Mutts of Merit, LLC.

01/31/2025

Meet Mia! Her Mom made the trek to Indiana from Cambria County to ask me very specific questions. She could have asked these question over the phone but wanted my off the cuff responses, in person. I respect that because one thing technology has done is taken away the 'personal' aspect of communication. Moreover, I like face-to-face because I am ready every aspect of body language. It is much harder to offer a line of BS in person. Remember, the eyes are the gateway to the soul!

Anyway, she is a breeder who is expecting two litters in the near future. Originally being from Alaska, she does not sway off opinions and prefers to make her own. She has visited a number of trainers but has yet to get the answers she wants.

Her dogs are going to be big. She does not want someone training them with force or with no regard to who they are as individuals. She does not believe in slip leads, choke chains, prong collars, or shock (e) collars. She understand the unintended consequences of these tools. Yep, can you see she caught my interest too?!

It is funny, not funny ha-ha, but funny that I make a post asking those of you who rely on groomers to be mindful of what your dog is saying: if they are quivering/shaking, refusing to go in, peeing, whining, flinching - chances are high that something unpleasant, more than the process itself, is happening when you are not around. Never did I identify the individual, yet a whole host of locals started marketing another local trainer like it is their job. Several of my clients told me about it while laughing saying nothing says guilty conscience more. Well, they are not wrong. Meanwhile, this lady hunts me down because of the hard line I draw in the sand. Pretty cool, huh?!

I was recruited to help her with her temperament tests and socialization of these litters. No complaints here!
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01/29/2025

Meet Beau! When I first met him, we met at his home. He was not fully vaccinated, so his parents asked to meet there. Moreover, that is where they were having all kinds of problems with Beau terrorizing the kids.

The family always had Labrador Retrievers. Try as they may, they could not remember any of them being a menace like Beau. I reminded them their last pup lived 13 years. They were a lot younger when he was a baby, and they did not have kids. There is also likely some truth that the painful puppy memories were forgotten as a coping mechanism 🤣!

I met Beau. He was awesome. His family was utterly amazed with how he behaved. We were able to teach him some of his beginning cues. Then, like a light switch flipped, Tyrannosaurus Rex appeared. Beau started getting into EVERYTHING. He was biting and lunging at legs, hands, faces, you name it. 😳

What happened? He got tired.....really, really tired. Guys, like kids, puppies can morph into Satan's Spawn in 2 seconds flat when they get tired. See, the puppy is cranky. He fights sleep. He does all kinds of things to keep himself awake. Negative attention is better than no attention!

We placed Beau on a nap schedule with clear windows to work him when the family has their full attention to do so. This strategy worked for several weeks. Beau is on an every other week schedule, but by our next class, the biting was getting worse. Why? Next stage of development!

When mouthing/biting takes over, remember to have a plethora of chew: different textures and different flavors. Here is a fact- DOGS NEED TO CHEW! Puppies definitely do. Benebone has a lot of options, just remember to pick one that is not going to hook around their jaw. Himalayan chews, beef cheeks, tendons, bully sticks, lamb horns and cow hooves are really enticing to puppies and can save scarring to your epidermis. Do not forget Tails on the Town in Blairsville has a lot of chews and supplies available. Kady can help you pick what will work best.

Please do not use a shock collar on a mouthing puppy. I know this sounds ridiculous and you are thinking, who would do this....more people than you realize. They risk triggering fear and anxiety in their pup that will last a lifetime.

Here you see Beau came to the center to start leash manners. Just look....he did pretty amazing! Ain't he cute?!
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01/29/2025

Do you have a Standard Poodle? Have you ever pampered your pup to a true Poodle cut?

Beth from Bow Wow Boutique specializes in Standard Poodles. She owns them. Cutting poodles is just fun for her.

If you never met Beth, call her. She learned breed cuts in the show circuit so can complete cuts true to form. She does not just shave them down. Your dog's cut is art to her.

Your pups will not look miserable before, during, or after their cut. They will not dread going in. She treats each dog with kindness!

Bow Wow Boutique
1278 Philadelphia Street
Indiana, PA 15701
814-952-2838

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01/28/2025

It has now been 21 years since my Mom passed away. I often wonder what she would look like at 71. Would she be wrinkled? Would she finally have grey hair? On her best day, she only stood 5' 5.5," so if she shrunk, hugging her would be a workout!

