Dog Safety For Summer Swimming Fun

Dog safety around swimming pools is not unlike safety rules for children. Pools can be fun and refreshing, but dangers lurk for the untrained dog.

One dear friend of mine had an old dog of hers drown in her pool. She felt awful and voiced over and over how she could not imagine how the dog got out of the house and into the pool.

She had several dogs, so I brought them all out. First, I had them placed in the deep end one at a time, and made them swim to the steps and climb out by themselves. Then we had them all at once, so they would get used to the chaos without panicking, and still head to the steps to get out.

If they don't know to go to the steps, then they will try to get out the sides. Then they can become vertical in the water and drown.

For short-legged dogs, you may want to install a little ramp, or put blocks on the steps to make it easier. Consider this also for older dogs whose hips are getting weak.

I also had my friend install a self locking gate on the pool fence to insure safety.

Don't let your excited dog get over tired, either. Especially an older dog, whose hips simply are not as strong as before. And just because you have a canine, do not automatically assume he can swim, or swim well without tiring. Watch your dog as you would a child.

Pool safety rules for children should always include no running on the pool deck. It's slippery when wet, and someone could slip and be hurt badly on the deck or into the pool. The same holds true for dogs, with broken bones and other freak accidents that you cannot undo.

You also need to remember that chlorine is toxic for dogs. Do not let your dog drink the pool water. It's hot, so be sure to have fresh drinking water available at all times on or near the pool deck, and show your dog where it is. Also, the dog's eyes can be irritated by the chlorine, so after the swim time is over, rinse them thoroughly with fresh water.

So have fun in the pool, and keep your children and dogs safe!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Frequent Dog Bathing?

In my opinion, bathing a dog weekly is a must.

Of course, you should use an oatmeal based shampoo if possible. Otherwise a NEEM shampoo with coconut oil does a good job. These are good for the skin and keep it from drying out. Not to mention the shiny coat.

This helps reduce pet allergies and misery, pet dander, rainy day dog odor, and general pet stink.

I tried following the once-a-month rule in bathing my dog. She was very dirty by the end of the month, and her odor was still bad despite the scrubbing. Sometimes it seemed worse, sort of like wet wool. But now when we went to weekly bathing.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Do You Have a Jake?

If I were given a choice, I would say the hyper and excited dogs are the hardest to change. These are often dogs who seem to be nonstop 24/7. Once I worked with one who nearly tested my patience to the limit. It seemed like he had eaten jet fuel!

"Frustration does not work," I told myself, correcting the Jack Russell yet again. I had run him thirty minutes on the bike behind me. Then just as suddenly as Jake had been having his resistances, he relaxed completely. I asked many more things of Jake, from mental challenge to basic commands. He was eager to please, and did so without hesitation.

Not giving up and pressing on brings the results you want. The best thing to remember is that a dog has to change what he is doing at some point. And, stay there until you accomplish 100%, no less. If you stop at less, you keep less.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Abandoned Pets - Better Alternatives In The Foreclosure Crisis

Plea to Pet Owners –
If you are facing foreclosure, do NOT abandon your pet!

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) urges homeowners facing foreclosure not to abandon their pets or to drop them outside a veterinary clinic. After all, your pet loves and trusts you, and you have a responsibility for its welfare. It is not an inanimate object that you can just discard.

So pursue the alternatives. Turn instead to humane organizations or ask your vet for advice. Who knows? He may even have a client who would want your beloved pet!

FOR HELP GO HERE ==> www.avma.org
"Frequently asked questions about pets and foreclosed homes"
Click on "Issues" and then look under "Animal Welfare."

An increasing number of pets are being found in foreclosed homes, some while they are still healthy, but others starving, ill, dying, or already dead...apparently waiting for the owner to return. Don't let that happen to your pet!

If you lose your home and must stay in a place where animals are not allowed, the FAQ provided by AVMA suggests ways you might find someone - a friend, family member, or someone through an internet search, social network postings, or veterinary bulletin boards - to either foster your pet until you find more suitable housing, or to adopt your pet and give it the kind of home it deserves.

You'll sleep better knowing your faithful friend is well taken care of!

As a last resort, there are rescue organizations and NO-KILL shelters that can help find your pet a loving home.

Understand that euthanasia is a possibility at many shelters, such as the Humane Society, if the right family doesn't stumble upon your pet fast enough - but even there, it stands a better chance of adoption than in an empty house.

Again, AVMA has shelter suggestions, and you can check out more in your local Yellow Pages and through a Google search as well. Look for NO KILL!

