Remraf Pet Services : Dog Walking & Training

12/04/2025

07/04/2025

I am a 21st century dog….
-I'm a Malinois.
Overskilled among dogs, I excel in all disciplines and I'm always ready to work: I NEED to work.
But nowadays I get asked to chill on the couch all day everyday.

-I am an Akita Inu.
My ancestors were selected for fighting bears.
Today I get asked to be tolerant and I get scolded for my reactivity when another approaches me.

-I am a Beagle.
When I chase my prey, I raise my voice so the hunters could follow.
Today they put an electric collar on me to shut up, and you make me come back to you - no running - with a snap of your fingers.

-I am a Yorkshire Terrier.
I was a terrifying rat hunter in English mines.
Today they think I can't use my legs and they always hold me in their arms.

-I'm a Labrador Retriever.
My vision of happiness is a dive into a pond to bring back the duck he shot to my master.
Today you forget I'm a walking, running, swimming dog; as a result I'm fat, made to stay indoors, and to babysit.

-I am a Jack Russell.
I can take on a fox, a mean badger, and a rat bigger than me in his den.
Today I get scolded for my character and high energy, and forced to turn into a quiet living room dog.

-I am a Siberian Husky.
Experienced the great, wide open spaces of Northern Europe, where I could drag sleds for long distances at impressive speeds.
Today I only have the walls of the house or small garden as a horizon, and the holes I dig in the ground just to release energy and frustration, trying to stay sane.

-I am a border collie
I was made to work hours a day in partnershipwith my master, and I am an unmistakable artist of working with the herd.
Today they are mad at me because, for lack of sheep, I try to check bikes, cars, children in the house and everything in motion.
I am ...
I am a 21st century dog.

I'm pretty, I'm alert, I'm obedient, I stay in a bag...but I'm also an individual who, from centuries of training, needs to express my instincts, and I am *not* suited for the sedentary life you'd want me to lead.

Spending eight hours a day alone in the house or in the garden - with no work and no one to play or run with, seeing you for a short time in the evening when you get home, and only getting a small toilet walk will make me deeply unhappy.

I'll express it by barking all day, turning your yard into a minefield, doing my needs indoors, being unmanageable the rare times I'll find myself outside, and sometimes spending my days sunk, sad, lonely, and depressed, on my pillow.

You may think that I should be happy to be able to enjoy all this comfort while you go to work, but actually I’ll be exhausted and frustrated, because this is absolutely NOT what I'm meant to do, or what I need to be doing.
If you love me, if you've always dreamed of me, if my beautiful blue eyes or my athletic look make you want me, but you can't give me a real dog's life, a life that's really worth living according to my breed, and if you can't offer me the job that my genes are asking, DO NOT buy or adopt me!

If you like the way I look but aren't willing to accept my temperament, gifts, and traits derived from long genetic selection, and you think you can change them with only your good will, then DO NOT BUY OR ADOPT ME.

I’m a dog from the 21st century, yes, but deep inside me, the one who fought, the one who hunted, the one who pulled sleds, the one who guided and protected a herd still lives within.

So think **very** carefully before you choose your dog. And think about getting two, rather than one, so I won't be so very lonely waiting for you all day. Eight or ten hours is just a workday to you, but it's an eternity for me to be alone.

Written by *unknown*

26/02/2025

Why pay thousands of pounds on a trained psychiatrist, with expertise, knowlege, years of studying who treats you with care, compassion and empathy, when all you actully need is a balanced dog trainer and a slip lead?
Its that easy people!!!! Psychiatrists are just robbing you!

The magic slip lead, it goes high and tight around your neck, then you get forced to face your fears head on, with no chance of escape.

Alakazam ...... you are cured!

25/02/2025

The Problem With Human Need For Instant Gratification vs Dog Training (Why Aversive Methods Persist).

🧠The human brain is wired to seek quick fixes, often favoring immediate results over long-term solutions, even when those promises are unrealistic. This tendency stems from our preference for instant gratification, a behavior well documented in behavioral economics and psychology (Mischel et al., 1972). For instance, many fall victim to fad diet plans promising rapid weight loss, magic wrinkle removing creams claiming to erase years of aging overnight, or schemes guaranteeing to quadruple money in a week with zero risk.

⚠️These 𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙨 (that’s exactly what they are) prey on our desire for fast outcomes, exploiting the brain’s aversion to delayed rewards and effortful solutions. Research on decision making shows that individuals are more likely to opt for immediate rewards in moments of stress or uncertainty, which clouds judgment and leads to irrational choices (Loewenstein & Elster, 1992).

