Dependable Partners Dog Training, LLC

06/09/2021

Did some gardening today, switching out dying summer annuals for healthy fall annuals. And I learned some new things! Mums can give dogs upset stomach, and lantana are poisonous. They're now in front, not in the back with my dogs.

Here's some more info on plants and pups.

https://www.southernliving.com/garden/flowers/pet-friendly-plants

Know before you grow, and your pets will thank you!

11/08/2021

01/08/2021

If you have puppies, be careful of over-exertion (too much activity) and especially activities that put a lot of stress on joints.

When you get your 8 week old puppies, please keep these images in mind. Their bones do not even touch yet. They plod around so cutely with big floppy paws and wobbly movement because their joints are entirely made up of muscle, tendons, ligaments with skin covering. Nothing is fitting tightly together or has a true socket yet.

When you run them excessively or don't restrict their exercise to stop them from overdoing it during this period you don't give them a chance to grow properly. Every big jump or excited bouncing run causes impacts between the bones. In reasonable amounts this is not problematic and is the normal wear and tear that every animal will engage in.

When you're letting your puppy jump up and down off the lounge or bed, take them for long walks/hikes, you are damaging that forming joint. When you let the puppy scramble on tile with no traction you are damaging the joint.

You only get the chance to grow them once. A well built body is something that comes from excellent breeding and a great upbringing-BOTH, not just one.

Once grown you will have the rest of their life to spend playing and engaging in higher impact exercise. So keep it calm while they're still little baby puppies and give the gift that can only be given once.

By Patricia Crespo
Photos Veteriankey.com @62 days

*Many Bones are not fully fused until 13mo of age.

20/06/2021

If you're heading back to work and concerned about the change in routine for your dog...

Dog and cat adoptions climbed in 2020. Pets have been constant companions — easing our grief and fears. Now it's our turn to ease dogs' separation anxiety, as we head back out into the world.

06/05/2021

02/07/2020

UPDATE 3/9/2022 Currently, I am not scheduled to teach at Feeders Supply. Happy Tails, the dog training business which had contracted me was sold to Feeders. Although I'm not in the regular line-up of instructors, I am on the sub list and I may be teaching a few special topics courses (one for seniors with pups; and a summer kids and pups session). Stay tuned for updates.

If you are an existing client and want to set up a private virtual (internet-based) Zoom class with me, I'm happy to schedule it and accept payment via PayPal prior to the class. $55 for 40 minute session (recommended for most behaviors). You'll need access to a computer with Zoom software downloaded, a reliable internet connection, and a space suitable for the behavior(s) you want to train.

I also offer in-person OUTDOOR private lessons for established clients (and those referred by former clients.) $60/hour or $35/ half hour.

If you are an established client and you're interested in setting up a Zoom session or want a private OUTDOOR session, please PM or email ([email protected]) me and we can chat about what you want.

18/06/2020

Summer officially begins this week. Please don't leave your dogs unattended in a vehicle when it is hot.

I’d bet the farm that everyone who follows me knows how dangerous it is to leave a dog in a car in warm weather. But still, what if just one person needs a reminder? Or, if you share this with someone who might appreciate one?

14/05/2020

This is excellent advice! I've been taking my now 6-month old German Shepherd, Zoe, to shopping centers. She likes the low-level activity that we've found in these places and can relax most times. In areas with more movement, she stops moving herself to take it all in. So follow the advice below - wait until your pup becomes bored. Also: Once they're routinely bored with a minimal level of activity, next time, go to a new place that has more activity!

I’m seeing a trend in Covid-time puppies. They are very triggered by movement.

To me this suggests they are not seeing enough. I spend hours a week sitting in different places in the real world. Take your own lawn chair and watch traffic. Watch people going in and out of shops. Watch kids playing.

They key is to stay long enough until your puppy is bored.

Socializing means seeing the world. Not interacting with it...

Monique Anstee
VICTORIA, BC

07/05/2020

COVID-19 update: I won't be teaching group pet obedience classes at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply until August at the earliest (I will not be teaching in the June session). As someone with a new puppy myself, I know the lack of classes nowadays can be challenging. I do, however, think this is the safest for everyone.

