Teaching An Old Dog New Tricks!

Well, if you follow me on Facebook or Instagram, then you already know that I have begun taking herding lessons with Ozzie, my 3 year old Rough Collie.  Ozzie is an 11th generation direct descendant of the original Lassie, and thus a real working dog...of the Hollywood variety...lol.  Ozzie likes to work, and then he likes to take breaks in his trailer, aka the back of my SUV with the door up, where he can watch everyone else work.  He's such a hoot.

All kidding aside, it really is a pleasure to work with my dog and have someone else be in charge.  We love our instructor; Trish Wamsat has been my friend for 20 years.  I am grateful to have her in my life, and even more grateful to have her as our herding instructor.  She is patient with us both, but she does spur us along.  That's what makes a good instructor.  Someone said to me, "Oh, it must be hard for you to take classes from someone else. And even harder for someone else to be your teacher!"  This really made my smile.  I LOVE learning, whether it's from clients and their animals, things that I read, a family member, or even one of my kids.  I think we should never tire of learning and always be open to the process.  I can't speak for Trish, but I do hope that having us in her class is not too painful!

I'll be the first to admit it. Ozzie is much better at herding than me.  That dog has the moves of a natural. Me? Not so much.  I am learning what it means to trust my dog, but still keep my eyes on him; to ask him to do behaviors without him actually looking at me; to use my voice in a commanding, but still nice way; to turn my back toward the sheep, while still watching them so that I don't get trampled; and most importantly, know where I want those sheep to go!  More than once, I found myself simply observing.  Watching the dog, watching the sheep, but not actively being the shepherd.  Trish laughed at me (with me?!) and reminded me that I have to actually have a plan. I can't just be an observer, I have to be part of the job.  It's a dance.  Shepherd, sheep, and dog.  Ozzie is a great partner. I just need to learn how to lead without stepping on his feet or losing track of the beat.

I am looking forward to our next herding lesson already.  I love running around with my dog, having sheep nuzzle my fingers, and the sun shine on our heads.  To be able to spend this quality time with Ozzie is truly a pleasure. To spend time with  and learn from a dear friend at the same time is priceless.

For more information on herding lessons for all experience levels, visit Trish's website at www.homeschooledhounds.com.

Ozzie in his "trailer" during herding lessons

Kids & Dogs Class Returns!

More than once, I've been told that I'm crazy to teach a class for kids and their dogs.  Comments have ranged from, "that must be like herding cats!" to "that must be a nightmare!"  I always laugh because my kids and dogs class is a blast.  Kids have energy and enthusiasm which many adults are sorely lacking. Plus, the kids in my class get a kick out of the fact that no parents are allowed until the last class where they get to show off what they can do. I know that the parents are often skeptical about leaving their kids and dogs in my care (I'll admit that some actually seem relieved!), but the class always gets rave reviews from parents and kids alike, so I must be doing something right.

So, what makes this class different and fun?  First off, it's all about teaching kids that they can be responsible and have control over their dogs.  Second, we play games and work on trick training as a means of gaining respect by the dog for the kids and vice versa. I truly think the dogs enjoy the limbo game as much as the kids do!  It's a pleasure to see kids become more confident and to watch their dogs build trust in their young companions. 

It IS a lot of work to teach this class, don't get me wrong.  There have been times when siblings got into it with each other during the class, we've had dogs get over-stimulated, and we've had treats dumped on the floor more times that I can remember.  Nonetheless, I enjoy this class and continue to offer it a couple of times each year (usually around Spring Break and during the Summer).  I've had kids take the class more than once, so I know they must be having a good time. For me, it is a sweet reminder of a time when my own kids were little and I let them work with our dogs one-on-one.  The pride they felt and the tricks their dogs accomplished are memories I hold dear.  My hope is that when the parents of these kids show up to the last class to watch their kids and dogs in action, that they too feel a sense of pride in what their kids can accomplish outside of a traditional classroom, and with an instructor (me) who is anything but conventional!

