Move Mutt Today

Prevent Holiday Dog Bites & Keep the Peace During the Season

11/30/2012 16:02:00

There is a major increase in dog bites around the holidays and Move Mutt wants to make sure that you, your dogs and your visitors are all safe this year.

No one is immune to this problem,including the experts. Personally, I have had two holiday bite incidents within the last 3 years, both involving rescue/foster dogs, but even your well known and well loved personal dogs are not exempt.

Unfortunately, I’ve heard dozens of horror stories, usually during a tearful phone call the day after, asking me to help re-train, re-home, or even testify as an expert as to the offending dog’s history and temperament and the owners normal diligence.

The first thing to remember is that dogs pick up on every feeling coming from you and from your visitors. This can be joyfulness,excitement, stress, anxiety, drunkenness, etc… Any one of these things when combined with an excited dog can be a very dangerous combination.

Dogs are a wonderful part of our lives but it is our responsibility to keep them safe and recognize that they are still animals and not people with fur. When visiting a home with a dog there are some things to take into consideration to keep things safe for all. Changes in routines, crowded rooms, stressful family situations and excited children can often lead to miscommunication between a dog and guests.

Any visit to a home where a dog lives is reason for planning, but much more so if the dog’s temperament or training are questionable, if the guests include any children, or if the visitors are considering bringing a dog of their own. Everyone needs to agree, in advance, on greeting procedures, housing arrangements and rules.

You need the facilities to keep dogs separated, if it turns out to be necessary, and to keep guests and dogs separated when they are not being properly supervised. Even if the dogs have been okay together at some time in the past, or everyone thinks the children and dogs will be okay together, you need the fall-back position of being able to keep them securely separated. Things change during this time of year, and a situation that worked in the past may be dangerous now.

Besides the concern that someone could get hurt, or in the worst case scenario, a dog put to sleep, families can develop ill will over dog visits at family get-togethers that take years for people to forgive. Often it’s not anything the dog has done. For the best chance of avoiding such a feud, workout a detailed agreement in advance as to how dogs will be handled, and make sure everyone is fully informed.

In the end, the people whose home it is have the right to say the dog cannot come. At the same time, the people whose dog it is have the right to say they are not coming without the dog. And finally, if the hosts have a dog and you are uncomfortable, you have every right to decline the invitation. Believe me; everyone will be much happier if an incident with injury or misunderstanding never arises. Also, be sure to work out an understanding with both members of a couple, rather than just one of them. And let the holiday games begin!

Here are a few tips to help keep both people and pets safe as you visit your dog loving family and friends.

Fear of dogs. If you or your child is fearful of dogs consider asking the host ahead of time if the dog can be secured in another room or put on a leash to help ease the fear. If you know ahead of time that this is a consideration you may bring the dog a special gift of his own to enjoy in a designated place. Fearful responses of a child or adult may increase the risk of a bite.
SUPERVISE at all times. Even the best family dog that loves kids may become irritated and tired during the holidays changed routines. They may even try to communicate this by licking their lips, turning away, moving away, yawning, etc... We often do not recognize this dog language and that can lead to a more direct communication that we do know….growl or snap. Recognizing subtle cues dogs demonstrate can make everyone more comfortable.
Noisy toys. New sounds make some dogs nervous and fearful. As the children open gifts stay aware of the dog and its responses to the new toys.
Remote control toys and fast moving hot wheels may be of interest to dogs that like a good chase. Your dog may do better outside or in another room away from the tempting toy for now while it is still new. This will allow your child to safely enjoy the new gift.
Clean up wrapping and ribbons promptly to prevent curious dogs or cats from ingesting these items. Ribbons can cause deadly consequences internally.
Chocolate is toxic to pets.
Dog toys. Dogs that normally do not guard their toys or food may be more likely to do so with children or guests. Always leave dogs alone while enjoying toys or treats.
Resting dogs need to be left alone and not approached.
SUPERVISION is a must for small children!
Crowded rooms lead to more potential for conflict. When activity level is high and there are close quarters offer the dog another quieter space to avoid conflict.
Children and adults must be taught to respect a dog’s space. Chasing and hugging dogs at these gatherings is not safe. Encourage hide and seek and fetch or other fun games that are safe.

Religion & Rescue

10/18/2012 12:18:00

Religion & Rescue

I posted the following letter on both my personal and Move Mutt Facebook pages. I have lived my life out loud and never been ashamed of anything. I have made huge mistakes and I take responsibility for those. After everything I've experienced in my life, I decided to devote the remainder to animal rescue.

