Rehab Your Rescue Behavior Services

06/16/2024

I’d be remiss to not honor the best DogDad in all the land. He’s the glue that holds RYR together and allows me to show up as the best me for our clients.

A lot of you get to know DogDad as the still silent man that helps build your dogs confidence and some of you get to see his jovial silly side.

He may have gone from saving live’s to cutting cheese… it’s still important work. Thank you for showing up for me, our pups and our amazing clients. I couldn’t do it without you!

Happy dad’s day to all you dads!

04/26/2024

When you work with dogs, there will be a few that will have a profound effect on you. That will leave a lasting impression and will wound you deeply when they leave.

Fletcher is one of them. We did a board and train, intensive behavior mod program and he lived with us all last summer. He became our “step son”, we joked that he was married to Fiona.

He taught me so many lessons… they all do. He was the weird yellow man that was more cat than dog. Fletch would shriek this ungodly noise when you came into the house. Doors and gates were meer suggestions and he would open them all (a fun trick he taught to Fiona 🫣).

When it was his time to go, his family allowed us to join them in sending him on to his next journey. Our hearts are broken, Fiona has her black mourning ears on but his lessons and story will live on with all of us.

Thank you for the journey, Betchy.

“I could have missed the pain, But I’d have had to miss the dance”

03/26/2024

You know what day it is?!

IT’S DOGDAD DAY!!!!

12 years ago, I would never imagined living this amazing life helping dogs with the best man on the entire planet. DogDad is the glue that holds me and RYR together.

He went from saving lives to cutting cheese and he rarely complains about it. As the Chief Everything Else Officer, he does so much for me and our crew to allow me to be the best me to our clients.

DogDad,

Thank you for all you do for us! You are the peanut butter to my jelly! Without you, I would be lost.

I love and appreciate you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BIG MAN! 🎊🎂🎉🥳😘😘😘

02/10/2024

Pics of dogs and kids are as nostalgic as peanut butter and jelly, but often the arrangements are just not safe. This picture of Huey and his tiny human is a perfect example of a safe picture setup.

Here are some ideas that emphasize safety while capturing beautiful moments:

1. **Reading Together:** Have the child sit and read a book next to the dog, preferably with the dog on the floor. This calm activity can create a serene image, showing the bond between them without requiring direct contact.

2. **Walking Side by Side:** Capture a moment where the child and dog are walking side by side, each on a path or in a park. This can be done with an adult holding the leash out of frame.

3. **Dress-Up Fun:** Have an adult dress the dog in a safe, comfortable costume or bandana, and have the child wear a matching outfit (if the dog is comfy wearing clothes). Capture them sitting together, focusing on their matching ensembles.

4. **Silhouette Shots:** Take a photo of the child and dog’s silhouettes at sunset. This avoids direct interaction but creates a beautiful image of companionship. Have them both sit or stand against the setting sun, with the dogs leash held by an adult.

5. **Behind the Glass:** photograph the child and dog with a glass window between them. This can be a fun way to capture their interactions safely.

6. **Nature Walks:** Capture candid photos of the child and dog exploring nature together, like walking through a forest or playing in the leaves with the adult with the leash out of frame. These activities offer natural and engaging settings for photos.

7. **Focused Activity:** Photograph the child and dog engaged in separate but parallel activities, like the child drawing and the dog with a chew toy (if there is no food aggression or resource guarding). This can create a story of shared space without direct interaction.

Safety should always be the priority, so adjust these ideas as necessary to match the temperament of the dog and the comfort level of the child. Always supervise interactions between dogs and kids, ensuring a positive experience for both.

11/26/2023

Book a consult by Dec 1 and get $25 off with code: smallbiz25

https://rehabyourrescuecalendar.as.me/schedule/7bebcf90/appointment/22354768/calendar/5340487?appointmentTypeIds%5B%5D=22354768

11/10/2023

I can’t believe Edmond is 3 today. What a journey this has been.

He is the cheekiest, energetic, and social dog I have ever had the pleasure of sharing my life with.