In the meantime, if you want to set up a private virtual (internet-based) Zoom class with me, I'm happy to schedule it and accept payment via PayPal prior to the class. $65 for 50 minute session (recommended for most behaviors) or $35 for half hour for targeted training or brushing up on skills. You'll need access to a computer with Zoom software downloaded, a reliable internet connection, and a space suitable for the behavior(s) you want to train.

If you're interested in setting up a private session, please PM me and we can chat about what you want and if a virtual session would work for your needs.

25/03/2020

Prevent your pups from getting too attached now, if you're home a lot more than you used to be!

17/03/2020

Some of you know that I recently got a puppy! (Yay! She's a sassy and sweet German Shepherd - 17 weeks now - named Zoe.)

I didn't time it particularly well with the COVID-19 virus- but I don't know if the time to get a puppy is ever perfect. So here's to looking for up-sides to imposed isolation with a puppy!

I'm fortunate in that, in my full-time (non-dog training) job, I'm now working remotely (online) from home. So I've been doing some training with her, when I take work breaks. She's learning the usual: sit, down, stay, wait, off, drop, leave it, come. We're doing short (5 minute) training sessions at a time to keep her focused and interested; you don't want to overload a puppy and frustrate them! But I have been doing more than 1 session a day, spaced out throughout the day.

We also started Susan Garrett's "Crate games"... cuz, well, she just isn't good being in her crate. She wants to be with me - which is good. But she needs to learn to settle in her crate. We'll use this time to get us farther along.

Later this week, I'll be imprinting some agility "flatwork" (non-jumping, on-the-ground work) that will help with her later agility training once her growth plates have closed. A few basic Novice rally exercises will be next. But we'll build up to that slowly - again, one thing at a time so she doesn't get overwhelmed.

Then I also ran across a nice write-up on socializing puppies when we don't want them to be meeting new people face-to-face right now. Much of it isn't new to dog trainers, but it's helpful to hear again. Socializing isn't just about direct interactions with new people. It's also about exposure to places, and to seeing new people at a distance. It's also about seeing familiar people ... who make an attempt to look odd. Time to break out those hats, costumes, umbrellas and more!

For those of you who might be in a similar situation and are thinking about "how to socialize a puppy during a pandemic", here is a link to a really nice blog that might also give you a few ideas.
https://www.avidog.com/puppy-socialization-in-the-age-of-coronavirus/?fbclid=IwAR1g5M3GdyahEHpWEP4OuV2DXatZTmUGqU85Fxbs-cpvcd5EUUvnlGPb0Ms

How do you socialize your puppies during a pandemic like coronavirus? Eight tips for keeping your pups development going while quarantined.

13/02/2020

CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19
The next session will (hopefully) begin June 15.

The next round of training classes starts in a month, beginning Monday March 16 at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply! I'd love to have you and your dog join me - it'll be fun! Classes are 6-weeks, on Monday evenings:

*6:30 pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog. This class is an introduction to pet obedience and assumes that your dog has never taken an obedience class. We'll start from the very beginning! The first class session is humans-only but your pups will come with you for the remaining 5 weeks.

*7:45 pm for Level 2 dogs/puppies. Dogs must have had an intro pet obedience class somewhere- not necessarily at Feeder's Supply - and be able to walk on a loose leash, sit, down, and come on command. Plus do a 1-minute sit/stay. They don't need to be perfect - we'll be fine-tuning those skills - but they should know how to do the basics and be comfortable around other dogs.

Cost for the 6-week course is $76.50 plus 6% sales tax = 81.09 (PLUS a $17.50 reservation fee paid directly to Feeders Supply to reserve your spot and pay for space rental). total=$98.59.

Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 paying students signed up in advance, in order to be held. If you are thinking about enrolling, don't risk having the class cancelled, please sign up in advance at the store and pay $17.50 to reserve a spot!

09/12/2019

Best wishes to all as we enjoy the holiday season! As you celebrate the past year and look forward to the new one, if you drink, please do so responsibly!

19/11/2019

Level II Class "graduation" night tonight! Great group of handlers and pups.

