Training isn’t merely an optional indulgence; it’s essential. A well-trained dog is not only easier to handle but also happier and more secure. Offering mental engagement for your dog and gaining a deeper understanding of their needs contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious home life. 

This comprehensive guide will delve into the various aspects of in-kennel training. We’ll discuss what it entails, why a proper handover from the trainer to the owner is crucial, the numerous benefits it offers, and share some real-life scenarios where in-kennel training made a significant difference in the dog’s and the owner’s lives. 

In-kennel training is a specialized form of dog training in which your pet stays at a professional training facility for an extended period, usually from a few days to several weeks. During this time, your dog receives intensive, one-on-one training sessions from certified professionals, all within a controlled environment designed for optimal learning. 

What sets in-kennel training apart from other training methods is the level of intensity and focus it offers. Unlike traditional training methods where the owner is often actively involved, in-kennel training allows for a concentrated training regimen without the owner’s presence. This is particularly beneficial for busy owners or for addressing specific behavioral issues that require expert attention. The controlled setting also ensures that the training is consistent and free from distractions that may occur in a home or public setting. 

The scope of in-kennel training is quite broad, covering everything from basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” to more complex behavioral modifications such as managing aggression or alleviating separation anxiety. Depending on the dog’s needs and the owner’s goals, the program can include specialized training modules like socialization exercises, leash training, and even agility training. 

One of the most critical aspects of in-kennel training is the “handover” process. This is when the trainer transfers the knowledge and techniques used during the training to the owner. The handover is essential because it ensures the owner understands what the dog has learned, why it’s essential, and how to reinforce these behaviors and skills at home. Without a proper handover, the effectiveness of the in-kennel training could be compromised, as the owner might inadvertently undo the training or fail to reinforce it adequately.

The handover process typically includes a detailed briefing from the trainer, complete with demonstrations and possibly even video tutorials. Written guidelines may also be provided for the owner’s reference. During this time, owners are encouraged to ask questions and may even participate in a few practice sessions under the trainer’s guidance. This ensures that the owner is fully equipped to continue the training at home, using the correct techniques to maintain consistency and effectiveness. It’s all about empowering the owner to be an active participant in their dog’s ongoing education and well-being. 

One of the standout benefits of in-kennel training is the consistency it offers. The training is more uniform and effective because your dog is in a controlled environment with a set schedule and professional oversight. This consistency is crucial for reinforcing positive behaviors and correcting undesirable ones. 

In-kennel training is a boon for busy dog owners who may not have the time to attend regular training sessions. With professional dog training, you can go about your daily routine without worrying about fitting in training sessions, knowing that your pet receives high-quality instruction. 

In-kennel training often includes group activities or controlled interactions with other dogs, providing valuable socialization opportunities. This is especially beneficial for dogs that may not have many chances to interact with their peers, helping them become more well-rounded and comfortable in various social settings. 

Furthermore, in-kennel training offers some unique advantages that set it apart from other training methods. For instance, the intensive nature of the program allows for quicker mastery of skills, and the professional guidance ensures that any behavioral issues are addressed with expert techniques. Moreover, the handover process equips owners with the knowledge and tools to continue effective training at home, making it a comprehensive solution for long-term dog well-being. 

Before the training begins, an initial consulting session is usually conducted to evaluate your dog’s behavior, temperament, and specific training needs. This assessment helps our trainers at Dog 2 Dog tailor a program that will be most effective for your dog, ensuring that the time spent in the kennel is productive and beneficial.

In-kennel training programs often have a structured daily routine to provide consistency, which is crucial for effective learning. This routine typically includes designated times for training sessions, meals, playtime, and rest. 

The core of the in-kennel experience is the training sessions. These sessions, conducted by certified professionals, focus on various skills and behaviors, from basic commands to more complex behavioral modifications. The one-on-one nature of these sessions allows for personalized attention, ensuring that your dog’s specific needs are addressed. 

While training is the primary focus, playtime is also an essential component of the daily routine. This allows your dog to unwind, enjoy some physical exercise, and practice social skills in a controlled environment. 

