My female boss teaches puppy classes at the veterinary hospital. Occasionally we have discussions about "challenging" puppies and the like. Lately she's had a little mix puppy who seems to be the bane of her existence in regards to teaching down. She asked for ideas about three weeks ago, after all of her usual methods didn't yield results. I relayed the different ways I would go about it, minus shaping... until the very end. She'd tried all of my other suggestions for luring the behavior and for a couple weeks no more comments, so I assumed things had been going well and they'd found a trick.
Today while I was finishing up some surgical charts she came in and showed me this little bundle of fluff that could not be lured into a down and very rarely offered a down. Since most puppies learn how to be lured quite well, I first tried to lure the puppy into simple positions. Environment was too stimulating so I had to keep reengaging the puppy (not something I would normally do... but I had limited time). After about a minute I had the puppy licking/following the food reward in simple circles, in a straight line, and into a sit. From there I "shaped" (yes, using the term very loosely, but there's really not another way to describe it) the puppy to down. Each time the head followed the food I let her have a nibble. Even if it was a tiny movement, nibble on food. My end goal was to have her blindly following the food. I never did work on the down portion, but something happened in that session and my boss was able to get five lured downs from the puppy later!
I can't call it shaping, because I wasn't waiting for offered behaviors really. I was just luring, but the puppy wouldn't lure well, so I had to shape a lure, I think?
Anyway, I'm happy the puppy is "learning down" and the family/boss are happy about it. But what do I/can I call that?
2010-11-23
2010-11-21
Semi-Permanent Retirement?
Bailey has been going to see a rehabilitation specialist since June. We went because she was in pain, definitely, but I really had hopes she could recover and return to performance events, even if not seriously. We've been given the go-ahead for Tracking... but I have not been good about getting out to TRACK with it getting dark so quickly now. I need to stick to my goals and actually work her. Tuesday and Thursday mornings, I have time and daylight to lay tracks for her. (Just not this week, as it's deer hunting/gun season and we live in the boonies with stupid people. I don't even walk the dogs around here this week. We stay in the fenced yard.)
She is making progress, but I just don't think that with her age and those muscles having 10.5 years of muscle memory... I'm going to convince her body that it's supposed to work differently and carry her differently. She's holding her adjustments, and seems to be far more comfortable in general, but.
We have an appointment on Wednesday with Dr. Julia again. I plan to ask her if it's realistic to hope for a return to agility or not. If it's fair to ask that of Bailey's body. I will not compromise my dog's body anymore. I did it unknowingly for years, but now I know better, and I know my dog better.
We've been working on obedience with relative regularity, so I'm going to focus on that throughout the winter. And this is why I've been posting about things not relating to training, or trialling... because the more I think about it, the worse the situation seems. Therefore, I start to think about my other favorite topic of breeding/health/etc. *smile*
If I post about health and breeding too much though, remind me to TRAIN MY DOG. Obedience is something we can do, and can practice, and can prepare to take our first ever obedience class when we're given the okay. Dumbell holding sits on the hatbox are coming along beautifully, now I need to progress to working on that behavior without the hatbox--in front and heel position!
She is making progress, but I just don't think that with her age and those muscles having 10.5 years of muscle memory... I'm going to convince her body that it's supposed to work differently and carry her differently. She's holding her adjustments, and seems to be far more comfortable in general, but.
We have an appointment on Wednesday with Dr. Julia again. I plan to ask her if it's realistic to hope for a return to agility or not. If it's fair to ask that of Bailey's body. I will not compromise my dog's body anymore. I did it unknowingly for years, but now I know better, and I know my dog better.
We've been working on obedience with relative regularity, so I'm going to focus on that throughout the winter. And this is why I've been posting about things not relating to training, or trialling... because the more I think about it, the worse the situation seems. Therefore, I start to think about my other favorite topic of breeding/health/etc. *smile*
If I post about health and breeding too much though, remind me to TRAIN MY DOG. Obedience is something we can do, and can practice, and can prepare to take our first ever obedience class when we're given the okay. Dumbell holding sits on the hatbox are coming along beautifully, now I need to progress to working on that behavior without the hatbox--in front and heel position!
Registering "Pet" Dogs
Sparked by a conversation at work... (these are always good, I swear).
Both of my dogs were registered because at some point in time, we had planned to breed. Also, it's "just something you do" according to my dad. His reasons are different than a responsible breeders' might be, but it gets the same job done; puppies registered and accounted for.
One co-worker has 3 purebred, registerable dogs. None are registered because they're all pets, and speutered. Another has 2 dogs, both registered; one was going to be bred but developed allergies, another was a rescue who came with her registration.
Many of the breeders I know ask that all puppies are registered, but don't necessarily ensure it happens. A couple register all puppies and send the paperwork in before leaving for new homes.
Is it really as beneficial as I'm thinking, and as necessary? I feel like it's a mixed bag. As long as the breeder knows what was produced in the litter, and keeps tabs on the pups as they grow, then the AKC doesn't really need to know, I suppose. On the other hand, how many people develop an interest in dog sports later on and then end up doing an ILP/the like which can just be confusing for everyone.
1) Is your dog registered?
2) Is your dog neutered/spayed?
3) Did you complete the paperwork, or did the breeder?
4) Do you compete in AKC and/or UKC events?
*1-yes, both are
*2-yes, both are
*3-we completed paperwork for both
*4-Buzz is registered with the AKC and UKC, Bailey just AKC
Both of my dogs were registered because at some point in time, we had planned to breed. Also, it's "just something you do" according to my dad. His reasons are different than a responsible breeders' might be, but it gets the same job done; puppies registered and accounted for.
One co-worker has 3 purebred, registerable dogs. None are registered because they're all pets, and speutered. Another has 2 dogs, both registered; one was going to be bred but developed allergies, another was a rescue who came with her registration.
Many of the breeders I know ask that all puppies are registered, but don't necessarily ensure it happens. A couple register all puppies and send the paperwork in before leaving for new homes.
Is it really as beneficial as I'm thinking, and as necessary? I feel like it's a mixed bag. As long as the breeder knows what was produced in the litter, and keeps tabs on the pups as they grow, then the AKC doesn't really need to know, I suppose. On the other hand, how many people develop an interest in dog sports later on and then end up doing an ILP/the like which can just be confusing for everyone.
1) Is your dog registered?
2) Is your dog neutered/spayed?
3) Did you complete the paperwork, or did the breeder?
4) Do you compete in AKC and/or UKC events?
*1-yes, both are
*2-yes, both are
*3-we completed paperwork for both
*4-Buzz is registered with the AKC and UKC, Bailey just AKC
2010-11-18
NO TUMOR!
That is all... ok, somewhat all. We finally got him sedated and xrayed about 5pm and there is NO evidence of a tumor!
More details later... off to cuddle my dog again... because I can.
NO TUMOR!
More details later... off to cuddle my dog again... because I can.
NO TUMOR!
2010-11-17
Buzz says...
QUIT poking my bladder!
Saturday Buzz had some orange-ish urine at the end... when he was mostly empty. I made a mental note and said I'd keep an eye on it. Nothing else until Monday morning, last pee before work and the end is bright red. No mistaking that for orange or yellow.
I loaded him up and away to work we went. Doctor #3 gave him a full physical exam (including rectal... Buzz wasn't so sure she REALLY needed to go up there but being the most excellent boy he is, he held very still) and she was able to palpate "something" up near the top of his bladder. Urinalysis showed signs of infection, but the problem is, boy dogs don't just get UTIs. Then we took an xray (or two...) and compared it to an xray taken in July. There is a definite opacity difference up near the top of the bladder, suspicious of a tumor. I went home Monday with some antibiotics to treat the bladder infection and a lot to think over.
