We are moving! Moving can be challenging, especially when you have an established business. But we are excited to now offer behavior consulting services in Anne Arundel County! Our current coverage area includes:
● South Baltimore City
● Pasadena
● Glen Burnie
● Arnold
● Severna Park
● Annapolis
● Croften
● Odenton
● Gambrills
● Hanover
● Linthicum Heights
#annearundelcountydogtrainers #annapolisdogtraining #positivedogtrainer #pasadenadogs
Cat and dog cases can be challenging! Cosmo is socially interested in Flash, but Cosmo's attempts to play have not gone well. We always have to take BOTH species needs into account! How did we start setting them up for success?
1. We provided both the cat a dog with safe places where they had access to food, water, and preferred bedding.
2. We set up safety measures with a buffer zone at a distance where the cat felt safe.
3. We started a foraging game independent of each other until they could successfully complete it without help from their guardians.
4. We avoided unsupervised interactions so that each time they were paired together, it resulted in safe and positive experiences.
5. We started off gradually but first put a blanket over the gate and gradually lifted it up as long as Flash's body language told us that he was relaxed and as long as Cosmo could continue using his nose (versus fixating and rushing the gate).
6. We gradually made the buffer zone smaller and allowed periods where they could co-exist without the distraction of a foraging game so they could learn to co-exist .
7. We made sure they both had escape options in case they needed a break or felt overwhelmed.
Stay tuned for the next steps!
#catdog #annearundelcountydogtraining #positivereinforcementdogtrainer
Hikes on the farm is the best part of my day. It gets better when joined by a little neighbor dog who loves to be in the mix!. # farming #springerspaniel # labradorretreiver #decompressionwalks #dogsofcharmcity
Management is manipulating our environment to set everyone up for success. What do I love about this set-up?
♡ They are managing a context that can be associated with conflict due to the presence of food (that typically has a history of being dropped on the floor!)
♡ There is a height differential. Baby is in a high chair, and the dog is on the floor.
♡ There is a physical barrier. In this case, a standing gate surrounding the high chair.
Management is essential in homes with children and dogs!
#dogs #childrendogs #dogtrainer
George is learning how to make good decisions when he sees other dogs and people when on leash. Often, the most important step is missed!
Things we need to provide reactive dogs when working them in environments that have a history of being challenging:
> Decompression time in a safe, quiet spot.
> Voluntary engagement that guarantees us the dog is ready to think and learn.
> Choice and control via a start button behavior so the dog knows he is never going to be forced into contexts that make him feel unsafe.
Way to go, Georgie! Your world is opening up because you have learned that your human is there to help you feel safe.
#reactivedog #australianshepherd #humanedogtraining
It can be challenging sometimes to apply what you know to your own dog. I recently had a vet visit to reassess Maya's medication protocol. It reminded me to start looking at my own dog's behavior objectively.
Maya likes to have access to a window, especially during departures. So, instead of closing the blinds and potentially making her anxious, I decided to audition cutting down her field of vision. For now, wax paper will do while I track her behavior. I'd it is an effective strategy, then I will invest in some prettier window film!
#reactivity
Maya rocked step two! A bike ride around the block!