Adequate rest is crucial for effective learning and overall well-being. Designated rest periods are built into the daily routine, giving your dog time to relax and recharge for the next training session. 

Most in-kennel training programs provide regular progress reports to keep you updated on your dog’s development. These reports may include details on the skills learned, behavioral improvements observed, and any challenges encountered. Some facilities may even offer video footage or live streaming options so you can see your dog’s progress in real time. 

Before enrolling your dog in an in-kennel training program, it’s essential to schedule a comprehensive health check-up with your veterinarian. This ensures that your dog is in good health and up-to-date on all vaccinations, often required for admission into reputable training facilities. Discuss any medical concerns or behavioral issues with your vet to ensure in-kennel training suits your pet. 

When preparing for in-kennel training, you’ll need to pack some essentials for your dog’s stay. This usually includes food, medications your dog may take, and a few comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket. Some facilities may have specific requirements or provide some items, so checking beforehand is a good idea.

The emotional well-being of your dog is just as important as their physical health. Spend quality time with your pet before the training period to help ease any separation anxiety they may experience. You can also start acclimating your dog to shorter periods of separation to make the transition to the training facility smoother. Some owners find it helpful to visit the facility with their dogs beforehand to familiarize them with the new environment. 

One of the most common concerns about in-kennel training is the potential for separation anxiety, both for the dog and the owner. To mitigate this, consider a gradual approach by leaving your dog for a shorter period at the facility or another trusted location. This can help acclimate both you and your pet to the separation. Additionally, the facility offers progress reports or live video feeds to keep you updated, providing peace of mind. 

In-kennel training can be more expensive than other training options due to the intensive, one-on-one attention your dog receives. However, the benefits often justify the cost, especially for addressing specific behavioral issues or for busy owners who can’t commit to regular training sessions. To manage costs, inquire about payment plans or discounts and consider the long-term value of a well-trained dog. 

Another concern is the effectiveness of in-kennel training, especially given the investment of time and money. The key to effectiveness is a proper handover process, where the owner learns how to continue the training at home. Make sure to choose a reputable facility with certified trainers and a solid handover process to ensure the training will have a lasting impact. 

Meet Bella, a two-year-old Labrador Retriever who struggled with leash pulling and basic obedience. After a two-week stay in an in-kennel training program, not only did Bella master the basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” but she also learned proper leash etiquette. Her owner, Sarah, was thrilled with the transformation and found the handover process incredibly helpful for continuing the training at home. 

Max, a four-year-old German Shepherd, had severe separation anxiety. His owners, the Johnsons, decided to try in-kennel training as a last resort. Max showed significant improvement after a three-week program that included specialized behavioral modification techniques. The

Johnsons were provided with a detailed handover, including strategies to reinforce the training at home, and Max’s separation anxiety has been much more manageable since. 

Lucy, a one-year-old Border Collie, was already well-behaved, but her owner, Tim, wanted her to learn advanced skills like agility training and complex commands. Through a specialized in-kennel training program, Lucy was able to master an agility course and learn commands that are useful for herding, a natural instinct for her breed. Tim was amazed at how quickly Lucy learned these advanced skills and was grateful for the comprehensive handover that allowed him to continue the specialized training at home. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored various facets of in-kennel training, from what it entails and its unique advantages to how to prepare your dog for the experience. We’ve also addressed common concerns and shared real-life examples to illustrate the transformative power of this specialized training method. 

In-kennel training offers a focused and intensive approach to dog training that can yield remarkable results in a relatively short period. The controlled environment, expert guidance, and structured routine provide an optimal setting for dogs to learn and thrive. Moreover, the handover process equips owners with the knowledge and tools to continue effective training at home, making it a comprehensive solution for long-term dog well-being. Whether you’re grappling with specific behavioral challenges, aspiring to teach your dog advanced skills, or simply focusing on basic obedience, a facility like Dog 2 Dog offers in-kennel programs that are both practical and effective. The investment of time and resources is often justified by the enduring improvements in your dog’s behavior, leading to an enhanced quality of life for both you and your pet.

The post In-Kennel Training: The Proven Method for Effective Dog Training appeared first on Dog Training Salt Lake City | Dog 2 Dog.