The Escondido Humane Society (California) encourages you to plan early if you are a pet owner who is facing potential relocation. Then you have a chance to look for animal-friendly housing, and to seek out family and friends to take in your pet temporarily until you are on your feet.

Advance planning also lets you find no-kill shelters within a reasonable driving distance. (Your dog would go miles for you, so won't you go miles to save it's life?)

HELP DURING THIS CRISIS

If you are not one who is facing foreclosure, why not help alleviate the pain of this crisis? Shelters across North America are all short of funds - which means more dogs and cats are put down. They need you!

And your own pet needs for you to be an empowered pet owner caring for his health and welfare. That's what our friend, Dr. Andrew Jones, has done for us with his pet health care manual, home study course, and membership site (where everything is available online, you can ask questions, and much more).

I was excited to learn that before the end of April, Dr. Jones is donating 10% of all sales to the Second Chance Animal Shelter near him, which he supports regularly. And a great way to get started is to check out his pet health membership site with a fr*e*e trial -- I'm in it!

Let's save our pets!

Rena Muray
DogWhisperWoman

If Your Dog Bites Someone For No Reason

If your dog bites someone for no reason...
What should you do?

Get help from a dog behaviorist right away. The laws about dangerous dogs are very strictly enforced.

Don't misunderstand me. There are insane dogs here and there. Those should indeed be euthanized. But I just hate to see dogs that could be rehabilitated have no quality of life from dire restrictions of be put to death. The safety of people always comes first with me though.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Abandoned Pets

With the outrageous increase in taxes, it is not surprising that foreclosures are on the rise. There has also been an untold number of pets abandoned in these homes.

I know that sometimes things are not in your control to keep your animal in times such as this. My Grandfather fought in WW2 and lived in Japan for some time. While there, he was given an Akita.

But Granddaddy was not allowed to bring the dog back to this country (back then it wasn't allowed), and no one would take him. So he had to be put to sleep. As awful as that is, it is better than him joining a wild pack of dogs or starving to death.

Please take your pet somewhere if you cannot keep it. Never abandon your friend.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Tainted Dog Food Alert - NutroMax

I just received this shocking notice from Ginny Rodgers of FurryKids.net:

"NutroMax is now killing animals who are being fed the food, and the company is not acknowledging it. PLEASE pass this along to all rescues...."

See - http://www.consumeraffairs.com:80/pets/nutro.html - ConsumerAffairs.com - Customers tell their recent experiences with Nutro dog food products and how the company did / did not respond.

Read and decide for yourself. Be aware.

SAFE ALTERNATIVE

This is yet another reason we do NOT buy dog food from grocery stores, pet stores, etc. I order (fast, free delivery) the TRUSTED all-natural, human-grade, fresh, "pure," nutritious Flint River Wellness Dog Food for my Gatsby!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Easter According To A Lab

When I was growing up, I used to spend some Easters with my Grandparents like most children will. My sister and I were getting a bit old for egg hunting, so we wanted to make this last one special.

Grandmother counted the eggs carefully and made note of where she hid each one. Boy do rotten eggs smell! (A few Easters before, we found out the hard way. So the noting and counting were official rules of the Easter egg hunts from then on.)

We were also caring for a friend's Black Lab who had to stay inside during the egg hunt, because she would eat the eggs as fast as she found them.

This time, we found all the eggs except for one. Unaware that one egg was yet to be found, Grandfather released the Lab. She located and sallowed the missing egg before we could blink. She had bitten off the shell perfectly into near equal halves on the ground, and thanked us with a very satisfied burp!

We all agreed that since dogs could not have Easter baskets, she should surely be given a couple of eggs!

With our Grandparents' permission given, we wished the dog Happy Easter, and each peeled an egg for her.

Happy Easter to you and yours,

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Anniversary Special $100 OffComplete Pet Health Home Study Multimedia Course

Hey, you don't want to miss this incredible special on the ONLY pet health course of its kind. I know, because I have it (at full price).

WHEN?
Until midnight on Friday, March 21st (3/21)

WHAT?
You can get Dr. Andrew Jones' Complete Pet Health Home Study Multimedia Course for $100 OFF.

WHO'S BEHIND IT?
With over 2654 Holistic Tips, Natural Remedies, and proven effective techniques for healing your cat or dog at home, Dr. Andrew Jones has been for over 15 years a respected Traditional and Holistic Veterinarian. And he's our own most trusted vet.

WHY?
To CELEBRATE a little over a ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY since his Dog and Cat Home Study Healing System was launched, Dr. Jones wants to ensure your pet's health and longevity by making this home course affordable.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?
THE COMPLETE DOG and CAT HOME STUDY HEALING SYSTEM INCLUDES ALL of these....