If you're interested in the major life-changing event that has brought me here and why I try to educate people about sepsis and dog bites, please go to http://www.movemutt.org/Asplenia--Dog-Bites---Sepsis.html. It details my life and death battle and also my faith in God for pulling me through this. And that seems to be the problem. People seem to have an idea that you cannot have a past, not be ashamed of it and still have the heart to rescue animals as well. Read on:

This is an open letter to the “Christian” couple from Boise who sent a typed letter via snail mail to me without a return address, or even a legible signature. You have problems with the content of my PERSONAL Facebook page, and because of that, have decided to no longer contribute to, support, or follow Move Mutt. First, please, all of my Christian friends and family members, I have some extremely choice words to share with these people, and it may be somewhat offensive to certain individuals, so I recommend that you stop reading now. Love all of you guys with ALL my heart!

Now, so called “Christian” couple; this is my PERSONAL Facebook page. If you have been following here, instead of following the actual Move Mutt page at: https://www.facebook.com/MoveMuttCo, then you made a mistake. This page is for my friends and family, who know and love me, dirt, chips, cracks and all.If you were truly a friend, I would enthusiastically encourage and invite you to share an intelligent, two way conversation on beliefs, views and ideas. However, since you decided to take the totally chicken shit way out and not leave me any avenue in which to respond, I will address you on my personal page, because my family and true friends will have no problem with anything I have to say here.

I am a human being. I have a past, present and future. I have causes which are very dear to my heart and I will continue to work for those causes no matter what small minded, self righteous people feel about me personally. This is MY, you know me, “the person you used to call Renee”, this is MY personal page and I always have and always will continue to say and post whatever the hell I feel like saying or posting.

You are offended by pictures on my PERSONAL Facebook page that you say are “pornographic”. Your exact words were “What kind of Christian Woman, who was saved from certain death by the Lord, her God, prominently and shamefully (I’m certain you meant shamelessly, because that is the way it was done) posts totally inappropriate photographs of her body, half dressed in bikinis,surrounded by crates of wine (cases of beer actually) and especially outrageous, the picture of you and your friend on a boat with butt floss (we cal lit a thong) that does not even cover the fissure in her bottom?!?!”

Wow, I guess you missed the album (of which, by the way, I have 58 posted – have a blast!) of my Modeling Pics, where I am in “butt floss” and also where I am posing, half nude,with my arms around another woman. From the tone of your letter, I am certain that homosexuality disgusts and offends you even worse than pornography. While I am not homosexual, I support every homosexual person’s rights and beliefs (yes,a Christian Woman LOVES her homosexual friends). As a matter of fact, without the support of the homosexual community as volunteers, financial contributors or just supporters, Move Mutt would have never come to be where it is now. I’m sure that alone would be offensive enough to you to no longer support us, but it’s probably best that you didn’t know that tawdry fact until now.

For your information, I worked as a bikini and fitness model for over ½ dozen years. I was not ashamed of my body then and am not ashamed of it now, scars, missing appendages and all, that God has recently dealt me. Actually, I’m proud of the fact that I had the willpower, perseverance and self control to get my body to a point that others would want to use it to promote nutritional supplements, clothing and fitness equipment. Those “pornographic photos” appeared in brochures, advertisement and national magazines.

Now you are asking me to “have the common decency to remove these tasteless photos from Facebook where little children are exposed to them”?

Really? Again, my personal page that I have no intention of altering or deleting for you. If you allow your children to go on Facebook uncensored, then shame on you. While I often share things from Move Mutt with my personal page, because I know that my friends and family are supporters, I have never shared items from my personal page with Move Mutt that could in any way offend anyone, even you (hard to believe, I know)!

Animal rescue has no religion, race, sexual orientation, or political beliefs. It exists for one reason only and that is to give a voice to the voiceless. To save those, who by no fault of their own, have been abused, neglected, mistreated and even tortured by people who actually call themselves “human beings” and even "children of God". Animal rescue exists to help in a place that no one else would. Now that I think of it, animal rescue efforts are far more “Christ like” than your pitiful attempt to shame an individual,and to what end? What you have written only makes me pity you and your twisted beliefs in what being a Christian is all about. If anything, I am saddened that animal rescue efforts have suffered because of your personal ignorance.

