Paws Luxury Kennel Suites. Benoni

30/08/2024

In light of the recent so-called discussions that have erupted between 'trainers' who use fear, painful tools, and intimidation vs trainers who do not use fear, pain or intimidation to 'train' dogs.
For what it's worth, here are my thoughts!

Over the decades, I have never made a secret that I train and resolve behaviour problems or issues, without having to resort to the use of fear, pain or intimidation, or that I always take the animal's emotions into account when setting up a training or behaviour treatment plan in order to always attempt to set up an animal for success!

I will not engage or acknowledge these hard-core trainers or self-proclaimed 'behaviourists' who use and often brag about using tools that by design, were developed to cause pain or at the very least, discomfort.

However, I will embrace, and move heaven and earth, and go out of my way for ANYONE who genuinely wants to change, and wants to learn about low stress, humane (science-based) learning/training and behaviour modification methods. ~

No judgement, no criticism - in fact every time in my life this has happened, it has only resulted in total joy!!

Sadistic narcissists - whom from experience, we know will never change - need not apply!! I refuse to debate, engage or even to give these people airtime!

My suggestion is that instead of engaging in online discussions with people who it is obvious are just looking for an opportunity to pervert the concept of pain free, low stress training - we all flood social media with simple information so that pet guardians, know there is another way!!

Guardians don't have to hurt their dog to help it to learn!
They can be kind! They can be gentle!

No matter what the breed. No matter how large or formidable the breed.

No matter how much 'drive' the dog has!
Guardians CAN choose to train without fear and pain!!

27/08/2024

Paws Abilities Benoni.
DAYCARE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME

General information about our Daycare/Enrichment programme.
Please note that not all dogs are suitable for our daycare/enrichment programme. This service is provided at our discretion. Please do not hesitate to contact me for advice & guidance if you have any questions.

Each dog (or family’s dogs) is allotted their own secure Daycare camp with a brick, weather-proof structure, to provide shade and protect them from the elements during their rest times.

Advance booking is essential, and booking can be made for one day a week, or more. Fee structure is available on inquiry and subsequently payable monthly in advance.

What our Daycare Enrichment Programme is about:
Our programme has been specifically developed for dog to enrich their lives.
We encourage and help dogs to utilise all five of their senses, (Sensory development)
We assist dogs to develop confidence, & meet their physical, emotional, & intellectual needs.

Namely: -
Touch – To promote tactile confidence, helping dogs to cope with, & adapt to different textures & surfaces etc.

Smell – Dogs have highly developed olfactory systems, that is far superior to humans. This is most dogs’ primary method of exploration, and a vital part of exploration, aiding in concentration and problem-solving skills. These kind of adventure/sniffari’ walks have also been proven to lower the dog’s cortisol levels, thus aiding to reduce stress and encourage calmness.

Taste - Closely linked to smell or scent – this part of enrichment, and aids to develop healthy exploration etc.

Sight - While many suburban dogs are confined behind high walls, visual stimulation is another vital part of enrichment, exploration, and confidence building.

Sound - Suburban dogs do not generally have exposure to ‘country’ sounds. We are blessed to have a variety of animals in proximity to our grounds, (horses, goats, sheep, poultry etc.) This helps with socialisation, or ‘life skills’ when dogs are gradually, and gently exposed to this form of stimuli etc.

Physical exercise
Moderate physical exercise is promoted to ensure health and wellbeing. However, in some cases, ‘over-exercising a dog physically’ to get him physically tired, can
have the reverse affect, and backfire, as the exercise stimulates certain chemicals in the brain, increasing cortisol levels, and adrenaline etc., We therefore rather encourage calm, ‘zen type’ activities as well as lots of free, exploration time in our large, secure dog park areas.

Too much exiting, and extreme exercise actually ‘amps-up’ a ‘would be’, calm dog. Therefore, our day is highly structured as follows.

