Animal Magnetism

11/01/2024

11/01/2024

10/21/2024

I hope all of you are making enough money to pay for your new water and sewer rates that the City is going to implement. I also hope you become "educated" as the Mayor asks to understand why in a time when costs are doing nothing but going up other than wages we will be understanding as to why these the rate hikes. Don't forget APS was approved for a rate hike as well. I think I am pretty well educated myself and feel that when times are tight, I don't take out additional loans no matter what the interest rate is until some of my other debts are paid off. But that is just me.

Council begins process to increase water and wastewater rates
By approving a notice of intent, Council formally started the process of adjusting the City’s water and sewer rates, which have not had an increase in three years. The process will take about six months.

City Manager Paul Jepson said that city staff understand the impact of increasing rates on residents, but they consider the increase necessary to sustain Globe’s ability to deliver quality water services and maintain proper wastewater treatment. He said the City is also considering a new capacity fee. New businesses coming into town will help reimburse the City for capital costs on the water and sewer system.

The process in raising rates includes a rate study, which is now nearly complete, providing details on the factors behind the need for the rate adjustment. The study is assessing the city’s capacity to continue providing reliable services given growing demand, increased infrastructure costs, and fluctuating operational expenses.

“We know everything seems to be going up. We’ve tried to hold down on increasing these fees. We know the impact it has. But we still have a requirement to deliver quality water and treat sewage properly, and so we need to be able to do that within the confines of our budget.” City Manager Paul Jepson

Jepson pointed out that two major loans, totaling $4 million, have been delayed until the new rates are implemented and the City sees results from them. After an evaluation following the rate changes, the city plans to revisit these loans by late 2025. This highlights another reason the City needs to increase water rates – it’s necessary in order for Globe to maintain the required revenue-to-expenditure ratio to qualify for special low-interest loans, similar to how a homeowner has to have a certain income to qualify for mortgage terms. With its current rate structure, Jepson said Globe could not qualify for these low-interest loans.

Mayor Gameros stressed educating the public about the importance of the rate increase and said that once residents understand the need and rationale behind the rate adjustments, he hopes they will support the changes.

This article is thanks to the reporting of the Globe Miami Times.

10/18/2024

Ugh, this weather is NOT cooperating with the forecasted weather. Such a bunch of crap!!! So, puppy class is cancelled this evening. I even tried waiting it out but it is raining like a cow peeing on a flat rock on the field. Tomorrow morning at 8am I am having regular obedience class and ya'll are welcome to come to that. It won't count towards your 6 classes, just an extra for you.

10/17/2024

Today I went in to help Kait at the shop. A new client showed up with a “service dog in training”. Kait tried to do its nails. Nope, wouldn’t have it. So I told her to put it on my table. Bit the s**t out of me. THAT IS NOT A SERVICE DOG EVEN IN TRAINING. I get people don’t have the funds to purchase service dogs. There’s a reason they’re so expensive. But if you’re going to “self train” a service dog, you better at the very least have a professional temperament test that dog. If that dog can’t even be touched to clip its nails it’s NOT going to listen to anything else. Service dogs are literally bomb proof. You DON’T even know they’re there unless they’re alerting to their handler’s issues. This is why I strongly believe these dogs should HAVE to pass a CGC test mandated by the state. The test is good for a lifetime, there are testers everywhere, and they cost less than a fake service dog vest. There are testers in rural areas and if you have to go to an urban area for a medical test, you can take your dog with you for testing as well. BAM! Two birds with 1 stone.

10/15/2024

Just finished a webinar on this product. The Dogtra Smart NoBark. I get calls about how to stop dogs from incessant barking. This product is available for preorder. It has a smart app that tells you if your dog is actually barking, whining or howling while you’re gone. You can use vibration or stim. It triple checks to make sure it’s actually your dog barking not ambient noises. You can also pair up to 3 dogs with it. The minimum weight is 10lbs. Keep in mind, dogs become collar savvy and if it’s been a problem barker, if you’ve used this collar consistently, just putting the collar on can deter barking.

10/13/2024

How to Make a New Dog Feel at Home: Best Practices for Smooth Transitions
Oct 10th 2024 From J&J Dog Supplies

Bringing a new dog into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be stressful for both you and the dog. Whether your new dog is an energetic puppy or a rescued adult, the transition into a new environment can take time. With the right strategies, you can help your dog feel comfortable, safe, and loved from the start. In this article, we will cover best practices on how to make a new dog feel at home. It’s all about introducing them to their new home, building trust, and reducing anxiety. Together, these will ensure a smooth transition.

How To Make A New Dog Feel Welcome: Prepare for Arrival
Before even bringing your new dog home, it’s important to prepare both your home and your schedule to ensure the transition is as stress-free as possible.

Clear Your Schedule for the First Few Days
The first few days with a new dog are critical for establishing trust and routine. Plan to take time off from work or clear your calendar for a weekend so you can devote your attention to your new furry family member. This will give your dog time to adjust to the new environment without the added stress of being left alone.

Setting Up the Home Environment
Preparing your home ahead of time is essential for a smooth transition. Set up designated spaces for your dog’s bed, food, and water bowls, and make sure these areas are ready before your dog arrives. Having familiar items, such as toys or blankets from their previous home, can provide comfort.

Establishing a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, and sticking to a consistent schedule from day one will help your new dog feel secure in their new environment.

Stick to a Consistent Feeding and Walking Schedule
Consistency is key when it comes to reducing your dog’s anxiety in a new home. Feeding and walking your dog at the same times each day will give them a sense of structure and security. Maintaining a routine similar to their previous home, if possible, can also help with the adjustment.