‼️Recognizing this cognitive bias is crucial to making more informed, rational decisions and avoiding common traps.

❎In today’s fast-paced world, we’re all accustomed to instant results whether it’s next day shipping or streaming a show in seconds. Unfortunately, this desire for immediate outcomes often spills over into dog training, leading many to turn to aversive tools like prong, shock, or choke collars. While these methods may provide quick behavioral changes, they come at a high cost to the dog’s wellbeing and the human-animal bond.

🦮A dog pulling on the lead or barking incessantly can be frustrating. Aversive methods often appear effective because they cause discomfort or fear that interrupts the behaviour right away. For someone seeking immediate relief, the “problem” seems solved, reinforcing their belief that the method is justified.

📖The psychology behind is the human mindset rooted in our natural bias for immediate gratification. Research shows that people often prioritize short term outcomes over long term benefits, especially in high stress situations (Loewenstein & Thaler, 1989). Our brains are wired to seek immediate rewards, even if they come at a cost to future wellbeing. When dog owners are stressed or overwhelmed by unwanted behaviors, they may be more inclined to choose aversive methods for their perceived quick fix solutions.

🔬Behavioural science highlights how humans may develop a “punishment reinforcement loop” in which the relief from stopping an unwanted behavior becomes reinforcing (Skinner, 1971). This loop can make it difficult to move away from aversive methods once they are perceived to “work,” even if they cause long term damage to the dog.

🤨What about justifying the use of aversive tools?

Many justify aversive methods by claiming that they “work” because they suppress unwanted behaviours. However, research indicates that while these methods may temporarily stop the behaviour, they can lead to increased anxiety, fear, and aggression in dogs (Ziv, 2017). There’s a significant difference between a dog who stops pulling because of fear and one who walks calmly because they understand what’s expected. The latter builds trust and confidence, while the former creates stress and potentially worsens behavioural issues.

❓What is the long term solution?

✅Education, education, education of the human end of the lead.

✅ Changing mindsets one dog person at a time.

✅Shifting the perspective.

When we’re tempted to use aversive methods, it’s helpful to pause and reflect: Are we prioritizing our need for immediate control over our dog’s long term wellbeing? By shifting our mindset to focus on the bigger picture, we can create a healthier, happier relationship with our dogs - one built on understanding, empathy, and mutual respect.

❇️In dog training, as in life, the best outcomes often come when we’re willing to invest the time and patience necessary for meaningful, lasting change.

References:
• Hiby, E. F., Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2004). Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness, and interaction with behavior and welfare. Animal Welfare, 13(1), 63-69.
• Loewenstein, G., & Thaler, R. H. (1989). Anomalies in intertemporal choice: Evidence and an interpretation. Quarterly Journal of Economics, 104(2), 573-597.
• Skinner, B. F. (1971). Beyond Freedom and Dignity. Alfred A. Knopf.
• Ziv, G. (2017). The effects of using aversive training methods in dogs: A review. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 19, 50-60.

13/02/2025

Grot collars should be banned like e collars have. Painful awful devices.
I’ve seen yet another “k9 blah de blah” trainer set up in the area and these are the secret weapon.
They sit behind the ears on the most sensitive parts of the neck, and if the dog pulls they feel extreme pain as the handler yanks the grot lead.
Dog may not pull anymore because it’s too afraid to but all that fear is being suppressed. Then when the fear bomb finally comes out in the form of an attack on other dogs or people the animal gets destroyed 😢

Grot from the French “garrotte” that’s what they used to hang people. We need to have some sense and stop paying people for quick fixes that don’t work in the long term.

27/01/2025

Pleased to have achieved the Approved Canine Reactive Behaviour Expert certification with ✨

23/01/2025

Terminology Tuesday ~ Learned Helplessness 🐶

As trainers who work closely with families, we are often asked the question of “will they just get used to the baby/ toddler over time?”

Something we always take into consideration is avoiding something called learned helplessness at all costs… But what does that mean?

Learned helplessness in dog training happens when people intentionally or unintentionally put their dogs in situations that the dogs are uncomfortable in repeatedly until they seemingly stop reacting.

This lack of a reaction doesn’t mean that they are comfortable, it means that they feel that no matter what they do, they will be forced into the situation so they begin to shut down emotionally. They feel as if they don’t have any other choice.

This is very dangerous as it can result in bites or reactions that people often describe as “out of nowhere” - which we know there is often no such thing as an “out of the blue” bite

To avoid learned helplessness in our dogs, we want to actively watch their body language for clues to how they might be feeling and respect their boundaries when they tell us that they are uncomfortable by adding in success stations and space!