Ladies, my Mom passed from Uterine Serous Carcinoma. Diagnosed in April 7, 2003 and deceased by January 28, 2004. All the radiation and chemotherapy did nothing but rob her of any quality of life. The radiation cooked her intestines. She had bowel movements from her mouth. A lady who never complained spent months not sleeping and in chronic pain. Her medications were maxed out. The doctor said she was on enough pain killers to wipe out a horse yet nothing stopped the pain.

My Mom never missed her annual appointments. She had a few irregular pap smears, but they were all kind of overlooked. Her complaints of irregular bleeding, stomach pain, and bloating were dismissed as signs/symptoms of menopause.

Even if they would have discovered the disease sooner, I do not think it anything would have changed. If anything, she may have died sooner. There are reasons I do not frequent doctors, refuse bloodwork, conduct my own surgeries as if i am a surgeon, and muster through ailments. The reasons are simple - I learned it does not matter. Both my Mom and my Dad kept up on their check ups, sought out medical help/advice, and took their prescriptions. For what?! That is why when the eye doctor looks at my eyes and says "how's your cholesterol?" I am like, "good doc, how is yours?" He ignores my sense a humor and suggests getting it checked. That was almost 3 years ago.....yep, still getting around to it.

Honestly, I am not trying to beat the odds or prolong the inevitable. I just want to live each day to the fullest since tomorrow is not promised to anyone. That is why I am outspoken and don't mince words. I will be an activist for what is important to me for however long I have on this Earth.

To think that I have almost lived as long without my Mom as I did with her is hard to wrap my brain around. Where did the time go. Here is what life is - a constant string of yesterdays and todays. Tomorrow never comes as it only morphs into a today. People we love age, health deteriorates for us all, then it all ends. Pretty depressing if you think about it.

All I can ask is that you all make today count. Do not let people keep you from living your best life as you see fit and standing up for what you believe. Rich or poor, here is the thing, we all die with nothing. Do not allow herd mentality to control you and live for what matters to you. Basically, live like a dog. It is all about the moment because in a minute it could all be gone. Leave your own legacy. Make your own mark.

Mom, thank you for everything. I learned lessons from you in both life and in death. They have not all been pleasant, but they have all been life. You told me to love my dogs and that is exactly what I am doing!
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01/28/2025

Leash manners is one of the hardest skills for a lot of people. They invest countless hours, spend hundreds of dollars in training elsewhere, and are persuaded to buy all sorts of tools - even those nasty ones that influct pain. Try as they may, the owners cannot seem to make headway.

"The easiest way to get control is to give it up!" I have echoed these words time and again. Guys, it is embracing this notion that sets Mutts of Merit, LLC. apart. Through countless hours of education and working with a variety of dogs, the certainty of this statement is revealed.

Look at dog training like religion. It is much easier to live without faith than it is with it. Dog training is much easier with force than without. That is why the only way some people can get compliance is through the use of ppain and punishment. It is too hard for them to be aware of their human tendencies to yank and pull. Their human tendency to be in control. Their human superiority complex.

I started working with a lively couple who have trained their dogs in virtually every sport, activity, you name it. Still, that pesty leash was so miserable. Within 20 minutes they got everything and more than they expected. Why? How? Because they took the tension off the leash. They used the words they taught their dog. They worked as a team and not at odds.

Guys, dogs are sentient beings. They having feelings, wants, needs, and desires. They want a heavy hand as much as we do. Give your dog a little independence and the ability to make choices....watch, you willget what you ask for and more!
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01/27/2025

I was honored to help Bella develop a fitness plan that is low impact to help her regain her muscle mass and strength that has deteriorated while undergoing chemotherapy. The prolonged use of steriods took its toll as she fights to overcome her leukemia. 😢

Her parents, owners of Drive Personal Fitness, LLC, are definitely strong in both mind and body. When learning of their 8 year old's illness, they decided to help her fight as a family. They know the importance of diet and exercise as well as how physical and mental health must be in sync for a body to heal.

Bella has been using the space at Mutts of Merit, LLC. over the last month as the weather made it virtually impossible to get her out and keep her moving. Now, more than ever, she has to move. When classes were not being held, her Mom (and Dad when his schedule allowed) would make it a priority. The results appear to be paying off.