1."Quick Start Guide"

2. Veterinary Secrets Revealed Printed Pet Health Manual

3. FIVE CD Full Audio Version

4. The Veterinary Secrets Revealed Video Presentation on CDROM

5. The Veterinary Secrets Revealed Book-On-CDROM

6. The At-Home Pet Health Exam Video on DVD

Yes, it's huge. And it delivers substantial content from the first book to the last CD. But it's not just a bunch of random pet health information thrown together.

You get a complete method for dealing with a sick pet... how to examine your pet, make a diagnosis, select an at-home remedy, and treat your pet for their specific health problems.

=================================
Try Dr. Jones' System For 30% Off
And Get SEVEN Fr**ee Bonuses!
=================================

If the 30% discount isn't enough to have you, your
dog and cat bounding over to this special '1/3-off' web
site, these SEVEN fr**ee gifts will surely do the trick:

1: Pet First Aid Secrets - Complete 290 Page Canine and Feline
First Aid Manual

2: Four Pet Health Video Tutorials (from online seminars) -
(1) Herbs, Homeopathy Acupressure, Massage
(2) At-Home Exam Walkthrough
(3) Dog and Cat Food, Home Recipes, Raw Feeding
(4) Emergency Dog and Cat Care

3: Pet Food Secrets - Truth, Best Diets, Quality Food
Plus - Supplements, Home Recipes, avoiding common pet health problems, such as allergies, cancer, diabetes and weight loss.

4: The Complete Pet Vaccine Report - Diseases, Side Effects, Alternatives, Vaccine Protocol, Homeopathics following vaccination

5: Dog Training Secrets - How dogs learn, plus basic obedience, 10 must-know commands, behavior problems

6: Personal eMail Consultation with Dr. Jones - about any pet health problem with your pet, review of findings, interpretation of any diagnostic tests, and specific recommendations.

7: Veterinary Secrets Q&A Teleseminar

REMEMBER -
This special three quarter's off sale ENDS at MIDNIGHT on FRIDAY, MARCH 21.

If you'd like to get the revolutionary dog and cat healing system so many pet owners are raving about ...and save 30%, then go here now:

==> $100 Off Complete Pet Health Course

If you don't already have the course, don't miss it now at this price!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Bad Dog Behavior - Was It Worth It?

Here's a true "bad dog behavior" story.

"It's after midnight, and a long, long evening. Mama was cooking everything in sight for Thanksgiving the next day and I was "kitchen help." Finally, sinking into bed, this whipped 14-year-old was drifting off to sleep. Deep sleep.

Crash!

Then screaming! (My parents never screamed.) Alarmed, I jumped out of bed and ran down the hall to the kitchen. Mama was throwing that yellow Lab out the door!

I couldn't enter. The large kitchen floor had what seemed like inches deep, thick, awful ham fat all over it. Well-trained Ginger, so good and reliable, just somehow couldn't resist the ham cooling in its pan and drippings (fat) on top of the stove.

Mama tossed me cleaning rags as she prepared a bucket of hot, soapy water. As my sister appeared, she was given the same.

Seemed like Mission Impossible! Ever tried to clean up thick, widespread ham fat? Trust me, you don't want to! It took the two of us three hours. Every time we wiped and scrubbed and wiped and scrubbed, it was STILL slick and greasy. I'll never forget it.

Mama started cooking something else to augment the turkey for the big day that was coming all too soon. And Ginger spent the night outside! (She was the lucky one.)"

Thank you, my dear friend, for sharing this story.

For those of you facing what she's experienced in - caregiving for an elderly or infirm family member - check out The Caregiver - Caregiver Support To Relieve Caregiver Stress

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Bad Dog Behavior - Or Is It?

Having been around dogs all my life, I stress the importance of listening to and paying attention to your dog. Especially if your dog does a behavior that is out of his character, a bad dog behavior.

I read a story of a woman who had a Black Lab, who was very gentle, and never harmed a living thing. He also was just the "average Joe" pet, and had not received any special training.

One day she sat on the couch. Her dog came up and began nudging her breast frantically. She pushed him away in annoyance, and told him "No!" The more she resisted, the harder he pushed. . . And then, he bit her!

The woman had a doctor's appointment scheduled. She went into the appointment, and the doctor examined where the dog bit her. He recommended a biopsy. Sure enough, the results came back POSITIVE. . . directly in the place where her loyal friend had bitten her.

He was trying to tell her something was wrong, but she had not listened to his warnings. So he took action and MADE her listen.

I pay a lot of attention to my dog's signals. Of course, he gets corrected when he is clowning around instead of listening to me. But here have been a couple of times already when he has refused to listen to me because he is trying to help me.