 Physical; Several off-leash adventures a day, in one of our large, (fully secure) dog park areas. These are conducted individually, with one dog at a time.
 Access to a large canine swimming pool, for paddling and swimming.
 Access to our dog cross-country course
 Access to many different areas to encourage exploration, sniffing and gentle exposure to different textures, objects, things, and environments.
 Access to suitable equipment from our canine fitness programme
 Basic fun activities, such as fetch, chewing and digging.
 Rest and ‘quiet’ time, where dogs are encouraged during the hot part of the day, to relax and chill in their allotted camp and rest.
 Games and puzzle time – to encourage problem solving, and life skills.
 Company and attention
 Encouraging dogs to attempt new activities.

We do not allow the dogs at Daycare to play loose together in groups (commonly called ‘free play’) unless they have a pre-existing relationship and even then, any ‘free play’ would be strictly micro-supervised.

ONLY dogs with a pre-existing relationship, or dogs that are compatible from the same household will be allowed to play together, and then, it would entail our strict supervision. Dogs at Daycare are sometimes (temperament permitting) allowed to interact between the safety of a fence.

However, we take extra precautions with ANY dogs that are reactive toward other dogs, and do not encourage fence charging or fence fighting).

Our prime concern is for the safety and well-being of your dog.

Therefore, our job is to ensure that your dog is never put in a position where the environment is too stimulating for your dog and/or where he could have a negative experience, be it within the environment or with another dog.

Daycare is about having fun, building confidence, & doing lots of ‘fun dog’ stuff!

While we do not structure Daycare around training, we often find ourselves teaching your dog to do new things, whether it be platform work, body work, navigating obstacles, or leash work - simply because we enjoy it, and it is mentally stimulating for your dog!

PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR DAYCARE/ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME
IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE OTHER SERVICES WE PROVIDE SUCH AS: - PRIVATE OR GROUP TRINING, OR BEHAVIOUR CONSULATIONS ETC.

For more information give me a shout on WhatsApp 082 890 0905 or email me on [email protected]

25/08/2024

COMING SOON!
Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre Presents
a Talk on Adoption Survival
Presented by Louise Thompson

Topics covered – Full audience discussions encouraged!
1. Animal Welfare (the good, the bad & the ugly) – Warts and all!
2. Basic canine communication – knowledge is power! Preventing
bites. Learn about distance increasing & distance decreasing
canine body language.
3. Preparing for the arrival of your new adopted dog, aiding the
decompression state & the habituation process.
4. Common problems – with simple, basic problem-solving
solutions.

Venue: Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre – Benoni

Date: SUNDAY THE 29TH OF SEPTEMBER 2024

CONTACT LOUISE ON [email protected] or
WhatsApp 082-890-0905

For more details about Paws Abilities, our credential & ethos,
visit our website on www.pawsabilitiesbenoni.com

Time: 9:30 am
Cost: R400 per person.
Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided.
Please bring a packed lunch.

14/08/2024

COMING SOON!
Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre Presents
a Talk on Adoption Survival
Presented by Louise Thompson

Topics covered…
1. Animal Welfare (the good, the bad and the ugly).
2. Basic canine communication – knowledge is power!
3. Preparing for the arrival of your newly adopted dog &
habituation
4. Common problems - & basic problem solving

Venue: Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre – Benoni
Date: TBA
Time: 9:30 am
Cost: R400 per person.
Tea/coffee and biscuits will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch.

12/08/2024

Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre - Benoni.

Behaviour Consultations for Problem Pets.
Group & Private Tuition.
Puppy Class (Early Canine Education Programme)
Daycare Enrichment Programme
Luxury Kennel Suites.
Proof of inoculation and booking is required for all our services!

04/08/2024

General information about our Daycare/Enrichment programme.

Please note that not all dogs are suitable candidates for our structure daycare-enrichment programme. Daycare-enrichment is NOT a substitute for training or dogs that require behaviour modification! You are welcome to contact us for information about training & or dogs with behaviour issues.

Daycare-enrichment programme:
We provide: -
Each dog (or family’s dogs) is allotted a secure Daycare camp with a
brick, weather-proof structure, to provide shade and protect them from the elements during their rest times.

Advance booking is essential, and booking can be made for one day a week, or more. Fee structure is available on inquiry and subsequently payable monthly in advance.

What our Daycare Enrichment Programme is about:
Our programme has been specifically developed for dog to enrich their lives. We encourage and help dogs to utilise all five of their senses, develop confidence, and meet their physical, emotional, and intellectual needs.