If you would like more information on this class, visit www.adobedogs.org for details.

My niece building confidence working with two of my dogs (2006)

A Cost Benefit Analysis

I had a lovely conversation with a new client yesterday. She has had her new canine companion for just 10 days, but in that time he's already begun displaying some concerning behaviors.  She, on the advice of her veterinarian, reached out to me to get a handle on the situation early in order to decide whether this dog will be a good fit for her family or not. Our appointment had been set for an hour, but I always allot more time for new clients, just in case.  It was a good thing that I did as this appointment ran well over two hours. As we were finishing up, she said how much she appreciated the extra time that I had spent and the fact that I didn't rush through my treatment plan.  She had time to formulate her questions and understand my game plan. We trouble-shot different scenarios and what her responses should be. We figured out how she would track her progress, and discussed how to share her progress with me along the way. She said she felt relief. And hope. And that I really understood. She also said that it was quite obvious that I wasn't just good at my job, but that I truly enjoyed it and was passionate about what I do.

As I was driving away, this conversation really stuck with me. And it's still in my head today. I do enjoy what I do and I feel that I can help people AND help their animals at the same time. Even my more jaded clients who have had bad experiences with other animal practitioners usually walk away feeling that they "got their money's worth" with me.

Which brings me to that cost benefit analysis title for this post. I have certainly heard, more than once, that my fees are too high and that there are other, more affordable options. While this is a competitive field, I never argue with those who tell me this. Pet owners have the right to seek out and work with whomever they choose. As long as they understand the difference between working with a dog trainer and working with an animal behaviorist and why they might need one more than the other...I am good with it.  It's like Match.com....I'm not the right person for every prospective client, and they aren't the right match for me either. Each pet owner must determine what their animal needs and how best they can reach that goal, keeping their budget, schedule, and their own experiences in mind.

I will say this....you do get what you pay for.  I have had more than one client return to me and rather sheepishly state they went elsewhere only to realize that they really should have worked with me in the first place. I never make them feel bad and welcome them to my process....my philosophy...and my plan...without ever saying, "I told you so."

I often joke that I am not a people person, but obviously that isn't true. I would only be able to work with people's pets if those owners allowed me the access to do so.  So, I think instead of saying that I'm not a people person, I will say that I simply understand animals better than people. My dad said it was a gift and I choose to believe that. And I will never undervalue what I do.  Another lesson from my dad.  Sure wish that he was here today to see what I have accomplished in the last 27 years.  I like to think it would make him happy as well.

The Party's Over!

Well, the party's over, so it is back to work. One of the best things about Saturday's event was having the opportunity to connect with dog owners in a less structured setting. Some made their free appointments to catch up with me and update me on their pet's progress. Others had never met me and wanted the chance to see what I was all about. Many had specific issues that they hoped to get a handle on in 2018.  So fortunate to be able to do all of that...and watch Ashly McHatton of Element Image Co. capture some fun images of the dogs who came to party with their people.

So, where do we go from here? Many of you have signed up for one or more of my upcoming seminars or classes through Molly's AdobeDogs Dog Training. Others may need more help, however, than a class has to offer. If you still need my assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. We can set up a phone consultation or an in-home visit to really get a handle on whatever issue is keeping you and your canine companion from experiencing all the joy that dog ownership has to offer.

And for those of you waiting for your dog's images from the party, hang tight!  As soon as Ashly gets them all sorted, enhanced, etc., she will send them out. I do hope you will share your beautiful images on social media so that more people see just how much fun it is to work with a professional photographer, especially for a special event like the one I had on Saturday.

Here's to an amazing, productive, inspiring, and fun-filled 2018!

New Year, New You!