So please, pay attention to out-of-character behavior. It just might not be bad dog behavior. It just might save your life!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

How To Solve Dog Separation Anxiety?

Don't you just hate that piercing howling, constant whining, or unceasing barking from dog separation anxiety? I couldn't live with it, your neighbors shouldn't have to, and neither should you.

But there's a way to stop that dog behavior problem by addressing the underlying cause - the separation anxiety itself. And it's done with dog crate training. Yes, even crate training an older dog.

Find out how with my step-by-step guide for crate training your dog. I just published it under the title: "How To Solve Separation Anxiety With Dog Crate Training." Get it for free on the Dog Behavior Articles page of PawPersuasion.com.

If you are calm, consistent, and follow the steps in the article, then you can accomplish your dog crate training in relatively short order and put an end to your dog separation anxiety problem.

Need a good dog crate? Check out the selection on the Dog Kennels and Carriers page of PawPersuasion.com. One of my decorator friend's favorites is this Resin Wicker Dog Crate. Click the image to find out more.

If you want more help, contact me for a Consultation. You'll see the questions you should address, my rates, and contact information there. Then we can move forward quickly to solve your problem once and for all.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

What Makes A Good Dog Trainer?

I read something last night that absolutely cracked me up. It was a story by another professional dog trainer that addressed an issue I also deal with constantly.

A friend his dog knew, a former dog owner related to a dog breeder, approached his dog in her Halloween costume. The dog freaked out and warned her with his body posture, "back off." The dog trainer warned her, "Stop, you idiot. You're going to get bitten."

But she continued moving toward that dog even when he gave his warning lunge, saying, "He knows me." Well, she ended up being pinned in the corner...

There are those who breed dogs that believe this makes them an expert "dog trainer." Breeding dogs may make you an expert on the dog breed, its tendencies, its looks... that kind of stuff. But it no more makes you an expert dog trainer than owning a dog does. Thousands of people all over the world have dogs that are completely out of control.

Degrees don't really make you an expert, either. A degree comes through studying and fulfilling some requirements.

So what really makes you a "professional?"

EXPERIENCE. And genuine insight.

Dog trainers are not created equal, and many don't really know what they are doing. You don't need to be letting someone handle your dog who goes strictly by the book. Or anyone who believes that every dog is the same. All dogs must be respected and treated as INDIVIDUALS.

By the way, guys, I walked into a hospital a few months ago. I did not come out a doctor.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Going to the Dogs!

So, you know you cannot stop a dog from barking, because yours never stops.

He also seems to make you believe that house training a dog is impossible. One mark from him wets the whole floor... or even worse, the carpet.

You can't stop a dog from chewing, or stop a dog from digging, either. Your beautiful garden is gone, and your brand new $300 glasses are barely recognizable. They disappeared from the bedside table, so how did their remains show up in the yard?

Why you have to shut him outside, because no one can stop this dog from jumping on people. Friends just started staying away...

The point here is that you need to get help from a professional involved before things get way out of control. Call someone when you see a problem. Please don't wait until your home has gone to the dogs!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dogs on the Titanic

A lot of people are aware that there were many dogs on Titanic. Only two survived. One of them performed an heroic act that night that saved many lives.

Reginel was either Lightoller or Murdock's dog. He was in the freezing water for many hours, and yet he managed to swim ahead and bring the Carpathia to the life boats.

There were many heroic acts done in selflessness that night. Titanic should never be forgotten because of the many things that we learn from it. Always be prepared. Nothing made by man is infallible. You have no guarantee of your next day.

Titanic was made to resemble Versailles. It was over 800 feet in length, and had four elevators - one in second class, three in first. She was licensed to carry 3500 people.

I learned all this and a whole lot more on the site link here. There are fascinating photos of different angles inside and out of Titanic. Why, there's even a copy of the first class menu and the wine they drank the last night. Check it out.

http://www.squidoo.com/Harland-and-Wolffs-Titanic/

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dr. Dog Wildfire Victim - Your Win-Win Opportunity To Help

Raging fires in Southern California... over 900,000 people evacuated from their houses... and it's struck home.

Early Monday morning, October 22nd, our friend Dr. Dennis Fetko, "Dr. Dog", received a reverse 911 call. He quickly left his home of decades with his dogs, cat, and only the clothes on his back. What he found on Wednesday was just rubble where he home once stood.

You may not have seen anything we have written about this fabulously effective man. His dog behavior training methods are among the few with which I agree almost completely. They are based on solid research with thousands of dogs and years of hands-on experience, not on a whim, fancy, or opinion. He KNOWS his stuff!

