On a recent trip, I found myself in a nice hotel lobby visiting friends. I decided it was time for “goodbyes” so I headed for the elevator. When the door opened, there were three rather imposing-looking men standing along the back wall. I froze for a second! Do I get in and turn my back […]
Fight or Flight Response in Dogs? Read More »
Why is my dog so aggressive to other dogs? This can usually be diagnosed with a detailed history: no play ever, hereditary, mother was sick or a guarder, or over socialized with aggressive or rough playing dogs. Cycle of On-Leash Aggression (created problem from humans), as described in the Culture Clash, by Jean Donaldson, “The Bully
Dog Aggression and Communication Signals Read More »
BIG NEWS!! I am very proud to announce my hard work and continued education has earned me the title ofAssociate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant- ACDBC. I am the only ACDBC south of Bangor, and the only one in Portland, Maine. My desire to better understand dog behavior and behavior problems is on going and I will
Associate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant now available in Portland Maine Read More »
I am happy to announce that Portland, Maine has an official Chapter for the Pets for Vets Program and I am the official trainer of the canines for this wonderful program. I will be assessing, training and matching dogs with Veterans in need of a companion dog. Tom Targett, Chapter Director is to be recognized
Pets for Vets Program Launched here in Portland, Maine Read More »
When I introduce a new rule structure to my dogs or to my clients dog, I make sure good things happen when the dog performs the wanted or desired behavior. We can all agree that consequence drives behavior in all of us, but I really want you to think of the consequence as a positive
Good Things Happen… Read More »
When you bring your puppy home, you want to raise him or her to be the best Family Dog possible. We all have good intentions when raising a puppy, however there are some mis-guided and uneducated people who will tell you that you need to dominate your dog so they respect you. This is not
Puppies First Impressions Read More »
Many clients ask; “How do I train my dog?” First and foremost, to train a dog, you must have the dog’s attention! Can you get your dog to sit for one minute without a leash on? If so, then you have already learned how to get your dogs attention — wonderful! If not, then I
When I think of unwanted behavior, I think of stress as the two are often related. My goal here is to help you identify your dogs stress signals so you can get them help before this stress causes unwanted behavior. Science clearly states that stress leads to health problems, negatively affect relationships with others and
What Does Stress Look Like? Read More »
Bark For Life Bug Light Park, South Portland May 19 2013 11:00 Registration Opens – Participants, Survivors & Caregivers check in. 11:45 – Noon Opening Ceremony Noon – Walk Begins with the Survivor & Caregiver Lap around the park (both 4-legged and 2-legged) Participants will join in the 2nd lap A variety of beautiful walks are available
Are you in the process of training your dog? Maybe conditioning new behaviors in a puppy or rescue dog, or maybe you are trying to correct an unwanted behavior. I believe our dogs learn by watching us or simply being with us, more than listening to us. With your dog on a retractable leash walking
They’re Watching You Read More »