08/11/2019

New year, new dog training classes!

Come join me for the next round of dog obedience classes starting up on January 27 at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply! I'd love to have you and your dog join me - it'll be fun!

*6:30 pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog. This class is an introduction to pet obedience and assumes that your dog has never taken an obedience class. We'll start from the very beginning! The first class session is humans-only but your pups will come with you for the remaining 5 weeks.

*7:45 pm for Level 2 dogs/puppies. Dogs must have had an intro pet obedience class somewhere- not necessarily at Feeder's Supply - and be able to walk on a loose leash, sit, down, and come on command. Plus do a 1-minute sit/stay. They don't need to be perfect - we'll be fine-tuning those skills - but they should know how to do the basics and be comfortable around other dogs.

Cost for the 6-week course is $76.50 plus 6% sales tax = 81.09 (PLUS a $17.50 reservation fee paid directly to Feeders Supply to reserve your spot and pay for space rental). total=$98.59.

Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 paying students signed up in advance, in order to be held. If you are thinking about enrolling, don't risk having the class cancelled, please sign up in advance at the store and pay $17.50 to reserve a spot!

13/09/2019

Come join me for the next round of dog obedience classes starting up on October 14 at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply! (Note the new start date! I need to start this session 1 week later than originally advertised.) I'd love to have you and your dog join me - it'll be fun!

*6:30 pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog. This class is an introduction to pet obedience and assumes that your dog has never taken an obedience class. We'll start from the very beginning! The first class session is humans-only but your pups will come with you for the remaining 5 weeks.

*7:45 pm for Level 2 dogs/puppies. Dogs must have had an intro pet obedience class somewhere- not necessarily at Feeder's Supply - and be able to walk on a loose leash, sit, down, and come on command. They don't need to be perfect - we'll be fine-tuning those skills - but they should know how to do the basics and be comfortable around other dogs.

Cost for the 6-week course is $65 plus sales tax = 68.90 (PLUS a $15 reservation fee paid directly to Feeders Supply to reserve your spot and pay for space rental). total=$84.90.

Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 students, paid and signed up in advance, in order to be held. If you are thinking about enrolling, don't risk having the class cancelled, please sign up in advance at the store and pay $15 to reserve a spot!

19/07/2019

We all know it's hot out there. Be careful with your pets and keep an eye out for neighbors' pets and stray animals. Know the signs of heat stress (serious but not necessarily deadly) and heatstroke (very serious and most often needs medical intervention)- and know what to do and not do! (One tip; do NOT use ice water, cool the pet slowly).

19/07/2019

Come join me for the next round of dog obedience classes starting up on August 5 at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply!

*6:30 pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog. This class is an introduction to pet obedience and assumes that your dog has never taken an obedience class. We'll start from the very beginning! The first class session is humans-only.

*7:45 pm for Level 2 dogs/puppies. Dogs must have had an intro pet obedience class somewhere- not necessarily at Feeder's Supply - and be able to walk on a loose leash, sit, down, and come on command. They don't need to be perfect - we'll be fine-tuning those skills - but they should know how to do the basics and be comfortable around other dogs.

Cost for the 6-week course is $80 (including the $15 reservation fee paid directly to Feeders Supply to reserve your spot and pay for space rental), plus sales tax on the dog training portion of the course fee.

Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 students, paid and signed up in advance, in order to be held. If you are thinking about enrolling, don't risk having the class cancelled, please sign up in advance at the store and pay $15 to reserve a spot!

01/07/2019

The 4th of July is coming and even if you like fireworks, chances are that your dog (or cat or other pet) does not! Here are some tips to help keep them safe and calm.

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/25/f6/79/25f679155c1ccf8acc5eae8f8edbbb43--safety-tips-dog-safety.jpg

28/05/2019

Don't forget to spend quality time with your pup this summer!

If you're interested in training your dog (and training can be FUN!), I'm offering two 6-week classes beginning this coming Monday, June 3 at the Holiday Manor Feeders Supply store.