This time of year, you can't escape the articles, blogs, advertisements, etc. urging you to take charge, make changes, and get it together! I have never been fond of New Year's resolutions; too much pressure. However, I do think that January is a great time to make plans and evaluate my goals for myself and for my canine companions. For example, one of my goals for 2017 was to see Ozzie make a visit for Furry Friends Pet Assisted Therapy Services, and he did his first visit this Fall! So, as 2018 is now upon us, what changes are you making or goals are you setting for your pets? Maybe it's a goal for you both to get more exercise and explore all of the hiking trails your area has to offer. Or maybe you and your pet need to shed a few pounds so you are looking to find snacks you both can share that won't set your diet back.

Whatever your goals for 2018, I sincerely hope that you enjoy the process of achieving them. If I can help you and your pet reach those goals, please let me know. Regardless, I really want to see you at my celebration on Saturday, January 20, from 10 a.m. 2 p.m. in Los Altos. That's right...we've extended the party by two extra hours to accommodate everyone who registered for their free 10-minute appointment with me that day! There will be snacks, prizes, and photo opportunities and plenty of time to discuss those goals!  Hope to see you there!

Upcoming Celebration!

I love a good party and I think January is the perfect time to celebrate! I am going into my 27th year in business as an Animal Behaviorist and I want us to celebrate together! So, I am inviting everyone...my friends on social media, all of the clients who have worked with me, both one-on-one and in classes and seminars through Molly's AdobeDogs Dog Training...EVERYONE to come and join me. Here are the details on this event:

When: Saturday, January 20, 2018, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: 347 First Street, Los Altos, CA

Snacks and coffee will be provided for the humans, Auntie Julie Dog Cookies and water for the dogs!

Just for fun, I will be doing 10 minute "New Year, New You" appointments with you and your dog. These appointments are free, but you will want to sign up in advance to guarantee a time slot. You will have the opportunity to tell me about your challenges and your goals for your dog, and I will share some of my insights with you to get you started on the path to success!

My friend, and branding photographer, Ashly McHatton, will be on hand as well to capture this event on film. I have asked her to take pictures of attendees and their dogs and she said YES!  These pictures will be free, but definitely let me know if you and your dog will be coming so she can plan her time accordingly.

Molly Hughes, owner of Molly's AdobeDogs, will also be on hand to talk about upcoming classes and seminars and what types of training opportunities you'd like made available to you in 2018. AdobeDogs is all about having the best community canine and taking classes and seminars is a great way to reach your goals.

If you'd like to take part in the "New Year, New You" appointments, have your photo taken by a professional photographer, and talk about your dogs' needs in 2018, then join us!  You can RSVP to this blog posting, through Facebook or Instagram, via email, or by calling or texting my office. Here are all the links to those ways to RSVP:

https://www.facebook.com/JulieBondPetEducationTrainingServices/
https://www.instagram.com/k9freud/
K9Freud@gmail.com
(925) 818-3938

Looking forward to an amazing 2018 with all of you! Go ahead...what are you waiting for? Your dog wants to go!

Holiday Donations: Where to Give!

Tis the season for making donations to your favorite charities. There are so many different charities and relief efforts around the world vying for your dollars, that it is very difficult to choose where to give. Donating your time or supplies to your local animal shelter is a terrific place to start, but often people are looking to donate to larger/national animal organizations as well.

Unfortunately, not all charities are created equal and that is certainly true among charities which devote themselves to animals and animal-related causes. While this list is not all-inclusive, it represents a handful of charities ranked by charitynavigator.org, a watchdog group that ranks charities based on which ones really put your donations to good work, and which ones are simply using donations to pay operating fees, salaries, etc. So, which animal-related charities got high marks? Here are just a few:

Animal Welfare Institute, Washington, D.C.
PetSmart Charities, Phoenix, AZ
Animal Rescue, Inc.,New Freedom, PA
African Wildlife Foundation, Washington, D.C.
Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Smithtown, N.Y.

Do you have a favorite animal-related charity? Please share it. And Happy Holidays to all!