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Dr. Al Townshend With summer ending, the family’s attention turns to changing routines and activities, which includes back to school for the kids and a more work-focused routine for the parents. For many, it may mean less time at home, which can affect the pets in the family. Our canine companions are loving creatures that […]
Dr. Al Townshend Coprophagia (kow-pruh-fay-zhuh) is the medical term for eating feces. Many Guardians view this as a disgusting habit that can significantly affect the family’s relationship with the pet. For some, it can destroy the human/animal bond and result in placing the pet in a shelter. It is essential to understand that while eating […]
Dr. Al Townshend The Grey Wolf is the original ancestor of the canine we know today as the domestic dog. It is thought they crossed the land bridge between Asia and what is now Alaska some 700.000 years ago and, at one time, inhabited all of North America. Through most of that time, natural reproductive […]
Dr. Al Townshend Good manners are an essential part of getting along in society. We all need to get along and respect one another. Our pets need good manners for the same reasons; however, dogs and cats need good manners to get along with humans, and they need a different set of manners to live […]
Dr. Al Townshend The feline species has been around for some 25-35 million years. It has only been within the last 10-12,000 years that cats began their relationship with humans, and a short 70-80 years since cats have been inside the home. Living indoors is a much more secure and safe environment than fending for […]
Dr. Al Townshend Our pets often become one of our best friends, and it makes sense. They shower us with their love, affection and devotion. After a hard day’s work, when coming home, who is at the door ready to great us with a gracious welcome as if we have been away for an eternity? […]
Dr. Al Townshend Helping to shape a child’s behavior is a part of being a good parent. Our canine and feline family members also need guidance in proper behavior to become an accepted and valued part of the family. The famous humorist Will Rogers said it best; “Dogs were placed on this earth to please […]
Dr. Al Townshend When it comes to our pets, many consider training to be what we once referred to as obedience training. Today we know that training should go far beyond just learning a few commands. Everything begins before the pet comes home. What are the house rules? Is getting on the bed or other […]
The Problem with Head Halters by Suzanne Clothier Copyright 2000 Suzanne Clothier. All rights reserved. Used by permission. www.flyingdogpress.com Head halters, like ALL training equipment, need to be used carefully. They are NOT appropriate for every dog. Humane trainers need to be aware of and carefully consider the ramifications of any training equipment. NO training […]
Too many dogs are abandoned to the backyard, or given up for adoption because of destructive behavior. Accepting the responsibility for a dog’s behavior means being prepared to deal with such situations, and to make an effort to change or improve the pet’s behavior. Two reasons why a dog may engage in destructive behavior are […]