Finally, you wrote “We are most saddened for the loss this causes for the amazing and innocent dogs with whom you work; that said, we must teach our impressionable children to honor the Lord’s Commandments. That includes expecting common decency and rejecting blatant hypocrisy in our self-proclaimed “Christian” friends”. Laughable, I cringe for the children who are brought up by you and your self righteous, ignorant, narrow minded view of Christianity.

If my personal relationship with God does not meet your standards, then I’d say that was your problem, not mine and certainly not Move Mutt’s. It is something that is between me and my God only. I hope nothing more for you than to be proud of your beliefs and who you are, where you’ve been, what you’ve done and where you’re going. If you cannot stand up for those basic things, then keep your unbelievably backwards, puritan,ignorant beliefs to yourself and Shut the F--- Up!!!

Obviously, I was pissed and truly needed a venue to get the frustration and anger that was eating my gut up out. I will NEVER change, because I like who I am. Move Mutt has some amazing programs like our Treadmill Training Program, the Wheelchair Lending Program, our Adoption & Foster Programs and now, a Wild Horse & Burro Education program we are currently putting into place.

I am certain that the dogs who's behaviors are changed so dramatically that they end up in a home instead of a cement slab could care less about my body and what it looks like. I truly believe that the dog in the wheelchair provided by Move Mutt, who is moving around and defecating on his own instead of soiling himself, for the first time in months doesn't even know who I am, much less if I proclaim to be a Christian.

I believe that a person's soul can be seen through actions and not words. And if the soul is visible through words, you've certainly wasted yours trying to shame me!

The Problem with Adopting Dogs over the Internet

02/18/2011 12:12:00

While posting a link to a petition to stop eBay classifieds from selling live animals, I received the following question from Anastasia at Dark Moon Farms:

We are having problems finding homes for our puppies because our ads get flagged off of Craigslist...how does someone like us find good homes if we are not allowed to use the Internet? We are not a business or a breeder or a rescue, we were asked to raise this litter when no one else could. They aren't pedigreed, they aren't shelter dogs, and they deserve good homes (in spite of some pit bull haters). What IS the appropriate venue to get in contact with potential loving homes?

The women at Dark Moon Farms are an amazing bunch of HUGE hearted, intelligent, compassionate ladies who have an amazing natural ability for working with animals (dogs, cats, horses, etc…). We’ve visited their ranch in Parhump, NV on many occasions and have been impressed with everything we’ve seen there. You can visit their site at http://darkmoonfarms.com/.

The problem with the Internet is that too many unscrupulous individuals have discovered it as a way to make money, find bait dogs, find fighting dogs, or simply get a pet when they would never pass a home inspection from a legitimate breeder or group. Those are the people who get “cute” puppies, love them for a few months and then decide they’re no longer “cute”; they have behavior problems (lack of training) or just delegate them to the backyard for the rest of their lives. More than 50% of dogs like this will end up back in shelters as unadaptable adults and, well… you know what happens next. The following article from the Humane Society of the United States lists just a few of the dozens of problems with buying/selling pets on-line: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/facts/internet_pet_scams.html.

While Dark Moon Farms does not fall into any of these categories, there are so many horror stories out there that shelters, rescue groups and even independent rescuers have learned to trust no one. Many of these groups have people who devote their time to nothing more than scanning forums like Craigslist, Ebay and local papers to flag and work to remove posts from any source that tries to “move” live animals over the Internet. It may seem counterproductive to the Mission of these organizations, but again, it’s with these groups that those animals will end up as adults, greatly decreasing their chance for ever finding a forever home. So, what can you do?

My first suggestion would be to start with Best Friends Animal Society. They have began a wonderful Independent Rescuer program called the First Home Forever Home program. It was designed specifically to help independent rescuers. It “provides support to those heroic individuals who are saving the lives of pets by keeping them (or taking them) out of the already crowded shelters and caring for them until a new, forever family can be found. The program provides an adoption event where rescuers can connect with prospective adopters. It also provides assistance with publicity, adoption procedures and paperwork. The “Creating an Adoption Program to Help Independent Rescuers” action kit is designed to help rescue groups, shelters or any other interested organization help independent rescuers find homes for animals in their own communities and thereby reduce surrender rates, shelter overcrowding and the killing of homeless pets. The action kit provides valuable information on how to create a program to help independent rescuers, and includes tips on how to find venues for adoption events, how to conduct adoption events, how to get the word out to rescuers and the public, how to prepare and qualify rescuers, how to recruit volunteers, how to enlist dog trainers and much more".

