Pawsitive Solutions

11/04/2024

Hello to all my Facebook Community.

I know I have been a bit quiet on Facebook the past year but that is because I have been busy working on a long held passion of mine….to produce an online behavioural training resource, available to a wider audience of dog lovers.

I decided to team up with friend and fellow dog behaviourist Sonia Ann Dombroski and after many zoom meetings, long days of filming and obligatory coffees, The Natural Dog Training Academy is finally yours.

Our online Academy packages everything we stand for and deliver through our individual one to one businesses BUT in an online format, making our training more accessible and flexible for you all! The Natural Dog Training Academy does also stand alongside our existing dog behavioural businesses.

We provide a series of comprehensive courses using a wide range of different dogs types and energy levels to demonstrate our techniques.

All courses are accompanied by step by step instructions and comprehensive training resources.

Our website is now live and our first 2 courses - “Lead Work Training” and “Recall” are now available!

We would love any support you would like to give us on this new venture, so please have a look at what we have been doing over on our page and check out the recall trailer here ⬇️

In our upcoming video course, we’ll guide you on how to master the art of recall, ensuring your dog is safe, responsive, and having fun while off the lead.Is...

14/01/2023

There could be a variety of reasons why some dogs don't like the rain. Some possible explanations could include:

Sensitivity to sound: Some dogs may be sensitive to the sound of rain, especially if it's particularly loud or if they're already anxious or scared.

Discomfort: Some dogs may simply find the sensation of being wet uncomfortable, especially if they don't have a thick or waterproof coat.

Negative experiences: Some dogs may have had negative experiences with rain in the past, such as getting lost or injured in bad weather, which could cause them to associate rain with negative feelings.

Lack of exposure: Some dogs may simply not have been exposed to rain much, so they're not used to it and may be hesitant or fearful when they do encounter it.

Overall, it's important to pay attention to your dog's body language and behaviour when it's raining, and to try to make them feel as comfortable as possible. If your dog is especially fearful or anxious, it may be helpful to work with a professional dog behaviourist to address their concerns.

13/01/2023

According to Dr. Justine A. Lee, DVM, DACVECC, writing for the Pet Health Network, mushrooms sold in large and chain supermarkets are generally safe for dogs to eat.

However, It's generally not a good idea for dogs to eat wild mushrooms, as some types of mushrooms can be toxic to dogs. If your dog has eaten a mushroom, it is important to monitor them closely and seek veterinary care if you notice any unusual symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in behaviour.

Mushrooms contain compounds that can be toxic to dogs, and some types of mushrooms are more toxic than others. Some symptoms of mushroom poisoning in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and changes in urine color. In severe cases, mushroom poisoning can cause liver damage, kidney failure, or even death.

If you suspect that your dog has eaten a mushroom, it is important to remove any remaining mushrooms and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will be able to assess the situation and provide treatment based on the type of mushroom your dog has eaten and the symptoms they are experiencing.

It's also a good idea to keep an eye on your dog when they are outside to make sure they do not eat any mushrooms that may be growing in your yard. If you find mushrooms growing in your garden, it is best to remove them to prevent your dog from accidentally ingesting them.

12/01/2023

Yes, it is possible for older dogs to learn new tricks and behaviours. While it is true that older dogs may be less receptive to training than younger dogs, with patience it is still possible to teach them new things. Here are some tips for training an older dog:

Start with simple commands: Begin with commands that are easy for your dog to understand, such as "sit," "stay," and "come."

Reward your dog with praise when they successfully complete a new trick or behaviour. This will help to reinforce the desired behaviour.

Be patient: Older dogs may take longer to learn new things, so it is important to be patient and not get frustrated.

Keep training sessions short: Older dogs may have shorter attention spans, so it is important to keep training sessions short and engaging.

Consult with a professional: If you are having trouble training your older dog, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer for advice.

Overall, with patience and a little bit of effort, it is possible to teach an older dog new tricks.

07/01/2023

Dog training is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, they help to establish clear boundaries for your dog, which can help them to feel more secure in their environment.

Training also provide an opportunity for you to bond with your dog and strengthen your relationship.

In addition, training can help to prevent behaviour problems from developing, as they provide your dog with the mental and physical stimulation they need.

Training can also help to improve your dog's overall obedience which helps make them a more enjoyable companion.

Overall, incorporating regular training into your dog's life can have numerous benefits for both you and your dog.

05/01/2023

Like any food, the nutritional value of processed dog treats depends on the ingredients used. Some processed treats can be a healthy part of a dog's diet while others may not provide much nutritional value.

It's important to read the label and ingredient list on processed dog treats to determine their nutritional value. Look for treats made with whole ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, and grains, rather than those made with a lot of fillers and additives. Avoid treats with artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, as these can be harmful to your dog's health.

It's also important to keep in mind that treats should only make up a small portion of your dog's diet. Even healthy treats should not be fed to your dog in large quantities, as they can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Instead, use treats as a way to reward good behavior or as a training tool, and make sure to balance them with a nutritionally complete and balanced diet.

04/01/2023

Are you tired of your dog's unruly behaviour? Is your furry friend causing chaos in your home? Our dog behaviour training program can help!