He’s been a challenge to figure out his quirks and manage his drive. But his sociability with other dogs is amazing, which makes him a fantastic helper dog.

10 more years, big man, 10 more years.

08/26/2023

It’s National Dog Day!

I just want to take a moment to thank every single one of the dogs and their parents that have allowed me on their behavior journey!

It’s an absolute pleasure to work towards changing behavior with pet parents.

To my kiddos:
You make me better every day. Each one of you has taught me how to be a better dog mom and better trainer. Thank you for being a part of the behavior journey for many of the kiddos that I help… you help them be more stable dogs. I love the five of you more than champagne (and that’s a lot)

Share a photo of your kiddo on this post.

07/16/2023

False.

While dogs may exhibit occasional denning behaviors while welping, they are not considered true den animals in the same way as certain species like foxes or badgers. Dogs do not build elaborate dens for regular shelter or habitat.

Instead, they may seek out or create enclosed spaces for specific purposes such as rest, security, or giving birth to their puppies.

Also, it is important to distinguish that crates are not dens. Because dens do not have doors on them nor are dens used for containment. Den animals can leave them at their will and are not trapped inside.

It’s important not to conflate denning behaviors with crating because it is not equal.

Were you ever told by a professional that dogs are den animals?

07/05/2023

TW: talks about canine death and abuse

There has been another death at the hands of a dog trainer in the Dallas/Forth worth area… making it the 3rd in 2023. The most recent death, it turns out this is not the first time that the trainer has lost a dog in the same manner. Which is horrifying.

Which begs the question… how do we change this? Especially in an industry that does not require licensing or credentials… anyone can call themselves a dog trainer.

There is a lot of rhetoric around force free and positive reinforcement training… that it doesn’t work, that consequences are required for dogs to learn. But if you look at the trainers that have allegations of death and abuse, they have a few things in common:
❌ No formal credentials or education
❌ Use of tools (prong collar and ecollar)
❌ All were board and trains
❌ identified as balance trainers

So how do we prevent this from happening? We need YOU, the consumer, to protect yourself by doing research. Here are something’s to look for:
✅ Read reviews on multiple sites, not just google
✅ Review credentials and methods. Your trainer should have more than “I’ve loved dogs my whole life” in their bio.
✅ if the trainer has a “guarantee to work or money back”… think twice. Dogs are not cars that need to be fixed
✅ Contact references, if a trainer won’t give you references that is a red flag
✅ Sign a contract, especially for a board and train that outlines the hat happens if there is an injury or illness
what happens if the dog gets sick or injured
✅ avoid board and trains that use aversives
✅ trainer should provide timely pictures and videos
✅ tour of facility before drop off

Many trainers do not allow visits during board and trains (myself included) because it can stress the dogs out, which may set back training. However, updates should be provided regularly.

Keeping your dogs safe during training is crucial. Make sure that you know who you are sending your dog too.

06/20/2023

Thank you to everyone who voted and who supports RYR! We are thankful to everyone of you!

2nd in Dallas: https://www.sniffspot.com/blog/dog-trainers/dallas-tx

3rd in Texas : https://www.sniffspot.com/blog/dog-trainers/texas

I’m amongst amazing colleagues!!!!

06/02/2023

Please vote for us in Services then in the categories of Pet Services and Women owned!!!

We appreciate all of you and your votes!!!

https://www.dallasnews.com/best-in-dfw/vote/categories/services/

(Link in Bio)

05/29/2023

When it comes to summer swimming safety for dogs, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Introduce your dog to water gradually: Not all dogs are natural swimmers, so start by introducing them to shallow water and gradually move to deeper areas as they become more comfortable. Never force a dog into the water!

2. Provide a life jacket: If your dog is not a strong swimmer or you're unsure about their swimming abilities, consider using a life jacket designed specifically for dogs. It can provide extra buoyancy and help keep them safe in the water.

3. Supervise your dog: Always keep a close eye on your dog when they are near water. Accidents can happen quickly, so it's important to be attentive and ready to assist if needed.

