The Human Canine Connection

The Human Canine Connection Beyond Dog Training. Certified Professional Dog Trainer & Certified Family Dog Mediator. Being an Alpha to your dog is an outdated and disproven theory. Why?
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Positive training methods have been proven more effective at training new skills, overcoming behavioral issues and creating a longer lasting bond with an overall happier, healthier life. The difference between dominance based training and positive based training is the difference between having a boss vs a leader. Training with positive methods yields a happy, healthy and fun life with your dog wh

ile creating an unbreakable bond. What sets me apart from the rest? I work one-on-one with my clients and tailor my sessions to my client. Well, because every person and dog is different. It is important that your dog trainer understands you and your family and the goals you have for your dog. I work one-on-one because dog training goes beyond training a dog. If done right, you should be a more confident human living a happier life with your dog. My methods are positive based with the objective of helping my clients have a better understanding of their dog's behaviors and emotions. My passion is helping my clients create that soul to soul connection with their dog, helping them reach their goals and become a true team. The gift I get in return is the privilege of witnessing them not just reach their goals but overcome the limitations they thought they had for themselves and their dogs.

08/09/2024

The Official 2022 Peoples Choice Awards of The Daily Gazette. Nominate and vote for your favorite people. places, and businesses of the Capital Region.

Despite the name “obedience training“ it is actually far from it dealing with some common problems. Don’t be fooled by t...
08/01/2024

Despite the name “obedience training“ it is actually far from it dealing with some common problems.

Don’t be fooled by the label “obedience training classes“ or “having an obedient dog“. While I am an advocate for group training classes, they are not a fit for all dogs and do not resolve many common issues. Like putting a Band-Aid on a cut that needs stitches.

This is when hiring a professional to come to you and your dog really does save you money and time!

🫣If you think I’ve earned it, I’d love your vote!!!🥹
07/31/2024

🫣
If you think I’ve earned it, I’d love your vote!!!🥹

The Official 2022 Peoples Choice Awards of The Daily Gazette. Nominate and vote for your favorite people. places, and businesses of the Capital Region.

07/28/2024

Why don't I recommend beef liver as training treats?

These 4 pieces of freeze dried beef liver (quarter for scale) equate to a 50lb dogs daily requirement for copper. If this was the dog's only source of copper, that would be fine, however, assuming your dog is on a nutritionally balanced diet, they are already receiving more than their minimum daily requirement. I took a look at 7 different kibbles from 7 different brands and all different proteins. I used a 50lb dog as the example and calculated theoretical copper intakes using the least amount of food intake recommended for the weight. 6 out of the 7 provided over 150% of a dogs daily requirement for copper and some were close to 250%. These numbers alone are NOT alarming nor should they necessarily be cause for concern. However, using liver as a training treat can easily push these levels upwards of FIVE TIMES your dogs daily requirement for copper.

Copper storage disease is becoming more prevalent in dogs. Historically, this disease has been thought to be caused by a gene mutation in certain breeds that inhibits the dogs liver from being able to process copper adequately which leads to a build up of copper in the organ leading to damage and even failure. It can also be caused by a dog eating a diet with high levels of copper in the diet. Recently, more and more dogs are being diagnosed with this condition but nutritional requirements for commercial foods have not changed so the likelihood of diet as a sole contributor is low in my opinion.

So, what has changed?
Freeze dried and dehydrated liver are being incredibly popular "high value" treats and most pet owners unknowingly fly through them. I get it- most dogs will do just about anything to eat these. In this example, giving just 10 pieces of liver would push these dogs copper intakes over 400% in some of these examples.

There are other issues with high copper beyond just the risk of copper storage disease but I'm out of room here.... would anyone be interested in a longer form blog post?

Edit to add: This doesn’t mean dehydrated or freeze dried liver should be avoided altogether, just that you should be very mindful of how much and how often you give it!!

07/10/2024
The next class is already filling up! A couple spots are left! Link for more information in comments.
06/29/2024

The next class is already filling up! A couple spots are left!

Link for more information in comments.

I often hear people say their dog is spoiled. Furthermore, many contribute this to their dog’s “bad” behavior. This isn’...
06/29/2024

I often hear people say their dog is spoiled. Furthermore, many contribute this to their dog’s “bad” behavior. This isn’t entirely true.