The fact that Best Friends is so close to the Las Vegas/Parhump area doesn't hurt. There are events being hosted here on a regular basis and, especially since your dogs are still puppies, finding a home at one of these events is almost guaranteed.

I would also contact the rescue groups in your area. Fortunately, Las Vegas has a comprehensive forum which can be found at http://www.vegasanimal411.com/. This site is overseen by Jocelyn, who has made keeping and improving this site her full time mission. She is also the moderator of the Vegas Animal Rescue Yahoo! group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/VegasAnimalRescue/. This is an excellent group designed specifically to help independent rescuers in the Vegas area. If you haven't done so already, JOIN THIS GROUP! It's an invaluable community resource that successfully places animals on a daily basis.

For those not in the Las Vegas area, each community has similar resources. They are almost always registered with each shelter so that they can pull at-risk dogs for independent foster and placement. Contact your local shelters as they will have information on all the groups in your area.

Finally, if you are in an area with none of these resources, contact the Humane Society of the United States. Almost every state has a State Director. One of the directors main objectives is to help organize grassroots groups and movements in their state. HSUS recognizes that individuals and small organizations are THE backbone of the animal welfare movement and will assist you in a variety of ways you never imagined.

Personally, I want to thank Dark Moon Farms and every independent rescuer out there. Even if it's just one life you save, that's one less death in our country's shameful euthanasia rate of one otherwise healthy animal EVERY 9 SECONDS.

Kayla Gets Some Wheels

12/28/2010 20:44:00

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Kayla says thank you to Movemutt.org.

What a difference an hour makes!!!

In October of this year, Move Mutt was blessed with the donation of a Dewey's Wheelchair for Dogs, valued at over $400. We offered this piece of equipment for "loan" to any needy dog in our area whose family's budget may not otherwise allow for this very pricey piece of equipment.

Well, we found our girl! Kayla is a 14 year old Golden Retriever mix who is quickly losing the use of her back legs. Other than this and some common "old age issues", Kayla is a happy, lively dog who will benefit immensely from this donation. The improvement to her quality of life the wheelchair promises for her in her remaining years will not only help her, but help her family and all those who love her as well!

Kayla was rescued 12 years ago by the mother of the Vegas Animal Rescue sites own Jocelyn. She is 14 now. Here is an excerpt of the email we originally received about her.

"She was skin & bones when we got her. Her original owner never touched her and kept her in the backyard in Ohio or West Virginia for her first two years. It has taken a lot of dedication to get her to trust us... She loves people. Our other rescue golden died a few months ago. She was 15 years old. Kayla was doing really well physically until recently (sic)... Here is a picture of Kayla opening her Xmas present yesterday".

Although the chair was custom made for a larger dog (approximately 80 lbs.) we used our very patient "test doggy" Trinity, who weighs about 60 lbs., and determined the chair could be used for dogs ranging anywhere from 55 - 100 lbs.

We delivered the chair and helped with the fitting today and were thrilled to see that it will work for Kayla perfectly! We're so excited to be able to help Kayla and will bring you photos and updates as they become available.

What a Merry Christmas present and

perfect way for Move Mutt to end 2010!!!

Thank You to everyone who made this happen!

Playing doG

12/06/2010 11:57:00

Playing doG

I have come to an almost unbearably horrible road block in my rehabilitation work with Tucker, a 5 year old Australian shepherd from Boise, Idaho. I have a very short time to find a place for him or I will have to make the hardest decision I’ve ever faced in my rescue career and have him euthanized. I don’t believe in saying “put him to sleep” because that’s not what it is. It’s murder, plain and simple and I’ve never believed myself to be a murderer, yet here I am.

Long story short, Tucker has a history of being unpredictable and aggressive with smaller animals and children. He ended up with me after, upon expecting their 2 child, Tucker’s original family felt they could not trust him and were being forced by family toward the decision of having him euthanized. Move Mutt stepped in, found him a foster home in Las Vegas, and I began intensive work with his behavior.

Tucker showed improvements, but attacked a puppy in his foster families home and they no longer felt comfortable having him there. A friend of mine allowed me to bring him to his home, where I continued our training. Unfortunately, I made a very poor decision and trusted him too soon, exposing him to my young niece on Thanksgiving. All was well at first, but something triggered Tucker and he attacked. My niece is fine, but has made several trips to the hospital to ensure the wound does not become infected. I no longer have the support of my family or friends to continue helping this dog.