*6:30 pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog. This class is an introduction to pet obedience and assumes that your dog has never taken an obedience class. We'll start from the very beginning! The first class is humans-only.
*7:45 pm for Level 2 dogs/puppies. Dogs must have had an intro pet obedience class somewhere- not necessarily at Feeder's Supply - and be able to walk on a loose leash, sit, down, and come on command. They don't need to be perfect - we'll be fine-tuning those skills - but they should know how to do the basics and be comfortable around other dogs.

Total cost for the 6 week classes is $80 (including the $15 reservation fee paid to Feeders Supplies), plus sales tax (The balance after the reservation fee is $69.80, payable to me, "Debbie Potter").

Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 students to be held. The Level 2 class currently has no students and if no one signs up by Sunday, it will be cancelled. If you are thinking about enrolling, don't risk having the class cancelled, please sign up in advance at the store and pay $15 to reserve a spot!

10/05/2019

Last weekend I participated in the first NADAC (agility) trainers' seminar in Kansas City. I successfully completed the program and now am a NADAC sponsored agility trainer! What does that mean? Stay tuned as NADAC fine tunes details on their end and as I work w others to figure things out here to offer private and (beginning) group agility classes, with a NADAC flavor but geared toward a variety of agility venues, to increase participation in local trials.

08/05/2019

17/04/2019

Summer is a great time to begin - or fine-tune - how you and your dog work together. Obedience can be fun and help you build your relationship with your special pup!

The next round of obedience classes I teach at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply will begin on Monday June 3. I will be teaching a six-week class session Monday evenings: 6:30 pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog; and a 7:45 pm for Level 2 (dogs must have had an intro pet obedience class somewhere- not necessarily at Feeder's Supply). Total cost for the 6 week classes is $80 (including the $15 reservation fee), plus sales tax.

Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 students to be held - don't risk having the class canceled, please sign up in advance at the store and pay $15 to reserve a spot!

15/02/2019

The next round of obedience classes at Holiday Manor Feeders Supply will begin on Monday March 18. I will be teaching a six-week class session Monday evenings: 6:30pm for Level 1 puppy/ adult dog; Check it out and tell your friends! (note my email: [email protected]). Classes must have a minimum of 4 students to be held - don't risk having the class canceled, please sign up in advance!

Note: the Level 2 class scheduled for 7:45 was cancelled (only 2 students signed up in advance.)

The next session will begin June 3. Level 1 Adult/Puppy at 6:30pm and Level 2 at 7:45pm.

28/01/2019

This coming week will bring some very cold weather. Please keep an eye on your dog when they are outside. It only takes a short time in very cold weather for dogs (and people) to develop hypothermia. If you regularly keep your dog outside, please bring them inside - even to a garage. Dogs can and do literally freeze to death in the cold.

This chart is from Tufts and Petplan.

22/12/2018

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday and New Year! Take a few minutes to run through a checklist (yours or the one posted here) to be sure you keep your dog safe!!!

https://topdogtips.com/img/Christmas-Safety-Tips.jpg

18/12/2018

Want to build a better relationship with your pup? Have a new-to-you dog and want to learn doggy basics? Need to brush up on some commands? I'll be starting a new round of classes at Feeders Supply Holiday Manor beginning Mon Jan 28. A combined puppy/adult dog obedience 1 meets at 6:30. Level 2 (with CGC prep) meets at 7:45. For Level 2, at a minimum, your pup should have good manners and know sit, down, stay (you should be able to walk 10+ft away). Both classes are 6 weeks, $80 total plus tax (84.80). $15 payable to Feeders when you reserve your spot, balance due at first class.

22/11/2018

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! Be sure to keep your pups safe. If you're having guests, give your dogs a quiet place to go to if they get overwhelmed. Be careful letting guests in and out so your dog doesn't escape. Have their ID tags on if they are mingling with your company, just in case they do manage to sneak out the door. And give them something special to eat - but be careful to avoid food that is dangerous to them.

25/06/2018

Aussie Rescue Indiana

06/12/2017

Tufts professor seeking participants for canine behavior study

Online survey for folks who have dogs with behavioral issues, conducted by Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman.

http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/tufts-professor-seeking-participants-canine-behavior-study

Nicholas Dodman, co-founder of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies, aims to expand his research.