Fetching Petential

07/10/2024

As I was walking Bailey the other day, it occurred to me that there are so many different types of walks that a dog can go on, and made me wonder if dogs would behave better if they got a variety of experiences.

During my walk I categorized all of the walks dogs could on and came up with the following:

1. Potty Walks - you live in an apartment, townhome, condo, or a home with an unfenced yard so you have to take your dog outside on leash to go potty. These "walks" are less than 5 minutes with the sole purpose of your dog going to the bathroom.

2. Human-Centered Walks - you choose your path, your dog has to stay with you, and you don't allow much sniffing besides what the leash and pace allow. These walks are usually 15 to 60 minutes long and usually take the same path each time.

3. Dog-Centered Walks - you allow your dog to choose the direction, your dog gets to sniff for as long as they want (within your patience level), and they get to wander within the length of the leash. These walks are also usually 15 to 60 minutes long.

4. Sniffari Walks - these walks are where your dog is on a long leash (10 to 30 feet), usually in some sort of nature (woods, trail, river, lake, field) where your dog can be a dog and do dog things like sniffing, running, digging, or zig zagging. These walks are typically at least an hour long.

All of these walks are beneficial for dogs and it is important for dogs to get a variety of walks throughout the week. I wish I went on more sniffari walks with Bailey but I try to make time for a few dog-centered walks each week without the kids.

What kind of walks does your dog get? Do you have any walk categories to add to this list?

04/10/2024

Meet Bo!

I haven't done walking clients in a long time because of the girls but a neighbor reached out to me needing help walking her dog as she is blind so I agreed and we just finished our first walk together ❤️ he is an angel!

Very good with the girls (who tagged along - one in the stroller and one on my back), doesn't pull, and listens well.

He's only been in his home for 3 weeks so we are all getting to know him together!

Post pictures of your smiley dogs!

03/10/2024

To prepare Bailey for the kids, I did what all the books said to do. We practiced sit, stay, change of routines, and leave it. I even taught her to pick things up for me (because who wants to pick things up off the floor at 8 months pregnant?).

One thing I didn't think to teach Bailey?

Patience.

Because sometimes a toddler HAS to push the stroller, pick up pine cones, and take her shoes off mid-walk.

27/09/2024

Let’s talk about nuance.

With the recent boom in AI, the shift toward online learning due to COVID, and the sheer amount of information out there, I’ve noticed a change in how I work with clients.

This isn’t a post criticizing technology or advocating for a return to the past—ask my family, I love researching and learning at the push of a button—but it is a word of caution.

Technology is often a blessing. We can easily access information about our dogs' health, share ideas on how to meet their needs, and even set up doggie playdates. After moving to Rochester, I’ve been able to maintain relationships with clients in the Twin Cities thanks to video conferencing.

However, there's a risk when we read something online and assume that just because our dog’s behavior resembles what we’ve read, the same solution will work. Or, we see a video showing how someone interacts with their dog and want to try it ourselves (ever seen those "challenges" or "how will your dog react when you [fill in the blank]"?). Or we find ourselves in online echo chambers that limit our understanding of the broader dog world, causing us to reject ideas that could benefit both our dogs and ourselves.

Dog training and living with dogs are all about nuance. Every human-dog relationship is unique—different personalities, genetics, environments, health, and experiences. Just because one method worked for one dog doesn’t mean it will work for another. A lot of my consults involve reminding people that we can pivot. We're experimenting with behavior, trying different strategies, and if one doesn’t work, we’ll keep trying until we find what does. While I have standard handouts to help clients understand the basics, I often suggest adjustments depending on the dog.

I love the wealth of information and ideas we can share today. It’s valuable and essential in our modern world. But I also encourage you to think critically about the information you consume and seek professional help when needed.

Don't rely solely on Google or the latest social media influencer for dog training advice.

23/09/2024

On Saturday, I attended the Rochester Downtown Dogs event with The Family Fido and Central Bark Rochester and something unexpected happened.

One of the activities I always bring to events is a game called "To Pet or Not To Pet". Participants look at 6 pictures of different dogs and, based on their body language, decide whether the dog is asking for space or would likely be open to interactions.