I know there are those out there who have no tolerance for a dog that bites, but I look at it differently. This is a working dog from a line of herding animals that never should have been sold as a pet in the first place – but he was. This is an innocent animal that has been placed in this situation by us – people – and he doesn’t even realize what it is that he’s done. There is a home for him out there. One with no children. One with someone who will understand and nurture his intense devotion, amazing athleticism, and high intelligence. I just don’t have much time to find it.

If you are not familiar with Move Mutt and my story, I am a canine behavior consultant, working with pets since 1975. In December, 2008, while in the midst of realizing my dream and building a world-class behavior/ training /education /rescue and daycare & boarding facility in Boise, Idaho, I was bit by a dog while breaking up a fight and almost lost my life to an infection (sepsis). After beating the 1 in 10 odds the doctors gave me of simply surviving, losing the fingers on my right hand, my dream, the $2.1 million dream project, my home, my car, most of my belongings and my relationship; me, my 2 Australian Shepherds and 2 kitties, moved in with my family in Henderson, NV. A detailed story can be found at bothwww.movemutt.org/About-Us.htmland www.movemutt.org/Team-Biographies.html.

I have since struggled to simply regain my health and rebuild my life to a point where I can once again take care of myself and my pets. I have not been able to return to full-time work yet and am working with the help of friends and volunteers to keep Move Mutt, the animal welfare non-profit organization I founded, running. I have since been contacted by the families of several other people who either lost limbs, or their lives to sepsis following a dog bite. They’ve all asked about my experience and how I’ve been able to continue my work in animal rescue. There is no way I can imagine doing anything else and in addition to continuing my work with Move Mutt, I am now trying to use my experience to educate as many people as possible about the precautions to take while working with dogs if you have a compromised immune system. While I don’t want one more person to needlessly suffer, I feel just as strongly about not allowing animals to needlessly suffer.

I know that Tucker can and will form a loving bond, he just needs to be somewhere that he feels safe and secure, with a person or people that he can trust and love. He needs time and patience. I would give everything I have (even the rest of my right arm!) to be able to be the one that that can give Tucker what he so richly deserves, but without my own home, and not knowing when I will have one again, I am completely helpless. Tucker is an amazing, awesome dog and he does not deserve the fate of so many other Australian Shepherds that are thrown into situations where their normal behavior is considered dangerous.

I am desperately seeking assistance with this misunderstood animal and am praying for an angel to help us! Move Mutt will offer a donation, financial assistance for care and transportation, and any other things that may be necessary. I will offer my time for transport and for facilitating a safe and healthy introduction, no matter where it is, to Tucker’s new environment. If there is any way at all you can help give Tucker a home, I would forever be in your debt. There are pictures, video and more background on Tucker at: http://www.movemutt.org/Tucker.html.

Best Friends No More Homeless Pets 2010 National Conference

10/12/2010 11:24:00

This Friday, Saturday & Sunday, October 15, 16 & 17, is Best Friend's No More Homeless Pet 2010 National Conference.

It's something we wait all year for and instead of participating as a vendor, demonstrating behavior modification through treadmill / exercise therapy for dogs and spreading the word about Move Mutt and implementing our programs in shelters and foster homes, we actually have a chance to attend the conference. We'll gain invaluable information on how to truly affect change for the animals not only in our community but our entire country.

This couldn't come at a better time for us! After years of fighting an uphill battle and very few tangible victories, burn-out is VERY common in animal rescue. Opportunities like this can re-energize and lift spirits in people who face ignorance, abuse and death every day.

The following is a short piece I read years ago and one of the things that troubled me so deeply, I could not ignore its message. It is one of the reasons I've devoted my life to animal rescue. I hope it has the same effect on others and haunts them into doing something to stop the ignorance about the way we treat Gods creatures.

I'm trembling and so worried, for I know I misbehaved.

I chewed Dad's brand new slippers and saw just how he raged.

I did not mean to wreck them, but my teeth were very sore,

and chewing them relieved the pain and made me feel less bored

And when mom came to smack me, I piddled on the floor,

For I had held my pee all day and could not get out the door.

They said that I was "wicked", a menace at first glance,

and when they tied me up outside, I howled for one more chance

Rolled over and sat pretty, and did all those tricks they loved

But they could not forget the wrong and said they had enough

So they took me to a clinic where the smell alone put fear

Into my trembling body, but my cries they did not hear.

