Maggie O'Connell - Professional Dog Trainer

13/05/2024

Happy mother's day, whether your kids have fur, hair, paws, or fingers.... or a combination thereof! 😅

hug your babies tightly today and every day! 💖

29/09/2023

I've been waiting on a few more photos to trickle in to share to make sure I had everybody but congratulations to the first Orchard Hills group for graduating the Manner Basics class! This was a totally fun group and I'm so thankful to everyone for sticking it out with me!

I'm bummed that we didn't get a group picture but aren't these little graduation pictures just the cutest?! 🥰🥰🥰

10/09/2023

hey y'all!
don't forget to bring your dog's bed or a blanket/towel to class tonight! 😊

03/09/2023

Hi Orchard Hills! Quick reminder that we will NOT have class today as per last week's discussion due to the holiday. I'll see you all next week at our usual time! 🙂

24/08/2023

Hey there, fellow pet parents! Today, let's have a chat about something that might not be the first thing on our minds, but is incredibly important for our four-legged pals - dog microchips. These tiny devices are like your dog's personal ID card, and they play a big role in keeping our furry buddies safe and sound.

Alright, so picture this: your dog suddenly goes on an unplanned adventure, slipping through the fence or dashing out the front door. It's every pet owner's nightmare, right? But hang on, here's where the microchip magic comes into play.

So, What Exactly Are Dog Microchips?
Think of dog microchips as super-small electronic chips – we're talking the size of a rice grain – that get implanted just beneath your pup's skin. No, it's not going to turn them into cyborgs, don't worry! This chip holds a unique ID number that links to your contact details in a big pet owner database.

How Do They Work, You Ask?
Good question! So, if your little explorer ends up at a shelter or vet clinic, they'll be scanned with a handheld device. It's like giving your dog a little boop with a magic wand. Beep, and there you have it – your dog's ID number pops up on the scanner. This number is like a golden ticket to the database, where your contact info resides. This means you're just a phone call away from your lost pup!

Why Should You Care About Microchips?
Well, collars and tags can fall off or get scratched and become unreadable in the midst of all that adventuring. But a microchip? It's your pet's permanent ID, their lifetime BFF. If they're ever found miles away from home, that tiny chip becomes your pet's superhero cape. It increases the chances of them being reunited with you by leaps and bounds.

Some advanced microchips can even hold medical details. It's like your dog's medical history in a micro-sized capsule – super handy in emergencies.

So, what's the takeaway? Studies show that microchipped dogs are way more likely to find their way back home. It's like a safety net for you and your furry sidekick. They're a permanent ID that increases the chances of your lost pet finding their way back to you. If your pup isn't chipped yet, maybe it's time to have that chat with your vet. Because every tail-wagging adventurer deserves a way back home, right?

PS - don't forget you need to REGISTER your dog's microchip once you have one! Otherwise, your information will not be tied to it at all!

Let's get chipping!😁

13/08/2023

edit: it looks like no one was able to make it to our virtual make up/review tonight so I look forward to seeing you all next Sunday at 6!

here is the link for anyone that missed it in the comments of the previous post:
meet.google.com/qoy-dndy-gqj

13/08/2023

Reminder to Orchard Hills there is no in-person class today! I will host a virtual review/make-up/Q&A at our normal class time, link to follow! 😊

10/08/2023

I just found this out today! Xylitol is toxic to dogs and commonly found in peanut butter; make sure to check your ingredients for birch sugar as well!

06/08/2023

hey Orchard Hills! don't forget to bring different tiers of treats for class today! and also your dog's favorite toy! 😊

22/07/2023

just an FYI, if you haven't done it yet I would highly recommend getting your dog microchipped! it could be the difference between finding them out of state on vacation and not. when your dog goes for their annual checkup (or vaccines), you should ask the vet to scan their chip to make sure it is in working order and hasn't moved down their body anywhere!

I thought I'd pass along this info but this is all the info I have. I am inside of you must be a resident of lake county (or Eustis itself) but it's worth looking into!

13/07/2023

Hiya Orchard Hills pals! If you are signed up for Sunday's class, please check your junk mail for a vaccine upload form! If you did not get it, please shoot me a message and I can send you the link to upload. I need to have those documents by Saturday evening if at all possible! If you are having trouble with it, please arrive 10 - 15 minutes early to class so I can walk you through the process and get those records documented!

I'm looking forward to seeing all of you! :)

06/07/2023

2nd UPDATE: wow!! that's a wrap, group class #1 is officially FULL! I am so excited to run group classes again after doing exclusively private lessons for so long! I will see you all on the 16th! 😊

UPDATE: only one spot is left in the class as of 7/7! Register now for your confirmation!