4. Be cautious with pools: If you have a pool at home, make sure your dog knows where the pool steps or exit points are located. Consider using a pool cover or a fence to restrict access when you're not around.

5. Rinse off after swimming: After your dog swims in a pool, lake, or ocean, rinse them off to remove chlorine, saltwater, or any potential contaminants that could irritate their skin or be harmful if ingested.

6. Watch out for heatstroke: Dogs can overheat quickly in hot weather, especially when exercising or swimming. Provide shade, fresh water, and take breaks to ensure your dog doesn't get overheated.

Remember, every dog is different, and some may require more supervision or precautions than others. If you're unsure about your dog's swimming abilities or have specific concerns, it's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice.

05/15/2023

Jefe is a 4 year old (neutered male) sweet, spunky Clumberdoodle who loves to play, walk, and have lots of belly rubs! He is looking for a home without young children, as he tends to resource guard his little sisters toys.

Ideally, in his new home he will get attention throughout the day, but is social with other dogs and goes to day care regularly. Jefe has a big, loving heart and will bring to joy to anyone around him.

He is in the Dallas, TX area and does come with a training package with me.

If interested, please email:
[email protected]

(The family is doing what is best for Jefe as he is very uncomfortable around kids and their family is expanding. Any hate will be deleted)

05/14/2023

Karen and JoAnn are absolutely amazing! I confidently refer clients to this team. I also trust them with my own crew of dogs when we travel!

Happy Spring! This is Karen from Doing Dog Stuff

Summer is on my mind! Thank you to everyone who has made reservations at the ranch this summer. JoAnn Harrison, is my mom and my business partner. She is also our In Home Care Provider but you may have also met her at a pick up appointment, drop off appointment, or in your own home. She plays with horses when she isn't spending time with your dogs.

Did you know you can schedule your drop off and pick up on our Calendly link: https://calendly.com/doingdogstuff

05/07/2023

The ban on the ecollars in the UK may be scary for you… and rightfully so. Making a paradigm shift to a new way of thinking is so hard.

I crossed over in the early 90’s. Early in my career I used: ecollars, prongs, choke chains, bean bags and sq**rt bottles. I was very much of the mindset that dogs needed us to be alpha and demand that they respect us. I even labeled my own dogs as alpha or beta.

But then, I watched my own dog get absolutely ruined by an ecollar. I was devastated… I trusted skilled experts to help me with my dog, instead I got a shell of a dog back. That’s when my change started.

Crossing over wasn’t easy. I’ll be honest, I had people try to teach me about R+ previously, but I was stubborn in my knowledge… that what I was doing worked (of course it did, punishment works). Then I got humbled by harming my dog, boy was I embarrassed.

It took a lot of work to let go of my old way of thinking. I had to get curious and be open… I made mistakes as I learned. I pushed back… it was so uncomfortable.

The discomfort, made me better. Continues to drive my need to learn. To stay open to what is changing in the dog world… but stay within my personal ethics.

If you need a guide, someone to chat with or are curious about how R+ bmod works… I’d love to have a conversation.

Good luck on your journey.

04/24/2023

It was a blast talking dogs and babies with North Dallas Doula Associates!

Thank you for having us!

04/19/2023

Owning dogs is messy. And I don’t just mean in a hair and mud every where sort of way.

There is so much BS on social media about the “right way” to own dogs. The gate keeping of breeds and shaming when pet parents don’t fit the mold.

It’s so confusing and hard to navigate raising and caring for a dog. Especially if you are trying to glean info from social media. Especially when you see trainers contradicting themselves, one minute enrichment should be added to a dogs life and the next off leash exercise is the only option.

My journey with dogs has not been linear or clean. I’ve made mistakes. I’ve adjusted.

The one thing I know… is that I’ve always had their best interest in mind. Even if there are voices that disagrees. Ask yourself if those voices matter, usually they don’t.

Keep you chin-up, your reinforcement handy and ignore the noise. You’ve got this beautiful messy journey to walk with your dog… enjoy it!