For they turned and walked out through the door, without a hug or pat.

I wonder if they will forget, and forgive me, when they come back?

But why do I feel so frightened, as though they've gone for good.

They said they'd love me till I died, they really said they would.

I'm strapped onto a table and they're shaving my front leg

I think I'm getting a needle now, I feel it in my vein...

And why do I feel so lonely? without them comforting me?

And why do I feel so sleepy?

Oh please God, let them forgive me..

Author Unknown

Tucker (the beautiful Aussie pictured below) is just one example of a dog who was on the road to euthanasia because of behavior issues. Thankfully, we were able to bring him to Move Mutt and rehabilitate him so that he'll never face the possibility of euthanasia again.

If you'd like to give Tucker his Forever Home click here for more information.

In the following days, we'll be posting info on the No More Homeless Pets Conference sessions we attend and the things we learn at the conference. We're extremely grateful to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and all of Move Mutt's donors who made it possible for us to experience this amazing opportunity.

Doggie Wheelchair Donation

10/11/2010 13:11:00

Move Mutt has received a VERY generous donation of a wheelchair for dogs with hind leg problems.

We would like to see that this amazing piece of equipment is used for the purpose intended; to assist individuals with handicapped dogs who may never otherwise be able to afford the necessary equipment to improve the quality of their dogs life.

Although this is a custom piece, originally designed for an 80 lb. Golden Retriever, I have tested it on my Australian Shepherds, and it works wonderfully for dogs their size too (60 lbs.). I would say that dogs ranging in weight anywhere from 55 lbs. - 100 lbs. would be able to use this chair. It is the M/L version, rated for dogs up to 99 lbs. and sells for $410.

We would like to provide this chair as a "loan" to individuals who can use it, for as long as necessary with their dog, until they can either; a) acquire one of their own, or b) no longer have use for it (dog has healed or passed).

If you are in the Southern Nevada area and know of anyone who can benefit from this amazing donation, please contact Move Mutt and we'll begin from there.

Move Mutt is happy to assist with fitting, use and developing a safe and healthy recovery/quality of life plan for the dogs using it.

http://wheelchairsfordogs.com/

How to Hold Your Licker & Other Things I Should Have Taught My Dog

08/17/2010 11:47:00

I love dogs and have loved them since I can first remember. Everything about them is wonderful to me. It was honestly a surprise when I found out there were things about dogs that really bothered some people. It took a whole lot of years for me to get it, but there were actually things about dogs that truly annoyed people.

As I grew older and began working with dogs and their people, I was even more amazed to find that there were very specific things about dogs that most people had serious issues with. Over the years, I narrowed it down, and it came to two things that topped the list for most people; jumping and licking. Jumping and licking seemed to be the top two behaviors that all my friends and clients regularly needed help with. They were also the two behaviors that non-dog people had issues with.

As usual, I was happy to help and had some great suggestions on changing bothersome behaviors, but it never seemed like that big of a deal to me when dogs would do this, especially the licking. I could easily stop it, but it never seemed necessary.We’ve all heard the urban legend that dogs’ mouths are cleaner than humans and some will even, to this day, have you believe that this story has a grain of truth. According to a recent report from ABC News; “Although the mouth of a typical dog is full of bacteria, it's "species specific." So, if a dog were to lick a person, most of the germs wouldn't transfer. "Bottom line -- you're more likely to get a serious illness from kissing a person than kissing a dog." The mythmay have stemmed from the way pups lick their wounds. A dog's tongue gets rid of dead tissue so wounds heal faster. Perhaps folks concluded that dog saliva is "healthy." Hardly the case, but you shouldn't be afraid of licks. They might be gross, but they're not dangerous.”

I actually believed all of this until December 2008, when these beliefs changed me forever. A dog bite ended up turning into a life and death battle. The doctors only gave me a 10% chance of survival, and over the months after waking up from a coma, I learned more about dog saliva than anyone would ever want to know. I was contacted by people who had gone through my exact same ordeal, some simply from being licked on a scratch by a puppy.

More about the truth behind the danger of dog saliva later – first, let’s talk about why your dog licks and how to stop this behavior. Dogs lick for a variety of reasons, and it is important to understand them in order to understand your dog’s behavior. Instinctively, puppies lick their mothers in order to get food, or as a behavior that corresponds to language; meaning they need something. This behavior is heredity. Wolf mothers returned to the den to their pups licking their faces. This was a signal for the mother to regurgitate food for them. Older dogs lick as a sign of submission in the hierarchy of their pack. If your dog is licking you, it may be to show affection, to be comforting, or to get attention. Also your dog just might like the way you taste. Let’s face it; some of us can be pretty salty.Dogs licking people constantly is a hard habit to break, and involves time and patience. You’ll need to modify this behavior through training.