Each doctor made a handful of suggestions about further diagnostics, treatment options, etc. and today we did an ultrasound to more accurately determine the location of the mass (and, essentially, to prove it really is there). It showed up on the ultrasound screen as at the top, in the trigone area of the bladder.
Tomorrow we do a cystogram (human site, but essentially the same) to hopefully find out more information.
Any extra vibes, good thoughts, prayers, whatever you may have will be appreciated tomorrow.
Throughout all, my sweet boy has remained so. He doesn't act like there's anything bothering him and keeps wondering why people are poking around his abdomen so much!
Saturday Buzz had some orange-ish urine at the end... when he was mostly empty. I made a mental note and said I'd keep an eye on it. Nothing else until Monday morning, last pee before work and the end is bright red. No mistaking that for orange or yellow.
I loaded him up and away to work we went. Doctor #3 gave him a full physical exam (including rectal... Buzz wasn't so sure she REALLY needed to go up there but being the most excellent boy he is, he held very still) and she was able to palpate "something" up near the top of his bladder. Urinalysis showed signs of infection, but the problem is, boy dogs don't just get UTIs. Then we took an xray (or two...) and compared it to an xray taken in July. There is a definite opacity difference up near the top of the bladder, suspicious of a tumor. I went home Monday with some antibiotics to treat the bladder infection and a lot to think over.
Each doctor made a handful of suggestions about further diagnostics, treatment options, etc. and today we did an ultrasound to more accurately determine the location of the mass (and, essentially, to prove it really is there). It showed up on the ultrasound screen as at the top, in the trigone area of the bladder.
Tomorrow we do a cystogram (human site, but essentially the same) to hopefully find out more information.
Any extra vibes, good thoughts, prayers, whatever you may have will be appreciated tomorrow.
Throughout all, my sweet boy has remained so. He doesn't act like there's anything bothering him and keeps wondering why people are poking around his abdomen so much!
2010-11-13
Reinforcement
I was reinforced for poor training tonight.
My dog is on the ball, err... peanut! Let the rehab continue!
2010-11-11
Submitting Abnormal Results
I had a post typed out and then decided it's really not about that.
Based on something that happened at work yesterday, I'm curious about not just releasing (the third part)... but the second part of this, submitting abnormal test results regarding your dog. (Testing is the first part of all this.)
Case in point: a client wanted us to do a patellar luxation OFA form for her dog. It's a common problem in the breed but the attending veterinarian hadn't ever filled out a form for it before. He noted that there is no way to grade each patella individually. You can make notes about each patella, but then each patella is given the same grading, from "Normal" up to "Grade 4." He then made a comment that people wouldn't submit abnormal results anyways.
Would you submit abnormal results and just not release, to provide beneficial data for your chosen breed. Or would you withhold results completely?
--The attending veterinarian commented on the money factor. It costs money to send the form in when the results are already known.
Based on something that happened at work yesterday, I'm curious about not just releasing (the third part)... but the second part of this, submitting abnormal test results regarding your dog. (Testing is the first part of all this.)
Case in point: a client wanted us to do a patellar luxation OFA form for her dog. It's a common problem in the breed but the attending veterinarian hadn't ever filled out a form for it before. He noted that there is no way to grade each patella individually. You can make notes about each patella, but then each patella is given the same grading, from "Normal" up to "Grade 4." He then made a comment that people wouldn't submit abnormal results anyways.
Would you submit abnormal results and just not release, to provide beneficial data for your chosen breed. Or would you withhold results completely?
--The attending veterinarian commented on the money factor. It costs money to send the form in when the results are already known.
2010-11-10
Training Notes
1) UNintentional test of Bailey's article indication went really well. She circled me to find the track again and indicated her line. It was both wonderful and confusing. Nope, it was just wonderful. Scent, line, plop. "Mom, I found an article!"
2) Holding a dumbell and keeping her feet in like we've been working on is too much work. Tonight Bailey learned holding objects in her mouth while sitting on her pivot... hat box. And then we worked on splendidly close front position while holding a dumbell, on the pivot box. Yes, my dog is that awesomely amazing. It's fun to have a dog whose nose is at belly button level and literally puts the dumbell into your hands then.
3) Buzz thinks the FitPAWS peanut is actually kinda weird. I plopped him on the ball, thinking nothing of it because he's my unflappable boy and he went "WHOA! mom-lady, what IS this thing?!" So then I braced it even better and took his cone off and he happily balanced on the ball. Win! Hopefully he'll be able to balance it himself someday, but I'm not holding my breath.
4) Bored dogs are SO HAPPY TO TRAIN. We went for a walk as soon as I got home from work, just on our road, came inside and started training. They were so keyed up, it was cute. Then I felt bad because it's been a while (we won't mention how long it's really been) since they've been worked.
Tomorrow:
More magnificent dumbell work.
Short grass tracks for both dogs with no corners.
2) Holding a dumbell and keeping her feet in like we've been working on is too much work. Tonight Bailey learned holding objects in her mouth while sitting on her pivot... hat box. And then we worked on splendidly close front position while holding a dumbell, on the pivot box. Yes, my dog is that awesomely amazing. It's fun to have a dog whose nose is at belly button level and literally puts the dumbell into your hands then.
3) Buzz thinks the FitPAWS peanut is actually kinda weird. I plopped him on the ball, thinking nothing of it because he's my unflappable boy and he went "WHOA! mom-lady, what IS this thing?!" So then I braced it even better and took his cone off and he happily balanced on the ball. Win! Hopefully he'll be able to balance it himself someday, but I'm not holding my breath.
4) Bored dogs are SO HAPPY TO TRAIN. We went for a walk as soon as I got home from work, just on our road, came inside and started training. They were so keyed up, it was cute. Then I felt bad because it's been a while (we won't mention how long it's really been) since they've been worked.
Tomorrow:
More magnificent dumbell work.
Short grass tracks for both dogs with no corners.
2010-11-03
happy is what you make it
the smell of fall
chocolate
laughter with friends
meaningful hugs
new life
the wind blowing
hot cocoa
new socks
what makes you happy
chocolate
laughter with friends
meaningful hugs
new life
the wind blowing
hot cocoa
new socks
what makes you happy
2010-11-02
CERF
Eye exams are important, not just for breeding pets but also for our sport (or semi-retired, sport) dogs. The ultimate goal is to keep our pets running for as long as possible, so with that comes preventative health care and gathering as much information as possible to make informed decisions.
Bailey had a "puppy CERF" which is standard practice. It gives the breeder feedback and provides the owner with a baseline. I never sent her CERF form in, but I still have it. It was clear, so no worries there.
We got started doing CERF exams in 2007 when the TCVESSA held a PRA blood draw in conjunction with their annual CERF clinic. There was a discount on the price of PRA testing for dogs with current CERF exams, so I figured why not! Both dogs had clear exams and I sent their forms in. Test results came in a couple months later with Buzz being normal/clear and Bailey being affected (but not yet afflicted, per her CERF exam).
Since then I've learned a lot about inherited eye problems as well as some specifics of the form of PRA springers can be affected with. At eye exams in 2008, both dogs were once again clear and Dr. Schoster didn't find it odd Bailey still had no signs of being afflicted with PRA. She's been on some sort of eye vitamin (typically Ocuvite, sometimes Bilberry with Lutein) since the "diagnosis" and well... I just expected her to be normal. I've kind of forgotten about the whole thing because so many dogs were unafflicted for years and years and years.