We have years of experience working with all breeds and can help you and your dog achieve a harmonious and well-behaved household. Our training techniques are positive so your dog will learn to behave through praise reward rather than fear or punishment.

Our training program covers a wide range of behaviours, including:

Basic obedience (sit, stay, come, etc.)
Lead training and walking manners
House training and crate training
Chewing and destructive behavior
Aggression towards people or other animals

We offer both in-person and virtual training options to fit your schedule and needs. Our trainers will work with you one-on-one to tailor a training plan to your specific goals and needs.

Don't let your dog's behaviour stress you out any longer. Contact us today to learn more about our dog behaviour training program and start seeing results in no time!

02/01/2023

02/01/2023

Good stuff here from Dr. Karen Becker.

It’s Walk Your Dog Month! 🦮

It’s harder to find ways to exercise your pup physically and mentally during snowy weather, but that’s still our daily responsibility, as guardians (and it stimulates creativity! 😅❄️).

Learn more about the importance of regular dog walking in today’s free pet health article linked in the comments.

01/01/2023

Happy New Year to all from the team here at Pawsitive Solutions. Here's some hints for New Year resolutions you can set alongside your pooch.

If you have a need for help with ANY behavioural issue drop us a mail and we'll call you back to discuss how we can help.

Some fun New Year's Resolutions to help guide you and your dog to your happiest and healthiest this 2015!

01/01/2023

Happy New Year from all the team here at Pawsitive Solutions!

Here's to another year filled with wagging tails, playful paws, and endless love from our furry friends. May our dogs bring us joy and happiness in the year to come, and may we continue to be the best possible pet parents to them. Happy New Year!

31/12/2022

A few hints and tips to help your dog with fireworks tonight.

There are many things we can do help get your dog ready for fireworks at any time of year but you need time to prepare. If you've missed this opportunity or perhaps your new dog is experiencing stress and anxiety as a result of this for the first time follow these simple rules to try and keep them calm.

Feed and get toilet breaks done early - Give your dog enough time to finish their dinner, digest and toilet before the noise begins so that they're not forced to hold it during an already stressful period.

Provide fun distractions during fireworks
Entice them to focus on a toy, play, food, mental simulation toys during firework to keep their mind off the noise outside

Close the curtains or blinds
The noise for them is bad enough, try to minimise the stressful situation by closing out the bright explosive lights

Muffle the Noise
Unpredictable booming sounds can be perceived as an impending threat and make a dog feel vulnerable, plug in a white noise machine or turn on some calming music loud enough so that the fireworks are camouflaged

Safe Zone
If your dog’s “safe zone” is their crate, you can also cover the top, sides, and back with a thick blanket and play music or sounds. Ensure your dog can leave the crate if they wants to. If you don't use a crate you should allow them to find a safe place in the house (they'll choose where this is).

Comfort Your Dog
Comforting your dog in times of stress can reinforce his fears. However, your dog’s reactions to fireworks are based on a legitimate fear. Providing comfort during this time is appropriate and often very helpful. Doing this will help your dog understand that you’re his partner and that he can always turn to you when feeling scared.

More info on preventing stress in this situation will follow in a future blog on our website.

30/12/2022

Shadow chasing in dogs be caused by anxiety or frustration, often the dog will be lacking in physical and mental stimulation. They can see the shadow as a play item and try to catch it, something they'll never be able to do resulting frustration and further anxiety

Dogs are sensitive creatures and your dog may be anxious about being moved to a new home, receiving a new member into the family, or feeling that there is not enough attention focused on them.

Look for early signs of this behavior, and change the environment if necessary. Curtains blowing in the wind, reflective lights, and shiny objects catching light and shadow can all contribute to this behaviour.

Shadow chasing is exhausting for your pet if he becomes obsessed with this behavior and is likely to lead to a lack of sleep which could exasperate the issue.

Depending on the severity of the behavior, you may need professional intervention.

29/12/2022

Here's some great information from the team at PetMD -

https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/do-dogs-get-colds-everything-you-need-know

24/12/2022

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, sleepy dog lights
In hopes that Santapaws soon would be there;

The puppies were nestled all snug in their beds;
While visions of muddy walks danced in their heads;
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
Leapt from their bed to see what was the matter.

When what to their dreamy eyes did appear, flying Santa
But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer,
With their wagging tails and dancing on claws,
They knew in a moment he must be St. Paws.

And then, in a twinkling, they heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
In excitement they were barking and spinning around,
Down the chimney SantaPaws came with a bound.

A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
The pups knew what they were, though the soot made them black.
His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a berry!

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head
Soon let them know they had nothing to dread;
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled the dogs stockings; then turned with a jerk,

And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, and gave his team a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But they heard him exclaim, when he drove out of sight—
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

credit to 'The Dog House' canine spa in Leicester for this amazing poem.

23/12/2022

Lets have some festive fun!! Here's a great idea for some home made Christmas treats for your dog from our friends at Battersea dogs home.

Give your canine companion an extra-special treat this Christmas by baking them some festive homemade dog treats!Made from easy-to-find ingredients, these ta...

22/12/2022

What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Chocolate?

