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Speaking of Dogs: The Fight Before Christmas

Some of the most cringe-worthy phone calls I receive are those from desperate pet owners describing how their two dogs have, “started fighting out of the blue.” I cringe because 99.9% of the time, the call comes long after the… Continue Reading

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Speaking of Dogs: Baby, Come Back

Once there was a dog trainer who said, “If your dog won’t come when you call, he isn’t your dog.”  A provocative statement, but I must say, I agree with him. If you can’t successfully call your dog, his life is limited… Continue Reading

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Torpedoes of Death Masquerade as Innocent Grass to Torture Dogs

I see foxtails. Everywhere. Hordeum murinum or “Hare Barley,” a non-native invader from Spain, grows in healthy, thick patches along the trails and in open spaces where people walk their dogs. What appears to be innocent, lush grass in early… Continue Reading

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Speaking of Dogs: Wait at the Door, Part 2

Click here for part one. Teaching your dog to “wait” at the door is a lot easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step process that has served me well, whether training a new puppy or transforming the seasoned door-dasher.… Continue Reading

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Speaking of Dogs: Wait at the Door, Part 1

Meet Zip: The Door Rocket Right now, somewhere in America, a dog is planning his escape. No, not from incarceration or abuse. In fact this dog already has everything he could ever want or need. The dog in question, let’s… Continue Reading

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Speaking of Dogs: Entertainment for the Stay-at-Home Dog

Dogs are social, curious animals that do not handle boredom and isolation well. When left to their own devices, unemployed, under-exercised dogs will find something to do. Guaranteed.  Sadly, a dog’s interpretations of fabulous options for entertainment are usually annoying… Continue Reading

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Speaking of Dogs: The Peril Wore a Party Dress

We’re knee-deep into the holiday season, and it’s time to revisit the list of Holiday Pet Hazards. Many dog owners already know that poinsettias are poisonous and chocolate is toxic…right? If not, please click here to review. But there’s a… Continue Reading

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Speaking of Dogs: Ending ‘Greeting Disorders’

Q. How can I teach my dog to stop going crazy when people come to visit? When treating a “greeting disorder” there are two issues to address: 1. Practice calm, polite greetings with your dog on a daily basis. 2.… Continue Reading