In this blog post, we will wag our tails through the numerous benefits that owning a dog can bring to your life. First, owning a dog brings immense joy and fulfillment to our lives. The unconditional love, unwavering loyalty, and constant companionship of furry friends make them cherished members of our families. But dog ownership offers numerous benefits beyond the emotional connection that can positively impact our physical and mental well-being. This article will explore the incredible benefits of having a dog and how dog training and puppy training further enhance these advantages. 

Let’s dive into the positive impact that dogs have on our lives! 

The Emotional Benefits of Dog Ownership 

Dogs are masters of unconditional love and unwavering loyalty. Their presence alone can brighten our moods and provide us with constant companionship. So let’s explore the emotional benefits that come with owning a dog. 

Companionship and Unconditional Love 

When you have a dog, you’re never alone. Dogs offer a deep level of companionship, always by your side through thick and thin. Their ability to provide unwavering love and acceptance creates a profound bond that brings immense joy and comfort. 

Reduced Stress and Anxiety 

Engaging with dogs has been proven to induce a tranquil effect on our physical and mental states. Petting a dog releases oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and anxiety. The presence of a dog can help us relax, unwind, and alleviate the pressures of daily life. 

Enhanced Mood and Happiness 

Dogs possess an incredible ability to induce happiness in us, lightening up our faces with smiles and filling our hearts with joy. Their playful nature and infectious enthusiasm can lift our spirits and enhance our overall mood. Spending time with a dog can brighten even the dullest of days.

Decreased Feelings of Loneliness and Isolation 

Loneliness can be a common struggle, but having a dog as a companion can alleviate these feelings. Dogs provide unceasing companionship and act as faithful allies, always prepared to lend an ear and bestow consolation. Consequently, they can foster a sense of inclusion and alleviate sensations of solitude. 

Physical Health Benefits of Having a Dog 

The benefits of dog ownership extend beyond emotional well-being and can positively impact our physical health. So let’s explore how having a dog can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. 

Increased Physical Activity and Exercise 

Dogs are natural motivators for staying active. Daily walks, playtime, and running around the park are just a few ways dogs encourage us to engage in physical activity. Regular exercise with our furry friends benefits their health and helps us maintain a more active lifestyle, leading to improved cardiovascular fitness and weight management. 

Decreased Blood Pressure and Diminished Likelihood of Heart Disease 

A dog’s existence in one’s life has been associated with diminished blood pressure and a lesser chance of encountering heart-related ailments. Interacting with dogs has a calming effect that can lead to decreased heart rate and blood pressure levels. In addition, the responsibilities of dog ownership, such as walking and caring for them, contribute to a more active and heart-healthy lifestyle. 

Strengthened Immune System and Reduced Allergies in Children 

Growing up with dogs can positively impact children’s immune systems. Interacting with dogs at a young age bolsters immunity and decreases the probability of developing allergic reactions and asthma. Dogs also introduce diverse beneficial bacteria into our homes, promoting a healthier immune system and reducing the risk of allergies. 

Social Benefits of Dog Ownership 

It is well understood that dogs provide companionship and emotional support, but they can also play a crucial role in facilitating social interactions and shaping societal experiences. So let’s explore how dogs can enrich our social lives and create meaningful connections. 

Facilitates Social Interactions and New Friendships 

Dogs serve as excellent ice-breakers and conversation starters. When walking a dog or visiting dog parks, owners often converse with other dog owners or people drawn to their furry companions. This social interaction can lead to new friendships, community connections, and a sense of belonging.

Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem 

The connection shared between a dog and its owner can enhance self-assurance and personal worth. Dogs provide unwavering support, non-judgmental companionship, and unconditional love, which can improve a person’s sense of self-worth. Additionally, the responsibilities of dog ownership, such as training, grooming, and caring for the dog’s needs, contribute to a sense of accomplishment and confidence. 

Fosters a Sense of Responsibility and Empathy, Particularly in Children 

Having a dog at home instills a sense of responsibility, especially in children. Caring for a living being teaches them about empathy, compassion, and the importance of meeting another creature’s needs. Children learn to take on tasks, such as feeding, walking, and grooming the dog, which enhances their sense of responsibility and empathy towards animals and others. 