We want to provide choice, not force 💚

18/01/2025

The reason they work so well without any physical training is because they apply pressure to your dogs neck and throat causing discomfort and pain.

Therefore suppressing those ‘bad behaviours’ and causing emotional shutdown. Your dog no longer has a choice and any attempt at communication is ‘corrected’ causing further shutdown.

Yes, reward based training takes more time, dedication and repetition to achieve results but it allows our dogs freedom of choice and the ability to communicate their feelings without fear, force or pain.

Don’t we make enough choices for our dogs already? Where they sleep, when they sleep, where they eat, what they eat, where they go and pretty much everything in their lives…

For me it comes down to morals and ethics… I don’t feel comfortable using any tools or techniques that are based on punishment and would rather my dog feel he can express his emotions and take the time to train at his pace

15/01/2025

🐾 Discover the Best in Dog Walking & Pet Sitting in Hertfordshire! 🐾

At Remraf Pet Services, we know just how much your furry family members mean to you and that every pet is unique and deserves personalised care. Offering one-on-one dog walks and in-home pet sitting, we’re dedicated to giving your pets the loving care they deserve when you can’t be there.

💜 One-on-One Walks - Your dog’s happiness is our priority. Each walk is tailored to their personality and energy level, giving them the exercise and attention they deserve, without any stress or distractions.

🏠 In-Home Pet Sitting - Going away? Enjoy peace of mind knowing your pet will be cared for in their own familiar environment. We treat every pet like family, so you can rest easy while you’re away.

Whether it’s a quick stroll or a staycation for your pet, we’re here to keep their tails wagging!

✨Why Choose Us?

🕒 Busy Schedule? Work, family, and daily commitments can make it tough to fit in those long, enriching walks your dog needs. Our single-household walks give your dog/s personal attention, exercise, and plenty of outdoor fun, customised just for them!

🚗 Travel Plans? Leaving town doesn’t have to mean stressing about pet care. Our in-home pet sitting services let your pets stay in their own safe, familiar space while we handle feeding, playtime, and cuddles.

🐱 Care for Cats Too! We understand that cats too need their own gentle, consistent care. From keeping up with feeding routines and emptying litter trays to a little company and affection, we make sure your feline friends feel secure and content.

✅ Local and Reliable: We’re Hertfordshire-based, with a commitment to providing a trustworthy, caring service for our community.
✅ Peace of Mind: Fully insured, with pet-loving pros who understand your pets’ unique needs.
✅ Flexible and Dependable: Whether it’s a daily walk or weekend care, we’re here when you need us.

📅 Book Now! Whether it’s daily walks or vacation pet care, we’ve got you covered.

🐕🐾 Spots are filling fast! Send us a message to schedule a meet-and-greet today!

👉 Follow us for updates and adorable pet photos!
📍 Serving Hertfordshire

Because your pets deserve the best care—always! ❤️

📞 07415276623
🌎 www.remrafpetservices.co.uk

15/01/2025

🐾 Transform Your Dog’s Behaviour with Reward Based Training! 🐾

Have you had enough of your dog running off and not listening when you call them?
Are you fed up of your dog barking, lunging and acting aggressively towards other dogs and people when out on walks?
Are you struggling with your dog pulling on the lead and dragging you down the road?

Do you wish your dog would come when called, so that you don’t have to go running after them chasing a dog or squirrel, which means you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your dog will turn and come running to you the moment you call!

Do you wish your dog would be able to focus and pay attention to you, even with distractions, so that your dog will look to you for guidance and you can feel confident and in control of your dog in all situations!

Do you wish your dog would walk nicely by your side, so that you’re not embarrassed by them pulling you down the streets or across the road to other dogs, which means you can enjoy stress free walks again!

From puppy problems, to terrible teens and spicy seniors - we’ve got you covered!

At Remraf Pet Services, we can help you teach your dog :

✨ to focus and pay attention to you
✨ to come when called
✨ to walk nicely by your side
✨ to settle down and relax
✨ basic ‘obedience’ skills
✨& more!

🌟 Our approach is 100% ethical and welfare-focused. As a member of the National Institute of Canine Ethics, we never use tools like slip leads, prong collars, choke collars or head haltis. Instead, we harness the power of choice through reward based methods to create an everlasting companionship between you and your dog.

Ready to see the difference?

Tap the link in my bio to book your FREE* discovery call and start your journey towards a happier, more confident dog!

📲 07415276623
🌐 www.remrafpetservices.co.uk