So for years, around the world Dr. Dog has been the "go-to guy" for police K9 trainers, Veterinary Associations, animal rescue shelters, as an expert witness in dog bite legal cases, interviews on television shows like "20/20," and distressed dog owners.

But a terrible, crippling accident in 1992 made it impossible for him to continue rugged hands-on work. So what to do with all that incredible dog behavior training knowledge?

Dr. Dog decided to write about "talkin' dog" - for quick, easy, even fun ways to get rid of your dog behavior problems… to communicate to him what you want him to do... and to make him WANT to do it! It's great material that will help YOU.

Since my dog behavior training book is not yet finished, I can say unequivocally that Dr. Dog's is absolutely the best 150+ page dog instruction on the internet or anywhere! Better than Cesar Milan's and other top dog training names on the internet. Solid and effective… and fun!

So help yourself and help Dr. Dog at the same time. For the lowest price on the internet - $29.97 - you can get the best dog behavior material on the internet. It's a win-win proposition! Read more on this link and ACT FAST. He needs the help, and YOU need the help.

To find out more and to order, go here:
===> Dr. Dog's Fast, Easy, Fun Dog Behavior Solutions

ACT NOW - We are giving 100% of our October affiliate commissions to Dr. Dog, to step in and help a friend and to provide disaster relief!

ACT NOW - Effective November 1st, the price will be raised to $39. So get your copy now to avoid paying a 33% increase!

This is still the best current buy on the internet. It's longer, with more real content beyond just elementary dog obedience training, than the most marketed dog training product on the web!

Contributions are welcome, too...
Make your checks payable to

Dr. Dennis Fetko
P.O. Box 28176
San Diego, CA 92198

Thank you!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

How Important Is It To Love Your Dog?

How important is it to love your dog?

I was amazed to be asked that question by a client. If you do not love the dog, do not have him. Dogs have feelings, and they are living creatures.

I have an incredible bond with my Border Collie, and I love him dearly.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dog Dominance Behavior - Are You Kidding Me?

Can you believe it? Someone who claimed to be an expert on Dog Dominance wrote this in an article. He said that if your dog is dominant over another dog, you should feed, pet, and walk your dog first. The claim was that it would reassure your dog if you give him extra attention and make him first! Then he would be at ease with the other dog.

Rongo, Bongo! This will only reinforce his dog dominance behavior, not change it. It's the same as with children - Preferential treatment will only cause jealousy! Your dog needs to know right away that if you bring the other dog in, it's because you want to. And you have the authority to.

It doesn't mean you don't still love your dog. You can pet WHO you want, WHEN you want. You can take a walk with one when you want to, and you can feed or treat one when you want. YOU are the leader. That's the way it is in the wild.

Your life doesn't suddenly get rearranged so that you are walking on eggshells around this dog. He may not be happy with the new dog at first, but he needs to deal with it. Your attitude is not mean, but more matter-of-fact: "This is how it is, because this is how I want it to be."

The dogs must become a pack for things to work out. Equal treatment and affection are critical items in the matter.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

What Training Method Is Best For Your Dog?

How do you decide what training method is best for your dog? That is a hard thing for some people. There's no shortage on dog training books, dog training DVDs, and how-to-train-your-dog methods. There's actually a shortage on understanding the differences, and the proper use and the appropriate use of each method.

For example, just about anyone can put a choke chain on. But very few people actually know how to put it on right, and how to correct right.

It's kind of like clicker training - where people click to say reward is coming. (There's virtually no correction with clicker training.) Everybody knows that in this method of dog training, they click and then give the dog a piece of food when it does a good behavior. But what they fail to look for is the right dog body language along with the behavior before they give the food. The dog is learning no mental challenge from this. Simply, if I do this one behavior, I get a treat - and it doesn't matter whether I respect and surrender to my pack leader or not.

I personally do not agree with positive reinforcement training. However, when it is the best method for the particular animal, I put aside my personal preferences and do it.

I don't like to give animals rewards for doing things - Because the right thing should be done simply because it's the right thing! Your dog should be performing because he loves you and respects you, solely in response to your incredible bond.

Otherwise it's bribery. The dog should never perform simply because he's expecting the reward. Rather, you give rewards at times to express your pleasure, not on a predictable schedule.

I give my dog affection at times to encourage him when I want something done, and plenty of treats at my discretion. But when I meet the unique dog that is not responding to what I normally do, I spend the time to find out whatever it will take to rehabilitate that dog - And I DO IT!

So you see, training a dog is about what is best for the dog!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dog Dominance Behavior - What Are Some Symptoms?