Let’s look at how this misconception occurred.

In the not so distant past, we considered a dog’s basic needs as food, water, and shelter. Dogs were not commonly inside of our homes. This was not only seen in every day life, but within our culture. Take snoopy as a great example. Majority of the perception of snoopy was outside on/around a dog house.
As time has passed, we have learned that these special companions need much more, especially as their natural autonomy has been slowly constricted. Their mental and emotional wellbeing is just as if not more important than physical. They need fulfilling outlets, such as sniffing and activities that work and utilize their intelligence. They need emotional support. Sadly, despite learning this, our culture surrounding this has been reluctant to change.

Let’s break down the things many deem, a “spoiled” dog.

Toys: having a variety of toys offers outlets to support mental and emotional health. People often make the mistake of filling a big basket of a variety of dog toys, but seldomly understand their proper use, and how to get the most out of them. Despite investing a lot of money in toys, many people see their dog chewing up things around the house. This leads to the belief their dog is behaving this way because they are “spoiled”.
(See the article on my website regarding toys for more info)

Beds: offering a dog, a variety of different types of surfaces to relax or sleep on provides the ability to have quality rest. Many people make the mistake of blindly purchasing multiple beds, not taking notice to which surfaces their dog genuinely enjoys and which they do not. The location of these beds affect their choices as well.
I commonly hear people say they purchased a very expensive bed but the dog prefers the wood floor or the couch instead often making them think their dog does this because they are so “spoiled”.

Food/Treats: many people describe their dogs as “picky eaters“, forgetting that aside from the possibility they have food preferences, sometimes gut health plays a big role in this. Consulting with a veterinarian or gut health specialist/dietitian should be the first course of action. After that, take a moment to consider that we have preferences of food and it is very possible dogs do as well. Providing good quality food does not equate to a “spoiled” dog. Just like us nutrition matters.

I could continue this list with collars/harnesses/leashes and more but these are a few of the most common subjects I encounter.

Remember that over the course of time our dogs natural autonomy is becoming more and more constricted. With this, “behavior problems“ can and will continue to rise unless it is fully understood and addressed.

Walking a dog who pulls, lunges or is reactive, can quickly become a negative experience for both dog and human alike. L...
06/24/2024

Walking a dog who pulls, lunges or is reactive, can quickly become a negative experience for both dog and human alike.

Let’s make walks fun for both!

Message me or visit my website to begin enjoying your walks again.

My availability has been updated for the summer and I have added so many openings! Please get your appointments booked a...
06/24/2024

My availability has been updated for the summer and I have added so many openings!
Please get your appointments booked as they will fill up quick!

BOOK ONLINE! (Current clients only, Link in comments)

BE ADVISED: Beginning of August I will be limiting my availability to one day a week as I prepare for and begin a very busy semester at SUNY. Mid-end of August-September I may be closed entirely!

Many people look for pet dog breeders without doing enough research or understand what to look for. While health testing...
06/24/2024

Many people look for pet dog breeders without doing enough research or understand what to look for.

While health testing, age of parents, environment, number of litters, bloodline and meeting both parents are all important, these are only a few small pieces of what makes a breeder a good choice. While I could go on and on about what makes a good breeder, I want to focus on some lesser known info. These are things I see with breeders and what I notice working with clients.

1. Genetics: Breeding PET dogs. A good breeder understands the modern life our pet dogs live in. Breeding for the temperament VS show/performance. The jobs our pet dog’s genetics were meant for are largely no longer available or needed. A good breeder will focus less on aesthetics and more on temperament to set their dogs up for success in life.

2. Socializing and development. A good breeder understands that socialization and development is not only really important, but not just referring to pups meeting people and other animals. Think for a moment how we socialize human babies. We offer them a variety of textures, colors, sounds and activities to advance and develop their mental and physical capabilities. We show them pictures, play music, take them to a zoo and teach them important life skills, including socializing. A good breeder understands puppy development and spares no time or expense to help their puppies develop and thrive. More importantly, the parents should be very well socialized and have/maintain a vast amount of experience in a variety of environments let alone the environment the pups will live in. For example, if parents and puppies are raised solely on a farm, and the puppy selected is living in a city, there are bound to be problems.

