Did you know October is Fire Prevention Month? It's also the time when wild fires tend to crop up in areas including California, Colorado, Montanan, and more. No matter where you live, it's smart to be prepared, for yourself and your pets. Equip yourself with an Emergency Kit that includes essentials for both you and your pet in case you need to evacuate. Be sure to include your pet's vaccination records, his/her rabies certificate, I.D. information, collars, leashes, enough food for a few days, bowls for food and water, any medications your pet is taking, and his/her pet carrier or crate. Also, plan ahead. Figure out now where you'll stay whether it's with family, friends, or a pet friendly hotel. Remember many emergency shelters won't allow animals. The more prepared you are, the easier time you and your pet will have during a stressful emergency.
Training Tip of the Month
Puppies learn in their litter that direct eye contact is bad doggy etiquette. However, as humans we want our puppy to look at us. You can help him/her grow comfortable looking you in the eye by holding a treat between your eyes to lure the puppy to look at you. The second the puppy looks, say "Good focus," and treat him/her. Do this a few times a day, a few minutes each time. Also, every time your puppy looks at you, praise and reward. The more you do this, the more your puppy understands that good things happen when he/she looks at you. This is the first step to training the Focus Cue. If you would like to teach your puppy more, feel free to contact me to discuss training options.
Breed Spotlight
I absolutely love English Bulldogs. I've had the pleasure of meeting and working with many in both grooming and training and I find them to be sweet, friendly, and boisterous in short bursts. They are generally low activity dogs so they don't need a lot of exercise. As good natured as they are, they do tend to be stubborn so if you're looking for a dog that is very obedient, the English Bulldog might not be for you. Typically they're good with children if introduced properly and they do well with strangers. They can have health concerns including allergies, eye problems, hip dysplasia, trachea issues, elongated soft palate, and breathing problems. Although they are short-haired dogs, they do require regular grooming due to the wrinkles and folds in their face; if they are not cleaned regularly, rashes can occur. If you're contemplating getting an English Bulldog, you should know that they wheeze, snore, drool, and fart, but they are a solid bundle of joy.
Quote of the Month
"There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face." Ben Williams