Walks with Robin

26/02/2024

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Shake it…shake it off…

A recent study by two researchers in France looked at sniffing, pulse rate, and leash length on walks. Sixty-one dogs were taken on three separate walks, five minutes each walk, once with a 1.5m leash, once with a 5m leash, and once without a leash at all (walk order was randomized for each dog). Off-leash dogs sniffed the most, more than 3x as long as the dogs on short leashes. Dogs on long leashes spent nearly as much time as unleashed dogs sniffing, almost 3x as long as dogs on short leashes.

This study also found that sniffing resulted in lowered pulse rates, and the more intensely they sniffed, the more their pulse rates lowered. Pulse rate was also lowered when dogs “shook off” during walks on all leash lengths. The “shake off” behavior was often seen when the dog’s pulse rate was particularly high.

Read more about it below!

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1HX77kp2HBDiTxmq/?mibextid=Le6z7H

https://www.tuftsyourdog.com/everydaydogcare/giving-your-dog-time-to-sniff-on-walks-will-literally-soothe-his-heart/

What else can we learn about dogs from their walking behavior? Take your best friend on a Sniffari and see what you observe!

25/02/2024

Important info!

🐶 ⚠️ Dog owners warned to look out for karaka berries

🐕‍🦺 Residents should keep an eye out for karaka trees in their area at this time of year and take care when walking their dog.

🌳 Karaka trees are native to New Zealand and are abundant in public places throughout Nelson, including the back beach at Tahunanui, parks and reserves and private properties. Dog owners should be aware that the berries are highly toxic, and consumption can be fatal.

🥭 The trees pose the greatest threat to dogs between summer and autumn, as the berries ripen and fall to the ground.

⚠️ If you suspect your dog has ingested karaka berries, contact a vet immediately. For further details go to the Our Nelson website.https://bit.ly/42P3hXU

21/02/2024

Need help with muzzle or crate training? There are several benefits to having these options available with your dog and some very fun ways to train. Contact me for a free consultation.
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🐕 eBus will soon begin a trial of allowing dogs on the bus 🐕

This morning the Regional Transport Committee accepted a proposal for a 12 week trial of dogs on our eBus network.

🐶 We have looked to other Councils who have recently completed similar trials to see how theirs worked out.

🚌 We know you'll have questions, and there will be rules. There's more information coming soon.

❓❔🙋 Got questions? Click through here https://bit.ly/3wpBjGg and pop them in the form.

20/02/2024

Will you travel with your pup?

🐕 eBus will soon begin a trial of allowing dogs on the bus 🐕

This morning the Regional Transport Committee accepted a proposal for a 12 week trial of dogs on our eBus network.

🐶 We have looked to other Councils who have recently completed similar trials to see how theirs worked out.

🚌 We know you'll have questions, and there will be rules. There's more information coming soon.

❓❔🙋 Got questions? Click through here https://bit.ly/3wpBjGg and pop them in the form.

19/02/2024

How often does your dog need to be walked?

We all know that walking your dog is good but do you know just how good it is? There are lots of physical and mental benefits for your dog to go on their daily stroll. Hopefully, enough to get you off the couch and out the door!

18/02/2024

Does your pup watch TV?

We are conducting a new study, “Characterizing TV Watching in Dogs!” For this study, we will be evaluating how often dogs watch TV, as well as what temperament characteristics are linked to TV watching in dogs. Participation in this study will include the completion of an anonymous, online survey. The survey is expected to take 30 minutes to complete.

To participate, you must be 18 years old or older and the primary owner of a dog. The survey may be accessed at the link below. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]!

https://auburn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_02JPqh8wwHhLOT4

18/02/2024

Now accepting bookings for walks or training! 🐾❤️🐾

Pet sitter in Nelson. 🐶 I love working with dogs and the people who love them! 🐾 Dog Walks 🐾 🐾 In-home Visits 🐾 🐾 Day Training 🐾 🐾

08/02/2024

Good article for guardians of reactive dogs and a great article to read if you're not.

