Saints Schooling for Dogs

30/08/2024

The Puppy's Choice 2024 - Young Puppy Foundations
Up to 6 months of age but with some flexibility to 7 months
5 week course
Start Date Friday 6th Sept. 2024 - every Friday for 4 weeks with the 5th week being Thursday, 3rd October.
Time 7pm to 7.50pm
Venue Lonmay Public Hall, Lonmay, Fraserburgh, AB43 8UH
Investment £120.00
Email [email protected] to book

25/08/2024

Dog In A Billion 🖤
and I've been blessed to have more than one.

'Thomas'

Older dogs are just simply magnicient. Each day becomes more and more precious (if that is even possible).

It saddens me that so many think you should not need to reward your dog once they know something or that they should just do what they are told anyway.

Thomas is my best friend. If he does something amazing and excells himself why on earth would I not want to give him at least a double thumbs up (that's his sign for 'you're doing a great job boy') and possibly a treat?

Then, the next time he might be pushed to his limit by something unexpected he will be far more likely to pause and look at me for guidance or reassurance before doing anything else

We all need to be told we are doing a great job or given a pat on the back (us humans, not necessarily our dogs), to have that acknowledgement that you even exist. To not acknowledge them when they are doing a great job is a huge missed opportunity to keep their confidence topped up and their relationship with you at its optimum.

He can attract quite a lot of attention and sometimes from overly pushy parents who 'insist' their toddler is experienced around dogs and Thomas should stand like a statue to be petted as they try and run in to him.

His incredible tolerance and focus towards myself in trying to ignore such unwanted intrusion is admirable........ every day he makes me super proud to stand at his side.

Be very aware of just how incredible our dogs are and what they have to process and deal with in their lives and be generous in praising them in a way that they love 🩶

17/08/2024

The Puppy's Choice 2024 - Young Puppy Foundations
Up to 6 months of age but with some flexibility to 7 months
5 week course
Start Date Friday 6th Sept. 2024 - every Friday for 4 weeks with the 5th week being Thursday, 3rd October.
Time 7pm to 7.50pm
Venue Lonmay Public Hall, Lonmay, Fraserburgh, AB43 8UH
Investment £120.00
Email [email protected] to book

Please note that I only use and promote sensitive, reward and choice based methods and this course is best suited for clients looking for this approach with their dogs. For those that perhaps have a different view but are possibly considering changing their approach then I recommend that you book a 121 with myself first of all. This will allow time to explain why I work as I do, for me to be able to demonstrate how such methods work and for you to then put into practice, in the session, the same handling techniques. This will then provide you with a better insight into how the courses are run before you book a space.

Spaces will be held for just 48 hours from me responding to any enquiry to book.
Please be sure to read the guidance, send in paperwork as required and note the terms and conditions. These are non-negotiable.
What Happens Next?
Once I have received the payment and required paperwork you will be sent an email. This advises what to bring along on your first night. Please note that all the information stated is specific for your puppy’s/dog’s needs and will help them, and you, settle in in the best way possible.
If you have any questions on ‘What To Bring Along’ or are not sure about something then please be sure to email me right away and well before the first night so you have plenty of time to plan and prepare in advance.

17/08/2024

Young Mabel 💝

17/08/2024

My young Mabel teaches me something every single day and it has been, and continues to be, a journey like no other.

One of her top tips is the importance of break time and the chance to chill out on a walk.
We were resting along a path that goes between farmers fields full of sheep, cows and with the odd deer suddenly appearing and shooting off at speed into the woodland aswell as pheasants hanging about expectantly for some of Mabel's treats 😊

Times like this are important for her otherwise she can become totally overwhelmed by the environment. It has been an incredibly difficult journey with her but the steady progression, taking the tiniest of steps on the days she could manage to take that extra step, have so been worth it and suddenly the difficult days are rare in these circumstances.

She is an absolute cuddle monster and is beginning to just love that really close connection and contact with me.

