Mac!

Mac!

Saturday, September 30, 2017

Fear free Training

Training should be fun. If you or your dog are afraid of your trainer, it's time to find a new trainer. Fear should not have any place in training whether it's humans or dogs. I just don't get it. No one needs or wants a robot dog. Your relationship with your dog is built on trust and love. Not fear. How in the world is a fear filled dog going to come when you call. Oh yeah, a shock collar. Seriously? that makes no sense at all.


I just had to make this post today as I was speaking with some folks today that train with a trainer that makes them and their dog afraid. Why would you? Probably just that they have never been introduced to a positive, force free trainer before. Once you train that way, pain and fear will never be a part of your dog's life. There is no need for it.


Science proves that positive, force free training is the preferred and better way to train. It helps the owner and dog bond together and lasts longer than pain based training. It is used on all kinds of animals and all sizes. WITH SUCCESS!  


Clearly trainers that use fear and pain do not understand or know much about animal behavior. I'm surprised and shocked that this person is still training at this place. I shouldn't be actually as there are many of these trainers popping up all over our city.


So all of this to say: BEWARE. There is NEVER a reason to use pain and fear in dog or any animal training. Don't fall for their BS. If you are looking for a trainer, check with me first. I'll give you the lowdown. I don't want you to be fooled and your dog to suffer fear and pain. There is no need for it. You guys know about positive training. It's the best method! Hands down!

Sunday, September 24, 2017

Thoughts on Retiring


So this is my last week before I retire. Semi retire I should say as I will still teach in home consults for a while. It's sad in a way but I'm thrilled to have more leisure time, not have to rush around as much, time to devote to my dogs and time with grandbaby Lydia. And time to make some much needed home repairs and upgrades. Time to do some yardwork which I love. Time to visit my mom's grave site which I haven't done. Time to go to flea markets, yard sales and cook more for my dogs. Maybe get a new puppy, (possibly therapy dog )this fall or next spring.

You guys will still see me around. Maybe at the Family Pet Center, the parks, dog events, dog classes with the new trainers I've help mentor. Maybe at Krogers or Aldys or Wal-Mart. I'll have time to chat and not have to rush. 

I'm still going to keep my Playful Pooches and Parents Dog Training Facebook page, this blog, my website and Instagram. When I get a new puppy, you'll be the first to know. I'll keep you updated on Lil Lydia, Mac, Tulip and Sage. 

It's been a joy and pleasure to be your dog trainer of choice. If you only remember one thing from my classes, remember to train force free and positive. Always. Don't let anyone tell you different. 

I'm always reachable by phone, text, email or pm me. I leave you in good hands with 3 trainers I've mentored: Allison Camp, Diana Healy and Haley Howe. All great and awesome trainers. 

The past 15 years have flown by. It's been wonderful and I have the best clients and dogs! Truly!

Love, 
Your trainer
Lydia