Three families with children stopped by and in each case, the parents asked their kids to play instead of them. I explained the rules and held up the pictures individually for the children to examine.

*Every single child said the opposite of the correct answer.*

I made sure to clarify their responses to ensure they understood their answer, but every child, enthusiastically, repeated the wrong answer.

To be fair, two pictures are intended to challenge adults, but for every child to consistently misread the signals was eye-opening. The seven kids, who ranged from 3 to 9 years old, highlight what science has shown us: kids, without education, do not naturally understand when a dog needs space and when a dog is safe to approach.

This experience reinforces how vital my work is, especially as I begin offering free dog body language workshops in schools.

As parents and dog guardians, explaining HOW we know a dog is asking for space is important - by showing children the specific signs in a dog's body language. We not only need to teach our kids, but we also have a responsibility to advocate for our dogs when we know they don't want to interact.

Can you correctly identify which dogs to pet and which ones need space?

20/09/2024

When families call me for help, one of the first things I ask is when their last vet appointment was and if there was any mention of pain. Almost 100% of the time, I get told there was no discussion of potential pain or the vet said the dog felt good during the manipulation of joints.

Also almost 100% of the time I question it. Either through the movement I see as the dog walks around, the sudden behavior changes the guardians are describing, or the sensitivities the dog has that are "quirky" and the guardians have learned to work around.

Kids around dogs with chronic pain need additional supervision to ensure the child doesn't accidentally hurt the dog. I know when Adam was finally diagnosed with moderate arthritis and lumbosacral disease we paid extra attention any time Lenora was by his hips. But if you don't know where it hurts, it's hard to know how to protect your dog and child.

If you suspect your dog has pain but have been dismissed by the vet, keep digging. Keep advocating for your dog until you find something that works or someone who will listen.

This is becoming a welfare issue!

Im tired of hearing “the vet says there is no pain” by a guardian after they have taken their dog to the vet. It leaves me deflated and frustrated and feeling so sorry for the dog.

Myth Bust:

PAIN CANNOT BE RULED OUT IN ANY ANIMAL (dog, cat, horse or hamster), by anyone!

* A quick palpation - CANNOT RULE OUT PAIN

WHY?

The dog may shut down due to environmental factors or dislike of a strange human touching them, they keep still to get it over with ASAP!

The dog may be over aroused or overwhelmed by the clinical environment (excited/scared etc) to the point that adrenaline is so high it blocks pain!

* Blood Tests - CANNOT RULE OUT PAIN

There is currently NO blood test that can detect pain.

* Diagnostic imaging - CANNOT RULE OUT PAIN

Yes they can pick up a variety of conditions, but even the GOLD standard MRI doesn’t pick up everything, but NONE of them can detect PAIN.

Just because a source cannot be found doesn’t mean there is no pain.

PAIN is subjective, it is whatever that being (human or animal) perceives it to be!

Pain can come in many different forms, it is extremely complex, and can effect the individual in many different ways. A dog may get injured, the injury may have healed, but the pain remains … this is known as maladaptive pain.

Behaviour can be a HUGE indicator for PAIN:

* There could be a change of behaviour that has been directly caused by PAIN.

* There could be a worsening of behaviour due to an increase or new presence of PAIN.

* There could be a lack of “normal” behaviour due to PAIN.

* There could be behaviours that are present but that the guardian/owner don’t deem to be problematic that are indicators of PAIN.

* The dog may have ALWAYS displayed behaviours that are indicators of PAIN, but they have been ignored and put down to “just the way they are”.

* There may be NO problematic behaviours at all …. And the dog might still be in PAIN!

* The dog might be energetic, always on the go … and still be in PAIN.

* The dog might be lazy … and still be in PAIN.

* The dog may zoom up and down stairs … and still be in PAIN.

Diagnosing PAIN is not simple and can be difficult to get on top of.

A PAIN relief trail can be great! But often only one type of analgesic is tried and sometimes this doesn’t get results leading to the ASSUMPTION that there is no PAIN!

Here’s why:

* The drug was only trialed for 2 weeks - when living with chronic pain it can take longer to relieve. 2 weeks is not enough.

* The drug used wasn’t targeted to the type of pain the animal is feeling; soft tissue, bone, nerve or a combination of all.

It might take a number of different medications or a combination OVER TIME to see a difference.

ALWAYS keep in mind, NO ONE can rule out another being’s PAIN.

NO ONE. Not me. Not you. Not a Doctor. Not a Vet.

18/09/2024

One of my favorite things to do as a mom is taking my dog to the playground with my kids. It’s so rewarding to watch my children play while knowing my dog is happily soaking in the new sounds and smells around us.

It wasn’t always this smooth—Bailey needed a lot of practice before she could relax in such a busy environment—but I knew it would be worth the effort, so I made it a priority.

Here’s the pattern we developed to help Bailey succeed:

1. When we arrive, I put the kids in a stroller or carrier while Bailey gets to walk around and sniff. This gives her a chance to explore, catch up on the "neighborhood news," and burn off some energy.

2. Once the kids are ready to start playing, Bailey stays with me as we move around the playground. Since my kids are still young and need close supervision, I keep Bailey by my side to reward her for any signs of calm or focus on me.

3. Finally, I settle Bailey on a mat, tethered to a tree or bench, while I assist the kids on the playground. By this point, Bailey is more relaxed and can stay on her mat as I move a little further away. I periodically reward her for staying calm. If the playground is particularly busy, we might skip this step to ensure she feels comfortable and safe.

The playground has become a special place for all of us, including Bailey! It took time, patience, and consistent practice, but now she thrives in many different situations.

Send me a message if you want help teaching your dog playground manners!

09/09/2024

🐾 Exciting News! 🐾

I’m thrilled to announce the launch of my brand-new online course, Dogs 101! 🎉

This course is packed with essential information to help you better understand your furry friend’s behavior, needs, and the “why” behind what they do. Whether you’re a new dog parent or have been living with dogs for years, Dogs 101 is designed to give you practical insights and tips to strengthen your bond with your pup.

Creating this course has been a labor of love, and I can’t wait to share all the knowledge and experience I’ve gathered over the years with you. Let’s dive into the world of dogs together!

Check out the course and start your journey towards a deeper connection with your dog today. 🐶💖

https://www.fetchingpetential.com/dogs-101

04/09/2024

My preschooler left the garage doors open and Bailey took the opportunity to walk herself around the neighborhood.

Now, I know, it's my fault. I am the adult. I am responsible for the dependents in my household including my toddlers and dog. And before we get any further, she is home and was only gone for about 5 minutes.

However, this situation once again shows that despite our best efforts, management can fail. And when management does fail, training takes the hot seat for determining how both our dogs and we act in those moments.

No matter what management you have in place, think about the training you are doing in addition to that. If you use gates to prevent jumping on guests, are you also practicing calming down after exciting events? If you use a tether during dinner to prevent begging at the table, are you also practicing leave its?

Thankfully, I have put a lot of work into Bailey's recall. It is nowhere near perfect but we have done it enough that she will come most of the time. So when I realized that the garage door was left open, I loaded up the girls into the stroller and started hollering for her. After about 3 minutes of walking and calling for her, she came trotting down the sidewalk with her tongue hanging out and happy as can be.

I am grateful for the extra time I spent training her and not solely relying on our management practices because as a busy mom with a child who loves to open doors now, Lord knows this won't be the last time my management doesn't go according to plans - but thankfully training will have our back.

What's something that you are thankful to have taught your dog?

Also, training has commenced for the 3-year-old and closing doors 😉

28/08/2024

Meet Ellie, our newest team member, who's been incredibly helpful* as we get our latest "Dogs 101" course recorded! I can't wait to share this with all of you!

As a busy mom of two little ones, I’ve embraced recording these videos in the midst of real life. If I waited for the perfect time, flawless edits, and top-notch video gear, you’d miss out on the essential insights I’m eager to share to deepen your bond with your dog.

So, instead of polished perfection, you’ll get all the valuable information—and a glimpse into the beautiful chaos of my life! Sign up to be notified of the course's release here: https://fetchingpetential.podia.com/dogs-101

*her helpfulness depends on your definition of "helpful" 😉

26/08/2024

🌟 Happy National Dog Day! 🐾

Today, we celebrate our loyal, loving, and furry companions who bring so much joy. Dogs are our best friends whether they're bounding with energy or snuggling up for a nap.

As a certified dog trainer specializing in fostering safe and happy relationships between dogs and kids, I'm passionate about helping families create lasting bonds with their pets. Dogs teach us so much about patience, kindness, and unconditional love, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they feel safe, understood, and cherished.

This National Dog Day, let’s commit to learning more about our dogs’ needs and behaviors. Whether you're brushing up on dog body language, making sure they get the right nutrition, or teaching them how to walk politely on a leash, every step we take strengthens our bond with them.

If you’re looking for guidance on how to deepen your relationship with your dog, especially if you have kids, I’m here to help! Let’s work together to make sure every dog feels loved and every family feels confident in their connection with their four-legged friend. 🐶💖

Celebrate today with extra belly rubs, long walks, and maybe a few treats (for both you and your dog)! 🐕‍🦺✨

05/08/2024

Dogs with bone, we leave alone.

Since Ellie has started walking, this has become our household mantra.

Kids and dogs will only work if we teach our kids how to respect dogs' space as well as our dogs. Kids do not need - and shouldn't have - full access to your dog. Your dog is still a good dog even if they don't like kids entering their personal space during certain times.

It's my job as their guardian to keep them both safe so my dogs get safe spaces and my kids get help managing their impulses.

What's one behavior your dog displays that still makes them a good dog?

04/08/2024

The Family and I are hard at work getting the board and train space ready for your dogs!

02/08/2024

A lot has been changing here at Fetching PETential.

With the move to Rochester, I have been hard at work determining how to best serve this new market while also settling into a new community with my two tiny humans - so it's been a little busy!

If you're new to following this page, welcome! If you've been following for a while, it's good to see you again!

We have updated our programs to better serve all our clients, whether here in Minnesota or across the country. Beginning in August, our new programs will be as follows:

🐾 BOARD AND TRAIN program where we bring your dog into our home for a short time and then provide complete support for SIX MONTHS

🐾 PRIVATE LESSON program for families who benefit from more 1 on 1 time and also includes the option to add group class time

🐾 GROUP CLASS program that includes 1 on 1 time, the freedom to make your own schedule, and so much more

🐾 ONLINE COURSE all about seeing your dog for who THEY are while also gaining tools to reach your goals

There will be more information over the next few months as we launch but for now, I wanted to share the excitement with all of you! If you are interested in getting more information, signing up for one of the programs, or just want to say hi, send me a message or give me a call!

06/05/2024

My favorite activity to do with kids and dogs is nosework. It's a no contact game, can be adjusted for both child and dog's development, and provides your dog an enriching species appropriate activity. This game also builds confidence with the environment (note bailey in the playpen with the balloon!).

Bailey has taken a few classes of nosework so she is searching for the essential oil clove in this video. You can also hide small piles of kibble or treats for your dog to find. I always start by letting the dog watch me hide the thing and make it really easy. As they get better at searching and understand the game, you can start to make it harder by hiding it out of sight and while they aren't watching.

The other nice part? The messier your house, the better the hiding places 😉

What's your dog's favorite game?

02/01/2024

Happy new year! With the turn of the new year come some big updates for Fetching PETential.

The first and biggest is we have MOVED! In person sessions will now be available for those in the Rochester, MN and surrounding areas. If there is enough interest, I may have a Twin Cities day once a week for in person sessions, but for now, virtual sessions are available to anyone outside of the Rochester area.

The next is I am revamping the dogs and babies course currently available online. This has been a long time goal of mine and put on the back burner due to having my second daughter (update number 3!) last May. My hope is it can be more thorough, easier to follow, and more supportive.

And finally, keep an eye out for blog posts again. I fell off the wagon with writing and it's a goal for the year to write two a month. If you have any post topic suggestions leave them in the comments!

I'm excited for all that 2024 will bring and looking forward to serving the Rochester area!