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Editor’s Picks

Getting the Trot with Positive Reinforcement


Getting their equids to move from a walk to a trot can be frustrating and elusive for many people. Most often, the equid is not offering the trot because the handler is not breaking down the behavior enough or being clear in what they’re asking. Jumping straight from a walk into a trot is a considerable jump in criteria (what you expect from your learner) when you’re in the early stages of training and developing movement. Mark and Reinforce for Clear Communication When you’re working on changing gaits, it isn’t… Continued

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Behavioral Changes in Cats: Could It Be Pain?


Did you know cats instinctively hide signs of pain, often leaving pet parents unaware of serious health issues? Unlike dogs, who might whimper or limp noticeably, cats tend to rely on quiet behavioral changes to communicate their discomfort. These changes can be easy to overlook but can provide crucial clues that something isn’t right. Recognizing these signals can make all the difference in ensuring your feline friends receive the care they need. The Link Between Behavior and Pain Understanding the connection between your cat’s behavior and their physical state is… Continued

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Latest Articles

What to Look for in a Pet Care Professional–Part 1


This post is the first in a series of articles designed to assist pet care consumers with selecting an appropriate professional to care for and help them with their pets. In this article, I will answer the question, “What is a professional?” I will also discuss the importance of working under a Code of Technical and Ethical Standards developed by acknowledged experts in pet care. What is a Professional? Almost all professions follow the attributes listed under the heading “A Professional Will:” Many different professionals work in pet care. They… Continued

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Am I a Pack Leader…or a Human?


I was a dog lover long before becoming a professional dog trainer, and when a television program first aired about dog training and behavior, on a major network that I trusted, I began watching episodes with the intent of learning more about dogs.  Conflict and Competition The essence of the TV program seemed to be founded on something called “dominance theory” and the personal charm of the star. What I heard throughout each episode were references to humans having to be the dominant pack leader to offset a dog’s inclination… Continued

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Without Eyes to See: Adventures with My Blind Puppy


Dogs and humans are both very visual species. We rely on body language so much to understand the context and communication of the world around us. I can’t even begin to imagine what it would feel like not to have any sight, and for my other senses to be heightened to compensate for it. For my dog Jellyfish, that’s exactly how it is, and yet he is the happiest, most excited little man that I have ever met. Jellyfish loves life. Puppy Basics When I adopted him from the nearby… Continued

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How to Train Your Dog to Play Frisbee


A Fun and Furry Guide This blog post earned Honorable Mention in the Pet Professional Guild’s Pets and Their People Celebrating Life Together   community outreach competition in the ‘Pet Professional – Write a Blog Post’ category. Ready to turn your four-legged friend into a frisbee-catching superstar? Training your dog to play frisbee is not only a blast, but it’s also a fantastic way to enhance your bond and keep your pup fit and happy. Here’s your ultimate guide to turning your dog into a frisbee fanatic! 1.  Pick the Perfect Frisbee First things… Continued

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What Role Does Your Dog Play in Your Life?


Last summer, I read a market research report that reported that 76% of people in the US with pets strongly agree that pets are part of the family and that 17% agree that pets are family members. That is a total of 93%, which is something to be excited about as it suggests that most of us who share our lives with pets believe they should be treated as family. I am now in my 30th year as a pet care professional and feel fortunate to have entered this career… Continued

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