Namely: -
Touch – To promote tactile confidence, helping dogs to cope with, and adapt to different textures and surfaces.

Smell – Dogs have highly developed olfactory systems, that is far superior to humans. This is most dogs’ primary method of exploration, and a vital part of exploration, aiding in concentration and problem-solving skills. These kind of adventure/sniffari’ walks have also been proven to lower the dog’s cortisol levels, thus aiding to reduce stress and encourage calmness.

Taste - Closely linked to smell or scent – this part of enrichment, and aids to develop healthy exploration etc.

Sight - While many suburban dogs are confined behind high walls, visual stimulation is another vital part of enrichment, exploration, and confidence building.

Sound - Suburban dogs do not generally have exposure to ‘country’ sounds. We are blessed to have a variety of animals in proximity to our grounds, (horses, goats, sheep, poultry etc.) This helps with socialisation, or ‘life skills’ when dogs are gradually, and gently exposed to this form of stimuli etc.

Physical exercise
Moderate physical exercise is promoted to ensure health and wellbeing.

However, in some cases, ‘over-exercising a dog physically’ to get him physically tired, can have the reverse affect, and backfire, as the exercise stimulates certain chemicals in the brain, increasing cortisol levels, and adrenaline etc., so we encourage calm, ‘zen type’ activities as well as lots of free, exploration time in our large, secure dog park areas.

Too much exiting, and extreme exercise actually ‘amps-up’ a ‘would be’, calm dog. Therefore, our day is highly structured as follows.

Physical; Several off-leash adventures a day, in one of our large, (fully secure) dog park areas. These are conducted individually, with one dog at a time. Access to a large canine swimming pool, for paddling and swimming. Access to our dog cross-country course.

Rest and ‘quiet’ time, where dogs are encouraged during the hot part of the day, to relax and chill in their allotted camp and rest.

Games and puzzle time – to encourage problem solving, and life skills.

Basic fun activities, such as fetch, chewing and digging.
Company and attention
Encouraging dogs to attempt new activities.
Access to suitable equipment from our canine fitness programme

We do not allow the dogs at Daycare to play loose in groups (commonly called ‘free play’),

Our prime concern is for the safety and well-being of your dog; therefore, your dog is never put in a position where the environment is not totally under our control.

ONLY dogs with a pre-existing relationship, or dogs that are compatible from the same household will be allowed to play together, and then, it would entail our strict supervision.
Dogs at Daycare are allowed to interact between the safety of a fence; However, we take extra precautions with dogs that are reactive toward other dogs, and do not encourage fence charging or fence fighting).

Daycare is about having fun, building confidence, and doing lots of ‘dog’ stuff!

While we do not structure Daycare around training, we often find ourselves teaching your dog to do new things, whether it be platform work, body work, navigating obstacles, or leash work - simply because we enjoy it, and it is mentally stimulating for your dog!

03/08/2024

Part of the Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre 'Family'
Paws Abilities Luxury Kennel Suites - Situated in Benoni!

01/08/2024

Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre - Benoni.
For science-based, fear-free training and behaviour modification.
We will be your dog's best friend!!

30/07/2024

30/07/2024

A couple of private, weekly "Life Skills' sessions have become available for students. Please read the description below.
For more details contact Kim @ 078-597-4132
or Louise " 082-890-0905

Private, Personalised – ‘Life-Skills’ Weekly Sessions.
In addition to our Saturday group classes, we also offer private training sessions for students who are not able to attend our Saturday classes or for dogs that emotionally, would not be able to cope in a group class.

Private ‘remedial’ training sessions eventual aim is inclusion into a group class. Each dog and handler are treated as an individual pair. We do not use the ‘one size fits all’.
It is our job to bring the two of you together, to help you work as a team, together, not against each other!

Lessons are tailor made to meet your needs, and realistic expectations, of helping your dog to reach her full potential!

All methods used utilise the latest positive reinforcement, science-based/low-stress & pain & fear-free methods of learning.

Ensure your dog is safely leashed, on an orthopaedic friendly harness. Ideally one that does not put pressure on the dog’s neck or impede or restrict shoulder movement.

