Creature Good Dog Training

26/08/2024

Happy Monday! Some of the best dog training happens in your head before you even start. Get into a growth mindset and set yourself and your dog up for success.❤️

25/08/2024

Shockingly - most dogs surrendered to shelters haven't received any formal training AT ALL! I researched the top reasons people give up their dogs and provided solutions to them in this blog post: https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/post/how-to-fix-the-5-biggest-problem-behaviors-that-cause-people-to-surrender-their-dog-to-a-shelter

25/08/2024

Imagine if your dog actually had a phone? They'd be blowing up your phone all day long! I think I would like that☎️📞

24/08/2024

Miss this guy every day❤️
🐶He inspired me to become certified as a pet loss specialist so I could support others through this type of loss which is truly devastating.
💮I've started a pet loss support group as a first step.
🌷DM me if you'd like details about joining us.

23/08/2024

Want to know how I started out as a dog trainer? Hint: that black dog in the picture was my inspiration. Read our story at my website. The link is in my bio.

23/08/2024

Looking for something pet related to listen to today? Here you go...

Friday is Podcast Catch-Up Day!
If your week has been as hectic as a dog at bath time, then take a moment to unwind with our latest Starlight Pet Talk episodes! Whether you’re tackling your pet’s separation anxiety or figuring out how to cover those unexpected vet bills, we’ve got insights, tips, and a few laughs waiting for you. Here’s the lineup:

8/20: Separation Anxiety with Ruth Hegarty, M.S.E - Helping you and your dog cope when you’re apart!

8/13: Paying for Your Pet’s Healthcare - Let’s talk dollars and dog sense with Jonathan Wainberg from Synchrony.

8/6: Unlocking Pet Longevity: Expert Strategies to Extend Your Pet's Life with Dr. Marlene Siegel DVM - Because forever is never long enough!

7/30: The Surprising Mental, Physical, and Social Benefits of Life with Pets with Denise Dudley- They’re not just companions; they’re life enhancers.

7/23: Top 5 Annoying Dog Behaviors and How to Fix Them with our good friend Ruth Hegarty, M.S.E - Finally, a solution to barking at the mailman.

Tune in and turn your commute, workout, or coffee break into an opportunity to learn something new—and have some fun!
hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag

22/08/2024

Here's a lovely bit of feedback I received in an email yesterday & a picture of the pup in question:

"Ruth Hegarty is a very nice 'dog and people person.' I recommend her dog training services. She bonded with our King Charles spaniel, Ruby, easily and quickly. I felt affirmed in the "techniques and perspective" I had been using with our very energetic puppy.
Ruby loves to show how smart she is, and Ruth used this effectively. She guided me to further refine my processes, informed as they were by my Special Needs teaching, so I could understand and communicate best with my dog.

Ruth also provided many resources, such as video demonstrations and websites, including an indoor potty recommendation. She was always available by email or text. Importantly, Ruth was very understanding of my "old school" 95 year old mother who used a water squirter bottle rather than positive reinforcement. As a bonus, I gained much patience with my mother; now she safely takes Ruby for walks without me.

Recently, a neighbor took Ruby for a play date with her dog and guinea pig. (Surprisingly, the shy guinea pig was very comfortable with Ruby.) My neighbor shared how much fun it is to get Ruby to do tricks. I offered to show more of Ruby's repertoire. 'Oh my goodness. What a different dog! She's so calm.'

Maybe the best lesson I learned from Ruth is how to reward "good calm." Dogs respond to our expectations."❤🐕

22/08/2024

The #1 thing to do when you lose a beloved pet - https://mailchi.mp/44eda5a9c2d1/mistakeimade-17333866

21/08/2024

I'll be hosting a free class on Recall on September 19th at 6pm EST. Hop on my email list to be the first to get all the details. You can do that at the link in my Bio and download some awesome free resources while you're at it!

20/08/2024

Separation Anxiety: Myths and Management Podcast Episode

Join host Amy Castro as she sits down with expert dog trainer Ruth Hegarty (that's me!😊) to tackle one of the most misunderstood challenges for dog owners—Separation Anxiety. This episode cuts through the noise to deliver practical, proven strategies that can make a real difference for you and your dog.

Listen at https://www.starlightpettalk.com/separation-anxiety-myths-and-management/

What You'll Learn:

🐶Myths vs. Reality: Uncover the truth about separation anxiety and why it's often mistaken for other issues.
🐶Early Action Matters: Discover why catching the signs early can save you and your dog a lot of stress.
🐶Creating a Comfort Zone: Learn simple, effective ways to make your home a safe haven for your dog.
🐶Tools for Success: Get Ruth’s expert advice on desensitization, counterconditioning, and when to call in a pro.

Why Listen?
https://www.starlightpettalk.com/separation-anxiety-myths-and-management/

If you're struggling with a dog that panics when left alone, this episode offers the insights and tools you need to turn things around. From debunking common myths to laying out actionable steps, Amy and Ruth provide the guidance every dog owner needs.❤️

20/08/2024

Rewarding imperfect progress helps keep your dog engaged in learning. I tell all my clients: "C work is acceptable when starting out." You want training to be fun for your dog - and you🐶

20/08/2024

Positive reinforcement isn't just for puppies or so called "easy" dogs as you'll hear some trainers claim, It works just as well and is just as important to use with adopted dogs of any age. Learn why and how in this blog post https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/post/why-adopted-dogs-need-positive-reinforcement-training-to-thrive-in-your-home

19/08/2024

have you recently adopted a dog? Here are tips on how to handle that very important first week or two (and beyond!)

https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/post/the-journey-of-adopting-a-dog-navigating-the-challenges-and-celebrating-the-wins

18/08/2024

If you've lost a beloved pet, how many times a day do you think about them?