If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, or they have any of these symptoms, contact your vet or emergency vet right away:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Increased body temperature
Increased reflex responses
Muscle rigidity
Rapid breathing
Increased heart rate
Low blood pressure
Seizures
Advanced signs (cardiac failure, weakness, and coma)

PetMD.com has provided a handy Dog Chocolate Toxicity Meter (link below) in case you have concerns if your dog has eaten chocolate. Although a handy indicator we would always recommend getting your vets advice if your dog has eaten chocolate.

source - https://www.petmd.com/dog/chocolate-toxicity

20/12/2022

Does your dog start to limp at times when walking in snow, it could be paw snow balls!

Why?

Dogs have sweat glands in their paws, this is where they release heat, so when the cold snow or ice makes contact with their hair, it melts. As the snow on a dog’s legs or paws melt, it forms little ice balls.

The more the dog walks through the snow, the more snowballs form.

This is painful and distressing for the dog, who may then try to remove them by licking them, which then causes even more ice to build up.

This can be painful and certainly uncomfortable often resulting in limping, or trying to chew at their paws to relieve the discomfort.

The ice or snow can pulls on your dog’s hair and can be painful when they walk.

It is advised to remove the snowballs from your dog’s paws as soon as possible to prevent infection or even frostbite. Here are 4 easy ways to combat snowballs on dog paws

Keep the hair on your dog’s paws trimmed
Invest in dog boots
Use paw balm
Warm water

I've often found myself using the heat from my hands to melt the balls which has a temporary success as the melted snow can quickly freeze again. It's time to get to the warmth again at this point.

19/12/2022

What foods are potentially dangerous for dogs to consume?

ONIONS, GARLIC AND CHIVES can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage.

CHOCOLATE contains a stimulant called theobromine (dark chocolate has the highest content of this) which is toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure.

MACADAMIA NUTS contain a toxin that can affect your dog’s muscles and nervous system resulting in weakness, swollen limbs and panting.

CORN ON THE COB could potentially be fatal if eaten by your dog. Although the corn is digested by dogs, the cob can cause a blockage in your dog’s intestine.

AVOCADO plants contain a substance called Persin which is in its leaves, fruit and seed and can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.

ARTIFICIAL SWEETENER (XYLITOL) is an artificial sweetener which causes an insulin release in OUR bodies. However, if your dog digests one of these sweetened foods they can go into hypoglycemia which is linked to liver failure and blood clotting disorders. Check that dog food label folks! Yes, some dog foods have this added to make it more appetising

ALCOHOL, As if you need to be reminded of this but alcohol not only causes intoxication as it does in humans, but it can lead to sickness, diarrhoea and even central nervous system damage.

COOKED BONES Giving your dog a raw uncooked bone to chew on is great, but avoid cooked bones at all cost. These can easily splinter and in large quantities cause constipation or at worst, a perforation of the gut which can be fatal.

GRAPES AND RAISINS has an active ingredient which causes the toxin, which one is unknown, however both grapes and raisins may cause severe liver damage and kidney failure.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY DOG HAS EATEN ANY OF THESE?
If consumed, even small amounts of these items can be fatal so always act immediately and take your dog to the vets.

source - https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-care-advice/toxic-food-dogs?gclid=CjwKCAiAy_CcBhBeEiwAcoMRHDllHlUxmx3_l3xuSq_1g26O8iMilMhu_UkUaXB5jCW1HHfobvdkJBoCxsIQAvD_BwE

03/11/2022

Watch your footing out there, I didn't. 💩😱😉

12/10/2022

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our good friend and colleague Ashish Kulkarni. Ash worked with us for many years helping us grow into the business we are today and will be dearly missed. 😔

08/09/2022

Very sad to hear about the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. 70 years as our monarch and Head of State of Great Britain. ❤️

Here we reflect on her love of dogs as the country and indeed people across the world mourn her passing.

Throughout Queen Elizabeth II’s long reign there has been many constants. One that captured many people’s imaginations was her love of dogs, particularly Pembroke Welsh Corgis.In fact she became synonymous with her love of the dog breed. Her corgi, Susan, founded a royal dynasty of dogs that spa...

04/09/2022

With many people returning to work or working from office, there is an increase in cases of Separation Anxiety. Do you know anyone whose dog is suffering from Separation Anxiety? You can point them in our direction - https://pawsitivesolutions.com/dog-training/dog-training-glasgow/

04/08/2022

⚠️ Keep Dogs (and people) out of the water at Rouken Glen⚠️

One of our lovely daycare mums has made us aware that the water that runs through Rouken Glen (and beyond) is contaminated.

If your dog does get sick please contact your vet ASAP

02/08/2022

We are looking to create something exciting and we need your help. Interested? Please fill out this simple form:

https://forms.gle/6Y33fBXpRDc2GE1N9

We are looking to create an exciting new way of delivering useful and unique information that will help Dog Owners understand their Dogs better and have a much better relationship with them. Would you be willing to spare 10-15 minutes and participate in helping shape this new programme? Your informa...

11/06/2022

The struggle is real 😂😂

THIS IS HOW A BORDER COLLIE DOES YOUR HEAD IN