Canine Good Citizen Prep Class Information

I just want to let everyone know that I will no longer be offering the CGC test with the class.  The CGC prep class will be a 5 week class in which we prepare you for the CGC test.  You can then go and take the test wherever you choose when you feel you and your dog are ready.  I can definitely give you names of people who offer the test and I will offer the test periodically, as well, but it will not longer be a part of the CGC Prep Class.

I will be offering a CGC Prep class starting on Thursday, February 13 at 7pm in San Leandro.

Three Wishes Conformation Handling Seminar

Have you ever wished for a conformation handling seminar that will cover EXACTLY what you want to learn about?  I am offering just that seminar! On Saturday, January 4, 9-2pm for just $85.  For this unique seminar you will get to choose 3 specific issues you want to cover/discuss with your dog! Very limited number of spots to ensure we cover everything! Register today!

Correction to Newsletter

The Conformation Handling Classes are on Tuesdays at 7pm and Wednesdays at noon. Sorry for the typo.

December Newsletter

Is it truly possible that it is already December?  Wow, has this year flown by. There were several changes at Braveheart this year, mainly my no longer offering classes and board and train in Dublin, my having to drop some classes and also the addition of some new and exciting classes that I am having a great time with.  Everything happens for a reason and all the changes to my business this year have proven to be the right decisions and I couldn't be happier!

Next year, you can expect an ongoing variety of classes for both new clients just starting out with their dogs or puppies and also new things for our continuing students to enjoy! Expect to see quite a bit offered in San Leandro, including the addition of a Thursday evening Puppy Preschool class.  Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners class is also now offered in San Leandro on Monday nights. Take a look at the list of upcoming classes for you to enjoy with your dog!

DOG OF THE MONTH

Olive is a sweetheart black Lab who has graced us with her presence in a variety of classes including Three's Company, Real World and Winter Games. She is a fun, outgoing and lively girl and we love having her and her parents, Heather and Robert, in our classes!





UPCOMING CLASSES
Small Dog Beginning Obedience/Manners (for dogs under 30 pounds)
San Leandro, Mondays, 6-7pm, 1/6/14, 6 weeks, $150

Three's Company (beginning class for only 3 dog/handler teams)
San Leandro, Tuesdays, 6-6:45pm, 1/7/14, 5 weeks, $200

Conformation Handling Class
San Leandro, Tuesdays, 7-7:30pm, 1/7/14, 4 weeks, $40
San Leandro, Wednesdays, 12-12:30pm, 1/8/14, 4 weeks, $40

Puppy Preschool
San Leandro, Thursdays, 6-6:50pm, 1/9/14, 6 weeks, $150
Castro Valley, Saturdays, 10-10:50am, 1/25/14, 6 weeks, $150

Beginning Obedience/Manners
Castro Valley, Saturdays, 9-10am, 1/25/14, 6 weeks, $150

UPCOMING SEMINARS
Three Wishes Conformation Seminar with Vicki Ronchette
Saturday, January 4, 2014, The Dog School in Pleasanton
This 1/2 day seminar will give participants the opportunity to list three things that they would like to work on with their dogs.  Visit our website for more information.

Canine Emotional Detox Seminar with Diane Garrod
Saturday and Sunday, April 5 and 6, 2014, The Dog School in Pleasanton

The Canine Emotional Detox program is a unique and effective program for dogs with behavioral/emotional problems such as aggression, fear, phobias, hyperactivity, reactivity and anxiety.  The program helps dogs to get into a calm and balanced emotional state which readies them for a behavior modification program.  This is an excellent seminar for professional dog trainers, behavior consultants and dog owners living with a dog with a behavior issue.

Some of you may remember or may have attended this seminar the last time we hosted Diane in 2012.  We were so impressed with this program and what it has done for our clients that we are having her back.  We are excited to hear her new ideas and progress.

CHRISTMAS EVE WALK
As per our usual tradition, Rick and I will be going to Point Isabel on Christmas Eve morning for our annual dog walk! If you have a dog and people friendly dog and want to join us, we will meet at Mudpuppies at Point Isabel at 10am on Christmas Eve morning!  Hope to see you there!

CHRISTMAS PHOTO CONTEST
Braveheart Dog Training is having a holiday photo contest on Facebook.  If you are on Facebook and wish to participate, please like us and feel free to submit a photo!

OTHER SERVICES
This past year we have added a few new services that you may be interested in.

Bird/Parrot Training and Behavior Consulting
We can help with your bird training issues, cage set up and enrichment and foraging ideas. Click here for more info.

In Home Day Training
Too busy to train your dog? That's okay, I can do it for you! I come to your home when you are at work and train your dog and then we meet at the end of the week for a transfer session. Click here for more info.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Last Conformation Drop In Tuesday, 11/26

Braveheart Dog Training will no longer be offering drop in conformation classes. Our last drop in conformation class will be next Tuesday evening at 7pm. We will be offering 4 week session conformation classes, Tuesdays at 7pm starting 1/7/14 and Wednesdays at 12pm starting on 1/8/14. Classes are 4 weeks, 30 minutes, $40. Late add ins at a prorated fee will be welcome as space allows. Please contact me to register. There will be no conformation group classes throughout December but I will have some availability for private lessons.

No Conformation Class on Wednesday, November 27

There will be no drop in conformation class on Wednesday, November 27.

Change to Conformation Classes

Effective January 2014, my Tuesday 7pm and Wednesday 12pm classes will no longer be drop in and will be on a four class session schedule. This is to ensure that I do not end up with too many or too few dogs in a class which has become an issue at times. 

Here is how it will work. A new four week session will start every five to six weeks. The cost will be $40 for the four classes. If there are no sign ups, class will be canceled until the next session, if I get two or more, the class will run. You will need to register before the start of class. You will not need to fill out a registration form, just RSVP. You may pay before the class starts or at the first class. Please only RSVP if you are definitely sure you will be there. If there is space available, I will allow people to add in late, after a class has started at a prorated fee. I am trying to keep it flexible and easy to work around, yet still making it so that I can better schedule my time. 

If you have a discount card, you can still use those now. If you have a card with classes left at the end of the year, I will take it off of the cost of the class for you.

Thank you so much to all of you for your continued support and confidence. I truly appreciate all of you. I appreciate everyone understanding why I need to make this change. I purposely keep this class low key. It is a small space and I do not make it a point of advertising/marketing it a lot because I like to keep it small and full of clients who share my vision and philosophy in how we train and handle our animals.

The first four week sessions will start on Tuesday, January 7 and Wednesday, January 8.

Cat Training...gasp!

Like I always say, or maybe preach (yikes), the methods that I use and teach other people to use work on all animals, not just our dogs. As I was reading a friends Facebook post about some shy kitties I was working with, I thought about the work I have done with our cat and realized that I haven't shared what is, perhaps, my biggest and most proudest animal training accomplishment. That is the desensization and counter conditioning of Lollipop.

In 2008, my father was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He was given a couple of months, at the most, to live. He lived alone in the mountains and was dead set against going back to the hospital. We made the decision to keep him home with the help of hospice. My brothers and I would take turns staying with him and caring for him to the end of his life. It was a sad, but wonderful and amazing experience. As soon as we realized that we would be losing him, I knew I had to make arrangements for his cat Lollipop. Lolli was born in my dad's garage from a stray cat. Her sister was placed into a home and her mom had passed away, so my dad only had her. She was extremely fearful of people, dogs and would stay hidden when we came to visit. Only my dad could handle her, she slept with him at night and he could comb her and do pretty much anything with her. I told my dad that I would take her home and it was good to see he was relieved, but I knew I had a lot of work to do because I couldn't even get near her at that point.

I decided to start working with her and using desensitization and counter conditioning to help her feel more comfortable. She was always hiding when we were there, so at first, there was no way I could work with her directly. I got some cans of tuna and canned cat food. I began to leave a paper plate with food on it in the garage on my dad's car. I don't remember why I started there, but I did. It has been a few years now, so I don't remember all the details, but I remember that being the first piece. As I kept leaving the food and just being around more, I began to see Lollipop some of the time, but still could get no where near her.

My dad had created a cat door so that Lolli could get in and out of his bedroom at night. I realized that at night, after it was all quiet and my dad was alone in there, she would go sleep with him. I started waiting in there for her, with the tuna and canned food. At first, I would just put it on the paper plate and stay there, nearby. This helped her realize that whenever I was around, tuna or canned food seemed to be around also. I began to place myself closer to the plate as she came in and ate it. I don't remember how long this went on, but it was probably a week. Also, I would have days where I would go home and my brothers would be there with my dad, so there was no training during those periods.

Eventually, I tried to pet her and she let me! This was a big step for her. From there I began to offer food from my hand and pet her while she was eating. It was all about trying to teach her that 1) I am associated with good things, 2) I will respect her terms and move at her pace, 3) she is safe with me and free from pressure or force.

A month after starting hospice, my dad died. We were all there with him. Lolli came in to see him that night and he was gone. I was able to close the cat door and the bedroom door so she couldn't leave the room as I was worried what she would do with him gone. She cried for him and after they took him I went and slept with her in there that night and it actually did seem to relax her and she stopped crying for him.

The next day I took Lollipop home and she has lived with us since. She is 10 years old now. She likes to sit on our laps and be petted. She has a companion cat that she loves and a next door neighbor cat or is over often who she is also very close to. The doesn't run away from us and the neighbors can get pretty close to her. I am amazed at the progress she made and how much it stuck. She has a 100% reliable recall and when I say "dinner!" she comes immediately.

Here is Lolli shortly after coming here:

Here is Lolli today: 

Stair and Ramp Training

Offering your dog stairs or a ramp to assist him on getting onto furniture or onto the bed seems like a simple idea, but actually getting the dog to use the stairs or ramp could be more challenging than you may expect.  As a professional trainer and behavior consultant living with several Dachshunds, including some who have suffered back injuries or ailments, I have taught many dogs to use ramps and/or stairs.  I am happy to share these ideas with others in hopes that it will help people assist their dogs in becoming accustomed to using these helpful tools.

Ramp and Steps

There are a lot of different steps and ramps on the market that you can buy.  You can also construct your own, which may be the way to go depending on your situation.  With a dog that has had severe back problems, is weak or experiences pain, a ramp would probably be easier and safer choice for the dog.  Steps are great for dogs that are very mobile or as a preventative from jumping on and off of things.  Ramps are generally easier for the dogs to get up and down.  Keep in mind that the less steep they are, the better.

I have found that many of the stairs on the market for dogs are constructed so that the stairs are very shallow.  This can cause the dog to just prefer to jump over the stairs or race up or down them, particularly if you have a long backed dog like a Dachshund.  I recommend ordering stairs that are deeper, so that the dog can more easily navigate over them.  I also recommend stairs that are not slick but are carpeted to help with traction.  Sometimes when people have a difficult time getting their dog to use the steps or a ramp, it is because of the way that particular one is made.  So, it is important to think about this when you buy or make yours.  Some dogs will take readily to one type, but not to another type. 

Here are some steps that I like.  They are nice because they are deeper so that a long backed dog has more space to step onto.  I also like these ones because they have carpet on them. 

 
    

Ramps can be a great option too.  As I mentioned, ramps are probably a better choice for a dog that may be in pain or that has a more difficult time moving around.  The more level the ramp, the easier it is for the dog, so keep that in mind if you build your own.  Ramps should also be covered with carpet or some other non-slip covering.

                       

 

Getting Used to the Steps or Ramp

Some dogs will need some time to just get accustomed to the ramp or steps.  So, you may need to just set them up and see what happens.  Put it where you want it, against your furniture or bed and then just leave it there for a few days.  Some dogs will just start using it on their own.  Others will require training.

As soon as your dog is comfortable in the presence of the steps or ramp, you can begin training.

Step or Ramp Training

Generally, we will be training the same way whether or not we are using the steps or ramp, but may modify some things.  So, when I say “ramp”, in the training instructions, know that I am referring to steps or a ramp.

The first thing that you need to do is find a high value food that your dog loves.  The food will be used as a “reinforcer” while we train the behavior.   The food should be something the dog really likes such as small bits of chicken, hot dog, lunch meat or cheese.  We will use food to build and reinforce the behavior.  Eventually, the behavior of using the ramp will be reinforced by being on the furniture.  In other words, to train it, we are using food, but the behavior will be maintained by the access to the furniture that the dog receives by using it.

Once the dog is completely used to the steps you are ready to begin.  With the dog out of the room, place a couple of pieces of high value food at the bottom of the ramp, or on first step.  Position yourself next to the ramp and wait for your dog to find the food.  The moment he starts to eat the food, place another piece of food, a few inches higher from the first piece.  If the dog eats the second piece, place another piece a couple of inches higher.  If the dog doesn’t eat the second piece, feed a little bit more on that lowest spot and then try again to place it a little higher. 

If it is taking you some time to get the dog to step on, periodically toss a treat away, directly in front of the ramp but a few feet away so that he gets to start the process over.  Remember that approaching the ramp is part of the process, so it is okay to do this.  Also, if the dog is unsure, this gives him a release of pressure and time to collect his thoughts and start over.  Finally, approaching the ramp over and over

will help him get more used to the ramp and associate the ramp with good things.

If the dog is not interested, you probably need to use higher value food.  The dog may not be willing to try and figure it out for kibble, but may be willing to work through it for chicken.  So, be prepared to switch up the reinforcer if necessary.

It is critical that the dog be allowed to choose to approach the ramp and step onto it and that he not be forced to do it.  Too much pressure, even enticing with food can be too much for some dogs who are cautious about something. 

If the dog is comfortable eating the food and moving forward a little bit on the ramp, go ahead and continue to add food as the dog takes steps forward.

      

If your dog picks it up easily, either lift him off the couch and try again, or teach him to walk down the stairs.

         

If your dog does not pick it up quickly, it’s okay, just spend more time teaching him and working through it.  Also, if your dog is not comfortable going up, try putting him on the couch and then seeing if going down is easier than going up.  Some dogs are more comfortable coming down the ramp.  It just depends on the dog.

Be sure to teach the dog to come down the ramp confidently.  Dogs who do not know how to use the ramp may jump over it.

The biggest mistake I see people make when they are shaping a behavior like this is that they want and expect the dog to get it too fast.  You absolutely must move at the dog’s pace. 

While I do use food for this training, I am very careful to train in small enough steps that the dog is never pushed or forced and gets reinforced for every tiny step or move in the right direction.  I want to build this behavior with confidence and allowing the dog to choose helps to do that.

If you have multiple dogs, practice with each of them and see who takes to it the easiest.  Then, you can work with that dog and then let the other dog observe and follow the first dog. 

Some things to keep in mind:

·         Do not ever pressure or force your dog to use the stairs or ramp. 

·         Do not just place the dog on the stairs or ramp, especially if they are uncomfortable with it.  Just being placed onto something you are worried or suspicious about will make the dog feel worried and want to get off of it.  Also, it is a breach of trust, between you and the dog.

·         Take your time and allow your dog to take breaks.

·         Use very high value treats like chicken, cheese or pieces of hot dog.  The pieces should be very small but high value because you want to reinforce every single little move in the right direction.

·         Placing yourself next to the ramp, on the side of it, will help give your dog a sense of security. 

·         If you have a very difficult time with this, start by training your dog to step onto something else such as a step, cushion, aerobic step or some other item that has only level and is not as high first.  Then, try progressing to the ramp or steps.

November Newsletter

This past month and this past weekend, in particular, has been so busy that I almost missed getting out the newsletter!  I have had a few days to recuperate from the workshop weekend and am now ready to do your newsletter!

This newsletter has a lot of information in it, including the changes that will take place with the drop in conformation classes.  Please check it out!

The Howl-O-Ween and 10 Year Anniversary party was a big success!  Thank you to all of you who took the time to come and join us!  We had a great time at the party and I was really pleased at how many people were able to come and celebrate with us!

First Place in the Costume Contest went to Sophie and her dog Charlotte

First Place in the Tricks Contest went to Sabrina and her dog Butters for her "Rock the Boat" trick!

First Place in the Catch Contest went to Kathy and Bigges!

DOG OF THE MONTH

This month's dog of the month is actually going to two dogs!  The dynamic duo of Luna and Niko!  These sweet puppies are still just baby dogs but have attended several Braveheart classes including Three's Company, Tricks class, Intermediate and Nose Work!  Their parents Danielle and Eric understand the need for these young working dogs to be kept busy!

UPCOMING CLASSES

Puppy Preschool, San Leandro, Thursday, 11/7, 6-6:50pm

Rally with Me Flash Class, San Leandro, Saturday, 11/9, 10-11am

Turkey Dogs Flash Class, San Leandro, Thursday, 11/14, 7-7:50pm

Skills for the Show Ring, San Leandro, Mondays, 12/9, 6-6:50pm

Brain Benders, San Leandro, Thursdays, 12/5, 7-7:50pm

Please contact me if you are interested in attending any of these upcoming classes.

CONFORMATION CLASS CHANGES

It is very likely that the Tuesday evening and Wednesday noon drop in conformation classes, will become session classes after the 1st of January.  What this means is that instead of these classes being a drop in class, they will be 4 class sessions.  Everything will stay the same except that they will not longer be drop in, instead, you will need to sign up for the 4 week class and attend all of those 4 classes.  The cost will be $40. Everything else will remain the same.  They will still be held at the same time and will still be 30 minutes long. A new 4 week session will start within a week or two of the prior one ending.  

UPCOMING SEMINARS

Three Wishes Conformation Seminar with Vicki Ronchette

Saturday, January 4, 2014, 9am - 2pm

Working spots - $85, Auditing spots - $65

Attendees will get to list three specific issues that they want to discuss, learn about and get help with. Space is very limited, so register for this one soon!  Click here for more info!

Canine Emotional Detox with Diane Garrod

April 5 & 6, 2014

This unique and highly effective program is great for dogs with any and all behavior issues or challenges as it prepares the dog for a behavior modification program, but also helps the trainer and owner gather more helpful information about the dog.  Click here for more info.

Bird Blog

I recently started a bird training blog.  If you are interested in following my parrot training adventures and information or just like reading about training in general, check it out here http://braveheartbirds.blogspot.com/

Facebook Chat

Vicki will be doing a Facebook chat for the International Association of Animal Behavior Counselors on November 21 at 1pm EST.

Pet Professional Guild

Vicki will be doing a Positive Training for Show Dogs webinar for the PPG on Thursday, December 12.

SHOW LIKE A PRO!

Thank you to all those who attended the Show Like a Pro! conformation workshop weekend.  It was a very busy, fun and successful weekend.  Suzy Olsen, the trainer I hosted from Texas was great and I think everyone really enjoyed the weekend.  Enjoy a few photos:

No Drop In Conformation November 5

There will be no conformation class on Tuesday, November 5.

Thinking of adopting a dog? Consider an older dog...

As most of you know, I am involved in dog rescue and have been for many years.  Over the years we have fostered countless Dachshunds, Pekingese, Chihuahuas, Cattle dogs and various other breeds as well.  It is more unusual for us NOT to have a foster dog than to have one.  About a month ago, my last foster, Coconut, a Pekingese whose eyes had to be removed due to injuries and neglect went to her new home.  A few weeks before that, Coni, an 11 year old Chinese Crested came and quickly went to live with my close friend Michelle.  Before there we had Fidel and before that Blue, who was 10 years old, the list goes on. Interestingly, but not surprising, the easiest fosters are the seniors or just older dogs.

After a run of senior dogs who did so well here, I decided last week that I would foster again for Muttville. Muttville is a rescue organization that is dedicated to taking in homeless senior dogs that are at risk of being killed in shelters.  So, today I took a drive out to San Francisco to meet the current residents that needed a foster home.  I ended up bringing home Mandy, a 9 year old Chihuahua who is as sweet as can be.

Muttville is an amazing place and I found myself feeling very warm and fuzzy as I sat there visiting with the dogs.  The facility is cage free, meaning that the dogs are pretty much all loose.  There was music playing and dogs were walking around visiting with me, volunteers and other dogs.  Others were lying on dog beds, most of them cuddled up with a buddy.  Volunteers were there walking dogs and working on various projects. There were many dogs there but not one dog jumped on me, no one was barking, no dogs were fighting, they were just "being".  They were happy to go for a walk with a volunteer, but just as happy to sit on my lap for pets or lie on a bed with a buddy.  I "connected" with Max, Stacy, Tito, Melody, Moxie, Titan and of course, Mandy.  I could have easily taken anyone of these dogs home as every one of them would make an outstanding companion.

Most of the time when someone decides to get a dog they want a puppy.  Partly because having a puppy seems like so much fun, and it is, when you aren't cleaning up pee, getting up in the middle of the night to take the puppy out potty, picking up various pieces of things that have been destroyed, teaching them not to jump, not to counter surf, etc, etc, etc.  I get wanting a puppy, but I also encourage people to consider a senior dog.  With senior dogs, for the most part, what you see is what you get.  They are who they are. And, just because they are older doesn't mean that they are on death's door.  Popeye was at least 10 when we adopted him and we had him for 5 years.  The oldest Dachshund I ever placed was Opus who was 15 when he came into rescue and lived with his owner until he passed away at 21 years old!

So, just file these thoughts into the back of your mind for when you are thinking you might like to adopt a dog.  If you are not sure that you are up to having a puppy and the training and management involved, just know that you do have other options.

Annual Howl-O-Ween Party this Friday!

Our Annual Howl-O-Ween Party is this Friday at our San Leandro location.  There will be great snacks for people and dogs, a costume contest, trick contest and catch contest!  Dog and people friendly dogs welcome to attend!  We sure hope to see you there!

Where: 2123 Marina Blvd., San Leandro
When: Friday, October 25
Time: 6:30 to 8:30pm
Who: Friends and Clients of Braveheart Dog Training
Parking: Please park behind the buildings, on the street, or in the last 5 spots of the Saigon 2 Restaurant.

New Puppy Class Added for November!

I just added a Puppy Preschool class to the schedule!  Class will start on November 7, 6-6:50pm.  Please contact me to register.

No Tuesday Night Conformation Class This Week

There will be NO drop in conformation class this Tuesday coming off of the long show weekend.

Howl-O-Ween and 10 Year Anniversary Party

You're Invited

When: Friday, October 25
Time: 6:30-8:40pm
Where: Braveheart Dog Training, 2123 Marina Blvd., San Leandro
Who: Friends and Clients of Braveheart Dog Training and dog and people friendly dogs!
What: Costume Contest! Trick Contest! Toss Contest! Raffle! Prizes! 
Be there or be square!

October Newsletter

October already??  That doesn't seem possible, but it's true!  It's actually okay with me because I love Fall. Autumn is my favorite time of year.  I am excited to have a full schedule this fall and will be offering some classes well into December to keep everyone busy and enjoying their dog time.

DOG OF THE MONTH

Savannah has been a Braveheart student since she was a tiny puppy!  She is a sweet, loving pittie girl who belongs to Vivi and Luis!  Since growing up Savannah has done several of our classes and is always a big star at our annual Howl-o-Ween Party!





SHOW LIKE A PRO! WORKSHOP - NOVEMBER 2 & 3
I am so excited to be bringing Suzy Olsen, a Karen Pryor Academy grad and professional trainer specializing in conformation in Texas out to present with me!  We will be offering a two day handling workshop on November 2 and 3 in Pleasanton.  We still have a few working spots available and would love to have you!  Please visit this link to register!

BRAVEHEART'S ANNUAL HOWL-O-WEEN PARTY
This years Howl-O-Ween Party will be held on Friday, October 25 from 6:30-8:30pm.  Because we are also celebrating Braveheart Dog Trainings 10 year anniversary the party will be even more fun with more prizes!  Bring yourselves and your dog and people friendly dogs to our annual celebration.  Get your dog ready for our trick contest, costume contest and toss contest!  Hope to see you all then!

ART SHOW TO BENEFIT GOLDEN GATE BASSET HOUND RESCUE
Braveheart is hosting our second Art Show to benefit rescue Basset Hounds on Saturday, November 23! Please come and see us!

UPCOMING CLASSES

Take a look at our full upcoming schedule for Fall!  I am excited about these classes!  Because these classes are held in my San Leandro location space will be limited!  Register today!

Intermediate Obedience, San Leandro, Thursday, 10/10, 6:30-7:20pm, 4 weeks, $125

This class is for dogs that have completed a beginning class and are looking for the next level with new challenges.  Will include indoor and outdoor work.  

Strength, Balance and Body Awareness, San Leandro, 11/7, 6:30-7:30, 3 weeks, $100

This class focuses on teaching dogs body awareness and balance.  Great conditioning exercises for show dogs, sport dogs and all dogs!

Winter Games, San Leandro, Monday, 11/11, 6-6:50pm, 3 weeks, $100

This fun class will give you some great ideas for indoor exercise and mental stimulation during the rainy, Winter months.

Three's Co., San Leandro, Tuesday, 11/12, 6-6:45pm, 5 weeks, $200

Three's Company is our Beginning class curriculum with only three dog and handler teams per class.  The class material is accelerated and the small group gives you a feeling of a semi private session.

Brain Benders, San Leandro, Thursday, 12/5, 6:00-6:50pm, 3 weeks, $100

My newest creation!  This class will introduce and explore different types of mental stimulation and enrichment!  Great for young dogs, busy dogs or any dog that is looking for something new or something more!

Intro to Nose Work class on the calendar!

We have added an Introduction to Nose Work class to start on October 4 at 5:30pm.

We also still have openings for the Intermediate Obedience class to begin on October 10 at 6:30pm.

Please contact me if you would like to register for either of these.

Upcoming Flash Classes

UPCOMING FLASH CLASSES:
Distance, Duration and Distractions, Thursday, 9/26, 6:30
Rally-O, Saturday, 10/5, 12:00pm
RSVP to me if you would like to attend.

September Newsletter

Summer is already winding down and it's back to school time.  Why not make it back to school for your dog too?  Check out our list of class offerings below.  Also, remember to keep your eye on the website as I have added a new class called Brain Benders and will be offering Winter Games again in Fall as well!

DOG OF THE MONTH

Classy is this months dog of the month, but this honor belongs to all of the dogs of Hana Shih Tzu!  Bonnie and Liz have been bringing their beloved Shih Tzus to our drop in conformation classes for quite a while now.  We met after my mother in law got her Shih Tzu, Joi from them several years ago.  I love all of the dogs that Bonnie and Liz bring to class, and have an especially good time being a part of the new puppies getting started on their training.  There is not much more therapeutic than playing with Shih Tzu puppies!


UPCOMING CLASSES
Small Dog Beginning, Castro Valley, 9/16, 6-7pm, 6 weeks, $150
Beginning Obedience, Castro Valley, 9/21, 9-10am, 6 weeks, $150Puppy Preschool, Castro Valley, 9/21, 10-10:50am, 6 weeks, $150
Distance, Duration and Distractions Flash Class, 9/26, 6:30-7:30pm, 1 session, $20
Three's Company, San Leandro, 10/2, 6-6:45pm, 5 weeks, $200
Rally Flash Class, San Leandro, 10/5, 12-1pm, 1 session, $20Intermediate Obedience, Thursday,  10/10, 6-6:50pm, 4 weeks, $125

ANNUAL HOWL-O-WEEN PARTY
Mark your calendars for October 25, 6:30-8:30pm for Braveheart's Annual Howl-O-Ween Party!  This year will be extra special since we will also be celebrating our 10 year anniversary!  More food, more prizes, more fun!  Costume and trick contest!  Dog and people friendly dogs welcome!

BEHAVIOR CASES
As I have mentioned before, I have cut back on my class offerings due to my back problems.  Because of this change, I have been taking on more behavior cases.  I have always offered private lessons and behavior consults, but had been referring a large portion of those to colleagues, just because I didn't have the time, but also because I needed a break from taking them.  It may not seem like it, but working behavior cases can be very tiring and a lot of work.  For each consult I do, I have to meet with the client, create a training/behavior modification plan, problem solve, create a consult report and then offer support and cheerlead the client.  I love doing it, but it can be tiring, particularly if you hit a string of really challenging cases.  So, while it can be very rewarding work, it can also create burnout.  I love that I have such a solid and reputable referral system in place should I need to refer clients on when I need to.  

The reason I am sharing this with you is that it reminded me of something I want to encourage in my clients. If your dog or bird is exhibiting a behavior problem, it is best to seek help as soon as you realize that something is off.  Remember that we all get better at things we practice and it is no different with behavior problems that we wish didn't exist.  Animals get better with practice so we do not want them practicing problematic behaviors, which is why it is so important to get them help as soon as possible.

If your animal is exhibiting any behavior that is dangerous to you, other people, other animals or the animal himself, such as aggression, fears or phobias, please seek help and do not try to correct the behavior on your own.  Many things can get worse with incorrect handling or methods.  


SHOW LIKE A PRO! CONFORMATION/HANDLING WORKSHOP WITH VICKI RONCHETTE AND SUZY OLSEN

Mark your calendars for November 2 and 3, 2013 for our Show Like a Pro workshop!  Vicki Ronchette and Suzy Olsen are teaming up to bring you an informative and fun weekend of conformation training!  For more information, click here!

Two Flash Classes Added!

I just added two Flash Classes to the calendar. Flash classes are one session classes that focus on a specific topic. They are one hour long and $20. You will need to RSVP to let me know you are coming. 
Thursday, September 5, 6:30-7:30pm - All Tricked Out! 
Thursday, September 26, 6-7pm - Distance, Duration, Distractions

August Newsletter

I hope that everyone enjoyed a great 4th of July and are having a wonderful Summer.  We have been lucky to have some, not too extreme weather which makes the season much more manageable.