This eye exam went a bit differently than expected. Buzz played brave boy and went first. No concerns, only notation was his tarsal gland ademonas. Still completely sighted at over 12 years old, and I couldn't be happier. I let Dr. Larocca examine Bailey without any history because I've learned that professionals don't want to be given any kind of feedback that could sway their exam findings. He told me she would be receiving a clear CERF which is when I chose to tell him she is genetically affected with PRA. He looked at me, looked at her... and said "I don't believe that, your test is wrong!"
I had to hold in a laugh because he said it so emphatically. I wouldn't have been laughing at the notion of it, but merely his... enthusiastic response! I let him explain himself, "no dog still sighted at 10.5 years old can be affected with PRA, we would be seeing degenerative changes." I casually mentioned she's been on an eye supplement since "diagnosis" in 2007, had a clear CERF in 2008 and did not have a CERF in 2009. He was adamant the test is wrong!
Her sire is deceased, with no banked blood. Her dam is deceased, with no banked blood. She has a half sister on either side, neither of which has had the PRA test run, as far as I know. She has full siblings, but I don't know of any, and I doubt her breeder has contact with any. This is information I told him because he asked me how many affected offspring she's produced...
...
...
...
I promise I did not laugh when saying "she has produced zero offspring," though it was another pretty close slip.
He said we have to re-run the test. I said there is only one laboratory currently doing ESS PRA tests. He tried to find me another place to send blood... but there aren't any. If I ever have money to spare, I'll ask if we can run Sarah and Addy blood, to see if it provides us with any kind of information. If either tested normal/clear, then we would know somebody's test is wrong but the problem lies in them testing carrier or affected not giving us any valuable feedback. As much as I would love to know "for sure," it really doesn't matter. She has no offspring and all I care about is that she's still sighted. The PRA test is what got me started doing regular(ish) CERF exams, so I don't regret doing it. I just like definitive answers, especially when a professional doubts another professional's diagnosis.
To prove that I'm just a wee bit crazy... I seriously loved this appointment. It amuses me to no end when something or someone is challenged. It keeps everyone on alert and engaged.
I'd visit him again any day. Informational entertainment with some seriously fun learning. Yes please!
Since then I've learned a lot about inherited eye problems as well as some specifics of the form of PRA springers can be affected with. At eye exams in 2008, both dogs were once again clear and Dr. Schoster didn't find it odd Bailey still had no signs of being afflicted with PRA. She's been on some sort of eye vitamin (typically Ocuvite, sometimes Bilberry with Lutein) since the "diagnosis" and well... I just expected her to be normal. I've kind of forgotten about the whole thing because so many dogs were unafflicted for years and years and years.
This eye exam went a bit differently than expected. Buzz played brave boy and went first. No concerns, only notation was his tarsal gland ademonas. Still completely sighted at over 12 years old, and I couldn't be happier. I let Dr. Larocca examine Bailey without any history because I've learned that professionals don't want to be given any kind of feedback that could sway their exam findings. He told me she would be receiving a clear CERF which is when I chose to tell him she is genetically affected with PRA. He looked at me, looked at her... and said "I don't believe that, your test is wrong!"
I had to hold in a laugh because he said it so emphatically. I wouldn't have been laughing at the notion of it, but merely his... enthusiastic response! I let him explain himself, "no dog still sighted at 10.5 years old can be affected with PRA, we would be seeing degenerative changes." I casually mentioned she's been on an eye supplement since "diagnosis" in 2007, had a clear CERF in 2008 and did not have a CERF in 2009. He was adamant the test is wrong!
Her sire is deceased, with no banked blood. Her dam is deceased, with no banked blood. She has a half sister on either side, neither of which has had the PRA test run, as far as I know. She has full siblings, but I don't know of any, and I doubt her breeder has contact with any. This is information I told him because he asked me how many affected offspring she's produced...
...
...
...
I promise I did not laugh when saying "she has produced zero offspring," though it was another pretty close slip.
He said we have to re-run the test. I said there is only one laboratory currently doing ESS PRA tests. He tried to find me another place to send blood... but there aren't any. If I ever have money to spare, I'll ask if we can run Sarah and Addy blood, to see if it provides us with any kind of information. If either tested normal/clear, then we would know somebody's test is wrong but the problem lies in them testing carrier or affected not giving us any valuable feedback. As much as I would love to know "for sure," it really doesn't matter. She has no offspring and all I care about is that she's still sighted. The PRA test is what got me started doing regular(ish) CERF exams, so I don't regret doing it. I just like definitive answers, especially when a professional doubts another professional's diagnosis.
To prove that I'm just a wee bit crazy... I seriously loved this appointment. It amuses me to no end when something or someone is challenged. It keeps everyone on alert and engaged.
I'd visit him again any day. Informational entertainment with some seriously fun learning. Yes please!
2010-10-31
The Awaited Return...
Bailey finally got to track today. I've either been too busy or it's been dark since we were given clearance to track that the poor dog had to wait until today to track for the first time since June. Part of me was terrified to take her, for fear she'd be a complete nut job... and part of me was so darn excited to be able to work my dog again.
First surprise. She offered loose leash walking, despite wearing her tracking harness. I rewarded that heavily with hot dogs (hot dogs are not a common treat around here, so they're like... better than cheese).
Second surprise. When I switched her lead from collar to harness, she didn't immediately lurch forward like I expected. She was interested and started checking the ground out but there was no distinct "WHEE!" behavior I'm accustomed to.
Third surprise. She indicated and STAYED while I picked up the first article (see, we all have our faults, I've not trained that piece of the chain very well... I'm lazy and normally wing it).
Her track was aged 3.5 hours, had 2 ninety degree corners, and 4 articles. It started on short grass then went into tall grass and on into a wooded area. I sent her over some downed trees and her first corner was just past a pine tree with no low hanging branches. From there we headed onto a hayed path and into a hay field. Here she really shocked me by turning to check in (she NEVER does that) and then getting off the track and finding deer poop to eat. I was seriously peeved because I've worked so hard (in the past) to keep her ON the track and not allow extraneous sniffing and crittering. After we had a discussion (that was more aimed at me about laying shorter tracks to start back with... duh), she moved into the final leg where we had a lot of fun.
The track exited the hay field, into a lightly wooded ditch, across the driveway, back up a lightly wooded ditch on the other side, and her end article was about 15 yards in the field.
She worked the exit from the field nicely. Checked both ways before committing to heading down, moved quickly across the road (head down, YAY), then checked left and right before heading up the other side. She was rewarded with her final article not far in.
I was really surprised by her relaxed working style. I'm not overly concerned about today's session. She hasn't done much of anything in over 3 months, so I'm sure there's a lot of other factors playing into this. I do plan on laying tracks at least once a week though, and hoping for twice. My biggest stumbling area is aging them. I don't have a lot of daylight now and I'm not fond of tracking in a field in the dark... Hopefully I can set aside some time one day of the weekend though and we can prepare for a TDX test in the spring!
First surprise. She offered loose leash walking, despite wearing her tracking harness. I rewarded that heavily with hot dogs (hot dogs are not a common treat around here, so they're like... better than cheese).
Second surprise. When I switched her lead from collar to harness, she didn't immediately lurch forward like I expected. She was interested and started checking the ground out but there was no distinct "WHEE!" behavior I'm accustomed to.
Third surprise. She indicated and STAYED while I picked up the first article (see, we all have our faults, I've not trained that piece of the chain very well... I'm lazy and normally wing it).
Her track was aged 3.5 hours, had 2 ninety degree corners, and 4 articles. It started on short grass then went into tall grass and on into a wooded area. I sent her over some downed trees and her first corner was just past a pine tree with no low hanging branches. From there we headed onto a hayed path and into a hay field. Here she really shocked me by turning to check in (she NEVER does that) and then getting off the track and finding deer poop to eat. I was seriously peeved because I've worked so hard (in the past) to keep her ON the track and not allow extraneous sniffing and crittering. After we had a discussion (that was more aimed at me about laying shorter tracks to start back with... duh), she moved into the final leg where we had a lot of fun.
