Pawsitivity

12/01/2023

Happy Friday! Jacob says "you better go outside this weekend!" 😎
We still have a couple months of light duty left, and it's been long year, but Jacob is recovering well from double ACL surgeries!

Actually, because of the strict limitations, both of us got *more* consistent with our daily routine and healthier as a result. I've definitely grown up a bit too, learning to respect that CONSISTENCY outweighs INTENSITY. I'm grateful for the chance to practice what I preach!

11/13/2023

A neighborhood trail near La Jolla, around 2015. Daily walks don't need to be perfect--just get 'er done!

Most of our walks look something like this: It's the crack of dawn, barely anyone awake yet. It's silent, but for our breath and footsteps. The route is within 5-min of my home, but most people don't know about it. There might be construction, or maybe it's just not "insta-worthy." My view is usually blocked by Jacob's rear end. And I'm barely awake myself!

Doesn't matter 🙂 The magic is in our consistency; in gratitude; in family. Exercise, Discipline, then Affection!

Let's put the phone away, forget the trends, and prioritize just BEING together! Every single day.

11/10/2023

Happy birthday, Marines! 🇺🇸

11/09/2023

A dogpark near Seattle, around 2020. It's so rare to see another red husky!

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A random tip today: Whenever possible, yield to other dogwalkers 🙂 It doesn't really matter what our training experience is, or how good my dog is, or what the other person is doing. I've found that it's just universally better to yield--ASAP. And this has been my general advice to clients, regardless of the details of their case.

When we yield, while possibly waving/nodding "hello" with the other owner, we break the ice, socially, for both species. It says "we're on the same team," and lowers the tension and unknowns. All it takes, often, is simply crossing the road or heeling our dog on the outside. It's a goodwill gesture.

By giving "right of way" to others, we're also taking control of the situation in a calm, confident way. Leading by example!

You see, a lot of reactivity/aggression happens (and becomes habitual) BECAUSE of the way we approach others. Quite often, our dogs behave badly because our body language (ie. "oh damn it, another dogwalker. I hate this! What's she going to do...?!") broadcasts to everyone in the vicinity that we *should* be tense. Trust me, I still hear that negative little voice every day! It never goes away--we just grow a little wiser and stronger than our feelings.

In other words, our dog is simply obeying our command (our vibe) to approach life with frustration/excitement. He can't help but to misunderstand us!

In both humans and canines, yielding space means peace. It's instinctual. It's built-in. Let's remember to use it!

11/07/2023

Not all walks will be this scenic--and we won't be perfect pack leaders every day. That's ok!

On days where I'm distracted, tired, or moody, I won't push our limits. I'll do my best to NOT attach emotion/meaning to Jacob's behavior, nor to "test" our abilities by expecting him to behave perfectly. Instead, I'll scale back and use extra safety measures. If possible, I'll also ask for help with walks and other chores.

Most importantly, when (out of pride/denial) I inevitably push limits anyway, and of course Jacob acts out, I try to STOP myself immediately--in the same way that I coach you guys. STOP everything, go home, and verbally process with another human; with a loved one who will tell me straight. And do NOT try the same activity again until I've fixed myself: eat, sleep, hydrate, pray, whatever!

Usually, it really is that basic!

The embarrassment, the anxiety, the frustration; the urge to micromanage and overthink and fixate on the dog... The overwhelming drive to dig in and try harder... When I catch myself complaining like "ugh, he makes me crazy!"... I must STOP that in it's tracks! I must remind myself what I already know: it's me, not him!

Dogs aren't capable of understanding that I'm "having an off day." They simply sense it and react.

So, even though it SEEMS like they're being extra annoying and challenging on our "off days," the reality is that the problem began with us--not them.

They can't help but reflect our inner mindset back to us. That's literally their psychology as pack animals; that's how dogs are able to communicate with each other. They're just being the totally honest, instinctive creature that they are.

11/06/2023

Jacob practicing a "stay..." on the east coast, back in 2012.

I believe he was just 1-years-old here. Like many of you, I first learned obedience training by reading books, asking friends for advice, and practicing nonstop in attempts to control my own dog. (I didn't have a clue that my own attitude/habits were WAY more important to raising a good dog). Nowadays, we don't do any obedience training at all; just not necessary. Our daily routines are plenty enough.

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And wow, his mask was so dark!

Huskies weren't popular in this part of the country (aside from on-base, due to breed restrictions), and Jacob's color was *so* different--it wasn't uncommon for strangers to exclaim "yikes, is that a wolf?!" while power-walking across the road to get away from him.

Some might consider Washington DC to be the beginning of The South. All I known is: living there was entirely different from what you'd see in the movies.

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Good or bad, uncomfortable or fun--it's wild to look back on how many experiences Jacob has had... And how much impact he's had on other families. Truly an adventurous life!