3. Beware of guarantees. So often, I see breeders who make some level of guarantee of personality/traits/temperament. We know, for a fact, that genetics can never guarantee any particular outcome regarding behavior or physical characteristics. A good breeder will know their breed well, but would never guarantee or advertise puppies to be “perfect for (XYZ)”. Many will claim their puppies are perfect for kids or service/therapy work. Some even claiming their dogs would never shed (doodles). A good breeder will also always be willing to take their puppy back, should things not work out.

Again, this is not all that makes a good breeder but are some lesser known things to look for.

Our modern way of living makes very little sense to our dogs. Expecting them to “get it“ or “know better“ is not only se...
06/19/2024

Our modern way of living makes very little sense to our dogs. Expecting them to “get it“ or “know better“ is not only setting them up to fail but is incredibly damaging to your relationship.

Helping them learn and understand your expectations at a realistic pace with a sympathetic mindset will build a trusting relationship, yielding a dog who wants to listen.

Step outside the “obedience“ mindset and meet your dog where they’re at.

I will be out of town beginning May 23! I will still be responding to current clients to offer support so please do not ...
05/21/2024

I will be out of town beginning May 23!

I will still be responding to current clients to offer support so please do not hesitate to reach out with any and all questions!

05/14/2024
Just a reminder about the upcoming therapy dog prep classes! Next one beginning June 17! Limited space available!
04/09/2024

Just a reminder about the upcoming therapy dog prep classes!
Next one beginning June 17! Limited space available!

My calendar is now updated through August 31st! New openings have been added as soon as next week! Link in comments!
04/09/2024

My calendar is now updated through August 31st!
New openings have been added as soon as next week!

Link in comments!

03/26/2024

It's sad to see people being told to invade all areas of their dogs life. Let's assume that like us, they want agency, undisturbed rest and that they have the right to manage their meal without strange human interruptions.

Link in comments!
02/14/2024

Link in comments!

02/13/2024

I am excited to announce I am now offering online appointment booking! This is very new to me so please be patient as I will likely make mistakes! 😂 I think this will make it easier for all to make an appointment!

2 spots left! Visit my website to apply now! 2/12 is the last Meet and Greet offered before the classes begin. Feb. 19 c...
02/08/2024

2 spots left! Visit my website to apply now! 2/12 is the last Meet and Greet offered before the classes begin.
Feb. 19 class is the last offered until June!

Applicants must attend a Meet & Greet to enroll.

02/02/2024

Happy Wednesday y'all. We have updated our wishlist to add linens. Lots of linens. You have all been so generous, and we are hoping you can help us out again.

With the huge influx of animals we brought in that are now being treated for multiple illnesses, we are going through linens SO quickly. We are in desperate need of towels, flat sheets, fleece blankets, washcloths, and pillowcases. Can you help us out?

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/FEYTTX57KHQH?ref_=wl_share

Address

Albany, NY

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 7pm
Tuesday 9am - 7pm
Wednesday 9am - 7pm
Thursday 9am - 7pm
Friday 9am - 7pm
Saturday 9am - 6pm

Telephone

+12069724284

Website

https://thcc-bookings.square.site/

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This is a common issue clients express a need for help with. Dogs use their mouth for more than just vocal communication. Being a very natural and normal behavior, puppies often will express all their needs with mouthing as they grow and learn other forms of communication with people. Reprimanding them for communicating in a fashion that comes natural to them will not be as effective as showing them patience and teaching them expectations.

Barking is a very common behavior that is often labeled as a problem but the truth is, it’s how your dog communicates. Imagine confining in someone about big emotions you are experiencing and they cut off your conversation telling you to stop talking. Rude right? Simply “correcting” the behavior creates a shut down in both the dog and your relationship with your dog. If the behavior has become a problem in your life and you need to address it, do so by first understanding the purpose it serves in the situation. Dogs bark for so many reasons! If they are alerting you about the sketchy squirrel in the front yard, try to understand that the emotions they feel are normal. Take time to teach them that a couple alert barks are all that is needed and appreciate their effort instead of shutting them down. Help them understand, don’t scold them for communicating.

Don’t give your dog a fright this Halloween! Provide them a safe place with lots of activities, chews, toys with music!

