Pet Harmony

11/10/2025

As a separation anxiety dog trainer, I don’t like teaching dogs to simply “be okay” with being alone at home...

I want the dog to feel truly comfortable, able to drink, eat, sleep, and play without needing a human around.

I want the dog to know how to self-soothe when there is stress and how to manage when anxious feelings come up.

Separation anxiety in dogs is more than just a fear of being alone; it’s an intense emotional response that can lead to destructive behaviors, excessive barking, and even physical symptoms.

Separation anxiety training is not just about getting your dog to endure being alone, but to reach a state of comfort, relaxation, and contentment.

This requires building key skills - relaxation, independent eating, playing with toys, and self-soothing. When you focus on this - you can set your dog up for success and a happier life.

If you want to teach your dog how to do this, reach out to our team! We can work with you virtually, no matter where you live. More details here: https://petharmonytraining.com/services/clients/

10/10/2025

Cats get a bad reputation… but most of the time, they’re just expressing their needs, preferences, and boundaries. Respecting their agency and consent creates trust and a happier pet!

Want to understand your cat better? We offer virtual cat behavior consulting and training. Book a session here: https://petharmonytraining.com/catbehavior/

10/10/2025

In this week’s blog, Tiffany shares how simple trained behaviors, playful seasonal backdrops, and (of course) treats can help you snap photos that aren’t just cute—they’re memory keepers. Because the tricks we teach and the moments we capture now become the stories we hold onto later.

Read it here: https://petharmonytraining.com/school-pictures-tricks-tips-and-treats-for-insta-worthy-pet-shots/

08/10/2025

👻 Our team's take of this trend from the POV of a pet parent...which one is scariest? which one did we miss? Comment yours below! 👇

07/10/2025

Sometimes enrichment doesn’t go the way we planned. Maybe the activity is too easy, too hard, too arousing, or just plain unsustainable. In this episode, Allie and Emily pull back the curtain on the common pitfalls that turn “enrichment” into air quotes enrichment (aka, not enrichment at all).

You’ll hear everything from professional confessions (yes, even experts have tantrums when their pets need more than expected) to client stories that remind us why individual needs matter more than breed stereotypes. Whether you’ve been tricked by enrichment guilt, overcomplicating your plan, or assuming “more is always better,” this episode will help you find that sweet spot where enrichment actually improves your pet’s quality of life.

Episode 135 is now available on Enrichment For The Real World Podcast. Tune in on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you podcast!

🔗 https://petharmonytraining.com/episode135

04/10/2025

WHY YOUR CAT ISN'T USING THE LITTER BOX & WHAT TO DO ⬇️

1️⃣ They may be experiencing pain or illness.
👉 Tip: Observe behavior closely and share details with your vet.

2️⃣ They remember the box as a place that hurt them.
👉 Tip: Try a new box, litter, or location, or even a temporary alternative like newspaper or cloth.

3️⃣ Another cat may be making them feel unsafe.
👉 Tip: Provide extra boxes in separate spots, and consider working with a veterinary behaviorist.

4️⃣ They may be stressed by people, noise, or changes at home.
👉 Tip: Create calm, safe spaces where your cat can relax and decompress.

5️⃣ They may dislike the box, litter, or location.
👉 Tip: Adjust box type, litter, or entry height to fit their comfort.

Every cat is unique, and solving litter box issues takes a mix of medical insight and behavior support!

📩 Reach out to us for virtual cat behavior consulting and training, or in-person help in Chicagoland. Let’s get your kitty back on track! Learn more here: https://petharmonytraining.com/catbehavior/

04/10/2025

Canine anxiety is a complex issue, and sometimes pets benefit from a whole team of professionals to help them manage it long-term. This may include a trainer, behavior consultant, veterinarian, or veterinary behaviorist. If your dog is struggling with anxiety, you might wonder when it’s time to seek professional help. Here are some signs that it may be the right time.

When choosing professionals, it’s crucial to find those who are well-versed in the specific issues your dog is facing and who can support your family not only in making changes but also in tracking and reporting progress.

If you think it’s time to get help, we’d be happy to assist! Our compassionate team of dog trainers and behavior consultants will guide you every step of the way in managing your dog's anxiety. We offer both virtual consultations and in-person sessions in the Chicagoland area. Check out our services here: https://petharmonytraining.com/services/clients/

02/10/2025

Have you ever wondered if a specific moment or choice created your pet's behavior challenge?

Honestly, you may never know.

And that's okay!

Because what matters is what you do next.

Consultant Claire's latest blog dives into how to turn mistakes into opportunities for curiosity, growth, and a better relationship with your pet. Read it here:

There are many, many things I love about being an animal trainer and behavior consultant, but my absolute favorite part is that I am constantly learning. Working with pets is one surprise after another, both good and bad. But there are hard emotional parts, too. One of the things that breaks my hear...

01/10/2025

If you feel the same way, then you're in the right place. Thanks for following us 💙

30/09/2025

Ever notice your pet getting tense in certain spots around your house? Spaces like the hallway, under the table, or right next to you on the couch? Those tricky spaces might actually be grumble or growl zones.

In this episode, Pet Harmony behavior consultant MaryKaye walks you through what these zones are, how to spot them, and simple steps you can take to prevent conflict before it happens. Whether you share your home with dogs, cats, or even bunnies, you’ll learn how to identify areas that could spark tension, rearrange your space to reduce stress, and give your pets safe, comfortable places to relax.

You’ll leave this episode with practical strategies for management, creating pet-friendly safe zones, and reading your pet’s body language so you can keep everyone in the family safe and happy.

Episode 134 is now available on Enrichment For The Real World Podcast. Tune in on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you podcast!

🔗 http://petharmonytraining.com/episode134

26/09/2025

To learn more about our Anywhere But Here protocol and other scent work games, check out episode 111 on Enrichment For The Real World Podcast. The title is “Scent Work For Dogs: Enrichment That Supports The Whole Household”.

25/09/2025

We're thrilled to be part of the 32nd Annual Barkapalooza at Lisle Community Park on September 28th! From the Rescue Run 5K to pet contests and food trucks, it’s the ultimate pet- and family-friendly day — and we’ll be there!

Come find our booth, talk to us about your dog while making DIY destructible toys (something your dog will LOVE)!