ORCHARD HILLS!! Your class date is LIVE and bookable! We will be starting Sunday, July 16th at 6pm! Please review this PDF for class pricing, schedule, requirements, rules, etc.:

https://tinyurl.com/GroupClassInformation

Note: prices displayed in the PDF are cash prices; if using a credit/debit card, you will see the price slightly higher at checkout due to card processing fees.

Spots are first come first served and need to be booked to attend! Space must be booked at minimum 24 hours in advance.

TO BOOK A SPOT:
Step 1: Use the following link to book the Orchard Hills Group class. Please book one spot PER DOG attending the class, not per family!
https://tinyurl.com/bookorchardhillsgroupclass

Step 2: Complete the registration for each dog. The last question will ask what payment method you would like to use. When you complete registration successfully, you will be redirected to another page, please click "pay for a class" if you wish to use a card. If you are bringing cash/check to class #1, you may exit this page as you are finished!

Step 3: Find the corresponding Orchard Hills Group Class on the payment site and proceed with checkout. If you are enrolling and paying for multiple dogs, please make sure to choose 2nd dog, 3rd dog, etc. as they are discounted!
This site is run through Square so if you've ever visited a food truck and paid with a card it's likely the same system! :) If you'd prefer I send you an invoice directly, or if you are using a payment app, please message me and I can send the request that way too.

Step 4: Once the above steps are completed, I will confirm your spot in the class with you. If you only wish to do a half class or drop ins, please wait to check out. I will confirm whether space allows a few days prior to class #1 and will get those interested registered at that time.

If you have any questions, please message me before booking!

04/07/2023

🐶🎇 Happy 4th of July, fur-riends! 🎇🐾

Keep your pups safe and happy this Independence Day! 🇺🇸🐾

🐶💙🎆

01/07/2023

ATTENTION ORCHARD HILLS!!
TODAY, July 2nd at 6:00pm I will be hosting a "meet the trainer virtual event via Google meet ahead of the much anticipated training class likely to happen! if you would like the link to join the meeting, please join the Orchard Hills: Meet The Trainer event where I will be posting the link to the Google meet!

If you have any questions about the meeting, please shoot me a message!

18/06/2023

🎉 Happy Father's Day to all the pawsome dog dads out there! 🐶❤️
Today, we're celebrating those brave souls who have mastered the art of managing a household with wagging tails, muddy paws, and an endless supply of chewed-up slippers. 😅

To all the dog dads who have become experts at decoding their pups' unique barks, who have perfected the art of dodging zoomies in the living room, and who can magically transform any mess into a photo-worthy moment, we salute you! 🙌🐾

On this special day, let's give a shoutout to those dog dads who have endured the dreaded midnight bathroom breaks, who have become professional p**p scoopers, and who have learned the hard way that "fetch" can quickly turn into "chase me around the park for hours." 🏃‍♂️🎾

Here's to the dog dads who are always up for a game of tug-of-war, who never say no to a long hike in the great outdoors, and who have discovered that their best workout partner has four legs and a wagging tail. 🏋️‍♂️🐕

29/05/2023

Memorial Day is more than just barbecues and pool parties. It is a day when we remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and that includes the dogs who have served alongside them. Throughout history, dogs have played important roles in the military, serving as scouts, messengers, sentries, and even as combatants. More recently, they have been used as bomb-sniffing dogs, working to keep our troops safe from harm.

While many dogs have served alongside their human counterparts, they have also made sacrifices and contributed to our military efforts. Some have been injured, while others have given their lives. On Memorial Day, it's important to remember and pay tribute to their service and sacrifice.

One way to do this is to take a moment to learn more about the role that dogs have played in military service. You could also visit a local war memorial or cemetery to pay your respects, and consider sharing stories of canine heroes with your friends and family. By doing so, you can help ensure that the contributions of these four-legged heroes are never forgotten.

To all those that have served, four, three, two, and one-legged, thank you for your service.

Celebrate war dogs by learning about military working dog heroes in United States history.

26/05/2023

Memorial Day weekend is here, and if you're planning to travel with your furry friend, it's important to make sure you're prepared. Here's a last-minute packing list to make sure you have everything you need for a fun and safe trip:

Food and water: Be sure to bring enough food and water for your dog, as well as bowls for them to eat and drink from.

Medications: If your dog takes any medications, be sure to bring them along, as well as any instructions for dosage and administration.

Leash and collar: Make sure your dog has a sturdy leash and collar, and that their ID tags are up to date with your current contact information.