How do you and your dog chill out on a walk?

01/08/2024

Dogs use their body language, different parts of their body and sounds to communicate with us. While all dogs are different, a relaxed dog will often:

🐶 Have a neutral, wagging tail
🐶 Have soft eyes
🐶 C**k their head in an interested way if you talk to them.

This usually means they are happy to interact with you!

25/07/2024

Prong collars are a painful and unethical training collar some owners put on their dogs in an attempt to stop them from pulling on the lead.

25/07/2024

Food for thought for all you gentlemen out there.... and ladies of course 🙃
Edited
Sometimes in our attempts to have a well mannered dog we can, quite inadvertently, become a bit controlling and always be telling the dog what to do. They then may never learn to think for themselves and those that lack confidence can become worried about actually making a choice just in case it is wrong.

One may be incredibly sensitive to a tone of voice whilst another would not even be bothered.

With capturing what we like, it opens up another huge conversation with our dogs and, having watched my 10 year old Thomas last night coming up with some great new ideas, like using the footstool as a platform (to get my attention and be rewarded😘) I'm beginning to appreciate even more the overall benefits it can bring to our older dogs lives in keeping their minds and bodies active.

I love seeing my dogs, as they mature, being cheeky and thinking things through, coming up with new ideas in an attempt to achieve what they want at the end of it. Providing our guidance has worked over time and they offer what works for us, it's brilliant to see and makes our lives with them so much better with our relationship blossoming into something very special.

Below were my thoughts on this nice little video just in case of interest.

When our dogs are behaviour beautifully they tend to get ignored.
Remember, reward what you love then you'll get more of it. I liked the little visual communication he gave them, did you notice it...... (but on second view it may have been for the viewer?)
I use a thumbs up sign to let mine know, 'yes, you're doing a great job'.
What communication do you use, particularly at distance, to let your dog know they are doing great and to give you more of it?

20/07/2024

Just because 🩶

04/07/2024

Do you have a dog from overseas?

If so and you are struggling with their complex needs feel free to contact me, details below in comments.

At Battersea we've always believed in collaborating with colleagues across the sector and helping other organisations, whether that be in the UK or across th...

18/06/2024

A few years ago I met a lovely lady (and I think her husband, it was so long ago my memory isn’t always so great) regarding two dogs. I won’t go into the details but today, a post flagged up on Facebook for me. She had very kindly recommended me in a group.

On having thanked her for her lovely gesture and taking the time to put me forward to another, she then responded………. Her words made me cry.

It had been a case of collaboration at its absolute best. I’m so grateful to have met such wonderful people in my lifetime that make the world a better place, not just for animals but us humans too.

I thought I would share our words.
Saints Schooling for Dogs - absolutely first class. Can highly recommend. Susan is very experienced and wonderful with puppies.

Hello .....
Thank you so much for your kindest of words, so appreciated and what a lovely surprise you would think to mention after such a long time
I hope all is well, take care

Saints Schooling for Dogs you are so welcome Susan. Memories of your wonderful support has stayed with us ever since.
We hope you are well; all good here, thanks for asking. Take care

Feeling Happy 😊



Video just because it must have been around a similar time or thereabouts - of my Ruby and a much younger Thomas 💛🖤💕

12/06/2024

The Puppy Course? Last one for a while as other classes planned so best to book this coming one by tonight latest🐾info below

08/06/2024

A conversation between two good friends, a chat, a joke, some work and then play.

That's sort of what training is for me, what does it mean to you?

