While sipping our morning coffee and glancing at the latest headlines, we came across this charming video article about a loving dog who helps with the daily household chores. The story warmed our hearts, and reminded us that in a world where drama takes center stage, there will always be those news stories that restore our faith and hope in the future. More so, the story highlights the importance of love and proper training.
Bom Bom Bommmm (cue the thunder and lightning) - “YOU PUT THAT AROUND A DOG’S NECK?!?”
The infamous Pronged Collar. I’m interested in getting your feedback on this because throughout the years there has been an extensive list of training tools for dogs, but I’m assuming that most of us can agree that no other dog training device has been so aesthetically unpleasant. Actually, forget unpleasant, it’s down right scary; 50 relatively pointed metal spikes wrapped around a dog’s neck? Oh yeah, and it actually gets tighter when you pull on the leash! It does seem rather cruel, no?
I want to hear about real life experiences using this mechanism. Did it work for you and your dog? What exactly is it supposed to accomplish? Did you reach your training goals? Did anyone ever ridicule you for mistreating your k9 companion?
From what I’ve seen it has become much more popular over the last year or so. I’m curious, however, is it going to have a life cycle like it’s cousin the “choke collar”? If so, we should be watching for an exit stage left in the near future.
First Installation of:
Ask Miss Pawlite
Just last week, I was lucky enough to spend some quality time with one of my favorite furry friends, Emperor Chops. On our way home we encountered three new dogs, two off-leash and one on a leash. All three of the dogs were excited and none of them obeyed the commands of their walker. In addition to being on leash, Chopper is very well trained, has a kind demeanor and gentle temperament. I knew that Chopper would behave himself, like the gentleman he is, with the other dogs, yet, I was extremely nervous about the other dogs’ behavior; They surrounded Chopper and were acting aggressively. When the walker called for them they did not respond. It was not until Chopper and I removed ourselves from the situation did the dogs leave. After this incident, I was upset that the walker was not more aware that her dogs’ behavior could lead to a potentially dangerous situation. However, I declined to say anything as I did not want to be an instigator. Later that evening, I got to thinking. Would it have been appropriate for me to say something to this woman or should I have done what I did and kept walking? After searching the internet, I was unable to find a direct answer to my question. So, I enlisted the help of my friend who not only trains dogs, but also emphasizes the importance of proper “dog manners.” And thus, “Miss Pawlite” is born.
For this particular situation, the first thing you should do is be aware of your city and state’s leash laws. For example, in Boston, it is unlawful for a dog to be off-leash when not on the owner’s property (leash laws). If, in fact, the city has a leash law, the best and most appropriate way to deal with the situation is to kindly inform the other dog owner about said law, especially if you anticipate running into him/her again. In the case that your city does not have an enforceable rule, it is still a good idea to express your concerns to the dog owner. Explain to the dog owner in a non-confrontational way that you are apprehensive about his/her dog’s behavior when off-leash and share that you feel safer when your own dog is on a leash because you know that you are in control of the situation.
I hope this clears up some questions out there! If you have any dog manner related questions please write to Miss Pawlite at blog@sniflabs.com. Happy SNIFFING!
Meet the bloggers!
Mitch, an avid dog lover, is the proud father of two stunning boxers, Lord Chopper and Lady Independence. After Chopper came home, Mitch realized the importance of proper training and has become an enthusiastic supporter of behavioral training for dogs.
Elizabeth, also keen on dogs, is currently in the process of adopting a pug to add to the family of pets which includes hamsters and horses for now.
Mitch and Elizabeth met while working in Boston (www.sniflabs.com). With the help of their furry friends, Chopper, Indie, Turbo and Stuart, Mitch and Elizabeth will keep you up to date with all dog worthy news and the hippest places to hit around the city with you and your pooch.
Stuart
Lady Independence and Lord Chopper
After a sneak preview of spring last week, it seems like we might finally have some warmer weather coming our way.
We thought it was perfect timing to start talking about getting outside to the local dog parks again!
On this blog you can look through our old posts on dog parks and don’t forget to check out our map of all the local parks
What park will you be taking your dog to once it starts getting nicer out?
UPDATE!!! Pictures in this blog are courtesy of Michele Biscoe, Chairperson of Somerville Dog Owners Group. All of her pictures are available for viewing.
There is a big story out right now on the mistreatment of dogs in puppy mills after Lisa Ling hosted an investigation for the Oprah Winfrey show.
You can read about the investigation here
On the program, Lisa visits an Animal Rescue facility and took this picture below. Don’t the dogs seem much happier!
It is horrible that these places where animal cruelty exist, but as one of our readers pointed out- the best thing you can do is to support your local shelters like the ARL or MSPCA.
We’ve talked about getting professional pictures taken for your dogs before (La Muse is a great choice!) but we received an email this morning that we had to pass along. This weekend there is a really fun charity event where you can get pictures taken of your dogs- just look at these beautiful examples:
This Saturday, the 5th of April from 9:30 to 3:30 at the Children’s Art Center (36 Rutland St. in the South End) you can get Dog Portraits taken by Mim Adkins.
Proceeds of this event benefit the ARL and MSPCA - so everyone should participate!
If you are interested in getting portraits of your dog, call 617-233-9057 for an appointment
Do you have a story you want us to tell? Would you like to see your dog appearing in this blog? Please send us your dog's picture and story at blog@sniflabs.com.