04/15/2023

The alpha and omega, my essence and most important features.

My youngest and my oldest. Perfect bookends. Polar opposites.

The lessons I have learned from these two. The joy, the tears and the laughter.

I will never forgive myself for moments missed and I will soak up every moment for the rest of their lives.

They are my greatest partners. They make my work possible.

Every night I kiss them, say thank you and tell them both I am so glad I am their momma.

04/08/2023

Taking breaks is so important for the dog and human learner.

Breaks from training are so important, not only for your dog but for your own mental health. 🐶🧠

If you suddenly have lots going on in your life, have had a big change, or are starting to feel a bit run down with training, it's a good idea to press pause. 💪

Go do something you and your dog enjoy doing together, whether it be a hike, a dog sport, or maybe just cuddling up watching a movie.

Spend that time just enjoying being with your dog. The chances are, you both will return feeling refreshed and ready to get back to it. 😍

04/07/2023

When we traveled to Santa Fe in November, we came without the dogs and I got severely altitude sick. I was nauseous, headachy and light headed for 3 days… so when we planned to come back in April with the dogs, we knew we had to be prepared.

I reached out to my good friend, Lindsey, who is an avid hiker with her dog, Tellico. Lindsey hikes in altitude with Telli and got us ready to go.

Tips:
1. Go slow: plan easy adventures for the first couple of days. Stay at lower altitudes if possible and increase over a few days.

2. Lots of water: keep them hydrated! Float their food if they will eat that much way

3. Small meals, add canned food for moisture (tinned fish is a good add in)

4. Watch for shortness of breath. Take lots of breaks

5. Give them something to chew to help the ears adjust.

6. Bail out plan! Always have an exit strategy and way to get out if an emergency happens. As well as carrying a first aid kit for you and your dog.

7. GPS tracking collars. We have the Fi Collars on both the setters and love them. They are fairly accurate and hold a decent charge when away from the base.

Know the signs of altitude sickness in dogs, which is:
Shortness of breath, Vomiting/nausea, Loss of appetite, Increased heart rate, Pale gums
Swelling of face/limbs, Excessive panting or drooling, Bleeding from the nose.

What are you altitude tips?!

Happy adventuring

03/26/2023

Do you know what day it is?!

It’s the DogDad’s 50th birthday!!!! 11 years ago, this man stormed into my life and I would have never imagined the journey we would take together.

Richard, my love. You are an amazing man with a wicked sense of humor and a heart of absolute gold. you are up for every adventure and journey, as long as we are together. Thank you for taking amazing care of me and our pups. We couldn’t do this life without you!

Thank you for choosing me to share your birthdays with. I love you to the moon and back!!!!

Happy 50th, my love. Here’s to 50 more!

02/28/2023

I’m honored to be nominated again! Please vote for me, once per day (Beth Berkobien)

https://www.sniffspot.com/blog/dog-trainers/contest?utm_source=trainer_contest

01/26/2023

We love with working vets and their clients.

Cooper struggles with being near dogs when coming in for appointments, so we set up a time that was convenient with the clinic to work in their lobby.

This picture may just look like a normal day in the office but it is actually a live training session for one of our patients who struggles with leash frustration and reactivity.

Cooper Burns, the Frenchie, is below with his mom and his behaviorist Beth Berkobien with Rehab Your Rescue. In the corner, you see Beth’s awesome assistant and husband standing with their English Setter, Fiona, as a practice dog on a leash.

Does your dog also struggle with leash frustration and reactivity? If so give us a call today so we can help make your daily walks more enjoyable!

11/24/2022

It’s a day to be thankful…. And I am thankful to everyone of you, but not just today. Every day.

Thank you for allowing us to guide you on your behavior journey.

11/21/2022

We picked up this scared girl from a rural shelter 3 years ago for cairn rescue, intending to short term foster.

Then the night before transport…. We couldn’t do it, so we changed our minds and adopted her.

This tiny little scruffy is small in size but giant in personality. We adore her and her shenanigans.