The track exited the hay field, into a lightly wooded ditch, across the driveway, back up a lightly wooded ditch on the other side, and her end article was about 15 yards in the field.
She worked the exit from the field nicely. Checked both ways before committing to heading down, moved quickly across the road (head down, YAY), then checked left and right before heading up the other side. She was rewarded with her final article not far in.
I was really surprised by her relaxed working style. I'm not overly concerned about today's session. She hasn't done much of anything in over 3 months, so I'm sure there's a lot of other factors playing into this. I do plan on laying tracks at least once a week though, and hoping for twice. My biggest stumbling area is aging them. I don't have a lot of daylight now and I'm not fond of tracking in a field in the dark... Hopefully I can set aside some time one day of the weekend though and we can prepare for a TDX test in the spring!
TCOTC's Fall TD Test
I used my weekend wisely and laid tracks for TCOTC's Fall Tracking Test. I always have another motive for attending events as a spectator and this was no exception. I love hearing the feedback from experienced judges and I love watching handlers work with their dogs.
This time though, the best conversations were had outside of the field.
1} Article Indications
I don't pretend to know everything about tracking, my dog has only passed a TD so far. Her indication is accurate (she places the article between her front feet), easy to read (lies down), and is incredibly solid (she has not indicated articles twice in her two years of tracking). From the conversation today, very few people think it's important... yet it's essential to passing a test! Most are taught by experienced professionals that the dog will just learn to indicate as they progress. Yet, the handlers I was talking with all said they wish the indication was stronger... they just weren't sure how to do that.
Suggestions:
A) Use a behavior the dog does easily... I usually ask "what is your dog likely to do" when discussing article indications.
-Bailey does a down--she will lie down in/on just about anything... she likes wet and gross.
-Buzz does a pick up and stand--I started asking him for a down but he just does not like laying in wet grass and he gets cold easily. It changed into a stand then I added in the pick up so I can have exact feedback when he stops.
One handler today said he was going to try a paw target because his dog likes to use his feet... great!
B) Train the behavior away from the track. You can still track while training the indication, but DO create a training plan for how to get that desired result.
C) When you start asking for the indication on a track, use a familiar article on a very short track. Let the dog work it out. Most make the connection very quickly. If not, go back to doing indications.
2} Long Walk Ins
One handler let his dog run down the road to the place of their walk in. They then walked for about 400 yards to the actual start flag. By the time he and his dog reached the start flag, his dog was flying so high that he never really settled into his track. The dog almost completed the track, but per the handler, he was difficult to handle.
I've experimented with this one a little bit. I was so lucky that Bailey's TD track had a VERY short walk in. I knew if we had a long walk in, I hadn't appropriately trained her for that, and we would have a much slimmer chance of passing. It's something I've worked on a little since then. Since the beginning, I've tried to make a distinction and ordeal about switching her lead from collar to harness. This is a big clue to her that she's supposed to lean into her harness and track. Sample training sessions included rewarding with treats for checking in while attached to collar and letting her move quickly when the lead was changed to harness. I have not switched back and forth when approaching a start flag, though it's something I plan to do.
Example: today we got the last dog out of the car and "ready" too early. The dog was headed toward it's start and needed to come back and wait. If I asked Bailey to do that currently, I may have trouble getting her to settle and wait. I plan to help her understand that we may not always get to approach the flag and it's not something she did to cause that.
Some people attach the lead to harness and let the dog work the whole walk in. If your dog is physically and mentally able to do that, then go for it. I know mine is not and it's not something I will do, nor suggest very often. Even if my dog was two years old and physically able, I'd be afraid of mentally tiring at that point. I like to stack the deck in my favor, so I want the dog at peak working ability when it comes time for the judging to start.
Tracking is definitely my favorite sport. It's so much fun to watch the dogs work, and when you see a team that's just on, it's awe inspiring. It's also not as easy as people tend to think. I know some get by on sheer luck and dog ability, but it does require some training complete with training plans, to prepare each team to the best of their abilities, as with any competitive sport.
This time though, the best conversations were had outside of the field.
1} Article Indications
I don't pretend to know everything about tracking, my dog has only passed a TD so far. Her indication is accurate (she places the article between her front feet), easy to read (lies down), and is incredibly solid (she has not indicated articles twice in her two years of tracking). From the conversation today, very few people think it's important... yet it's essential to passing a test! Most are taught by experienced professionals that the dog will just learn to indicate as they progress. Yet, the handlers I was talking with all said they wish the indication was stronger... they just weren't sure how to do that.
Suggestions:
A) Use a behavior the dog does easily... I usually ask "what is your dog likely to do" when discussing article indications.
-Bailey does a down--she will lie down in/on just about anything... she likes wet and gross.
-Buzz does a pick up and stand--I started asking him for a down but he just does not like laying in wet grass and he gets cold easily. It changed into a stand then I added in the pick up so I can have exact feedback when he stops.
One handler today said he was going to try a paw target because his dog likes to use his feet... great!
B) Train the behavior away from the track. You can still track while training the indication, but DO create a training plan for how to get that desired result.
C) When you start asking for the indication on a track, use a familiar article on a very short track. Let the dog work it out. Most make the connection very quickly. If not, go back to doing indications.
2} Long Walk Ins
One handler let his dog run down the road to the place of their walk in. They then walked for about 400 yards to the actual start flag. By the time he and his dog reached the start flag, his dog was flying so high that he never really settled into his track. The dog almost completed the track, but per the handler, he was difficult to handle.
I've experimented with this one a little bit. I was so lucky that Bailey's TD track had a VERY short walk in. I knew if we had a long walk in, I hadn't appropriately trained her for that, and we would have a much slimmer chance of passing. It's something I've worked on a little since then. Since the beginning, I've tried to make a distinction and ordeal about switching her lead from collar to harness. This is a big clue to her that she's supposed to lean into her harness and track. Sample training sessions included rewarding with treats for checking in while attached to collar and letting her move quickly when the lead was changed to harness. I have not switched back and forth when approaching a start flag, though it's something I plan to do.
Example: today we got the last dog out of the car and "ready" too early. The dog was headed toward it's start and needed to come back and wait. If I asked Bailey to do that currently, I may have trouble getting her to settle and wait. I plan to help her understand that we may not always get to approach the flag and it's not something she did to cause that.
Some people attach the lead to harness and let the dog work the whole walk in. If your dog is physically and mentally able to do that, then go for it. I know mine is not and it's not something I will do, nor suggest very often. Even if my dog was two years old and physically able, I'd be afraid of mentally tiring at that point. I like to stack the deck in my favor, so I want the dog at peak working ability when it comes time for the judging to start.
Tracking is definitely my favorite sport. It's so much fun to watch the dogs work, and when you see a team that's just on, it's awe inspiring. It's also not as easy as people tend to think. I know some get by on sheer luck and dog ability, but it does require some training complete with training plans, to prepare each team to the best of their abilities, as with any competitive sport.
2010-10-27
Tomorrow is Special
Bailey gets to go tracking. I don't think she understands exactly what's in store for her. She's going to be thrilled.
YAY rehab. YAY Bailey.
That's about all I have energy for. Bedtime, more exciting details tomorrow and hopefully pictures of the happy event.
YAY rehab. YAY Bailey.
That's about all I have energy for. Bedtime, more exciting details tomorrow and hopefully pictures of the happy event.