Bedding and blankets: Bring along a familiar blanket or bedding to help your dog feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar setting.

Toys and treats: Bring along your dog's favorite toys and treats to keep them entertained during the trip.

P**p bags: Don't forget to bring along p**p bags to clean up after your dog on walks and at rest stops.

Paper towels: There's nothing worse than a dog suddenly becoming carsick on a long trip and having nothing to clean it up with! Pack a roll of paper towels that you can easily access in the main area of your car!

First aid kit: A basic first aid kit for dogs can come in handy in case of minor injuries or emergencies.

Vaccination records: Bring along your dog's vaccination records, as some places may require proof of vaccinations.

Microchip: Make sure your dog's microchip information is up to date! If anything happens, a microchip scan and up-to-date contact info will make reuniting you with your furry friend a breeze!

By making sure you have all of these items, you can help ensure that your dog is comfortable, happy, and safe during your Memorial Day weekend travels. And remember, always be mindful of your dog's needs and behavior, and take breaks as needed to keep them comfortable during long car rides or other travel.

25/05/2023

Memorial Day is a time for barbecues, picnics, and outdoor gatherings, and while it's easy to get caught up in the festivities, it's important to remember that some foods can be harmful to our furry friends. Here are some dog-safe foods to include in your Memorial Day spread:

Grilled chicken: Grilled chicken is a great source of protein and a healthy alternative to hot dogs and hamburgers. Just be sure to remove any bones and seasoning before feeding it to your dog.

Carrots and green beans: These vegetables make great snacks for dogs and are low in calories. They're also a good source of fiber and vitamins.

Watermelon: Many dogs love watermelon, and it's a great way to help them stay hydrated on a hot day. Just be sure to remove any seeds before feeding it to your dog.

Apples: Apples are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and many dogs enjoy the taste. Just be sure to remove any seeds and cut the apple into bite-sized pieces.

Plain, unsalted popcorn: Popcorn can be a healthy and low-calorie snack for dogs, as long as it's plain and unsalted. It's also a good source of fiber.

While it's important to keep your dog's diet in mind during holiday festivities, it's always a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before introducing any new foods. By keeping these dog-safe foods in mind, you can ensure that your furry friend is able to enjoy Memorial Day right alongside you.

Here is a video showcasing how you can make pet-friendly kabobs for your weekend festivities!

Fire up the grill! We’re bringing you DIY pet-safe kabobs you can make for dogs and cats. These DIY pet treats are a fun and tasty way to include your BFF in...

14/05/2023

Mother's Day is a pawsome occasion to celebrate all the amazing moms out there, including the dog moms! Let's give a round of ap-paws to all the moms who know that the best way to start the day is with a wagging tail and a wet nose.

Whether you're a human mom or a dog mom, you know that motherhood is ruff but rewarding. You spend your days fetching, cuddling, and trying to keep everyone from getting into trouble. But at the end of the day, when you get that slobbery kiss or that loving look, you know it's all worth it.

So, to all the moms out there, including the ones with fur and four legs, Happy Mother's Day! May your day be filled with treats, belly rubs, and lots of love. Let's raise the woof and celebrate all the amazing things that moms do!

05/05/2023

Oh yeah! Here's a throwback to when my ran in a race for and LOST because he came in 2nd! So close! He got a participation ribbon though! 😅

watch the video here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxGVl5CAvba

see his thoughts here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxJJzIoALhS

05/05/2023

Happy Cinco de Mayo! 🎉 Today we're celebrating Mexican culture and what better way to do that than by giving a shout-out to the amazing Xoloitzcuintli breed! No idea what that word is? It's pronounced SHOW-loit-SQUEENT-lay, commonly shortened to Xolo, pronounced SHOW-low.

The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican hairless dog, is a fascinating breed that has been a part of Mexican culture for centuries. These unique dogs are known for their hairlessness, with the exception of a few tufts of hair on their heads, tails, and feet. The Xolo has been depicted in ancient Mexican art and was believed to have healing powers, which is why they were often used for medicinal purposes.

In addition to their rich history, the Xolo is also known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature. They make wonderful companions and are great with children. Although they don't have a lot of fur, they do require special care to protect their sensitive skin, such as sunscreen and protective clothing in extreme temperatures.

The Xoloitzcuintli has gained popularity in recent years, not just in Mexico but around the world. This unique and beautiful breed is now recognized by the American Kennel Club and has even been featured in movies and TV shows.

So on this Cinco de Mayo, let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible Xolo breed and their important role in Mexican culture. 🐾🎉

Xolos are over 3,000 years old, having been revered by ancient Aztecs in Mexico who called them Xoloitzcuintli, after an Aztec fire god plus the word "dog".