06/06/2024

Puppy people 🙂
I have a few people who want spaces on the course beginning on the 14th June but are just checking out bits and pieces with vets etc
If I'm waiting on an email update from you please let me know by tomorrow night as I will be readvertising this weekend.
Thank you 👌😊

PUPPY COURSE – HOW TO BE POLITELY SOCIAL

A foundation course that guides you around the subject of your puppy being politely social whilst their main focus is on wanting to be with you🐾👣

What are we aiming for?
Ultimately for a puppy to have the best of both worlds, to be able to play politely but also to learn the art of listening to you.
We will cover all things puppy related with the focus mainly on the above, so including how to have enjoyable walks and time together which will include how to build up walking nicely and ideas for setting up situations so your puppy keeps an eye on you and wants to be called back as you are where the fun is.

Yes, that’s right – you can build up a desire within your dog so that they are willing and waiting for a recall. It may be for a variety of reasons. It could be the charging back to you at speed, in itself, is rewarding, the run in and grabbing an (appropriate) toy so you can then both run side by side together so the tuggy game continues – the list is endless on how you can create a true desire for that ultimate run back and connection with you.

Starting 14th June 7pm and then every Friday for 5 weeks. 50 minute sessions. Investment £100. Lonmay Public Hall, Lonmay, Fraserburgh, AB43 8UH
Please note, this is a foundation course and is a starting point for your puppy’s journey.
The above does not allow for private consultation after/out with classes so for those looking for specific individual help a puppy package would be more suitable. Details and bookings via [email protected]
Limited spaces. Space held once payment is received.


(Photo of Kali and Fudge by kind permission of my client).

06/06/2024

Food for thought if you are thinking of rescuing from overseas

https://youtu.be/wmtGNIZfTXc?si=p_rIKN5IvtpM8iKv

At Battersea we've always believed in collaborating with colleagues across the sector and helping other organisations, whether that be in the UK or across th...

04/06/2024

New Arc Wildlife Rescue is asking for donations of towels.
Location drop offs in original post.
If anyone in Fraserburgh area can put forward a drop off point locally I'll happily take donations over to New Arc in a week or two. Just let me know below.
Be great if you could also share their post ☺

**WE NEED TOWELS**

Hey everyone!

Our Wildlife Rescue Centre is in urgent need of towels to help care for injured and orphaned animals. Towels are essential for providing warmth, comfort, and cleanliness to the wildlife we rescue.

How You Can Help:
🟢 Donate new or gently used towels of any size.
🟢 Share this post to spread the word.

Drop-off Locations:
New Arc Wildlife Rescue
Nether Auquhadlie
Ellon
AB41 8UW

New Arc Wildlife Rescue Charity Shop - Ellon
42 Bridge St
Ellon
AB41 9AA

If you prefer to make a monetary donation, please use the donate button below

Every towel makes a difference! Thank you for your support! 🦊🦆

02/06/2024

What type of training do I cover?

All your day to day needs for a happy family pet up to preparation for obedience and working trials competition.
I work with all breeds of all ages.
Retraining when things have gone wrong, with an in depth, 'no stone left unturned' approach so you get the best long term results.
German Shepherd Dog Specialist having lived and worked with this incredible breed for 25 years.
Walk and Train service where I attend to work your dog myself, be it at home or out on a walk.
Behaviour Specialist covering a wide range of areas. Complex cases are most welcomed.

All training is carried out using reward and choice based methods. Even if you currently train using other methods and would like an insight into what can be achieved I am more than happy to provide you with much 'food for thought' to take away with you to consider a possible alternative way forward with your own dog.
Alternatively, I can offer a one off session and work with your dog myself to provide you with some fresh ideas.

Below is a glimpse of my own youngster, just 16 months old now.