Introduce the New Home Slowly
Rather than allowing your dog to roam freely in the entire house, introduce them to one area at a time. Leash your dog while giving them a tour of the home, offering praise and treats to create a positive association with each new space.

Managing the First Day
The first day in a new home can be overwhelming for a dog, but with some thoughtful planning, there are many ways of how to make a new dog feel comfortable in a new home.

Begin Crate Training Immediately
Crate training helps create a safe, secure space for your dog. Contrary to how it might look to us, dogs often view crates as their own personal den. In other words, they become a place to retreat to when they need rest or feel overwhelmed. Start crate training on day one by encouraging your dog to explore the crate on their own terms, rewarding them with treats and praise.

Taking Care of Basic Needs
On the first day, stick to basic routines like feeding, potty breaks, and nap times to avoid overwhelming your dog. Feed them the same food they were eating before, and use familiar feeding and potty schedules to ease their transition.

Introducing Your Dog to Other Pets
Introducing a new dog to existing pets requires patience and a structured approach to avoid conflicts and stress.

Slow, Controlled Introductions to Existing Pets
It’s important to keep introductions gradual and controlled. Use gates or crates to allow pets to see and smell each other from a distance before allowing them to interact face-to-face.

Using Familiar Scents to Ease Tension
Before face-to-face introductions, swap bedding or toys between your new dog and existing pets so they can become familiar with each other’s scent. This helps reduce anxiety and prepares them for peaceful interactions.

How To Make A New Dog Feel Loved: Build Trust and Reducing Anxiety
Do you know how to make a new dog feel loved? Make them feel safe. The process of building trust with your new dog starts immediately, and there are several strategies you can use to reduce their anxiety and help them feel safe.

Positive Reinforcement and Calming Techniques
Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and verbal praise, to encourage good behavior and reduce anxiety.

Providing Mental Stimulation and Enrichment
Mental stimulation is key to preventing boredom and reducing stress in a new environment. Provide your dog with toys, puzzles, and regular play sessions to keep their mind engaged. Keeping your dog busy with activities they enjoy will also help them form positive associations with their new home.

Dealing with Common Issues
It’s normal for dogs to experience a few bumps along the way during their transition to a new home. Here are some common issues and how to handle them.

Overcoming Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is common in dogs adjusting to a new home, but there are ways to reduce it. Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods and gradually increasing the time they spend alone. Providing enrichment toys, like treat-filled puzzles, can also help keep your dog occupied while you're away.

Handling House-Training Accidents
Even house-trained dogs may have accidents in a new home as they adjust to a new environment. Be patient and reinforce positive behavior by taking your dog outside frequently and rewarding them when they go to the bathroom in the right place.

How To Make A New Dog Feel Safe And Comfortable
Creating a safe, quiet environment for your dog will help them feel more at ease in their new home. Here are some tips on How to make a new dog feel safe.

Child and Dog Interactions
If you have children, it’s important to teach them how to interact calmly and respectfully with the new dog. Overly energetic or loud behavior can overwhelm a new dog, leading to fear or aggression.

Creating a Calm and Quiet Home
Try to minimize loud noises and activity during the first few days. Giving your dog a quiet, designated space where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed is essential for helping them settle in.

Adjusting to Life in a New Neighborhood
Exploring new surroundings is an important part of helping your dog adjust to life in their new home and neighborhood.

Neighborhood Walks and Socialization
Once your dog is comfortable in their new home, slowly introduce them to the neighborhood. Take short, frequent walks to help them get familiar with their surroundings while maintaining a sense of security. Socializing with other dogs can also help your dog feel more confident in their new environment.

Keeping Your Dog’s ID and Microchip Updated
Update your dog’s ID tags and microchip information as soon as you move. This ensures that if your dog gets lost, they can be quickly returned to you.

Long-Term Adjustment Strategies
How to make a new dog feel at home is an ongoing process, and every dog adjusts at their own pace.

Monitoring Behavioral Changes
Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and look for signs of stress or discomfort, such as excessive barking, hiding, or changes in eating habits. These behaviors may indicate that your dog needs more time or support to feel comfortable in their new home.

Patience and Understanding
Remember that it takes time for dogs to adjust to a new environment. Be patient, offer plenty of love and attention, and give them the space they need to feel safe and secure.

How To Make A New Dog Feel Comfortable In A New Home
Those are some of the best strategies on how to make a new dog feel at home. Bringing a new dog into your home is a joyful experience, but it also requires careful planning and patience. By preparing your home, establishing a routine, and using positive reinforcement, you can help your dog feel comfortable, safe, and loved.

Remember that every dog is different. Some may adjust quickly, while others take time. With your support, your new dog will soon feel like a beloved member of the family.

10/04/2024

Happy Valentine’s Day!❤❤
WISHING YOU A BEAUTIFUL DAY FILLED WITH ALL THE LOVE AND HAPPINESS YOU DESERVE.
So, how will you celebrate Valentine's Day with your furry valentine?
(Photo by )

10/02/2024

So I’m just going to post this for a client that has an extremely timid little guy and is taking my obedience class. The first few times I worked with Butter, he would not take treats. So first, I upped the value of the treats. Roast beef. Second, I still had to do leash pressure because he’s timid and still learning to trust. So i gently pull down on the leash. The only way he can get the pressure off is to lay down. We’ve already loaded the clicker and he knows the click marks the behavior I’m looking for. The minute the elbows go down click and release. Don’t say“sit” and then put them into a “down” otherwise your dog will NEVER hold a “sit”. Just lure into the sitting position and work into the down. Most dogs want the treat in your hand so bad they’ll go into the down no problem, but every once in awhile you come across a very fearful dog with trust issues and leash pressure is the only way to gently teach them what you’re asking. You don’t need to yank, or yell. Just be patient.