22/04/2023

Happy ! Today, let's celebrate the amazing planet we call home and think about how we can make it a better place for all of its inhabitants, including our furry friends. Did you know that dogs can be great environmentalists? By picking up after them, using eco-friendly products, and reducing their carbon pawprint, we can help create a healthier planet for them to run and play. Let's all do our part to protect our Earth and keep it beautiful for generations to come! 🌍🐾

For more information about ways to be Earth-conscious today and moving forward, check out this link: https://www.doghealth.com/care/dogs-and-their-people/2231-earth-day-ways-to-observe-earth-day-with-your-dog

21/04/2023

Hiya pals! I had a new client reach out to me for training classes but they are outside of my service area in Winter Springs! I've tracked down a couple of colleagues but they have also moved away or are no longer training... Has anyone that I've trained with used another trainer (no hard feelings, seriously!) that services Winter Springs that they have had results with and would personally recommend? I'm trying to get her a name or two of options since I am unable to meet her needs in that area. Please message your recommendations to me or leave them in the comments if you're comfortable!

Thanks and I hope you are all well!

24/03/2023

My Google listing photos finally went through after being rejected what seems like 100 times! If you've ever taken classes/private lessons with me, I would be eternally grateful if you could leave me a review and post a photo of your pup! Any activity - reviews being left, photo uploads, shares, etc. help my Google listing climb in local rankings! ❣️❣️

Post a review to our profile on Google

12/03/2023

hiya friends! I just recently figured out I could create a Google Business Profile without a physical address! Google's algorithm is.... dubious, so if you have taken classes with me - be it at PetSmart or in-home, it would mean the WORLD to me if you could leave a review on Google to help me populate into local listings! If you have any questions, please reach out, as always! I hope everyone is doing well!

Post a review to our profile on Google

23/02/2023

Reactive vs. aggressive dogs -
what's the difference?
Check out this article by The AKC to learn more...

Let's start a dialogue: what have you seen either by your own dog or perhaps at a park, event, or local dog park that you can label as reactive? What have you seen that you can label as aggressive? Post your experiences in the comments below and let's talk through them!

Remember: All behavior is communication - even in humans! Let's decipher the code with our dogs to be better pet parents! :)

Reactivity is commonly confused with aggression. Dogs that are reactive are those that overreact to certain things or situations.

26/01/2023

it's almost puppy season! get started early with your new furry friend using these tips for successful leash walking!

need a refresher? book with me today! 🙂

https://tinyurl.com/trainwithmaggie

Want to teach your dog to walk on a leash without pulling? Here's a step-by-step guide on leash training for both dogs and puppies.

18/01/2023

18/01/2023

18/01/2023

There is so much truth in this and I say this all the time... It's not one size fits all, different dogs will socialize in different ways. The important thing is to recognize the signs when enough is enough!

For the record, canine socialization doesn’t look like human socialization. It’s not about getting a bunch of unfamiliar dogs in the same room and forcing them to interact, play, and compete for dominance. Hell, humans have a tough enough time getting along, how can we expect our dogs to adapt to our definition of “socializing.” I’ll admit, it’s hard not to get trapped in the pretty language and potential enjoyment of dropping your dog off at daycare, or bringing them to that new brewery that is dog-friendly, but what we have to learn is what *quality* socialization looks like.
Proper socialization means exposing dogs to different environments, and experiences, and showing them the proper ways to succeed. It’s not about saying hello to every dog or person you pass on your walk, and it’s not about making sure they “play enough” with other dogs. There are plenty of dogs out there that live perfectly happy lives with minimal interaction with other dogs or people. It’s not about the frequency of the interactions, it’s about the value. Quality over quantity.
The reason we have such concern about large-scale facilities is that (most) are undermanaged, chaotic, and generally unhealthy environments to teach our dogs how to interact and “play.” So many small moments are being missed while dogs learn to pattern forceful play or submissive behaviors. The biggest tiff we have is the shockingly high percentage of dogs that come to us for dog reactivity, aggression, fearfulness, etc. that were at one point daycare attendees. There’s a theme, and it’s been going on for years now.
Look, if your dog is one of the few that actually enjoys these environments, great, this message probably isn’t for you. But if you’ve got a dog that’s showing warning signs, take note, because perceptions can change faster than you think.

Daycare Facility Alternatives:

• Dog walker
• Bring-your-dog-to-work-day
• Small-scale daycare (not 25 dogs in a room with one employee)
• Trainer-daycare (ask your trainer if they offer daycare services)

A healthy environment has structure, supervision, rules, and order.