'Young Mabel on her first visit to Lonmay Public Hall. Absolutely thrilled with her attitude. A little strong at first outside and initially going in to the hall so just allowed her off lead to check everything out but within a couple of minutes she was totally focused on me with no real prompting. I confess I didn't really go in with a plan and just did what I felt at the time to coincide with what she was best able to offer me.
This included some static work, work on a platform, send to set up and (only occasionally) calling her out of it once I have a secure down, tiny runs of heelwork and introduction to the dumbbell.
She gets incredibly excited once she starts to understand an exercise so, in an attempt to dissect this last exercise and slow her down a little (her excitement and speed means she is unable to do a clean pick up and then she starts to mouth it which I don't want) I did a little exercise with her waiting, placing the dumbbell on the floor so she could pick it up cleanly and easily on her way to me and, with little distance covered, it minimised the excitement level so she gently placed it in my hands.
So super proud of her and the journey she is taking me on - another journey like no other and definitely one where she is keeping me on my toes with me frequently having to think outside the box.
Love you Mabel 🥰'

02/06/2024

Reminder To Always Bring A Bowl+Water To All Your Training Sessions (+On Your Walks)🚰

02/06/2024

Is your dog chilled out when the car is opened?
If not, what happens and what do you need help with?

30/05/2024

A 121 training session At Lonmay Public Hall, AB43 8UH has become available tomorrow 8pm. 50 mins. Investment £36. Email [email protected] to book plus advise what you would like to get out of the session. You can team up with a buddy and share the session/use it as a 'meet your trainer' opportunity.

Little sweetie Cooper from 2020 on an outing with me, looking at helping him to become more engaged with his family and coming up with some ideas to help him remain in the vicinity of them whilst improving his ability to walk nicely. An absolutely cracking little dog 🥰 - he tried so hard and was so attentive.

I think we need to be incredibly mindful that onlead work doesn't make the experience itself, from the dog's perspective, totally sour. We expect so much from them, to adjust their pace and the ground that they would naturally cover in their stride to suit every individual that walks them - and it is jolly difficult for them.

Let's give then a reason to be in our vicinity, to be as attentive as needed depending on circumstances, keep our 'demands' light and encouraging and think more about making walks an enjoyable experience for both our dogs and ourselves 🐾👣🌻🌺☀

This little session was on a small patch of grass on an industrial estate. It was only a few minutes long, we then had a cuddle and refreshments and got on our way. Doing little bits and pieces like this will really super charge your training and keep it fun for both of you. The skills you teach can then be more easily incorporated, in little short bursts, on your longer walks when you don't have the means to perhaps set a situation up to help the dog as I did in the video.

Happy Training ☺

18/05/2023

I have the following due to an over purchase.
3no 12kg bags of James Wellbeloved Puppy Turkey and Rice (dry food) £36.00 per bag.
Best before 15/6/23
Can meet up/drop off at Lidl/Argos carpark in Fraserburgh (or possibly deliver locally if taking all 3 bags).
If interested, email me - [email protected]
Thank you.

02/05/2023

'Cruel' electric shock collars banned in England

Published on 28 April 2023 at 2:17pm
In a ‘historic moment for animal welfare’ The Kennel Club has welcomed news that the Government has laid legislation which will completely ban the use of remote controlled electric shock collars in England, as of 1 February 2024, following a ten year campaign to .

Electric shock collars deliver an electric shock to a dog’s neck via a remote control, up to a radius of two miles – meaning a dog not within sight of its owner could still be shocked – and for up to 11 seconds at a time. With five per cent of dog owners reportedly using electric shock collars, a complete ban on their use across the UK should mean half a million dogs will be saved from being trained by these highly aversive devices.

The announcement from Westminster comes thirteen years after these cruel and outdated devices were banned in Wales, under The Animal Welfare (Electronic Collars) (Wales) Regulations and they have also recently been banned in France, as of January 2023. Following a cross-welfare organisation event in Westminster in November 2022, co-hosted by The Kennel Club, the organisation also continues to ramp up its campaign to see regulations introduced in Scotland – last month hosting a drop-in session for MSPs with MSP Christine Graham and the Scottish SPCA – after the Scottish Government’s guidance, condemning the use of shock collars in 2018, has been shown to be ineffective.

There is wide-ranging evidence demonstrating the detrimental effect that these can have on the welfare of dogs. In 2019, a study carried out by the University of Lincoln showed that electric shock collars compromised dog’s well-being, even when used by ‘professional’ e-collar trainers, and were no more effective in training than positive reinforcement methods.