Not every opportunity is a good one to bring your dog. The first thing you should consider is if you are willing to be attentive to your dog more than the event. If the answer is no, I recommend leaving your pup at home. Especially so you can enjoy yourself! The following clips are from an art event in Saratoga on September 16th. I often observe these issues and so many others at these types of events. PLEASE pay attention to your dog! Take into consideration the hard work of the many artists at these events like Imbued Ink, Custom Art Products & Service’s beautiful art that was damaged in the second clip. Before you bring your dog, take your expectations and dog’s perception and experience into consideration before bringing them!

So often in our society today, people make negative judgments about dogs who wear muzzles. The truth is, dogs don’t wear muzzles because they are bad. Can you remember a time your emotions got the better of you and you later regretted how you acted? We all have!! Unfortunately, our dogs do not have the luxury to simply reflect on their actions the way we do. A muzzle can afford a dog the ability to live a full and happy life because they are prevented from causing harm to others. The most important advice I can give any dog owner is this, do not wait until a muzzle is necessary to condition your dog to wear one. The stressful situations a dog is put in that makes them feel the need to bite will be intensified with the use of a muzzle that they’ve never been conditioned to wear. #muzzleddogsarentbaddogs #muzzleddogsaregooddogs #muzzlessavelives #muzzletraining #coopertivemuzzletraining #positivemuzzletraining

ONE SPOT LEFT!!!

Next Friday! Limited spots available! I’ll be keeping the group small to ensure everyone’s questions can be addressed. Held on Zoom. Message me to reserve your spot!

Sadly this event has been canceled

Today, I want to give my deepest gratitude and recognition to someone who gives so much to our community and myself. If you have gone through my therapy dog prep class or been a frequent traveler at the airport, you have likely met Chris. She has been an invaluable partner to the therapy dog animal visitation program with the American Red Cross and myself. She has over 10 years of experience and countless volunteer visits in both therapy dog and crisis response visits across the nation. She has the biggest heart and passion of anyone you would meet in the therapy dog industry. Quite frankly, the program we run together would not exist without her. Of course, it would not be fair to neglect mentioning and recognizing her teammates, PepperJack and Kaytie! They are remarkable dogs! With her incredibly hard work, she has developed an magnificent relationship with both of her dogs. Chris, I cannot thank you enough for your unwavering support and dedication!

People often struggle to understand their dog when they display growling, bearing teeth, and snapping at family members, other people or dogs. I often hear things like, “He cannot do that, I have children!” or “She needs to learn that is not acceptable.” But what does it really mean? These are in fact a form of communication. Very important ones. Your dog, like you, sometimes become uncomfortable or upset. It is a normal behavior and often is an expression of an emotion and/or need that is not respected or met. We often forget our dogs are a different species and express emotions and needs differently. This display is often met with correction or scolding from a person making the situation worse. It is critical to understand why the dog resorted to this before jumping to resolving it. The video below shows two street dogs in India communicating with each other with ritualized signaling, which we often misunderstand and find alarming but is in fact normal.

Another awesome demo at National Night Out by Rotterdam Police Department!

National night out In Rotterdam, NY was great! So great to see so many new and familiar faces. Big thanks to the Rotterdam Police Department. They offered some great K9 demonstrations!

Finally a treat pouch, I can feel confident recommending! Thanks Sipsey Wilder! (This was not sponsored)

Food, warm house, fluffy bed, endless supply of toys and treats, your dog has it made right? You might actually be missing a big piece to the puzzle. Your dog is much more complex than you think. While we often keep up with the physical health of dogs, the mental and emotional health are often forgotten or not understood. As we know, mental and emotional health effects physical health. The good news? It’s not too late. Get the missing puzzle piece to give your dog a much happier and healthier life. Thehumancanineconnection.com (Video: Nobs is a dog who struggles with reactivity around people and dogs. His Mom & Dad became his advocates by learning more about him emotionally and mentally. Here, he was able to observe fast moving people while remaining calm.)

I get all my treats for training at Benson's Pet Center and Benson's Pet Center locations! These labels are up at both locations! Check them out! Don’t forget to bring (human) food/toiletry item(s) for donation! Send me a photo of you adding the item(s) to the box at any Benson’s and get $5 off your next session with me!

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