What Are Some Symptoms Of Dog Dominance Behavior?

- Marking in the house

- Refusing to move out of your way

- Stealing your food

- Peeing On your bed

- Pooping on your bed

- Refusing to obey commands that he knows well

- Growling at you

- Snapping at you

- Biting you

- Stealing your clothes

- Blocking your access to furniture or something else you want

- Guarding food or toys

Of course there's more where that came from. These are the common symptoms that people sometimes miss. More often than not I just hear, "That's the way the dog is."

That is dog dominance behavior. Until you accept what something is, you can't take care of it.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

What's the Scoop on Poop?

I was asked: "Why shouldn't a dog be allowed to eat his own poop? And what does it mean?"

First off, to us, that's nasty! It's enough to gross most people ... (guess) ... right out your door.

Dogs shouldn't be allowed to eat poop because, think about it: Fecal matter has eColi in it. Dog eats poop. Dog eats floor. Dog eats counter. You licks counter. You get sick. EColi could be all over your house and you don't even know it. That's deadly, people!

What does it mean when your dog is eating his own poop? It either means:
(1) Poor nutrition, or
(2) He was neglected by his breeder, left alone, and his poop was the only thing to eat.

And by the way, your dog is not trying to hide from you the fact that he went. He's also not afraid of the possibility of predators. (Fear of predators would be shown by rolling in it.) Dogs cover their poop with tons of leaves and grass to mask the scent. The helpless pups are the only ones they clean up after by eating poop so the predators don't find them.

Okay, so what has now become the priority? This is totally gross. How do we stop it?

Feed your dog some pineapple. Every night, right after his dinner. That makes poop taste REALLY bad, and he won't want to eat it any more.

There's also the option of taking him outside, letting him do his business, and then honking a child's bike horn when he tries to eat it. Obviously, let the dog do his business in peace. If you honk the horn before he's finished, you're likely to make him afraid to go outside.

You can also just simply grab the leash and go, after he has finished doing his business. Or clean it up each time he goes to the bathroom.

If my dog had this problem of eating poop ... personally, I think I'd go the pineapple route. I love fresh pineapple, so this would give me an excuse to have it on hand all the time. It also would get rid of a very big thorn in my side!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dog Training - The Rule is...

In training a dog, one of the key rules is to remember that dogs do things in life a step at a time. And they finish the task at hand before they try to do something else.

The speed of your training is not important. What matters is if your dog will obey you when distractions he really likes are around.

If your friend's dog is off leash at six months and yours at a year? So what! You can depend on him then. There's all this competition about how fast it can be done. It's about doing it RIGHT, not doing it fast. That is all that matters.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Brownie the Shelter Dog

I give full credit to Animal Planet for this story.

Brownie the Shelter Dog was a chocolate Labrador Retriever who looked as though she may face euthanasia. No one seemed to want her. She was rather thin and carried the scars of past neglect. But one man saw some potential in her that would save many lives. He took her for the training she would require.

Brownie soared through the requirements to be a bomb sniffing dog. She was soon paired with a bomb technician who matched her eagerness to work.

Officer Jackie renamed Brownie "JJ." Jackie had a dream to have a canine partner, because she knew their great value. She took some tips from a friend of hers that had a bomb sniffing dog. (The friend's dog did not like her and growled. Some dogs only like their handlers.)

Obviously, to become a team, Jackie and JJ had to undergo rigorous training, working very closely together. But once Jackie learned to run in front of JJ and to keep her ambition in check just a little bit more, they made a top bomb sniffing team!

Most dogs who don't work out in families can do exceptionally well in some of these life-or-death jobs. Sadly for people and animals both, too many such dogs are euthanized and never given the chance!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Walking A Dog - Focus Is The Principal Thing!

When you are on your daily walks with your dog - or in my case, it's runs - your dog needs to be your primary focus.

Of course you need to be aware of your surroundings. But if your friend says "hello" to you, and your dog wants to say "hi" to her dog, do NOT answer her until your dog is under control.

Dogs learn very quickly to take advantage of any situation where you're not paying attention. Two dogs trying to play with each other on leash is really not something you want to be in the middle of!

For example, this morning I was running Gatsby when my neighbor walked by with her two Shelties. He REALLY loves them! And it was very hard on him when they gave him an invitation to play.

My neighbor said "hello." I did not even look at her or respond until Gatsby was completely under control again. I kept my eyes on him.

So if you are worried about being rude, explain to people later. When you are walking a dog, your focus is the principal thing.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Grab The Scruff To Stop Dog Behavior Problems?

Hyper Sparky has some dog behavior problems. Now he's about to rush out an open door toward the busy road. Act fast!