Happy day, Lucy Goosey!

10/25/2022

Join Beth tomorrow in the Spot & Tango Facebook group for a trainer takeover.

You can ask Beth about reactivity or any general questions.

Look forward to answering questions!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1000066503949814/

09/29/2022

Sometimes we focus too much on having our puppies meet every person and dog they see when socializing them. While this can be a component of puppy socialization, if we set the expectation with our puppies that every single person or animal they see is an opportunity to greet, we may accidentally create a puppy that is OVER-socialized and may constantly pull, bark, lunge, or whine to meet everyone they see on outings.

This can turn into frustrating behavior for all involved, especially if you have dreams of being able to take your puppy as an adult out in public and they behave with calmness and composure despite what's happening around them.

For every experience your puppy has greeting another person or animal on a socialization outing, practice a few repetitions of asking your puppy for eye contact and rewarding focus, or playing an engaging game with your puppy while other people, dogs, and distractions pass by.

Teaching your puppy that distractions aren't something to get worked up about is just as important in early socialization!

09/21/2022

When a dog has significant behavior concerns, it’s really important to consult the help of a qualified professional and make sure that you’re looking at the whole dog when trying to figure out the best plan of action to help them recover. Flooding them, blaming yourself, or taking any old advice you see on the internet isn’t very helpful. Instead start small and practice often, build a plan with a professional, and make sure you’re addressing your dog’s problem behavior from many different angles (health, management, enrichment, training, etc) to get the best results!

If you have a dog who struggles with issues based in overarousal, aggression, reactivity, fear, or anxiety, reach out. We can help you, in person (DFW, TX) or Virtually!

09/15/2022

Excellent post!

IT IS NOT NORMAL FOR DOGS TO “VISIT” DOGS IN OTHER HOMES

A frequent “complaint” I get from owners in why they want to seek out training is because their dog displays aggression when another dog visits their home or when they take their dog to visit in someone else’s home.

Guys, this is not normal for dogs.

Can we give up the idea of dogs visiting “dog friends” at other houses as a necessity? You’re taking an animal - a predator - and bringing it to another predator’s territory. Dogs are not human. Wild canids don’t visit other territories for an evening of appetizers and cocktails. That’s a human thing.

Yes, there are dogs who truly enjoy the company of others and are sociable and non territorial. Those dogs can accept visiting dogs or go to other dogs’ homes without issue. If your dog truly enjoys these activities, then by all means continue to enrich their lives! But know that this is the minority, and not “normal” behavior that should be expected of all dogs.

It tends to be a problem when the dog hits social maturity, when a honeymoon phase ends after rehoming, or when the owner expects the new dog to be ok with this because their last dog “loved it.”

If your dog doesn’t accept visiting dogs inside your home or doesn’t like going to other people’s houses, this is not a problem on your dog’s end. Your dog is normal. It’s a problem on your end in your realistic vs unrealistic expectations.

09/06/2022

When working with dogs who display issues rooted in fear, aggression, overarousal, etc. we will likely ask you to start implementing some form of management into your day to day life with your dog. Why do we do this?

Not every moment in your life with your dog is going to be a “training moment.” Life happens, triggers are presented at levels your dog isn’t ready to handle, and sometimes dogs just deserve a break from having to be confronted with their triggers all the time, day in and day out. So, management is any means you implement to prevent your dog from rehearsing undesired behaviors, or preventing a dog from having to be presented with a trigger at all in some cases.

Management tactics can vary from developing skills to use on neighborhood walks, putting up visual or auditory barriers in the home, or something as simple as putting your dog away in a quiet room with an enrichment item when a guest comes over. Depending on what your dog currently struggles with, there’s likely a creative management tactic we can use to prevent the rehearsal of undesired behavior or unnecessary stress to the dog.

Management and training setups go hand in hand in a high quality behavior modification plan. The more we can set our dogs up for success through well-thought out training setups, and manage them to prevent as much unnecessary stress as possible outside of those training setups, the more likely our dogs will be successful in the long run.