There are several different methods that you can try, depending on your dogs’ personality, as well as your personal preference. As with all dog training, it will take time to teach your dog to stop licking. Be patient and consistent. Your dog wants to make you happy, so teach him how to make you happy. Also, it is important not to get too frustrated, as licking is his way of responding to years and years of hereditaryIf your dog is licking for attention, you can teach him another way of getting your attention. Teaching an alternate, but acceptable, behavior is the most productive method of doing this. Sitting, shaking, rolling over, etc. are great tricks for your dog to learn when he wants your attention. The key is to ALWAYS give him attention with that "attention-getting" trick.

If he is just trying to give you affection, re- training may take some time. You are the undisputed center of his life and he needs to let you know it whenever he can. You need to outmatch him in his persistency. Don’t shout or react negatively. The simple withdrawal of your love or the appearance of it anyway, is usually enough. You can say “Stop licking” in a firm voice as you withdraw your arm or other body part being slathered. After awhile, this will begin to mean something to him.

In more extreme cases, you may need to apply something that tastes bad to dogs (“Yuk”, apple bitters or lemon work great) and let him lick that. This will teach him that licking your skin is nasty.Some dogs will respond immediately if you act like it hurts you when they lick you. This is the same technique we use to teach a young puppy not to nip or bite too hard. If you say, "Ouch" or "Don't lick" every time your dog licks you, he may respond by not wanting to cause you pain.

Some Other Ways to Stop Dog Licking:
When you really want to get the point across that licking is getting to be a bit too much, a simple change in body language can convey this message loud and clear.

Withdraw your outward display of affection for the dog. Turn away from your dog, move to another chair or just move away from the dog when he starts to lick.
Make sure your eyes and face are dramatically averted from the licking dog. Preface this sudden move with a sharp sound, such as “AAAGH”. Use whatever works for you. Say “No lick” if you want, but be consistent.
When you get up, your dog will probably follow you and the licking will start again. If it does, repeat the above steps.

During your training, you will undoubtedly come across some people who don’t mind being licked by a dog, or who actually invite it. Tell them in advance you are trying to stop dog licking by training your dog so they won’t corrupt him and ruin all the “stop-licking” training you’ve given him so far.

Now: The truth about dog saliva. Let me first start by saying that I am not trying to scare anyone, quite the opposite. I am trying to use my experience to educate people about the precautions to take while working with dogs if you have a compromised immune system. See Asplenia, Dog Bites & Survivng Sepsis on our website for more detailed information.

Anyone with a compromised immune system is susceptible to capnocytophaga canimorsus, a common bacterium found in the mouths of about 85% of all dogs (and cats too). This can be people without spleens (like me), people recovering from a severe illness, people with cancer, diabetes, HIV, very young babies, very old people, etc…

I want everyone who loves their dog to keep that dog forever, but to do it in a way that is safe and healthy. This simply means to be careful. If you have an open wound, make sure your dog doesn’t lick you there. Keep that sneaky tongue away from your mouth and even your eyes. And if you ever have any concerns, see your doctor immediately. One round of antibiotics can stop this infection in its tracks and keep you healthy and, in turn, your dog happy, for many, many years.

Doga - Yoga 4 Dogs

08/15/2010 16:27:00

I'm always looking for new and healthy things to do with my dogs, and in early 2007, I stumbled across Doga - Dog Yoga. Almost every person I talk to about Doga is usually both amused and skeptical. "Don't you spoil your dogs enough?", "I don't even have time for the gym myself", "Come on... how much can they get out of it?", and so on. What it usually boils down to is a series of sarcastic remarks and lame excuses. I don't mind the teasing. Actually, when it comes to my dogs, I'm used to it. And, as far as exercise, you can make all the excuses in the world, but the fact is, if you are dedicated to your health and dedicated to your dog, Doga is one of the best practices you can find.

Not only is it a great physical work out for both of you, it is an incredible relaxing and bonding experience. How often do you get to devote 45 to 60 min. to specifically focus on being with your dog? I'm not talking about being together in proximity, like when you walk, hike, bike ride, swim or any of the other things you may do. I'm talking about being together physically, sharing each others space, and spiritually while sharing each others energy. Relaxing and appreciating all the things your dog does for your health and your state of mind and vice versa.