The Importance of Dog Training 

Dog training is essential for creating a well-behaved and happy canine companion. Training establishes clear communication between the dog and the owner, helps prevent behavior problems, and enhances their overall relationship. In addition, it provides dogs structure, guidance, and mental stimulation, leading to harmonious and joyful coexistence. 

Basic obedience training is a crucial foundation for a well-behaved dog. Teaching commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners not only makes day-to-day interactions more manageable but also ensures the safety of the dog and those around them. Through basic obedience training, dogs acquire the necessary skills to navigate the world confidently and respond to commands reliably. In addition, by providing structure and guidance, basic obedience training sets dogs up for success and promotes a harmonious coexistence with their owners. 

Puppy Training: Setting a Strong Foundation 

Early socialization and exposure to different environments are crucial for puppies. Early on, introducing them to various people, animals, and situations is essential to help them become confident and comfortable. In addition, gradual exposure and positive reinforcement create positive associations and help them adapt to new experiences.

House training and establishing routines are vital for a well-behaved puppy. Create a consistent schedule for feeding, potty breaks, and sleep to set expectations and develop good habits. Use positive reinforcement and rewards to reinforce desired behaviors, such as going potty outside. With patience, consistency, and a structured routine, your puppy will learn where to go potty and understand your household rules. 

Teaching basic commands, like come, sit, stay, and leave, forms the foundation of a well-behaved puppy. Utilize positive reinforcement techniques and focus on short training sessions that gradually increase in difficulty. Consistency and positive reinforcement help shape desirable behaviors and manners in your puppy. 

Dog Training is not just about commands; it’s about building a strong bond and trust with your puppy. Spend quality time together, engage in interactive play, and provide plenty of positive reinforcement, which fosters effective communication, cooperation, and a positive relationship, making training sessions enjoyable and successful. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

When should I start training my puppy? 

It’s best to start training your puppy when you bring them home. Puppies have a natural curiosity and ability to learn from a young age. Begin with basic commands and house training, focusing on positive reinforcement techniques. Early training sets a strong foundation and helps shape their behavior as they grow. 

What is the duration required to train a dog? 

The duration it takes to train a dog varies based on factors such as the dog’s breed, age, temperament, and the complexity of the training tasks. Basic obedience training typically takes several weeks to a few months, while more advanced training may require additional time and practice. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are essential to successful training. But many of our students see noticeable improvements after the first lesson!

Can older dogs be trained? 

Yes, older dogs can be trained. With appropriate training, dogs can acquire new skills and obey commands at any stage of life. While it may take longer for older dogs to adapt to new routines, their life experience and maturity can make training a smoother process. Tailor the training methods to suit your dog’s individual needs and abilities. 

How much does dog training typically cost? 

The cost of dog training varies widely based on the training type, the training program duration, the trainer’s expertise, and your geographical location. Our Signature Group Obedience starts at $650 (6 lessons + 6 Confidence & Immersion Classes) and our Service Dog Training (6 months, 25 sessions) starts at $5500.

How can I choose the right dog trainer for my pet? 

When choosing a dog trainer in Utah, consider their qualifications, experience, training methods, and philosophy. Look for trainers who truly understand canine behavior well, and who have worked with dogs in various settings (this requires a more comprehensive understanding). Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and consider observing a training session before deciding. A reputable and knowledgeable trainer from Dog 2 Dog can significantly impact your dog’s training journey.

The post Paws and Reflect: Exploring the Advantages of Dog Ownership and Dog Training appeared first on Dog Training Salt Lake City | Dog 2 Dog.

Dogs and their owners share a special bond that is unlike any other relationship between humans and animals. This bond is rooted in the unique connection that dogs and humans have formed over thousands of years, and it is strengthened by the many ways that dogs enrich our lives.

Companionship & Loyalty

One of the most powerful aspects of the connection between dogs and their owners is the sense of companionship and loyalty that dogs provide. Dogs are known for their unwavering devotion and love for their owners, and the bond that forms between a dog and its owner is often described as unbreakable. This companionship can be incredibly beneficial for both the dog and the owner, as it provides a sense of security, comfort, and purpose. For many people, a dog is more than just a pet; it is a true companion and a member of the family.