“Reactive dogs are not ‘naughty’, ‘unfriendly’, and often the guardian of a reactive dog is struggling. Give them space and don’t judge.”

When dogs lunge, bark, and growl at other dogs or people, the dog is having a hard time—and so is their guardian. More awareness of this is needed.

30/01/2024

Another training opportunity!

https://www.facebook.com/r2fishschool

The R2 Fish School kit is the worlds first complete fish training kit! Using positive reinforcement

25/01/2024

Calling all dog lovers!

Want to pick the brain of a professional dog trainer? I'm going to be hosting an AMA (Ask Me Anything) and want YOU to choose the topics, time, and place!

Here's how it works:

Take a quick survey (link below): Tell me what you're most curious about when it comes to dog training.

Spread the word: Share this post with your fellow dog lovers and encourage them to take the survey. The more responses we get, the better!

Tune in for the AMA: Once the survey closes, I'll compile the most popular questions and prepare to answer them live.

This is your chance to get expert advice on all things dog. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or just welcoming a furry friend into your life, this AMA is sure to have something for everyone.

Don't miss out! Take the survey now and join us for a paw-some AMA with me, Robin.

Bonus points: Share your funniest or most heartwarming dog story in the comments below!

P.S. Stay tuned for the AMA date and time announcement coming soon!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8LBPYCZ

Web survey powered by SurveyMonkey.com. Create your own online survey now with SurveyMonkey's expert certified FREE templates.

10/01/2024

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We're cheering for you! 🤩

10/01/2024

New puppy? Here's an article that will give you guidance on a skill you and your pup can't live without.

Yelling or chasing your puppy to get him to drop something dangerous is not the best choice. Here are some better strategies to stop a puppy from chewing something he’s “stolen.”

09/01/2024

You can also follow on Instagram to see more.

06/01/2024

*** REMINDER: DOGS IN HOT CARS ***

We are starting to get the usual warm weather call-outs and one of them is dogs left in hot cars.

On a hot day, the temperature inside your car can reach 39°C in 10 minutes. Even in the shade with the windows down, the temperature can rise to a deadly 49°C in 30 minutes. Your dog’s natural cooling process is ineffective in these conditions.

Dogs overheat much more quickly than humans as they cannot sweat like we can, but instead they pant to dissipate heat and cool their body temperature. This is near impossible to do when the air in their immediate environment is thick and hot, as it is in a hot car. Your dog’s normal body temperature is about 38.5°C. Their body can withstand a higher temperature for only a short amount of time before irreversible damage is done.

So make sure you think about the weather and how long you are going to be out before you consider taking your dog with you. Better to keep them at home where they are safe and can shower you with cuddles upon your return!

For tips and advice on how to keep your animals cool this summer, please check out the link below: https://www.spca.nz/advice-and-welfare/article/keeping-pets-safe-in-summer

02/01/2024

Are you working with the right trainer?

02/01/2024

Work with a Fear Free Certified Professional!
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Unleash Your Pup's Potential: Day Training for Puppies and Adolescent Dogs Are you a new dog owne...

28/12/2023

Does your pet dread a big celebration?
Here are some tips to help ease their anxiety and keep them safe.

21/12/2023

Struggling with unwanted behaviors? I might have some fun ideas!
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21/12/2023

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Jellyfish are causing some discomfort for local dogs. We have had a number of patients this week🐾

The jellyfish can cause uncomfortable side effects. Everything from skin discomfort, allergic reaction similar to hives, mouth discomfort issues. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.

The jellyfish can wash in and out on the tide. They appear one day and gone the next! keep your eyes peeled when you arrive at the dog beach. 👀

If you see them on a beach walk we suggest you pick an alternative walking location especially if your dog is fascinated or keen to eat these wee ocean critters.

If your dog does ingest a jellyfish dead or alive please seek veterinary advice if you think they are showing any symptoms or discomfort.

18/12/2023

14/12/2023

Great article for this busy Holiday Season.

If you're taking pets to visit family during the holidays or expecting guest pets at your home, these 7 tips will help everyone get along.