Important! - Grab him by the scruff of the neck to remove or correct him.

Never grab a dog by the collar. Even an excited puppy can accidentally nip your hand if it's on the collar instead of the scruff. Any startled or angry dog would!

The scruff makes it impossible for the dog to whip around. It's also a natural touch from "mom" saying "we're going somewhere."

Just imagine if you were going to break up a serious dog fight. The dog bite would be worse on us than it would be on the other dog. They have fur for protection, and we do not.

Please remember this rule!

Rena Murray
Dog Whisper Woman

A Shelter Dog In Adopt-a-Dog Month?

October is "Adopt a Dog Month". I am personally all for adopting a shelter dog so long as the shelter has a reputation that can be trusted. I have the skills to evaluate dogs, and I know how to read dog body language to see what the dog is telling me about himself. But most potential adopters do not.

Meeting with the family who fostered the dog is important. So is speaking with any previous owners the dog has had.

I also strongly recommend NOT getting a new puppy as a gift or a surprise for a family member. Especially on holidays or birthdays, as there is a frenzy of activity that make scare the new pup.

Before you bring home a new puppy or older dog, you should sit down and determine all rules for the dog. Inconsistency really causes a lot of dog behavior problems.

You also need to research your dog breed of choice well and be sure you can handle it's care needs. Walks, grooming, etc. A dog is not a toy that you can play with when you wish. It is a serious commitment.

The truth is that many dogs were abandoned for one of two reasons:

1. The owner no longer wants the responsibility, or
2. Extreme dog behavior problems.

You need to know which it is before you give your heart to that cute shelter dog or playful pup.

It's also good to agree that "I am going to try this shelter dog for two to four weeks before committing." Sometimes, the full extent of dog behavior problems doesn't show up at first, and most owners might miss the subtle symptoms. Explicitly stating and enforcing this "trial period" will help prevent heartbreak, for we people tend to form serious emotional attachments to our furry friends very quickly!

Consider this. Everyone loves to watch Beethoven and Turner and Hooch, but it's not cute at all when it's YOUR house!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Keep A Trained Dog On Leash?

Even though my dog is well trained, I am a firm believer in having a leash on him during our daily walks. Why?

Cars do not always stop even when your dog does. It only takes one moment for disaster to strike!

Remember, even a well trained dog might have just one little slip, when he just can't resist chasing that squirrel who jumps out to tease him... at the wrong moment, when the only car on the street is just passing...

My friend's well trained Lab died that way. A door blew open, and a fresh run across the property was just too enticing. Only that harmless chase led across the street. Sure, she made it safely one way. But when she saw her puppy sitter racing to get her, she ran toward him ... SMASH!

It was horrible. The only car on the street at the time ... the wrong time ... and it was too late. She died long before she made it to the vet. Two years old and beautiful, so full of life ...

You just never know when the unexpected can happen. So don't take a chance with your beloved pet. Keep even a trained dog on leash when walking or running along roadsides or in any risky situation.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Followers Protect The Leader?

I was asked this question by a client who was worried about his dog being overly friendly with strangers. He wanted her to growl at people who came up to them.

"If you do that, you will make people believe she is a nasty dog." He had not considered that part.

I explained to him how much the dog pack respects the leader. Yet all of dog pack members are willing to defend the leader with their lives. They take direction without question, unless "The Man" is in trouble!

For anyone who doubts this, think about it. The head of the human household will defend his family with his life. However, if he was threatened or struck down, his entire family would work as one to defend him.

The dog does no less for his human family. My sweet, happy-go-lucky Border Collie has proven that on more than one occasion.

There's no need to make your dog mean. Just earn his respect and trust, and you will have an animal who will do anything for you!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Nothing In Life Is Free?

Nothing in life is free...is that mean? Unfair? Asking too much?

In truth, no it is not. Not even for puppies.

Pups compete for milk right from the start. The one who fights the hardest gets the most. So the understanding of having to work for what you get is already in them.

The only free part is that fact that the mother provides the milk. The pups conk out after eating, because they spent all that time working for it!

The pups have to focus and push hard for the milk. This works both the body and the mind, taking away excess energy.

Likewise, your dog should begin his day with focused, concentrated work... 30-45 minutes, depending on your dog's needs. Swimming, running, bike riding, treadmill, walking, wearing a backpack, pulling a cart, roller-blading, running beside a golf cart... These are all healthy ways to provide your dog's needs.

Exercised dogs live longer, and they are much less prone to destructive dog behaviors, jumping, and other annoying bad dog behaviors that drive people nuts.