Connection

Another powerful aspect of the connection between dogs and their owners is the sense of connection that dogs provide. Dogs are highly attuned to their owners’ emotions and can sense when something is wrong. They often provide comfort and support in times of stress, sadness, and loneliness. Studies have shown that the presence of a dog can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall well-being. The physical touch of petting a dog has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of love and trust, which can have a calming effect on both the dog and the owner.

Empowering Responsibility

Dogs also provide their owners with a sense of purpose and responsibility. Taking care of a dog requires a certain level of commitment, and it can be a great way to teach children and adults about responsibility, compassion, and empathy. Caring for a dog requires regular feeding, grooming, exercise, and training, and these tasks can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Adventure & Exploration

Dogs can also provide a sense of adventure and exploration. Many dog owners enjoy taking their dogs on walks, hikes, and other outdoor activities. These adventures can be a great way to bond with your dog and to explore the natural world together. The act of walking a dog is not only physically beneficial for the owner but it also helps to create a sense of shared experience, and it can be an opportunity to explore new places together.

Community

The bond between dogs and their owners also has a positive impact on the community. Dogs are known for their ability to bring people together and to create a sense of community. Many dog owners enjoy taking their dogs to dog parks, dog shows, and other dog-related events, where they can meet and interact with other dog owners and enthusiasts. This sense of community can be incredibly beneficial for both the dog and the owner, as it provides a sense of belonging and connection.

Support & Comfort

Dogs have also been known to help people with physical and mental health challenges. Therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort and support to people with physical or emotional disabilities, and they are often used in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Service dogs are specially trained to assist people with physical or emotional disabilities, and they can provide a range of services, such as guiding the blind, alerting the deaf, or providing emotional support.

The connection between dogs and their owners is a powerful one, and it is strengthened by the many ways that dogs enrich our lives. Whether it’s through companionship, loyalty, or the sense of purpose and adventure, dogs have a unique ability to touch our hearts and make our lives better. This connection is a two-way street and it is up to the owner to make sure that the dog is treated with love and care, in return the dog will provide the love and companionship that so many of us crave. This bond is a testament to the power of the human-animal connection, and it is a reminder of the special place that dogs have in our hearts, homes, and lives!

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In the first few days of life, puppies are completely dependent on their mother for survival. They are born blind, deaf and unable to regulate their own body temperature. During this time, they will spend most of their time sleeping and nursing, and will begin to develop their sense of touch and smell.

By the time they reach 2-3 weeks of age, puppies’ eyes and ears will begin to open, and they will start to become more active and curious about their surroundings. They will begin to explore their environment through play and interaction with their litter mates, and will start to learn important socialization skills. It’s important to be aware that during this phase, puppies are particularly susceptible to diseases and should be kept away from other animals and in a safe and clean environment.

Between 4-7 weeks of age, puppies will start to develop their sense of vision and hearing, and will begin to learn to walk. They will also start to develop their sense of taste and will begin to eat solid food. At this stage, puppies will become increasingly independent and will start to explore their environment more independently.

Between 8-12 weeks of age, puppies will start to develop their sense of balance and coordination, and will become more confident in their movements. They will also start to develop their sense of play, and will begin to play with toys and other objects. This is a great time to start basic obedience training.

Between 12-16 weeks of age, puppies will reach their full physical and behavioral maturity. They will have completed their vaccinations and should be fully weaned from their mother. This is the perfect time to enroll them in a puppy training class or to start training them at home. During this stage, puppies will learn new commands and will become more confident and well-behaved.

It’s important to remember that every puppy is different and may develop at a different pace. However, by providing your puppy with the right kind of care and training during these critical first 16 weeks, you can help to ensure that they grow into happy and well-adjusted adult dogs.

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Well-trained dogs are better behaved and more enjoyable to be around.

This can lead to a stronger bond between the dog and its owner, as well as a more peaceful household. How many dogs are given away because of behavioral issues? Far too many. You’ll be amazed at what a difference our Signature Obedience class can make…even after the first lesson.

