the dog's perspective is valid and very real to that individual dog.

You will make mistakes along the way, get frustrated, and lose your cool at times, but you will learn so much from your dog’s point of view and, in turn, learn about yourself as well.

13/07/2021

A beautiful tale ❤️
And just when it looks like there’s going to be another push for BSL.

10/07/2021

I love spending time with this wonderful boy 🐶
He’s grown into the most lovely dog and I’m proud to have played a little part in his life journey so far. His family have done a fantastic job with his training and it’s well and truely paying off now.

07/07/2021

For all my clients, friends and followers with dogs … please be aware that the cases of Canine gastro are multiplying and spreading fast.
These areas are now being affected, so I would recommend giving dog parks a miss and making sure your dog doesn’t sniff at other dog’s faeces or drink from puddles and communal bowls while out walking.
Take care everyone ❤️🐶

WARNING...as l expected this dog gastro bug is spreading.
Keep a close eye on your dogs.
Ps: l forwarded this as it was sent to me to share :)

23/06/2021

A new dog disease, ehrlichiosis, has been confirmed in Victoria.

Dog owners and veterinarians are urged to be on the lookout for ehrlichiosis, which is caused by the brown dog tick biting dogs.

Common signs include fever, lethargy, eye changes (conjunctivitis, cloudy or red eyes), bleeding disorders such as nosebleeds and bleeding under the skin, which can look like red patches, small spots or bruising.

Check your dog regularly for ticks by running your fingers through their coat, on the skin, paying attention to the head, neck, ears, chest, between their toes and around their mouth and gums.

If your dog is unwell or you find any abnormal bumps or ticks, make sure you promptly arrange to take your dog to your vet.

Report any suspected notifiable diseases to the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.

https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/general-livestock-diseases/ehrlichiosis

18/06/2021

The Animal Poisons Helpline is an invaluable resource for all pet owners ... plus they are giving you the opportunity to win some pretty cool stuff for your hound 🐕🐩🦮🐕‍🦺

The Australian Animal Poisons Helpline, with the support of our wonderful sponsors, are giving you the chance to WIN a bumper prize pack for your pooch - with a prize pool worth over $2,000! To enter, simply visit https://animalpoisons.com.au/win, enter your name, email and number and you’ll be in with a chance to win!

Open to Australian residents aged 18 and over. Commences 17 June 2021 and closes 15 July 2021. Total prize pool is valued at $2,066.70 AUD and is not transferable or exchangeable and cannot be taken as cash. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook and/or Instagram. Promoter’s decision is final. Full T&Cs available at https://animalpoisons.com.au/win.

01/05/2021

I strongly recommend you all film your dog catching treats in slow motion ... it’s absolutely hilarious 🤣
Check out these photos ... what a crack up

29/04/2021

When you have a cat with as much energy as Felucca, you definitely need to have everything in place to satisfy his innate desires or you are going to see all manner of problem behaviours.
His whole world is opening up now that his family have the knowledge how to provide positive ways to help expel his boundless energy.
What a beautiful engaging boy he is ❤️

29/04/2021

It’s been a long time since I posted about any of the more recent cats and dogs I have visited ... I will catch up soon!!
It’s so great to meet all the lovely people who are investing in the long term health of their furry family members by educating themselves so that they are armed with the knowledge to provide the correct stimuli to guarantee a psychologically sound companion.
Those of you who know me, know that I am heavily into cat rescue. We spend many hours every week trapping colony cats on the streets, organising vet visits for injuries and desexing, helping foster carers deal with very scared cats and making sure each and every one of those cats get the care and rehabilitation they need to be ready for adoption. This is the other side of the page that I deal with ... cats that have been cast aside by irresponsible people.
I am part of a vast rescue network which ensure that every dog and cat brought to our attention, needing a second chance, is given every opportunity to find safety in rescue and rehomed into a loving home.
I consider myself very lucky to be able to experience both sides of the coin.
I love that all my clients want the very best for their furry buddies, and I feel most privileged to be invited into their homes to be part of the journey to a tranquil household ❤️

Here’s just a few of the current rescue cats with Heart and Soul Rescue Incorporated that I have dealt with lately.

27/04/2021

It’s best to discourage your dog from drinking puddle water.

Diarrhea. Boy, do I see lots of this, and when I say “lots,” I mean lots. In fact, on some shifts, it feels like that’s all I see. One of the common causes of diarrhea in dogs worldwide is giardia, a…

31/03/2021

Spot on, Charlie Brown!! ❤️

27/03/2021

Today I got to meet Meadow ... he’s a great cat with boundless energy and lots of personality. He needs a little help with his impulse control as he’s so keen to interact with people that sometimes he forgets his manners and uses teeth and claws to initiate play.

16/03/2021

This is something I’m very passionate about.
It breaks my heart when I see someone powering along, earphones in, or on their phone and not engaged with their dog at all ... missing all manner of lovely behaviour and not allowing their dog to embrace his surroundings.

Such an important part of walks! Remember it’s their walk, not ours!!!

15/03/2021

Wow!!
Here’s something to aspire to ... lucky dogs 🐶

26/02/2021

Schnauuzie is one clever little fella ... and he showed his family just how quickly he can learn new behaviours during my visit. Great work from this little cutie patooti 💕

26/02/2021

I was thrilled to meet lovely Chloe today. She’s going to love being part of the Hurstbridge community ❤️

Chloe is very tired now, its been a busy morning. Thanks to our local businesses for supporting this wonderful project at school.

Chloe started her day with a grooming at For the Love of Dogs https://www.facebook.com/4-the-Love-of-Dogs-279242318818488

She then worked with Heidi from Impawtant Training https://www.facebook.com/Impawtant-Training-254710208519674

And after this had a health check at Greencross Vets https://www.facebook.com/Greencross-Vets-Hurstbridge-2388844521440021

We are very lucky to have such a supportive local community here in Hurstbridge!

28/01/2021

Charles 💕... this handsome boy has certainly landed on all four paws with his new mum. She now has all the knowledge and skills to provide him with what he needs to enable him to be the bestest boy he can be.