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Last updated Wed, Nov 29, 2023
Results - Pawformance Sports!Enhancements to our Awards and Schedule pages are done! Thanks for your patience...both are much easier to navigate now with the new links. I wish I would have added them years ago! My next project - a page with my pups including my Chelsea Golden Retrievers. Highlights of the wonderful seven generations of Goldens and their people I have known starting with my first "Chelsea" prefix litter in 1980!
A Message from Mary T.
Autumn - my favorite time of year!
Most of the time, the weather is perfect for getting outdoors with pups. The bugs aren't too bad, beach water is still warm and the dogs aren't likely to get over heated from retrieving! Perfect!
Inclement Weather Tips!
Thunder storm season is not over! If your pet gets anxious when the weather is inclement, especially if thunder and lightning is happening, do not coddle. Many people make the mistake of over comforting and telling their pup that "It's OK" which may increase the pet's concern. With enough 'practice', it may lead to storm anxiety. Instead, let your pet be with you, be more matter of fact and reassure your pet that everything is fine w/o too much gush (even if your heart is breaking a little). Engage with an activity when possible. If your pet has to be alone, perhaps give it the 'special' large knotted, white rawhide bone when it needs to be crated. Also, close curtains and/or shades, keep lights on and the radio or TV on a little louder than usual.
Go outdoors with your leashed pet at potty time if there is a chance it may run off or climb a fence if startled. Many pets are surprised with sudden thunder claps and lightening, and may go into severe flight drive during during same. High winds and unexpected gusts may also spook pets! Remember to stay grounded so you do not increase anxiety issues your pet may have.
Some pets may be comforted wearing a baby or child size T-shirt. Since recommending same decades ago, 'thunder shirts' for pets are now on the market for the same purpose and are pricey! Using a tight fitting T is the same and save some $$s.
Aspirin pain relief products and Xylitol. Meds should be cleared with your veterinarian before giving. Note that Xylitol sweetner is very harmful to dogs and it may now be found in aspirin! It may cause a sudden release of insulin which then leads to a sudden drop of blood sugar. Be aware it is found in many products, check labels before letting your pet share snacks that are labeled for people. Please check with your veterinarian for a safe pain management.
Potty Training When It's Cold Outside!
If weather warrants, put a coat or sweater on your pet! Most breeds will appreciate your thoughtfulness. I personally train all of my pups to go outdoors. This time of year... it's tough so consider your pet. Perhaps consider doing both in and out if you have a very young pup or a frail, sick or older pet that is in need of training. You may also consider training your pet to go indoors if you have several flights of stairs to reach an exit door. Better to have your pet go in an acceptable indoor area than to decide to relieve itself in random areas...
Training indoors? Be sure to put a cheap piece of vinyl flooring down and then use potty pads or newspaper on top of this flooring. Position it by the exit door you have chosen. When the weather subsides, then train your pet to go outdoors. Some trainers prefer to use litter systems and/or potty pads forever. You know your situation and living environment. Do consider if your pet may be traveling with you - and - cross training if possible so your pet is comfortable in a variety of environments.
If your pet is used to going indoors and you wish to transfer the potty area to the outdoors, plan ahead for a hopefully easy transistion. Be sure to shovel snow to the relief area and shovel down to grass. I do not recommend training to go on an adjoining deck as some pups may not leave this area and go in the designated potty area later if outdoors alone. Pick up any sticks and items that your pet may find interesting.
Simply get a 'sample' of pee and poo to take outdoors. Soak a paper towel with your pet's urine. Store in a ziploc bag by the exit door. When taking your pup out, pick up the soaked paper towel and put on the ground. Or place a soiled potty pad on the dirt or grass. With a little luck, your pet will make the connection and go. Remember not to praise until your pet is finished going (not when it begins) per discussion at class! Hurry back into the house and give a treat!
Traveling Tip!
When traveling with your pet, it's best if your pet is comfortable on leash and able to potty away from home. For that reason, acclimating your pet to being on leash when relieving itself is a terrific idea. Some people never do this and their pet may resist going if leashed - so sad for the pup! Remember the 'how to do' tips shared at the end of your first class with me (if you stayed for same).
Pet edibles from China!!
This is not-so-new-news, but many well known stores have chosen to still sell treats on their shelves coming from China. There have been documented cases of thousands of pets that have died or became seriously ill from digesting food with toxins found in them in our country alone. Be sure to check labels and discard anything with "China" on it!! I find it sad what greed can do to people in the trade that we assume care about our pets... Too much info to share here on this subject - Google and learn.
Important Link Here:
FDA Pet Food Recalls & Withdrawals
DIY Long Line
If you are in need of a long line, looping two leashes together will work. Or, to save money - you may make one! Simply purchase parachute cord for smaller pets or clothesline or boat cord for larger ones and simply add a bolt snap. Adding another bolt snap at 20+ +/- intervals if longer lines are needed will save time if your pet may get tangled is a concern. Using a harness on your pet instead of a collar is recommended and be sure to supervise!
If you prefer to keep your pet in a limited area, consider an over head cable to provide for exercise. Consider ample 'head' room for people when setting this up! Again, a harness may provide a safer connection than a collar. Supervision is important, too. Pets can get tangled and visiting animals - including children - may come on to your property. : )
Donating? Keep your money local and give to the agencies that actually use the vast majority of the funds for the animals. There are many 'businesses' and even some local non profits that are skilled at taking advantage of people that have a soft spot for animals. Heart-wrenching ads on television can attract you. There is one agency that receives much money which provides their admin staff annual salaries of not only six digit figures, but high multiple hundred thousand $ salaries. TAILS DOWN!
Please help to spread the word! Your referrals are most appreciated. Business cards are available for drop off at pet related businesses and veterinary hospitals. Please share when you can! Much of my business is word of mouth and spreading the word will help ensure I'm still running when you get a future pup, thank you!
Enjoy your training journey and life with your pet!
My best, Mary T.
2022 Results & Pawformance Rendevous Titles & Honorifics!
AKC Canine Good Citizen
Joe G. & "Bruce" Doberman Pinscher, much training with George (and Marge) G.
Test pass with Joe at Sportsman's DTC in Warren. Congrats everyone!
AKC Canine Good Citizen with Therapy Pass
Maureen K.'s "Suki" - Labrador Retriever & Poodle mix.
No other information was provided. Congrats, Suki is a sweetheart!
A small group of Results - Pawformance Sports! trainers plan on doing AKC Rally-Obedience trials later this year!
We're looking forward to that. Hopefully my next update here will have some news to share!
Beyond the Clouds, Waiting at the Bridge...
Recently lost pets, I'm hoping your memories offer some comfort.
Such a gift it is to have experienced the love and bond with a dear pet.
Sadly, not all people are fortunate enough to have this experience, be thankful for the time you have had!
"Meka" - Akita - Cindy H.
"Hercules" - Belgian Malinois - Tom S.
"Lucy-Lu" - American Cocker Spaniel & Golden Retriever, a 'Dakota' mix - Robert L. & Carrie S.