Prevent common behavioral issues, such as aggression, barking, and destructiveness.

By teaching dogs proper behavior and providing them with positive reinforcement, you will feel more confident with your dog, both inside and outside the home. This leads to fewer “I’m so sorry” moments out in public.

Dog Obedience Training can also improve the safety of both dogs and their owners.

Proper training can teach dogs how to respond to commands, such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it,” which can be critical in emergency situations. This can help to keep dogs and their owners safe in potentially dangerous situations, such as when a dog is off-leash and encounters a wild animal.

Effective training provides socialization opportunities.

Obedience training can also provide your dog with the chance to engage socially with other dogs, which is an important aspect of their overall well-being. Through proper communication and understanding, dogs can learn how to interact with other dogs and people in a positive and appropriate manner. This can help to prevent fearfulness and aggression, and can also make it easier for dogs to adapt to new situations and environments.

Understand your dog’s behavior.

One of my favorite parts about dog training is that it helps pet owners to understand your dog’s behavior, which can improve communication and relationship between you and your dog. Knowing the reasons why your dog acts a certain way makes it easier to correct that behavior when needed.

Obedience training for dogs is like learning a new language- it opens up a whole new world of communication and understanding between you and your dog. This allows you to be on the same page and avoid sending mixed or confusing signals. (we all know how that ends!)

If you are looking to elevate the relationship with your dog, we’d love to help!

If you are near Salt Lake City, then we have both group lessons, private lessons, and in-home lessons.

For those outside of Salt Lake City, we offer online obedience training so you can train in the comfort of your own home and at your convenience.

Learn more about our Signature Obedience Training Classes by clicking below:

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The dog will come with us everywhere! We will take her for long walks…everywhere! He will be my very best friend and everyone else’s best friend too! Oh, and she won’t ever jump on people…ever!

Yeah, “The Dream”.

The Miracle of a Dog

It is a fact that the companionship of a dog can work miracles in a person’s life just as it is true that we can work wonders in a dog’s life as well.

This is not, however, a foregone conclusion. Perfect partnership between a dog and its human requires that respect exist between both parties. The dog will, in the presence of recognized order, do its very best to fit into the world of the human. We believe that dogs are inherently mannerly when pack structure is correctly organized and administered. In the dog’s world this is always the case.

So, what is to be done?

This is the question all dog folk should ask.

Screaming, swearing, hitting, sulking, lecturing and all the other “human” responses don’t work so well.

If, however, we look at the dog’s fundamental drives and character and plot a course towards mutual respect and order, the love we have for these wonderful creatures will be refined into something quite extraordinary.

You will probably need some help.

It is an honor and a pleasure to have served so many good people and their dogs over 37 years. There is no reason whatsoever that you cannot enjoy a remarkable relationship with your dog without those behaviors that distract us from the affection we have for our canine companions.

We promise!

Please ponder the following:

Order creates Obedience.

Obedience creates Confidence.

Confidence creates Trust.

TRUST creates JOY.

We wish you a truly Perfect Partnership with your canine friend and companion! And if you’d like help along the way, we’re just a phone call away.

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I hear this question every day. Folks see the logo on my shirt or someone mentions they are former or current students and they ask.

Second question: “How in the world (or some variant thereof) did you get to be a dog trainer?! Who does that?”

I will do my best to address that question forthwith.

In the beginning I was a kid that really, really wanted a dog. When I was about nine or ten years old, we got a dog for the family. We were not a dog oriented group of people. My parents thought it would be a good idea and, knowing little or nothing about dog ownership, they jumped in.

Poor little Lucy. She was a small mix of some kind and lived outside confined in her kennel for what I remember of her stay with us. After a couple of years she “went somewhere else”. As children we were less than responsible for her care and my parents realized that she needed a new home. These memories were to significantly influence my character as a dog trainer later in my life.

Got older. Read every book on dogs I could find and there were a lot! At sixteen I really, really wanted a dog for myself, primarily as a hunting dog. My grandpa told marvelous tales of hunting ducks and upland game. He was a hero of mine and I desired the dream of training and hunting with my own dog as only a teenager can. My parents, however, remembered the Lucy experience all too well and my begging was benevolently ignored. That is until they purchased a half a pig to put in the freezer and I made some snarky comment (teenager) about it “not being a dog but at least it’s something”.