Please remember, if you love your dog, you will treat him like a Dog.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

What Can I Do About My Jumping Dog?

First, don't make this mistake. Here's what NOT to do with your jumping dog.

If your dog jumps all over guests like a kangaroo, do not take the easy way out and put him away... or try to teach him the "kangaroo bop." This leaves him excited, which makes him even more excited the next time a guest comes by.

How can you stop dog jumping?

Give a firm, one word correction. "Firm" means serious, not shouting or screaming at the dog. If you look, you will note that your shouting excites him more, thus making the situation worse.

Next, make the dog sit and stay in one place until he is totally calm before releasing him to say hello.

Remember, if your dog has any kind of behavior problem and you give up in the correction process at eighty percent, that is the reason he only gives you eighty percent. Dogs want to give you one hundred percent, but you have to ask for it.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

Dog chasing tail is often a dog obsessive behavior that I am called in to correct.

Certainly, a young puppy's fascination with his tail is like a baby's fascination with his toes. So be aware that a puppy is usually just thinking, "Wow, I have a tail!" Begin to address it, though, if it starts to become a habit.

The dog obsessive behavior forms as a result of boredom, lack of physical and mental activity, and frustration. Not blocking the behavior when it is escalating can lead to this compulsion as well.

However, in some cases it is a symptom of a serious medical problem. Only your vet can determine that.

On the mental front, some of my clients claim that they have walked their dogs and seen no difference in their dogs' behavior. So they have come to accept that "this is the way he is."

The fact is, if you are not having your dog focused on you, then he automatically gets excited about everything around him and stays excited. When you have your dog focus, he works his mind and relaxes.

"No tail chasing, Spot!"

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

How Do I Stop Puppy Biting Me?

So you have a biting puppy?

Puppy biting and dog bite are common problems people face with young, high energy dogs.

In a dog pack, this is corrected early. Puppies in a litter correct each other by screeching and nipping each other when they get too rough.

So if your puppy is biting and nipping, use this dog instinctive behavior and the signals that will seem natural to the pup. Scream and turn away from him for 10-15 seconds. Then start the game again.

If the puppy bites again, promptly cry out and turn away from him yet again. He'll get the idea.

Your scream should be like the yip of a hurt puppy, not so loud it scares your dogs to death.

No Dog Bite!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Why Do Dog Show Handlers Put Dog Food In Their Mouths?

I was asked by a friend, "Why does a handler at dog shows tend to be taking a piece of food out of his mouth and giving it to the dog?"

According to the judge, it helps keep the dog focused on his dog handler instead of his surroundings. And because the food is at a level that's up from the dog's view, the animal ends up staring upward at his handler.

What some people do not think about is the natural dog instinctive behavior in a dog pack. There the adult dogs regurgitate food for the pups once they are weaned, and continue doing this for a while before the pups can share the kill. So of course, this act is familiar to them.

Let me make one thing clear, though. I go to great lengths for my dogs. But I do not place dog food in my mouth! Your breath would not smell very good!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dog Whisper Tip - When Your Little Dog Is Bullied

What happens when small dogs get bullied by larger dogs? Most people step in and pick up the little guy, trying to comfort him because of the trauma he just went through.

What most people do not realize is that petting an animal who is under stress only reinforces and nurishes the dog's stressed feeling.

Here's a Dog Whisper Tip.

The correct way to handle this kind of situation is to block the attacker and calm him down. Then make him smell the little guy's rear. This removes the trauma from both.

And once your dog has calmed down, give him all the affection you want!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

P.S. It's usually not the big guys who start it, either.

Dog Health Care Tip - Preventing Dog Gas

I am going to be frank. Everyone passes gas from time to time. And everyone's gas has an unpleasant odor, too.

But it is no secret that when our canine friends do it, it really makes the eyes water! And, can you believe the nerve of that dog to look at you as though YOU did it?

Well, the look I am afraid I cannot assist with. However, the gas itself is very preventable. Change the dog's diet to an all natural dog food.

For those of you who are facing this problem, here is some food thats really works! It's an all-natural wellness dog food that gives your dog sweet breath, a gleaming coat, with great dog health! (It's on Dr. Andrew Jones' short list of approved dog food.)

Ahhh... Fresh air!

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman

Dog Whisper Method - Red Zone Case

Why do people who use the "Dog Whisper Method" ask the owners of "Red Zone" dogs to leave the room when they are working with them?

The reason is, the owner has become the source of power for the dog. With the owner not in the picture, it is easier to accomplish the first steps of rehabilitation.

Also, most people panic when their dog shows aggression. Panic intensifies this, and puts the handler at much greater risk.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman