Monday, August 25, 2014

Back to School for Bowser, too!


We’ve seen a lot of puppies this summer and with families in back to school mode, it’s a good time to remember that your pup needs an education, too. 

Many of our team members are able to help you with the basics-potty training, crate training, chewing nipping, and many behavior problems,  however puppies (and all dogs) need to understand the basics to be good citizens and, if not happy to meet people, how to at least tolerate us two legged creatures. 
Below are some of the services used by many of our clients:

The Whole Pup:  http://www.thewholepup.com/
Academy of Canine Behavior:  http://www.aocb.com/training/classes
Gentle Paws Dog Training:  http://www.gentlepawsdogtraining.com/

Some other tips that help pups get started on the right feet!  (and remember these things should be done by as many members of the household as possible)

·         Buy your puppy lots of toys!  Reward good behavior with play time (instead of food) and you’ll have a healthier puppy for a lifetime.

·         Speaking of food-using treats for training is very helpful.  Just remember that they don’t need a whole calorie packed dog cookie.  Breaking them into smaller chunks doesn’t bother them at all!

·         Remember to get your puppy starting with a collar, harness and leash as young as possible (please remember that pinch type collars are not recommended except for the most extreme problems)

·         Handle their feet-bottom, top and between toes, and trim their nails frequently to get them used to it.

·         Look at your puppies mouth and teeth, they need to understand that fingers in their mouth is something they should expect (be careful with those pointy baby teeth!)-this will help you as they get older if they ever need medication and it helps us when we check them for oral disease.

·         Bring them by the vet clinic, even if just to weigh them-this helps reduce their fear doctor visits!

·         Consider Crate Training your puppy!  A crate is just like an indoor dog house and becomes your puppy’s own space.  It helps potty training, chewing problems and gives you peace of mind that your pup is safe while you’re away from home.

·         Using an appropriate tone of voice can make a big difference-we usually use a higher pitch tone when we say something like ‘Let’s go for a Walk’.  Usually they’ll understand one word…such as walk, but it’s also the tone that sends the message that they get to do something fun!  Scolding with a higher pitch tone simply confuses them.

·         Teach children to follow all of the above (age appropriate of course)

Following a few simple rules can reduce the stress and frustration that can sometime occur and make their adjustment to your family smoother!

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Featured Furry Family


Sammy
Sammy came to us 17 years ago, as a neglected kitten, tossed out into the world to fend for himself. He's a magnificent specimen of a truly regal and intelligent creature. While he doesn't like to be coddled, he does appreciate a good chin rub! 

Dimitri

We adopted Dimitri from Purrfect Pals in the spring of 2003, when he was barely a year old. His owners moved and left him behind. he stormed into our home and hearts with a personality that demands all the things be his, now! He loved his big brother Sammy the moment they met and have been best friends ever since. 
 
C.C.

We found C.C. in the basement of the Washington DC Convention Center in the summer of 2003. She was a very sick little kitten behind when the area was cleared after construction. We flew her home to Edmonds where her older brothers, Sammy & Dimitri accepted her with open paws and the 3 lived a charmed life. 

In the summer of 2004, our world was turned upside down when we rescued 4 kittens from an irresponsible pet owner. We thought we'd properly care for the 4, foster and send off to forever homes. Quickly we realized, the 4 insurgents would be with us forever. 
Bruiser

Bruiser, by far the largest and most gentle of the 4, quickly became Dimitri's shadow. Bruiser drives Dimitri crazy. 
 
Velcro
Velcro, the sweetest and most intelligent of the 4, requires a ride on Dad's shoulder daily. Dad has learned to do many chores while holding a cat on his shoulder. 
 
Willie
Willie is content to be the baby and a true momma's boy. The way Mom dotes on him is an embarrassment to independent felines everywhere. 

Angel

Angel, the smallest and only female of the 4, rules her brothers with an iron paw, but melts when she's in her dad's arms. Angel is daddy's little girl.