Kids can be mean.

Apparently my parents hadn’t realized the depth of my feelings on the whole dog thing. It was an obsession really. It just wasn’t their obsession. Anyhoo, about three months later my dad, while purchasing supplies at a lumber store, came across a family selling black Labrador puppies and purchased the pup that would change my life. I still remember with an almost painful vividness my dad walking toward me with a strange (loving, anticipatory, anxious) look on his face. When I saw what he was holding my mind went still. That’s the only word to describe it. Still. Life changed for the better.

I was the sole companion of the pup who I named “Bo”. I trained out of books and endless questions asked of my grandpa and others who hunted and trained dogs. It was glorious and I learned a lot. I was not, however, a professional dog trainer. That would come later. It would be the combined experiences of my years with Bo and my memories of Lucy that would have my life change in an hour’s time.

Seeds of joy are planted in those around us every minute of every day. My dear parents planted a seed in me that amazing day when Bo came into my life little knowing or even suspecting it would greatly influence their son’s life.

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Here’s my feeding ritual: they all scamper in to the kitchen, sit quietly, and all stare at me while I am getting there food in there dishes.

Joe always makes this funny noise because the law is he must sit and wait. As a result, you’ll often see drool that just drips down the sides of his jowls and there is always a puddle on the floor by the time his food is ready.

Maggie just sits and stares at me. And Nena is always the furthest away shaking in anticipation. She often shakes when she is happy or excited – that’s Nena, my Chihuahua.

The best part of the feeding ritual is how I have there undivided attention. I love how they look at me and they know that I am the one who gives the food. If they are not sitting or if they are making to much noise they know I will just wait till they are all calm.

I put each bowl on the floor and tell each of them to wait. They look at me they look at the food and then back to me and we wait about 30 seconds. Maggie, Nena, and Joe’s eyes are so intense, watching me to give the command. Finally it is time I say “OK” and they all start to eat. Before I know it, all the food has vanished.

Yes, this is a very simple thing. But my feeding ritual brings me joy as I connect with them in a way that they totally understand. I look forward to tomorrow when we can have this experience again.

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Over the 4th of July weekend, these two dogs were roaming around and I thought that it was unsafe to let them continue because it was getting dark out and fireworks were starting in a couple of hours.

I brought them into my house and assessed the situation, I checked for ID tags and only one of the dogs had a rabies tag from the Humane Society, I knew they were closed for the weekend and on Mondays. They stayed the night… On Saturday morning I got up and went to PetSmart to have them scan both dogs for micro chips, neither dog had been chipped. I knew I then had to wait till Tuesday morning to see if the humane society had any info. My daughter and I took pictures and made posters of the dogs and hung many around where we live. No luck. No one called us.

Joe, my pit, was very happy to have a guest (we called Goldie) that was big enough to play with him so they played and drooled all over each other all weekend. Maggie my Cairn terrier played a little with the black and white dog that we called Blackie. They both were such great dogs and easy to have around. They joined my pack with no problems so we were up to six for the weekend, my three dogs, my parent’s dog and the two strays.

Tuesday morning arrived and I called the Humane Society, I gave them the number on the rabies tag, and it took them a few minutes, but they had a phone number for me. I called the number and I asked them if they had a Golden Retriever and a black and white dog, He said yes and was ecstatic to know they were ok and came right over to get them.

When he got to my house he told me that he had taken his wife to a movie and left the dogs in his fenced back yard. When they got home the gate was open and the dogs were no where to be found, so they looked all weekend for them. The dogs had traveled a mile from their house. It was a happy reunion and such a relief for them, but I have to say the problem and worry would have be solved much quicker if they had current information and had been wearing dogs tags and then also micro chipped.

So I bought updated tags with the correct phone number for my dogs, now I am asking you to do the same and update or get your dog tags with your current phone number and get your dogs micro chipped. It is a simple step and it gives your dog the best chance to be reunited with you if they do get out and are lost.

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