2010-10-24
Bettering Me
I've had so much stress and stuff on the brain lately that I've neglected to train my dogs mostly. I've also neglected their stretching quite a bit. This is not smart, I know this but... it is what it is.
I'm creating a calendar with a checklist for each day, right now (or, I will when I think about how to do this... maybe a checklist will be better?). Three goals for each category should help me be successful.
Dog Goals:
Walk for at least 45 minutes on leash, off property, three times weekly.
Stretches twice daily, as directed.
Food toys at least 5 times weekly. (Stuffed Kongs count as food toys.)
Me Goals:
30 minutes of cardio 3-5 times each week
Eat a real breakfast and pack lunch the night before (so I'm not tempted to just "grab food from the store")
Be a better and more understanding friend (TAG people, I know that's so vague and unclear but... it's all I've got right now, I need to think about ways to BE better and this is a start)
I'm creating a calendar with a checklist for each day, right now (or, I will when I think about how to do this... maybe a checklist will be better?). Three goals for each category should help me be successful.
Dog Goals:
Walk for at least 45 minutes on leash, off property, three times weekly.
Stretches twice daily, as directed.
Food toys at least 5 times weekly. (Stuffed Kongs count as food toys.)
Me Goals:
30 minutes of cardio 3-5 times each week
Eat a real breakfast and pack lunch the night before (so I'm not tempted to just "grab food from the store")
Be a better and more understanding friend (TAG people, I know that's so vague and unclear but... it's all I've got right now, I need to think about ways to BE better and this is a start)
2010-10-18
Walks
I had big plans for tonight. HUGE plans in fact. It involved a lot of sleeping. I had specifically hoped for about 12 hours. The dogs did not think that was a good idea when I got home. Bailey rooooed at me. Buzz nosed me and I gave in pretty quickly.
We have a "normal" route in town used frequently in the winter and/or at night. Today I decided to branch out and use part of the Ice Age Trail to bring us there.
 |
| Overlooking the St. Croix River Valley |
We walked by a football game and a "scary guy" that Bailey only looked at. He emerged from the dark and had a very low voice, but I have to give him major kudos!! He approached slowly and talked the whole time. She just glanced at him and kept walking... yay girlie!
By the time we got back to the car, nearly two hours had elapsed and we were READY to be headed home.
The problem though is that now I'm quite awake. They're full and sleeping. Lazy dogs!
2010-10-17
Scent Articles
They will be the death of me. Today Bailey reverted to doing a tracking indication (again) and bringing me every article, except the one I scented.
Less petting, more tracking food-mom-lady!
My dog loves tracking. She's good at tracking. She wants to know why I keep screwing with her brain. I clearly don't understand this game.
I give up.
The end.2010-10-11
"Too Patterned"
Tonight I was accused of being "too patterned." I wasn't quite sure what to say to that, so I asked for clarification first.
1) "you walk your dogs in the same place, at the same time"
--That's something I really don't do. I do tend to walk my dogs in a certain city on Mondays, but that has more to do with Eric working Mondays than anything. There are days I walk them as soon as I get home from work and days I don't actually get them out for a walk. Maybe I need to keep better notes, to see if I really follow a pattern more than I think.
2) "you follow the same schedule all the time"
--This one's a stretch. I have the same basic morning routine, but doesn't everyone? My "night routine" is completely non-existent. Monday and Tuesday I have to be to work at 7:30, so I get up about 6am. Wednesday and Thursday I have to be there at 8, so I get up about 6:45. Some days I shower in the morning, some days I don't. Some days I eat breakfast at home, some days I don't.
I don't even have a set schedule for feeding the animals. It's a "when I feel like it" schedule.
Maybe all this defensive-ness means I AM too patterned though. Argh! And I really thought I had escaped that tendency!
1) "you walk your dogs in the same place, at the same time"
--That's something I really don't do. I do tend to walk my dogs in a certain city on Mondays, but that has more to do with Eric working Mondays than anything. There are days I walk them as soon as I get home from work and days I don't actually get them out for a walk. Maybe I need to keep better notes, to see if I really follow a pattern more than I think.
2) "you follow the same schedule all the time"
--This one's a stretch. I have the same basic morning routine, but doesn't everyone? My "night routine" is completely non-existent. Monday and Tuesday I have to be to work at 7:30, so I get up about 6am. Wednesday and Thursday I have to be there at 8, so I get up about 6:45. Some days I shower in the morning, some days I don't. Some days I eat breakfast at home, some days I don't.
I don't even have a set schedule for feeding the animals. It's a "when I feel like it" schedule.
Maybe all this defensive-ness means I AM too patterned though. Argh! And I really thought I had escaped that tendency!
2010-10-10
Shaping Workshop
We had "training group" today and it's really a get together for us friendly dog-friend/nerds to socialize and kinda train our dogs. I ended up bringing Buzz today and he was oh-so-happy to go!
Elizabeth and Beckett were there, Brian brought the adorable Ms. Maisy Jane, Jane brought Finn, and Robin had her NEW PUPPY Via!
Buzz and I have been working on crating more than half-heartedly lately, trying to determine if his poor crate behavior is due to a lack of training, or possible cognitive issues. The last two nights he has settled nicely after a walk and some down-time before bed time. When we arrived at training group this morning, we took a short walk with Beckett and then he crated up nicely at the training center. Very few barks and only in one instance. I'm trying to keep better records of his behavior in general, so this is definitely something I need to pay attention to. When, why, and for how long does he bark.
After crating adult dogs so we could PLAY WITH THE PUPPY, we actually got to work.
Robin had us do a warm up heeling/loose leash walking on both sides activity. Three dogs milled around with their handlers and nobody had a collision. That impressed me. I thought for sure I'd hit a pole or a dog or someone else, but nope! (Confession time: I've never been in a group obedience class...) Buzz had quite a few no-sits and I was trying to work on my clicker mechanics (don't reach for the treat until after clicking) so then we stopped movement exercises and worked on semi-stationary exercises so I could focus on less. Robin tagged me for remembering to click THEN treat. Mannn was that challenging for me! It's something I should work on at home a lot more and just... don't!
Scent Articles
--where we ran into the problem I always have. How to mark a deaf dog from a distance! I utilized Robin's expertise and extra hands to try solving this problem. Buzz was working the "pile" (2 leather, 2 metal, plus my scented leather) nicely but not committing to the correct article, so I wanted to mark when he indicated. The lights I brought with did not have the distance or direct-ness (I'm sure there's a better word I can't think of right now) it needs. Robin's going to bring a laser light next week to see if we don't get better results. I do have to admit to telling him how adorably wrong he was when he got confused one time and just started picking up articles and throwing them at me. I never know how to handle it when he does that, so I normally call him away and just start over. I have yet to find a way of preventing the pick up of the wrong article... ideas?
Elizabeth and I traded dogs. She worked with Buzz on muzzling while Beck and I worked on head turns and paw lifts.
It was grand fun and I'm very sad I missed out on the first session. I'm going to bring Buzz again next week, and I may actually bring both and trade out--I haven't done THAT in forever either!
Oh, dog training fun... I just wish we could get together more often, then I'd actually have well trained dogs.
Elizabeth and Beckett were there, Brian brought the adorable Ms. Maisy Jane, Jane brought Finn, and Robin had her NEW PUPPY Via!
Buzz and I have been working on crating more than half-heartedly lately, trying to determine if his poor crate behavior is due to a lack of training, or possible cognitive issues. The last two nights he has settled nicely after a walk and some down-time before bed time. When we arrived at training group this morning, we took a short walk with Beckett and then he crated up nicely at the training center. Very few barks and only in one instance. I'm trying to keep better records of his behavior in general, so this is definitely something I need to pay attention to. When, why, and for how long does he bark.