11/03/2023

Happy Friday! Be sure to get outdoors this weekend 🙂🙏🏼

10/31/2023

A packed deployment bag and boots at the door.

One of many the family separations that Jacob has endured. I won't name the time or place; for obvious reasons.

Added up, the total years we've been separated equals nearly half of his life. Of course, dogs don't have the same concept of time--but its hard on him nonetheless. We never really know where/when/how duty will call, and Jacob knows even less.

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In these moments (the ones that humans attach intense meaning to), all the preaching that I do about "pack leadership" is even more important. Yes, these methods come from Cesar Millan (a polarizing name in the dog industry), but I'm speaking from actually USING them in the toughest moments of my own life.

To me, it's not just a theory to argue about with my peers, nor simply a way to earn some cash. Cesar's ideas have been thoroughly proven out by Jacob's behavior, and by the many clients we've trained. I depend on these concepts myself to thrive within this challenging lifestyle. It's the real deal.

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For Jacob's sake (and for the sake of the many military clients we've had), we do *not* hold elaborate and emotional goodbyes. If anything, that is between us as humans; not for a dog who cannot possibly process those feelings.

But--if we put those emotions onto a dog anyway, he will inevitably misunderstand it as weak energy and begin to behave WORSE! ...Which compounds the pain of an already stressful deployment/training/cycle, etc. This is another vicious cycle, which I've seen played out in countless living rooms of military families; especially those in combat roles.

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I'm not saying quit having strong feelings--I'm saying let's express them appropriately, amongst our loved ones.

I'm not saying we shouldn't hug the dog or cry--I'm saying, let's do it at the proper time and place.

Whether we're just going to the office for 8 hours, or deploying for 8 months--let's have the self-discipline to still follow the rules of pack leadership. For their sake, and ours!

10/30/2023

Sunset Cliffs, around 2016. One of the more touristy spots in San Diego--always poppin' with people, dogs, and cars. You can see that reflected in Jacob here. We're both full of that energy!

I think that, to be a successful pack leader, enjoying a "crowded, super-touristy spot" and "the rugged, remote wilderness" require a surprisingly similar mindset. The "what" is different, obviously--different rules and concerns--but the "how" remains the same.

Calm and assertive. Follow "exercise, discipline, then affection," and act responsibly. Don't get *so* hyped that we ignore reality. (For example, this spot is beautiful and popular; and yet, every year, people are rescued from it's unstable and dangerous cliffs). Enjoy the view AND stay fully present.

Note that I'm *not* talking about training techniques or special tools... Because in real life scenarios, those only account for maybe 10% of your success. The other 90% comes from US.

10/28/2023

Autumn colors at Mount Rainier, around 2021.

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Our dog's behavior is a barometer of the pack itself; in other words, of our family dynamic, home environment, and daily habits.

If we are not taking care of ourselves or constantly bickering with spouse/kids--it'll show in our dog's vibe.

If we are playing the victim (even for legit reasons!) rather than training ourselves to practice self-discipline, integrity, and gratefulness--it'll show.

If we're going through a stressful stage of life--it'll show.

THAT'S OKAY. That's life. We all go through "ups" and "downs." We don't have to be perfect to have a good dog, nor does life need to be perfectly smooth.

What *isn't* healthy is fixating on the dog, when he isn't the source of the problem in the first place.

He, an instinctual creature, is simply reflecting the tense vibes that *we* give off. (Dogs cannot think like people; but people can learn to think like dogs!). The more tense and fixated we get, the worse he behaves; and we just keep trying HARDER to train it away... Throwing more money, treats, training methods, and frustration/anxiety at him...

When the root cause is that *WE are currently a deeply unbalanced and unhealthy person!* And that's how the vicious cycle begins!

Many clients are stuck in this painful, confusing loop when they hire me for help. And that's where I was stuck myself, back when Jacob was severely aggressive and had every behavior issue under the sun. He was so nuts, there was no way I could even take this photo. Every moment was a struggle. I was usually the worst dog owner in the room. Everything I'm speaking on comes from firsthand experience--PAINFUL and HUMILIATING experience.

So, when clients ask "how do I train this dog to stop barking/biting/pulling," etc, we need to get at the heart of the issue. That's why, if you've ever asked me for advice, we don't talk much about the dog--I ask about your routine, watch videos of your dog's body language, and get a feel for your energy first.

Training techniques and behavior evaluations follow shortly thereafter... And don't get me wrong, that stuff is super helpful... But real change comes from within. Within YOU and ME.

10/27/2023

San Diego, present day. Happy Friday! It's been 3 weeks since Jacob's second knee surgery (one TPLO on each side). The first operation was back in February, which is also documented in detail on my "stories" highlights.

Although it's been a rough year for Jacob, having never been sidelined for this long, I'm grateful. He has enjoyed a relatively long, healthy, and incredibly full life.

I'm glad that I've never let my foot off the gas; we have pursued every adventure possible, every challenge, every moment (especially when most people would just give up and stay home). Trust me, we do NOT have much time together, and I really do NOT have that much energy. I've made terrible mistakes, and still *continue* to screw up; just less each year while I continue to grow up myself.

But what I'm trying to say is: I honestly have no regrets. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, I've given 110% to my dog every day! And that gives me real peace and joy. That allows me to live in the present and be a good pack leader--the best that I can manage, at each given moment.

Going down memory lane with y'all the past few weeks has been really fun! Thank you for loving my feisty and quirky boy 🥰 And supporting me (while patiently waiting for our content to possibly return) during this time. Not just the generous donations which eased the financial burden back in January/February, but also the daily messages and laughter and commiserating.

It has helped more than you can know!

10/26/2023

10/25/2023

A river in WA, around 2020. Salmon season! Jacob waits as we spent yet another freezing afternoon trudging along the muddy, thorny banks, hunting for a decent spot.

In vain, we explored a number of locations before getting an invaluable local tip from a reputable tackle shop--which proved to be THE spot. He also gave us a rig-tying and casting tutorial, and picked out the exact gear to buy. In fishing, these minuscule details make all the difference.

It was generous beyond belief; YEARS of local expertise, that literally can't be found online, freely shared in good faith. He couldn't have known this, but: Because we often only have a single season to crash-course through a new fishing style (before moving again), I doubt we would have caught a single salmon without his help.

Later, we actually saw that same guy at that very spot, and fished together several times. He is some kind of salmon wizard--hooking AND releasing fish 3x as often as anyone else. All while smoking, joking loudly, and patiently untangling his line from inevitable newbies.

In thanks, we showed respect: follow the local etiquette, follow the laws, leave no trace, and above all else, KEEP THE SECRET. I never told anyone where we caught all those fish, and we never will!

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In the same way, dog owners can find "secret" spots to walk. Every neighborhood has one! But, understandably, locals loathe to share their favorite spots with travelers--or worse, the internet--because it only takes *one careless post* to ruin it forever.

Folks are even LESS likely to share with dogwalkers, excitable/arrogant dog owners, etc. And yet, everywhere we go, Jacob is able to walk in great local spots: whether I asked nicely, made friends, or created my own routes.

So, if we can do it (considering that I'm a dog trainer who photographs everything my dog does), then you can too.

The secret to finding those secret spots: BE worthy of trust, and EMBODY respectfulness. Not just when you want something, but ALL the time. Integrity. In other words, earn the privilege.

And lastly, if you're able to learn a local tip... Never, ever burn the spot... Even if you never intend to return!

10/24/2023

On the coast of WA, around 2020. We were hunting for razor clams on the beach--a surprisingly rewarding trip!

These clams are enormous, delicate, and have a light sweet flavor. It's one of those foods that can only really be appreciated FRESH. But--it requires a long drive, dealing with crowds, and a willingness to be hit by endless freezing waves at night, wearing headlamps and thick waders, deadlifting up heavy loads of sand with a heavy metal pump for a couple hours.

It's one of only TWO occasions where I have seen Jacob get cold! For a Siberian Husky, whose breed can withstand arctic climates, that's really saying something.

In this region, the law regulates that recreational fishermen (like us) must take turns with the Native American tribes; especially for species like razor clams and the all-important salmon. So, during the open season, each side would have alternating weeks to fish. We also had strict rules on the legal tools and bag limits; I believe it was 20 per person, per day. No tossing clams back either, even if they're small. Whatever the ocean provides, we must count towards our daily limit. There's many more rules that I've forgotten!

Jacob, of course, didn't know or care! He is down for anything, whether it involves dogs or not. For most fishing trips, he's just here as our companion.

On this afternoon, he soaked in the Pacific Ocean--running and digging and smelling--while we tried to teach ourselves to recognize the unique razor clam indents in the sand before nightfall (when the real fishing begins). Although we arrived home completely exhausted, it was so fun that we returned several times while stationed in Washington state.

Trust me, I'd rather be a couch potato too. I'm not really that energetic 😅 But in this lifestyle, time passes quickly, and pretty soon we'll have to move again. (And isn't that true of life, in general?!) So, I choose to seize the day.

Let's keep a spirit of adventure... Big or small. Dog-centric or not. Insta-worthy or not. Each day is a precious gift!

10/23/2023

Near Joshua Tree, around 2018. Jacob rests, coyote-like, atop a windswept vantage point with panoramic views. By watching him, I know if anything approaches from a great distance. And vice versa.

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The desert *does* get some seasonal rains, and afterwards, there's an incredible explosion of vegetation across the landscape. This was my favorite time of year to hike.

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In such open terrain, our dispersion as a pack was naturally much larger than other areas. Often, Jacob ranged out to 100, even 200yds away. On beaches or dogparks, for instance, we stay much closer together. In the dense woods with twisty trails, we're within 10ft. On sidewalks, even closer together. In each case, though, the feeling *should* be the same: moving as a single unit under my lead.

When dogs get loose in the desert, they act differently from other environments--and between the remoteness, the brutal climate, and the dog-eating coyotes, owners often never saw them again. We took on several cases regarding this issue.

If you've ever been in the desert, you'll recall the absolute SILENCE and STILLNESS. How every breath you take seems deafeningly loud, and how it seems unnatural to speak louder than a whisper. How the vastness seems to reach across eons of time, crushing and magnificent in it's indifference.

Dogs sense these things (the way that the landscape--natural or not--shapes pack formations) and move differently, accordingly. This is obviously a more subtle and advanced idea within dog psychology, but interesting nonetheless.

So, when we visit different areas with our dogs, remember that they may "obey" differently... OFTEN, it's not because you need to train harder, or that they hate you, but simply that the land itself demands a different response.

In a similar way, humans act different when we, let's say: step into a church service; meet your girlfriends for brunch; tiptoe alone across a dark sketchy bus stop, etc.

When dogs disobey (or don't obey quick enough for our liking), let's remember that they are sensing more than just our voices. They can't help but sense EVERYTHING. At all times, they are our link back to Mother Nature.

10/21/2023

A neighborhood trail in Seattle, around 2021. There's beauty in every moment, if we choose to appreciate it!
What dogs need from their walks, above all else, is: CONSISTENCY.

But *how* do you implement that? My advice to clients (who are struggling with walking their dog) is...

1. Forget lofty training goals for now; pick the simplest, most reliable tool that gives you physical control over the dog. Most commonly, the slip lead!
2. Forget scenic, popular, or perfect conditions; pick nearby places/times that are easily accessed and reasonably safe for a woman to walk alone. Usually means 6am, on the sidewalk/trail on your block! Stay AWARE of your surroundings, and NEVER take safety for granted.
3. Forget hitting huge mileage goals for now; hit *DAILY walks* before aiming higher for anything else. Start with just 5-minutes before breakfast, for 14-consecutive days; it *WILL* take several restarts and attempts!

This has been my formula for success with owners who, each for legitimate concerns, have avoided walks. Common reasons include: the weather sucks, spouse/kids refuse to help, busy schedules, "I'm not a morning person," "my dog likes to sleep in," dog pulls or lunges on leash, etc.

While I sympathize with their excuses (hell, I feel the same every day!), our DOGS don't understand. Animals can't rationalize. They simply have instincts, and those instincts need to be fulfilled--daily--or eventually we'll see behavior issues. And hey, I'll be frank, the average dog trainer will gladly take your money to "train" those issues... When 99% of the time, the real problem can be DIY for free!

That's why, regardless of the issue you've contacted me for, we will probably discuss walks! It's THAT important.

Start with consistency, my friends--the rest will come from that foundation, NOT the other way around 😁🙏🏼

10/20/2023

A nice neighborhood in San Diego, around 2013. This was our typical afternoon at the dogpark with the local dogwalkers and their 10-30 dogs. We made some great friends here!

This was before Pawsitivity. Jacob and I were still struggling with (what I *thought* were random bouts of) aggression, escape attempts, severe prey-drive, hyperactivity, separation anxiety, etc. I was trying every dog training method I could find! Just an extremely rebellious, unpredictable, and overly demanding dog. One time, he even fought with the female golden pictured here; over nothing but a stupid chuck-it stick!

Obviously that wasn't the case forever, because back then I was viewing him like a human child--rather than a canine; an animal with a totally separate psychology. I had my own insecurities, drive to prove myself, and aggressive tendencies. I had a ton of intensity, which is an asset, but I wasn't channeling it well.

I wasn't leading a disciplined and healthy lifestyle.
I was *not* calm and assertive.
I was constantly itching for a fight.

My lack of balance was the root problem, not my dog.

As I learned and grew, Jacob's issues faded away. And years later, when Pawsitivity opened for business, some of these neighborhood dogs became my first clients.

10/19/2023

The ranches in Big Bear, around 2017. On our morning walk, Jacob led the local dogs on a merry game of tag--pissing off the livestock everywhere. There's some sheep or goats behind the fence, horses across the dirt road on the left, and wild donkeys in the fields. Always the center of attention, this guy!

After seeing Jacob in action, we held a training session with our generous host and her dog, both pictured here. I can't remember what behavior issues it was for, now, but I think it was separation anxiety.

I love how this job has connected me to new people; no matter where we go, or what we're doing!