As you have noticed, I have been reminding people often about being careful to not leave their dogs in their cars on warm days, but also to not walk your dog on hot pavement.  Please continue to spread the word and protect your own dogs as the Summer begins to wind down.

DOG OF THE MONTH

Charlotte is a sweet, adorable and loving 10 month old Chesapeake Bay Retriever.  Charlotte has been a Braveheart student since she was a little puppy and just graduated from our Three's Company class.  She is shown here, being trained by her 6 year old owner, Sophie.





UPCOMING CLASSES
Real World, San Leandro, Thursday, 8/8, 6-6:50pm, 4 weeks, $125
Small Dog Beginning, Castro Valley, 9/16, 6-7pm, 6 weeks, $150
Beginning Obedience, Castro Valley, 9/21, 9-10am, 6 weeks, $150
Puppy Preschool, Castro Valley, 9/21, 10-10:50am, 6 weeks, $150
Intermediate Obedience, Thursday,  10/10, 6-6:50pm, 4 weeks, $125

CLASS CHANGES
Many of you may have noticed that I have started to cut back on some of my classes. I have even had to drop some classes. The reason for this change is that I have been suffering with back problems for a long time and my back can no longer handle me standing for more than an hour or so at a time. This makes doing multiple classes very difficult and causes me pain for days afterwards most of the time. While I am still working on different ways to take care of my back and avoid further injury and pain, I also now realize, partly due to conversations with my doctors and physical therapist, that I have to start removing things from my life that cause me to stress my back. I will continue to offer both group classes and private instruction, but will be cutting back on classes.  So, if you don't see a particular class on the schedule that you are used to seeing, this is why.  It is a difficult change for me to make, but it is necessary. Thank you all for your understanding and support.

CAMPING WITH YOUR DOG
This past weekend, I went on a quick, overnight camping trip with my dog, Jenny.  This particular trip was a group trip hosted by the Golden Gate Basset Rescue group, for which I am a volunteer.  Jenny loves going and hanging out with all of her Basset buddies and all the hounds seem to have a wonderful time.  Our trip inspired me to share some tips for camping with your dog.

• Be sure to make sure that wherever you are going to camp allows dogs!  Believe it or not, there are many campgrounds that don't allow dogs.  This is critical to know before heading off on your trip!
• As unfair as it is, some campgrounds have a "not allowed breed list".  I have been to campgrounds that did not allow certain breeds, but did allow others.  Be sure your dog's breed isn't on the list.
• Some campgrounds allow dogs, but only in certain areas.  For instance, at the lake that I went to, dogs are welcome at the campgrounds, but not in the swimming areas.  So, if you are going to be swimming, you would need to have someone to stay at camp to sit with the dog.
• Some dogs are defensive or uncomfortable about being tethered or leashed, as it allows other animals or people to wander up.  Figure out the best way to contain your dog at camp.  I usually bring a short leash, a longer line (not a flexi) and at least one exercise pen.  
• Never leave your dog unattended at camp.  Whether on a tie down, tether or in a pen, someone should be with your dog at all times.
• Never leave your dog "out" at night.  
• Consider that you may need to be extra careful about parasite protection as many camping areas have ticks, mosquitos and other creepy crawlers.
• If it's hot out, do not leave your dog in direct sun without shade, in the car or in the tent, where temperatures will rise.
• Be sure to watch your dog carefully around a campfire.
• Be sure that your dog is secure in your tent.  I have been to events where dogs have let themselves out of tents during the night!  
• Don't forget to bring your dog's food, treats and even your own water if your dog has a sensitive gut.
• Be sure to keep the garbage up so your dog doesn't get into it!

Some pictures of Jenny from our recent trip:

Some Bassets playing.  Notice the ex pens up to create a "yard".  The hounds were only in this area with people and completely supervised.

Jenny enjoys hanging out at our campsite.

Jenny is a happy camper!

For the first time, we camped in our car!  I borrowed the cabana tent for my Honda Element from a friend and Jenny and I slept in there.  It was surprisingly comfortable!  I thought that if Jenny REALLY tried, she may be able to somehow get out of the tent, so I tethered her during the night inside my car.