Jake passed 12/27/22 and I think about him every single day.❤️

17/08/2024

If you adopted a new dog today or any time this week, check out these important ways to get them started off on the right paw in their new home. https://www.creaturegooddogtraining.com/post/what-to-do-in-the-first-few-days-after-adopting-a-dog

17/08/2024

A marker is simply a consistent sound that let's your dog know they've done what you want.

Clickers are great because the sound is clear & consistent. Some people don't like having to add another tool to their dog walks though.

If you don't like clickers, a marker word ("Yes!") or sound (clicking your tongue) work just as well without needing a 3rd hand.

Which do you use? Share your experience of markers in the comments and/or ask questions if you need help choosing or using one!

16/08/2024

Is it wrong that I love reading the nice things people say about working with me?😂

Obi was a handful & his parents are rockstars!⭐️

15/08/2024

Getting a new dog? You need these resources! - https://mailchi.mp/fc672fc4625c/mistakeimade-17333454

14/08/2024

I'm starting an online pet loss support group now that I've finished up my certification program in this work. The first meeting is 8/28 (time pending). Members will be invited to donate any amount of money that will then be donated to an animal support organization (so it's a non-profit group). This group isn't just for dog bereavement. Any pet that is no longer with you matters and the group is here to support you.

If you are interested in participating in the group (no time commitments), DM me and I'll get all the details to you when everything is set up.❤️

13/08/2024

I literally just got word. I'm so excited AND I maintained an A average throughout the whole program including the final (bragging cuz I'm proud😄)

13/08/2024

Whether you have one or know one, reactive dogs want you to know they are trying so hard! Put yourself in their paws and imagine what life would be like if you were stressed out and terrified all the darn time. Patience, compassion & the right training processes can turn the situation around❤️🐶

DM me if you need help. Working with reactive dogs is my specialty.

12/08/2024

I received this lovely review from a puppy🐶 client I worked with last year and also saw recently as a feisty grown up! His name is Shooby (pictured as a baby & big boy) who was raised by the sweetest family. Here's what the Mom wrote on Yelp:

"When we got our doodle puppy, 2 out of 3 of us had never lived with a dog. We were having trouble with pulling, tearing clothes, jumping & general puppy chaos. In so many of our early pup pics my calm husband's face looks so stressed & uncertain. My kid's shirts were shredded-all of them! I looked up trainer reviews and called Ruth. In a series of sessions, Ruth quickly got us on a path to succeeding with the most basic ways of communicating- "come...sit...stay...touch," as well as the 2 phrases we've found priceless - "drop it & leave it." The thing about Ruth is, she makes it look effortless and absolutely doable. She carries excellent treats, pitches her voice so dogs listen, breaks down her process & explains what the dog is perceiving so we humans can adjust our own behavior and be understood. Ruth shared wisdom for all three of us, with our own styles of connecting with our pup, to teach him how to behave and listen. No more shredded clothes, a lot more dropping of stuff he finds on walks and we can hold the most tempting treat in front of his nose, tell him to leave it, and he will not eat it until he gets permission. Ruth came by recently to help with some new challenges (our pup is more like a teen these days) and with her same easy style, broke one challenge (guarding precious toys) into very simple things for us to practice and shared some resources for the other issue (nuisance barking) for us to spend more time practicing. And having signed up for a course of sessions, Ruth remains a resource for us, which I appreciate. To work with Ruth is to SEE that your dog is trainable and then to realize that you are trainable too. Win-win as far as I am concerned."

❤️ It's really an honor for me to get to know people like this. People bravely share their vulnerabilities with their dog trainer. People don't always feel comfortable asking for help. It takes guts and I'm grateful I get to be that help.

11/08/2024

Happy Sunday🌻

I'm sure I'm not the only one! Even though my girl Shadow Dawn has some pretty significant behavior struggles, I feel fortunate that she's my girl.

I like to think the feeling is mutual❤️

10/08/2024

I know the fall clothes are coming out but there are still hot days ahead before fall starts. Embark Vet shares 5 ways to protect your dog's paws this summer:

Hot weather can be uncomfortable for dogs. Here are the dog paw protection tips you need to keep your pet safe this summer.

10/08/2024

I put the best job in the world at #1! I love being a positive reinforcement dog trainer with my whole heart and soul.

Even though I specialize is working with difficult behaviors, I still love what I do more and more all the time.

Just wanted to share that this weekend.❤️

08/08/2024

What are your plans this dog month? Read this week's newsletter for some of mine. - https://mailchi.mp/d9332f220f79/mistakeimade-17332942

07/08/2024

If you're curious how I can help you with your dog's behavior, schedule a free consultation with me.

20 Minute Free Dog Training Consultation via Zoom

07/08/2024

What do you think? Does your dog love you more than food???

06/08/2024

Legit something I ask myself all the darn time!

Generally, I help dogs by helping their humans with training which I love.

I also consult with other dog professionals to help them help the dogs in their care even more.

I advise several rescues, keep my education & credentials up to date & treat every dog I meet with compassion and respect.

What about you? How can you help change a dog's life today?

05/08/2024

It can be hard to tell if your dog has separation anxiety or something else. After all, no dog actually wants to be away from you for any length of time.

Separation anxiety is extremely hard to live with. Fortunately, it's also treatable.

If you aren't sure if your dog has separation anxiety and want help to diagnose what's going on, DM me and I'll help you!❤️