After crating adult dogs so we could PLAY WITH THE PUPPY, we actually got to work.
Robin had us do a warm up heeling/loose leash walking on both sides activity. Three dogs milled around with their handlers and nobody had a collision. That impressed me. I thought for sure I'd hit a pole or a dog or someone else, but nope! (Confession time: I've never been in a group obedience class...) Buzz had quite a few no-sits and I was trying to work on my clicker mechanics (don't reach for the treat until after clicking) so then we stopped movement exercises and worked on semi-stationary exercises so I could focus on less. Robin tagged me for remembering to click THEN treat. Mannn was that challenging for me! It's something I should work on at home a lot more and just... don't!
Scent Articles
--where we ran into the problem I always have. How to mark a deaf dog from a distance! I utilized Robin's expertise and extra hands to try solving this problem. Buzz was working the "pile" (2 leather, 2 metal, plus my scented leather) nicely but not committing to the correct article, so I wanted to mark when he indicated. The lights I brought with did not have the distance or direct-ness (I'm sure there's a better word I can't think of right now) it needs. Robin's going to bring a laser light next week to see if we don't get better results. I do have to admit to telling him how adorably wrong he was when he got confused one time and just started picking up articles and throwing them at me. I never know how to handle it when he does that, so I normally call him away and just start over. I have yet to find a way of preventing the pick up of the wrong article... ideas?
Elizabeth and I traded dogs. She worked with Buzz on muzzling while Beck and I worked on head turns and paw lifts.
It was grand fun and I'm very sad I missed out on the first session. I'm going to bring Buzz again next week, and I may actually bring both and trade out--I haven't done THAT in forever either!
Buzz and I miss camp. Not that this picture has anything to do with dog training, other than it was taken at camp.
2010-10-03
Books
I just finished reading The Dog Who Spoke With Gods and The Art of Racing in the Rain. Both are wonderful books and both made me hug my dogs super tight. It's easy to get caught up in day to day life, and forget about just how special these creatures are. Nights like tonight make me unbelievably happy I have the resources available to make Buzz's aging as painless as possible. It's certainly not the cheapest, and likely not the absolute most effective, but being able to watch him catch a scent and then RUN after it brings me to tears every time. Watching him dig in gopher holes, because he can, makes me happy. It does my heart good.
Both books are an enjoyable read, but be prepared to shed some tears.
Both books are an enjoyable read, but be prepared to shed some tears.
2010-10-02
2010-10-01
2010-09-25
Three Vermilion Tollers
Vad, Torque, and Riga ran in the WCX test today at the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever National event.
"Vad"
Vildanden's Neon Af Nischi
"Torque" (Vad x Remi)
Vermilion's Twist'n Torque
"Riga" (Vad x Hannah)
Vermilion's Rah Rah Ramona
2010-09-19
Recheck Appointment
We managed to arrive on time to Buzz's first recheck appointment. Overall it went wonderfully well, except for the initial "Bailey is here for her appointment" scare! Jenny needs to stop scaring me! I only brought one dog, that would have been a problem if I brought the wrong one.
Anyway, Dr. Julia had me on the edge of my seat when she felt him and said "he might be ready for strengthening," but then changed her mind. He's doing VERY well, but he's not doing that well. He had some "spinal manipulations" (aka the MN legal version of chiropractic adjusments) and we were sent home with the same exercises. His exercises are pretty easy and I do them almost religiously. I've also given him all of his oral meds and injections ON time so far. Go me, right? (Having a calendar plastered to the refrigerator helps, a lot.)
So, we continue with the weight shifting (she gave me some tips on being more efficient), bows, and treat stretches. Cross those darn fingers we get to start strengthening (and thus, going less frequently) after this Friday's appointment. (I was hoping we could do a Monday or Wednesday but it seems everyone takes those evening appointments.) I guess Buzz gets to come to watch the NSDTR NATIONALS conformation event with me!
Bailey did 2/3 of her diagonal leg lifts to 30 seconds tonight! I'm still not sure if they count or not though because she was wobbly at first, then recovered. The last was only about 15 seconds, then she started trying to lean on me.
And, for your educational fun: PennHIP vs OFA
Anyway, Dr. Julia had me on the edge of my seat when she felt him and said "he might be ready for strengthening," but then changed her mind. He's doing VERY well, but he's not doing that well. He had some "spinal manipulations" (aka the MN legal version of chiropractic adjusments) and we were sent home with the same exercises. His exercises are pretty easy and I do them almost religiously. I've also given him all of his oral meds and injections ON time so far. Go me, right? (Having a calendar plastered to the refrigerator helps, a lot.)
So, we continue with the weight shifting (she gave me some tips on being more efficient), bows, and treat stretches. Cross those darn fingers we get to start strengthening (and thus, going less frequently) after this Friday's appointment. (I was hoping we could do a Monday or Wednesday but it seems everyone takes those evening appointments.) I guess Buzz gets to come to watch the NSDTR NATIONALS conformation event with me!
Bailey did 2/3 of her diagonal leg lifts to 30 seconds tonight! I'm still not sure if they count or not though because she was wobbly at first, then recovered. The last was only about 15 seconds, then she started trying to lean on me.
And, for your educational fun: PennHIP vs OFA
2010-09-12
Dog Books
I love to read. I don't read as much as I would like to, and when I do it's mostly girlie stuff (Nora Roberts/JD Robb, and the occasional John Grisham, et al, if it's not a dog book of some sort).
When Eric and I went to Wheels and Wings yesterday (and the day before, in the rain, to watch the truck pull...) we happened upon Motorbooks at just the right time! It was after 3:00PM and thus you could fill a bag with as many books as it would hold, for only $30 (plus tax), a box was $60 but it really did NOT hold twice as much! I was so excited by this because before 3, everything was "just" half price, so 2-3 books equaled $30. We went our separate ways and I grabbed almost every dog book I could, that was not written by Kyra Sundance. (And Eric found a billion books on home repairs, cars, free calendars, mixing drinks, etc!) I came home with some pretty neat books, and some that... well, I wouldn't have paid actual money for!
See Spot Run by Kirsten Cole-MacMurray and Stephanie Nishimoto is first on the list to be read. It looks like fun and actually seems well put together!
Retails for $19.99
Whole Health for happy dogs by Jill Elliot DVM and Kim Bloomer is next on the list. I'm pretty fascinated by what I paged through, and super excited to read it!
Retails for $15.99
The Safe Dog Handbook by Melanie Monteiro, for no reason other than the other two looked more exciting, is third on the list!
Retails for $19.99
Dog Lover's Daily Companion by Wendy Nan Rees and Kristen Hampshire doesn't appear to be a "read me page for page all the way through" type of book, so I'll probably look at it from time to time unless I find differently! Definitely not something I would have bought under different circumstances.
Retails for $19.99
Love of Goldens edited by Todd R. Berger is not something I bought for myself, but I'm going to read it before it gets sent off to Ohio anyways!
The non-dog books: The Quotable Barn Cat, Rainy Day Magic, The Gourmet's Guide to Cooking with Chocolate, Digital Photography Guide, and a work out book that requires the use of things I already have!
Now I just need to finish the current JD Robb book so I can get started on reading dog books. Reading two books at once doesn't work well with my CDO tendencies...
Oh, and I bought a book at the library sale for 50 cents, Sight Unseen by Robert Goddard.
When Eric and I went to Wheels and Wings yesterday (and the day before, in the rain, to watch the truck pull...) we happened upon Motorbooks at just the right time! It was after 3:00PM and thus you could fill a bag with as many books as it would hold, for only $30 (plus tax), a box was $60 but it really did NOT hold twice as much! I was so excited by this because before 3, everything was "just" half price, so 2-3 books equaled $30. We went our separate ways and I grabbed almost every dog book I could, that was not written by Kyra Sundance. (And Eric found a billion books on home repairs, cars, free calendars, mixing drinks, etc!) I came home with some pretty neat books, and some that... well, I wouldn't have paid actual money for!
See Spot Run by Kirsten Cole-MacMurray and Stephanie Nishimoto is first on the list to be read. It looks like fun and actually seems well put together!
Retails for $19.99
Whole Health for happy dogs by Jill Elliot DVM and Kim Bloomer is next on the list. I'm pretty fascinated by what I paged through, and super excited to read it!
Retails for $15.99
The Safe Dog Handbook by Melanie Monteiro, for no reason other than the other two looked more exciting, is third on the list!
Retails for $19.99
Dog Lover's Daily Companion by Wendy Nan Rees and Kristen Hampshire doesn't appear to be a "read me page for page all the way through" type of book, so I'll probably look at it from time to time unless I find differently! Definitely not something I would have bought under different circumstances.
Retails for $19.99
Love of Goldens edited by Todd R. Berger is not something I bought for myself, but I'm going to read it before it gets sent off to Ohio anyways!
The non-dog books: The Quotable Barn Cat, Rainy Day Magic, The Gourmet's Guide to Cooking with Chocolate, Digital Photography Guide, and a work out book that requires the use of things I already have!
Now I just need to finish the current JD Robb book so I can get started on reading dog books. Reading two books at once doesn't work well with my CDO tendencies...
Oh, and I bought a book at the library sale for 50 cents, Sight Unseen by Robert Goddard.
Old Dogs
Bailey had a recheck with Dr. Julia on Friday and I scheduled to bring Buzz along too. We'd never determined the cause of his exercise intolerance, despite a visit to the Cardiologist, and Dr. Enochs was still sure it was a pain response that just wasn't being managed with NSAIDs. Dr. Julia found lots of things out of whack with him and used the word "kittywampus" many times while doing her evaluation and chiropractic adjustments.
The short of the long is that he's an old dog with a changing body. He's in a lot of pain, so her plan is to manage pain--with Adequan injections ($ouch) and Previcox ($ouch2... it's a darn good thing I get discounts at work), increase mobility and then hopefully strengthen! We're also using a drug called Amantadine--believed to work by restoring the balance of natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. She noted on his evaluation that there was some delay between stimulus and reaction to stimulus. So we started a regiment of prescription medications (I guess waiting until he's over 12 years old before needing regular prescription medications was nice of him) and have a recheck in one week.
Adequan is one injection subcutaneously every 4 days for 4 sessions, then once a week for 4 sessions... after that we'll see how it goes. She's hoping to get it down to once monthly. Apparently it's licensed for subcutaneous use in felines but not canines, though it appears to work the same. Dr. Julia said something about money being a restriction in their pursuit of FDA approval for SQ use.
Previcox is at half of his "normal" dosage for now, one half tablet every other day. He's been on Previcox before, but it didn't seem to have much effect. It had more than the no-effect-Rimadyl though.
The Amantadine is given once every other day too. She said it will take up to 8 weeks to see results with that medication, so I guess we're in this for the long haul too.
In wonderful news, Bailey's making some great improvements. We have not been cleared for fun activities yet, but she did write "I'll evaluate your request for tracking after our next appointment." She makes me laugh a lot. Bailey and I won't be visiting Dr. Julia again until she can do diagonal leg lifts for 30 seconds, so that's my motivation to keep working with her and get to 30 seconds. We're at about 15 right now, she wants us to shoot for increasing by 5 seconds each week. She's still pretty unbalanced at times and tries to brace herself with a wide stance, so it's been definite work for both of us. I often feel like this would go smoother if I had another set of hands and eyes, but we do what we can.
If I needed more motivation... I get to order a FitPAWS Peanut. I don't think she understands how much trouble my dog is going to have with balancing on something. My dog is not brave, but we can fake a lot of things. I don't think we can fake being brave on a wobbly ball though. That means I'll actually have to train my dog to do something (other than walk on a loose leash), I guess we'll just see how it goes though. The end result will hopefully be Bailey balancing on TWO legs on this peanut ball, that's a darn lofty goal.
I have two old dogs that are working towards being pain free. I love the resources available to me, I just wish Dr. Julia would move closer to me.
Bailey's picture of her on a hatbox is displayed at the Rehab Center. That makes me laugh. So does the fact that Dr. Julia uses words like "kittywampus." I also told her again that the biggest benefit of this whole activity restriction thing is I actually taught Bailey to walk on a loose leash. She thought that was pretty funny, but it's never really been important until now! I couldn't put a GL on her, or an EW, and I couldn't just put her x-back on and let her pull me. I actually had to train her to walk nicely and respond to leash pressure. It was annoying as all get out, but it's a really nice thing to have now. I think that should be a selling point for TC Rehab, don't you?
The short of the long is that he's an old dog with a changing body. He's in a lot of pain, so her plan is to manage pain--with Adequan injections ($ouch) and Previcox ($ouch2... it's a darn good thing I get discounts at work), increase mobility and then hopefully strengthen! We're also using a drug called Amantadine--believed to work by restoring the balance of natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. She noted on his evaluation that there was some delay between stimulus and reaction to stimulus. So we started a regiment of prescription medications (I guess waiting until he's over 12 years old before needing regular prescription medications was nice of him) and have a recheck in one week.
Adequan is one injection subcutaneously every 4 days for 4 sessions, then once a week for 4 sessions... after that we'll see how it goes. She's hoping to get it down to once monthly. Apparently it's licensed for subcutaneous use in felines but not canines, though it appears to work the same. Dr. Julia said something about money being a restriction in their pursuit of FDA approval for SQ use.
Previcox is at half of his "normal" dosage for now, one half tablet every other day. He's been on Previcox before, but it didn't seem to have much effect. It had more than the no-effect-Rimadyl though.
The Amantadine is given once every other day too. She said it will take up to 8 weeks to see results with that medication, so I guess we're in this for the long haul too.
In wonderful news, Bailey's making some great improvements. We have not been cleared for fun activities yet, but she did write "I'll evaluate your request for tracking after our next appointment." She makes me laugh a lot. Bailey and I won't be visiting Dr. Julia again until she can do diagonal leg lifts for 30 seconds, so that's my motivation to keep working with her and get to 30 seconds. We're at about 15 right now, she wants us to shoot for increasing by 5 seconds each week. She's still pretty unbalanced at times and tries to brace herself with a wide stance, so it's been definite work for both of us. I often feel like this would go smoother if I had another set of hands and eyes, but we do what we can.
If I needed more motivation... I get to order a FitPAWS Peanut. I don't think she understands how much trouble my dog is going to have with balancing on something. My dog is not brave, but we can fake a lot of things. I don't think we can fake being brave on a wobbly ball though. That means I'll actually have to train my dog to do something (other than walk on a loose leash), I guess we'll just see how it goes though. The end result will hopefully be Bailey balancing on TWO legs on this peanut ball, that's a darn lofty goal.
I have two old dogs that are working towards being pain free. I love the resources available to me, I just wish Dr. Julia would move closer to me.
Bailey's picture of her on a hatbox is displayed at the Rehab Center. That makes me laugh. So does the fact that Dr. Julia uses words like "kittywampus." I also told her again that the biggest benefit of this whole activity restriction thing is I actually taught Bailey to walk on a loose leash. She thought that was pretty funny, but it's never really been important until now! I couldn't put a GL on her, or an EW, and I couldn't just put her x-back on and let her pull me. I actually had to train her to walk nicely and respond to leash pressure. It was annoying as all get out, but it's a really nice thing to have now. I think that should be a selling point for TC Rehab, don't you?