So, go ahead, now is about the time people start to laugh. But when you do, picture this... I am in the middle of a crowded gathering, listening to music and watching people play games. At my feet is my dog, Hawk, whom I've been practicing Doga with for several years, and he is laying on his back, spread out without a care in the world. He's not jumping on people or barking at the noise. He's not frustrated and pulling on the leash trying to get to another dog. He is truly relaxed! Hawk is an Australian Shepherd with energy to spare. Before we practiced Doga he was, to be quite honest, a pain in the ass! Now, he's a mellow little Dogi! I can take him anywhere and never have to worry about him getting us into trouble. It's nice! It's how it should be.

With Move Mutt and Kinetic K9 we want to bring this activity to the Vegas community and share the amazing benefits Doga has to offer for both people and dogs. We've shared Doga with clients privately, one on one in Boise and Las Vegas, and now we are putting together group sessions. We're currently working on a Fall schedule, with several times and locations being decided on. Please contact me if you are interested and I'll get your input for our interest list. Namaste, Renee

I've been practicing Doga, similar to that being practiced in this clip, and just love it... and so do the dogs! Check it out...
Something New for You and Your Dog, Doga – Doggie Yoga – VIDEO – http://fortheloveofthedogblog.com

Beating the Heat - Doggie Style

08/13/2010 12:52:00

Moving to Vegas from Boise this past January was difficult for me in many ways. I had to leave behind amazing friends, cherished clients, a beautiful house, and several pets that made it feel like my heart was literally being torn from my chest. But I was able to bring my 2 Aussies, Hawk and Trinity and my 2 kitties, Newt and Moon Pie. I am surrounded by family while I continue to heal and have a place to feel safe in. Now - if only I could have the weather.

When I first began Reining Cats and Dogs, the concept was simple; behavior modification through exercise therapy. Treadmills were always the cornerstone, but having 4 seasons made it even better. I could take the dogs and bicycle, kayak, hike, sheep herd, swim, etc.... To be honest, it was an excellent way for me to not only work with the dogs, but to stay in excellent shape while doing it.

After my accident, I struggled with many things, but the 40 lbs. I've gained has been the hardest on me. I managed to stay in great shape into my 40's, but now I'm starting all over. It's just that - the weather! I refuse to waste any more time in a gym, but I've got to start moving. I also need to get my dogs back in shape. They say that people began to look like their dogs over time, and the character of Trinity's that we share right now is her waist line. So now it's back at it, me and the dogs.

I've had people promise me that summer is almost over but I'll believe it when I see it. With the temperature hitting 109 degrees next week, I'm pretty sure summer is still here. So, this is our month of beating the heat. Trips to Mount Charleston and Lake Mead are high on our list. There are a few things that we'll need to remember that are just as important to dogs as they are to us.

1) Water. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Both you and the dogs. Carry plenty of fresh water, even if just going for a quick hike.

2) Sun Protection. Dogs with white or light colored hair on their faces are just as susceptible to sunburn as light skinned people. There are a variety of sun block products available specifically for dogs. And just like with kids, reapply after being in the water.

3) Foot (or Paw) Protection. Your dogs paws are just as sensitive to hot pavement or sand as your bare feet are. Make sure that you keep this in mind wherever you go. I've seen dogs that have burned their pads and it's terribly painful and takes a long time to heal. If you are going to be walking any distance where it may be hot, look into booties for your pup. There is a variety available anywhere from very inexpensive slip-ons to high-tech hiking footwear.

4) Eye Protection. Again, just like people, some dogs have sensitive eyes. And again, just like for people, there is a wide variety of goggles or glasses available for your dog. I love Doggles. They fit well and are designed to be very comfortable. If your doggy has red or watery eyes, you may want to consider a pair of protective lenses.

5) Over Heating. NEVER leave your dog in a parked car for any amount of time. The temperature inside your vehicle along with your dogs fur coat are a recipe for disaster if you're not responsible.

So, we've hit the mountain once (and got caught in an awesome summer thunderstorm) and have been to the lake a few times. We're also planning a trip to the practice pool for Dock Dogs here in Vegas and will have plenty of pictures to share with you from all of our adventures.

If I can get out there in the heat to exercise myself and the dogs, so can you. No excuses. This is the month to beat the heat with your pups!