Bella's spirits are high. She loves going to the center, and her last check-up revealed some improvement in her blood count. She is starting to gain weight and now is progressing to an individualized fitness plan to help her strengthen her body with specific exercises.

I am so glad to have been able to provide her family the space and opportunity to keep Bella plunging ahead. It is never a good time to get sick, but with the frigid temperatures, it would have been even more difficult had the training center, complete with fitness equipment had not been an option.

Here is to Bella! Keep fighting baby girl, you have the best support system behind you!
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01/26/2025

These 2 pups have lived together for almost 2 years. It was not until early November that they started to have problems. They have had repeated fights that have caused injuries to each other and family members.

Nothing is worse than having dogs you love equally and find yourself in a situation where they have to be separated nonstop. Living in a house with dogs kept apart is no easy task. It is hard on the dogs and the humans.

Trying to think of what started the first outburst as well as subsequent ones is actually hard. Things we think might be no big deal can be huge to the dog(s). This is where anthropomorphizing can complicate things more.

Remember, dogs are not humans. No matterhow much we treat them as "children" does not take away the fact that they are dogs. They think like dogs and act like dogs. When they do fight, it is not like when we fight. As a species, we personalize things, harbor resentment, and premeditate actions. Dogs respond immediately. Trigger = Reaction. No secret society collaboration, team bullying, nothing. The dog just reacts.

In evaluating both, it was easy to see where Milo, the 8 year old black pit was extremely anxious. Boy could not relax to save his life. His sister was the one who always lunged at him when fights broke out. Milo never backed down. This is a huge recipe for disaster.

It became very obvious that she was reacting to the energy he expelled. Guys, think about it. Have you ever been around someone who is super anxious all the time. Just being around them can suck the life and energy out of you. You do not mean for it to happen, it just can. This also explains why the other dog in the house has never been targeted....she is not triggering the dog.

To best help these pups, i asked the pet parents to talk to their veterinarian. See if his anxiety medication can be adjusted. I asked them to really start listening with their eyes to what he he was saying - to watch for his signs of stress, nervousness, and anxiety. When they see these things, separate them.

His sister was asked to wear her muzzle while around him. They have to watch her for any signs of posturing. If she shows signs of frustration with him, they need separated.

Slowly, they will work to integrate the pups together SLOWLY. Remember the words of Pat Miller, "think crockpot, not microwave."

A successful reunion can be possible, but we definitely need a multidisciplinary approach. Neither dog is comfortable around the other, so we have to start by creating a calm state of mind.

Guys, these folks traveled here from Davidsville, PA. That alone tells you they are serious about their dogs and will invest the time to make sure their babies are treated with live, respect, and dignity. The last thing you want is to use any sort of force or punishment when in a situation like this. The owners have worked in mental health for over 25 years, so they know the potential consequences of a 'balanced' approach.
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01/26/2025

Meet Yam! Is this little man not adorable? He definitely gets an award for being nosey! 🤣

He is going to focus heavily on his recall and learn to walk nicely on a leash!!!
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01/26/2025

Fitness is implementing form based exercises that allow us to target muscles, tendons, and ligaments which strengthens and conditions their body. Incorporating fitness into their routine allows us to improve functionality, reduce pain and stiffness, speed up recovery time, and improve the overall health of the dog.

Similarly as to when you go to a gym, you are targeting different muscles and muscle groups. That is exactly what we do. We are looking at doing sets. Repetitions can be made more challenging, but it is not a contest to see who can jump the highest, move the fastest, etc. This is about FORM! Going slow and doing the exercise right prevents injury. It also allows you to better identify weakness. In doing the repetitions, you will see for yourself.

Remember, this in not agility. This is not a race. Fitness is: Flexibility, Balance, Strength, Coordination, and Stamina.
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01/26/2025

There are people who think a dog's worth or an owner's commitment to their dog is proven by entering the dog in a bunch of programs to earn cool titles and ribbons. My question is, what if you have a dog like Memphis who physically cannot preform. Does that mean I should love him any less or that he has no value? Not even close. And I sure am not going to trap him in a cage while I take my more athletic dog(s) somewhere to go earn titles when I am not looking to breed or promote bells and whistles.

What Mutts of Merit, LLC. focuses on is the whole dog. Both physical and mental health as well as doing things the dog actually enjoys. Many of you know, I am a strong believer that dogs are easy, WE MAKE THEM HARD.

Dogs are family members, they are companions, they are our world. No ribbon, contest, or title will ever impress me. Maybe it is because I grew up poor, but I do not think anyone's ability to be a fantastic pet parent should ever be determined by a title. I have had the pleasure to work with dog's whose family doesnot have much, but the dog is always fed, medically treated, and is loved. Do not ever question your worth as a pet parent or the quality/ability of your pet because of some ribbon you did not earn.
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Someone asked me if my dogs have any titles. I paused for a moment, thought about it....and I was like "hells yes - SEE!" 🤣

As far as I see it, my kids can read, they can mimic, are good with their noses, and are just all around good dogs. We go places, spend time together, and whatnot. They can do all the things offered at Fido's Fitness Friday and just do it for fun to be with Mom.

Owning dogs can be just that. Yes, you have to prioritize, spend time with your dog, and do things, BUT do not think your dog is any less without a piece of paper and some nut ass ribbon. That is just more for me to dust! Please, do not get drawn to the hoopla. You can have just as much fun with your dog on your own. The difference is, a class gives a sense of commitment. Some pet parents need self discipline to make certain they engage their dogs, even when they had a long day at work. Remember, your dog waited all day for you to get home. Do more then just sit on your couch...k?!
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01/25/2025

MORAL DILEMMA

You see a dog running at large in the frigid temperatures. You are on your way to work. Being the animal lover you are, you stop and capture the dog. As a lifelong supporter of rescue, you call authorities looking for help as you need someone to take the dog. You are shuffled from contact number to contact number.

Some places are not open. The emergency establishments open tell you there is nothing they can do. Ypu are told to take the animal back where you found it.

Now you are riddled with guilt. You question if you should have gotten involved in the first place. Now you beat yourself up questioning why you stopped in the first place. 😭

Guys, this is unfortunately a predicament one of my clients found themselves in this morning. It really happens. Please, before picking up an animal, determine if ypu can keep it and house it if no organization can or will help. If the dog just wandered from its home property, ithas a better chance of making it home if left alone. Trust me, it sucks.

Note to pet parents - please leash your pets. Iknow it is cold outside, BUT they are your responsibility. Just letting them run is not fair to them in this weather nor to the person who stumbles upon them.
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Photo Credit: Anakin’s Trails stray and pet recovery

01/25/2025

There is nothing wrong sticking up for your dog or any other dog. Will might be met with resistance. You might make enemies - at least with humans, BUT I can promise you the dogs will be grateful.

Many of you can guess that I have a tendency to p**s people off who do not support force/fear free methods, but as an animal advocate, I have to stand behind what I believe and support. Remember what Malcolm X said, "A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything."

Now apply that to dogs. You have heard sayings like this before:
"Animals have no voice. They cannot ask for help. They cannot ask for freedom. They cannot ask for protection. HUMANITY must be their voice." Author Unknown

Sadly, some people do not take a hard stance. They refuse to draw the line in the sand. They flip flop between sides because they allow friends or associates to sway their thinking.

That is one thing I adore in my long-term clients. They have their minds made up on how they want their dog treated. How they will train/handle their dog.

Guys, please remember. Listening to a dog is learning to listen with your eyes. You must take a step back and look at the whole picture. Your dog will be better off for it!
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01/25/2025

Maisey came back for a visit to help her parents learn how to help her overcome a few of her unwanted behaviors like demand barking. As her parents explained what Maisey was doing, it was easy to see that she was merely reacting because of a behavior they unintentionally taught her.....begging followed by demanding.

We discussed the benefit of "bed" or "place" with something special to help 1) keep her busy/occupied and 2) help her stay in position easier. We cannot get mad or upset with a dog who is acting in response to something we have done. Our best bet is to give her something else to do. Telling her no or yelling at her does nothing. Moreover, how can you get upset for something you taught her. Maisey's parents get that which is why they came for help.