If you are unsure of which harness is best for your dog, we are happy to advise you.

Please note that no aversive training tools, or equipment are allowed.

What we cover in class:
Ø Step by step (easy and practical) principles of positive reinforcement, reward-based learning.
Ø Passive relaxation protocols and games for dogs
Ø Concentration games.
Ø Confidence-building games to produce a well-adjusted companion, including various ‘Life skills’ games.
Ø Gentle desensitisation to situations, objects, and other animals/people etc., all undertaken in a micromanaged environment.
Ø Gentle development of various tactile skills to prepare your adolescent dog or puppy for the big, wild (often scary) world!
Ø Problem solving games and puzzles.
Ø Body work – (Canine Fitness) utilising physio/equipment etc., helping build appropriate muscle groups, core building and gentle strength exercises to promote concentration; body awareness and building up gently to physical suppleness etc. This also prepares your dog for animal physio, should an unfortunate injury occur, as you pup/dog would already be familiar with the type of equipment used in rehab.
Ø Inter-canine social skills.
Ø Teaching your pup to reliably to WANT to “come” when she is called.
Ø Basic canine communication and behaviour.
Ø Relevant puppy stages of behavioural development.
Ø Leash skills – how to get your pup to walk on a loose leash – without force or coercion.
Ø Manners games - (sit, down, stand, recall, fetch, leave, wait, etc.).
Ø Gentle methods to help you solve basic problems such as jumping up, destructive behaviour, and how to manage your dog’s environment to avoid them practising unwanted behaviours.

All our training, and behaviour modification, is based on a reward-based system only!

Please visit our website, for an idea of the various services we provide, our science-based/force-free ethos, and our credentials etc.

Here is the link.

Paws Abilities Offer Early Puppy Education | Saturday Group Classes | Private, Personalised Dog-Training | Behaviour Consultations | Doggie 'Pawlates' Doggy Health

06/06/2024

Bonnie the Ebotse dog - waiting impatiently for Charlie Harper to bring out her harness & leash so she can go to work with her!!

She really is a totally different dog, from that terrified girl who came here several months ago - and her confidence is improving all the time! But it is not a race, and we let Bonnie set the pace (as it should be!) No pressure or force for this sweet girl!!

26/05/2024

Feel like a winter break?
Be sure your fur kids are safe at Paws Luxury Kennel Suites - Benoni.

All Paws Abilities activities are run under the direct guidance of an accredited canine practitioner, certified professional trainer and adheres to the 'do no harm; cause no pain; create no fear ethos!

For more details contact Louise on [email protected]
or WhatsApp 082-890-0905

https://www.pawsabilitiesbenoni.com/

24/04/2024

Please make sure that your place is booked for our workshop this Sunday. If you have booked - dont forget to send me a POP.

We still have a few seats available - so book now!
It is going to be an exciting day kicking off with a presentation and followed by us teaching you all some fun (dogless) practical skills games! This workshop is aimed both at beginner and novice handlers, as well as the more advanced handlers who will pick up some new ideas, information and hone their skills.

16/04/2024

REMINDER
Please support our clicker workshop - 'Marker Training' is used in each of our classes at all levels - and this workshop will provide you with a greater understanding of the method and the many ways it can be implemented. PLACES ARE LIMITED - BOOK NOW!!

12/04/2024

Book now - places are limited.
This workshop is suitable for first time clicker/marker trainers and experienced clicker trainers to hone skills and learn more about the concept of fear and force-free training.

Booking is essential - Book today - details below.

06/04/2024

Join us for a fun filled day (no dogs permitted) at Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre - Benoni. This workshop will be beneficial for beginner handlers as well as advanced clicker handlers, both to understand the concept of 'marker training,' as well as fine tune existing skills and expand your knowledge.

The morning will kick off with a presentation and Q and A session and after lunch we have devised some practical, fun clicker games to accompany the theory learned in the morning session!

BOOK NOW AS PLACES ARE LIMITED!

25/03/2024

Paws Abilities, for science-based, fear-free training and behaviour modification; luxury kennel suites and daycare enrichment available!

18/03/2024

Visit the Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre website to see the various services we provide, our science-based/fear-free ethos, and credentials etc.