Mark Beazley, Chief Executive of The Kennel Club said: “The legislation banning electric shock collars in England, which comes into force next year, is a historic moment for animal welfare and will put an end to the misery and suffering of countless dogs who are still subject to these cruel and unnecessary devices. There is simply no excuse for using these devices, which cause physical and psychological harm, especially given the vast array of positive training methods available.

“This is the culmination of over a decade of campaigning for us and we applaud Defra for helping to safeguard the welfare of our nation’s much-loved dogs. More action is urgently needed in Scotland, where regulations are needed to replace the ineffective guidance currently in place, and we will not rest until we see the complete ban on these devices that cause suffering and harm.”

Further information about The Kennel Club’s campaign to ban electric shock collars can be found by visiting The Kennel Club website.

12/02/2023

Proud to be a member

Allowing Animals To Be Who They Are
To Make Great Choices
To Build Partnerships

POSITION STATEMENT

The Dog Welfare Alliance Members are all advocates of training using kind and effective methods, that have been carefully vetted on application to join us.

Our declaration, that ALL members must make before joining, shows our stance on aversive training methods and equipment.

We are not just a membership of trainers and behaviourists, but we include ALL dog professionals of many trades from artists to walkers. We all have a duty to make the dogs in our homes and our work lives (and beyond) feel as comfortable, safe, happy and well-rounded as possible, and to do that, we actively reject methods that will harm or cause fear or stress to the dog.

There is NEVER a need to use aversive methods and equipment in training, living with or working with ANY animal.

We, as a collective, actively promote learning through kindness, compassion and rewards.

We are proud of our ethics and our results.

~ The Dog Welfare Alliance

07/02/2023

The Real Causes Behind Dog Bites.

With so much incorrect information out there, be it online or in general chat between people, I encourage you all to have a read, from start to finish so you don't miss any points at all.

The post is not about scaremongering, it is about having an open mind, considering different viewpoints and those backed up with evidence. Only by doing this will we make positive changes.

Dear Editor, As a coalition of organisations who care for animals impacted by Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991) and who hold policies opposing Breed Specific Legislation, we are writing to you following the recent article calling for three changes to this legislation. We are all deeply shoc...

21/10/2022

🎨 Iain Welch Art and Design https://iainwelch.co.uk/

02/10/2022

🐾The Puppy's Choice 🐾
Puppy Course start date Thursday, 6th October at 10 a.m. and every Thursday for 5 weeks in all. 1 to 1.5 hours each session allowing time for your questions in relation to your puppy's early weeks and the course content.
Investment £105.00
St. Combs, (outdoors), Fraserburgh
To book, email [email protected] with the following:
Full name and mobile number, puppy's name, age (date of birth), breed, when did you collect your puppy and brief progress to date high-lighting any particular struggles that may be of concern to you.
Please be sure to provide all information as requested as these emails will be given priority booking in. Puppies need to be vaccinated and have third party public liability insurance cover in place. Please send proof of this with your email.
Photo of the lovely Luna, all grown up, by kind permission of Kerry Dey.

02/10/2022

01/10/2022

🐾 💖

Absolutely!

24/09/2022

🐾The Puppy's Choice 🐾

Update to below course 😉
The start date will now be Thursday 6th October.

EMAIL [email protected]
Please don't leave messages on Facebook/messaging as I may miss them. Thank you.
PUPPY COURSE - ONLY 4 SPACES AVAILABLE NOW.
STARTS 10 A.M. TILL 11 A.M. THURSDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER
ONE SESSION EVERY WEEK FOR 5 WEEKS WITH INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT THROUGHOUT.
INVESTMENT £105.00
ST. COMBS (OUTDOORS), FRASERBURGH

Photo by kind permission of Greg Paterson with Kali and Fudge 🥰