She responded very well to her cue and loved the special beef cheek roll offered. The chew will not always be needed, but for now, it can definitely help!
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01/25/2025

Puppy Socialization is such an important part of growing up. We often think socialization is meeting other dogs, BUT it is really about environmental changes, sounds, and people.

These 7 week old Australian Shepherds had their temperament tests completed last week. They received their first vaccination, so now it is time to start acclimating them to the world.

One of the participants traveled to Indiana, PA from North Carolina to be part of this assessment. She is looking for specific traits and only trusts this breeder because she knows the breeder routinely does this work with litters in her care.

These pups were not bred for the money, they were bred for the integrity of the breed. Their parents have health testing out the ying-yang. These pups have been thoroughly tested and go to the optometrist next Tuesday.

You know, some people ask why certain pups cost so much. The thing is, if you knew how much money a responsible breeder puts into each litter, you would know they are not making money. They want to mery preserve the integrity of the breed.

These pups will all be completely to the true standard. Some of these pups will be working dogs while others will be pets. Tonight's observations really allow you to see whose personality fits what category best.

I greatly appreciate my clients/friends who volunteered to come and help. We had young to adult checked. The best part, the kids were definitely the pups' favorite.
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01/24/2025

We had some new school students enroll. Each working on their individualized education plan. One is struggling with anxiety and although her day started out rough, she and I figured out a way to help her settle. She was by no means perfect, but she was able to settle. Another gets extremely excited and starts biting and jumping like crazy. He choses to run every single time you attempt to leash him. Another just looking to find a way to refine cues and burn off energy.

Our one regular student had so much energy after missing last week and being homebound with the cold weather that his fi collar totaled 28k steps for the day! Then my happy go lucky golden did his morning workout for strength conditioning of his hind end followed by more practice playing dead and started to learn to salute.

My littlest tyke finished her program by reviewing everything she has worked on in fitness class followed with some good ball exercises. Watching 3 inch legs get the zoomies always brings a smile to my face. The speed is absolutely amazing!

The diversity of the group makes the day so much fun. Figuring out exactly what the kids need and designing plans specifically for them is what sets Mutts of Merit, LLC. apart.

Observations are made on each dog's behavior and fully communicated to the pet parent. One pup I have known since a baby. I noticed an alarming change that i communicated to the parent. When attempting to leash him, the dog hunkered down, dropped head, and braced for impact. That is not this dog. This dog is happy and fun. I am confident in saying NO ONE in the family has ever harshly corrected this dog. When I shared the information with the Mom, the Mom thought it was the ducking and dodging the dog likes to do. I assured her it was not that. I went to the door, called the dog, and showed her what the dog was doing.

It was relayed the dog was just at the groomer the day before. I asked if it was a particular groomer. The Mom said yes. Ugh....not the forst time I have seen this response from my client dogs going there. The Mom said she knew the dog would put the brakes on and try to avoid going in, but she thought the dog did not like the grooming process. I explained that was the dog trying to tell her what was going on.

Look, sometimes excited jumping and pulling can tell you the same thing. You have to know your dog. You have to watch and observe. Guys, listen to your dogs.

I had faith in a lot of groomers in the beginning, but my list is dwindling. Sadly, I do not know all of them in the area but know which ones i still refer clients to. You have no idea how happy i was when Beth from Bow Wow Boutique returned.....why do you think i worked to give her my old building.....because she is kind to the animals. The others I know that truly likes dogs include:

Bow Wow Boutique
Hot Doggies 2
Beauty and the Beasts Pet Salon
Part of The Family, Pet Grooming
Karen's Mobile Pet Grooming
The Grooming Room and Pet Spa
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01/22/2025

Do not let Murphy run this town alone! Trick Training Classes starting Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 6:30pm. Space is Limited. Text 724-717-3007.

Song Credit: "Run This Town" Jay-Z, Kanye West, and Rihanna (To those concerned, it Passes Copyright Checks)
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01/21/2025

Do you have a pet lover in your life that needs a super cool, unique gift?! What about a wreath like this? The house siding is the exact shade of gray you see on this ribbon. Aspen's Mom can definitely help you make someone's day just a little better with a gift like this.

Can you guess this is for a Lab Mama?!
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01/21/2025

Basic Manners taken to a whole new level! Watch these babies learn!
Go Scarlett, Louie, Milo, and Richie!
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