Paws Abilities Offer Early Puppy Education | Saturday Group Classes | Private, Personalised Dog-Training | Behaviour Consultations | Doggie 'Pawlates' Doggy Health

02/03/2024

Paws Luxury Kennel Suites - Benoni.
Luxury accommodation and care that will meet all your dog's needs.

Email me on [email protected]
WhatsApp 082-890-0905
Website pawsabilitiesbenoni.com

01/03/2024

Paws Luxury Kennel Suites.
Part of the Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre "family".

We are a small, hands on, family run kennel. Individual, personalised attention given to all dogs.
Long & short stays facilitated.

Owner & kennel manager reside on the property.
Call today for bookings - places are often limited!

16/02/2024

At Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre we take these Code of Ethics very seriously!

Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre Trainers & Behaviour Practitioners

Code of Ethics

Our pledge to you and your dog
We promise to: -

1. Offer services for which we are suitably qualified, in a professional manner. If a case is beyond a counsellor or trainer’s scope of expertise, or experience, it is expected that such cases are referred to a suitably experienced or qualified colleague, or work in liaison with such colleague.
2. Treat clientele with honesty, confidentiality, understanding and compassion, and ensure the client is not misled or exploited.
3. Treat the animal (where applicable) in liaison with the referring veterinarian and be aware of any potential behaviour problems that may be associated with a physiological cause. When indicated, prior to a consultation, the counsellor/trainer should recommend that the client consult with their veterinarian in order to rule out or confirm such a possibility.
4. Ensure that the behaviour problem is thoroughly investigated and the animal concerned fully evaluated.
5. Offer advice, which is practical, and appropriate for each individual case. Such advice should be based on practical, up to date scientific applications and practices.
6. Avoid any method of treatment, equipment or techniques that inflict physical pain, intimidation, and/or cause undue psychological/physiological distress.
7. Use methods of behaviour modification and/or training that do not contravene any section of the Animal Protection Act No 71 of 1962.
8. Encourage responsible companion animal ownership and education, and promote awareness of animal behaviour wherever possible.
9. Continue to further their own education in their respective animal behaviour field, and keep abreast of new developments in the science of behaviour modification and fear-free training.
10. Become familiar and liaise with all relevant aspects of animal industry,
maintaining a professional relationship with likeminded professions in the same field.

08/07/2023

For up to date pictures and information on our kennel activities, daycare enrichment programme, training, behaviour modification and tons of training & behaviour tips and information - please join our facebook group.

Here is the link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpspawsabilities.co.za

08/07/2023

For up to date pictures and information on our kennel activities, daycare enrichment programme, science based (force free) training, behaviour modification and tons of training & behaviour tips and information - please join our facebook group. All are WELCOME!

Here is the link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/httpspawsabilities.co.za

04/07/2023

I am thinking of not using this 'page' anymore, and simply posting all our kennel information and updates on our Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre 'group'. What do you all think?

27/06/2023

When we have sensitive little souls in our care at our kennel suites, we often have to go the extra mile to 'tempt' them to eat. Max and Laika enjoying some roast chicken for breakfast.
They are going home tomorrow - and we are going to really miss them. When you run a small, specialised kennel service, you get far too attached to the guests.

26/06/2023

Lovely to have Max and Laika here for a break again. Laika as usual, demands room service and a buffet to choose from!
But she is eating two full meals a day - granted not a lot of dog food, but she does like roast chicken! And - the total bonus of course is, she is eating! Lol!

26/06/2023

Max the GSD had a lovely holiday break with us. What a delightful boy!
He is at that 'goofy' adolescent age - and gave us LOTS of laughs!
He loved his daily explorations into our various dog park areas.
Cant wait to see him again soon!

18/06/2023

Paws Abilities Behaviour & Learning Centre - Benoni - would like to wish all the wonderful Dad's of 'fur-kids' out there a Wonderful Father's Day!

16/06/2023

Don't forget to to visit our website to see the various services we provide, our science-based/fear-free ethos, and credentials etc.

Paws Abilities Offer Early Puppy Education | Saturday Group Classes | Private, Personalised Dog-Training | Behaviour Consultations | Doggie 'Pawlates' Doggy Health