2010-09-02
What can we do now?
I read about Steve's rehab and I become semi-motivated to write about Bailey's. Their ups and downs have weirdly coincided. Bailey doesn't see Dr. Julia until NEXT Friday, a whole three weeks since her last appointment. After I got the picture of her sitting on the hat box, I emailed it to Dr. Julia and the reply was "HOORAY!"
I've been not good about doing all of her exercises every single day. She's supposed to be doing paper slides, opposite leg lifting, sits, bows, treat stretches, and quad stretch morning and night. We're supposed to do pivots right and left on the pivot box midday. I usually get at least one set in, sometimes two, and rarely three. I've made a pact with myself that I will get all three in for at least three days starting yesterday. I only did part of tonight's set because she seemed sore from our walk, but that still counts!
I don't think Bailey or I understand the paper slides very well, but we do them as best we can. Dr. Julia showed me how to do Logan Basic last time, to help me help Bailey more, but I can't seem to do it well enough to make a difference.
Rather than sounding like a broken record though, I'm happy to say my pupper is doing well. She's doing so well in fact, I've discussed with her doctor, trying to wean her off Fluoxetine. She's been SO good after the initial stress of lack of exercise and such, that I'm really, really thinking about it. We've had zero incidents at the cabin with being evil to cats and guardy. Creatures are responding to each other when necessary. She's been relaxing nicely out in public... but the real test will come when she's allowed to actually go to classes again (I'm being optimistic here). Until we can evaluate that, she'll remain on it.
My goal from the visit with Dr. Julia? Cleared for tracking practice. Her sacrum has stayed where it needs to be the last two visits. It was "barely" out of place the visit before that. That was my biggest concern. We couldn't build those necessary muscles if the body wasn't staying in the right place.
Improvement. Lots and lots of improvement for the girlie dog and I.
2010-08-29
We Have A Hat-Box Sit!
2010-08-27
Getting By
We've been crazy busy here. All four creatures and I have been staying at our lake home while the farm is being worked on. This is both fun and frustrating. I feel like I've cleaned and cleaned and cleaned, yet it's not really... clean?! We also have no interwebs, so I've been busy doing other things and neglecting my email. Rather than the usual 2000 unread emails, I had about 4000 when I checked today. Oops?
Mostly we're all getting along and adjusting to living in a house that essentially has four rooms. New development today though was Bailey wanting to eat the kitty litter. Why on earth does World's Best have to taste good? TWICE today I caught her chomping down on it. She's not looking for cat excretions, but really eating the litter! Then she looks at me with this dry mouth, tongue flapping expression that says "HALP!" and I just laugh at her.
I put up a new shower curtain today, did about five hundred loads of laundry... and washed dishes, floors and vacuumed. Oh, and I rearranged furniture, and tried to make the litterbox dog un-friendly, but that seemed to make her MORE curious. Buzz is leaving it alone. He only cares if there's nasty stuff in it. I have weird dogs.
I want another bonfire, but I think I burned all the good stuff last night. Hrmph.
I miss Ohio. I miss talking about intricate details of competition behavior training. I miss having a dog to train. I want a puppy. Have I whined enough yet?
Oh, and I have to write my food toy article-y thing for work and bring in examples. Whee!
Mostly we're all getting along and adjusting to living in a house that essentially has four rooms. New development today though was Bailey wanting to eat the kitty litter. Why on earth does World's Best have to taste good? TWICE today I caught her chomping down on it. She's not looking for cat excretions, but really eating the litter! Then she looks at me with this dry mouth, tongue flapping expression that says "HALP!" and I just laugh at her.
I put up a new shower curtain today, did about five hundred loads of laundry... and washed dishes, floors and vacuumed. Oh, and I rearranged furniture, and tried to make the litterbox dog un-friendly, but that seemed to make her MORE curious. Buzz is leaving it alone. He only cares if there's nasty stuff in it. I have weird dogs.
I want another bonfire, but I think I burned all the good stuff last night. Hrmph.
I miss Ohio. I miss talking about intricate details of competition behavior training. I miss having a dog to train. I want a puppy. Have I whined enough yet?
Oh, and I have to write my food toy article-y thing for work and bring in examples. Whee!
2010-08-20
Food Toys aka Enrichment
I'll be doing my continuing education "talk" at work about Enrichment Toys. I'm pretty excited, but wanted to get some input on non-store-bought enrichment/food toys that people have used. We use boxes and paper bags and that's about it. What else do you use around the house to hide food in and provide enrichment?
Then...
I'll be bringing our Tug A Jug, Kong Genius, Kongs, and the Atomic Treat Ball. There are so many food toys out there, and I'll bring a list of others, but I'm curious... what is your dog's favorite food toy and what is yours? Pros and cons of it if you please!
And... kitties!
Our good friend Kristen sent the kitties a Funkitty Twist 'n Treat. Rascal thinks it's pretty darn awesome, Rasza and I are working on it. We also have a treat ball and a "fish sticks" treat dispensing toy. Neither one seems to like the fish sticks toy yet. I think I need different kibbles for it though.
Then...
I'll be bringing our Tug A Jug, Kong Genius, Kongs, and the Atomic Treat Ball. There are so many food toys out there, and I'll bring a list of others, but I'm curious... what is your dog's favorite food toy and what is yours? Pros and cons of it if you please!
And... kitties!
Our good friend Kristen sent the kitties a Funkitty Twist 'n Treat. Rascal thinks it's pretty darn awesome, Rasza and I are working on it. We also have a treat ball and a "fish sticks" treat dispensing toy. Neither one seems to like the fish sticks toy yet. I think I need different kibbles for it though.
2010-08-08
I just don't know.
If I'm stupid, crazy, or (fill in the blank).
Proof of Bailey's DNA CHIC blood sample submission for research.
http://www.offa.org/display.html?appnum=1216954#animal
Proof of Buzz's DNA CHIC blood sample submission for research.
http://www.offa.org/display.html?appnum=1313481#animal
I'm in the process of finding a time to schedule CERFs for the aging creatures. Other than that, not many changes on the home front.
Proof of Bailey's DNA CHIC blood sample submission for research.
http://www.offa.org/display.html?appnum=1216954#animal
Proof of Buzz's DNA CHIC blood sample submission for research.
http://www.offa.org/display.html?appnum=1313481#animal
I'm in the process of finding a time to schedule CERFs for the aging creatures. Other than that, not many changes on the home front.
2010-07-24
Wrongdoings.
A forum I frequent has had disputes amongst members lately about "wrong doings" and "fixing things" and "inattentiveness" and "too many pets" ad nausem. I've stayed out of it because... who really wants to be called out on what they did wrong six years ago, five months ago, yesterday? If it was wrong, and the person knows it... I'd just be pretty darn sad if it kept coming up over, and over, and over... again.
With that said. Irresponsible breeding kills me. I have a hard time feeling sorry for people who have had litter, after litter, of non-health tested, non-otherwise tested stock.
Buzz was intact until 28 months old. Bailey was 9 months old when Buzz was neutered. Bailey was bough for me, to "possibly breed" with. My dad thought if you have one of each sex and they're of the same breed, you might as well breed them, right? Thankfully we neutered Buzz. No Buzz puppies.
Bailey was intact until 14 months. "We" (the family) had intentions of breeding her. Then we went through a single hellacious heat cycle with her (half of which happened while we were on vacation, you see how wimpy we were) and she was spayed soon after coming out of heat. They were then given the title of "just pets" or "farm dogs" or "hey, you, go chase the guinea hens off the cars."
So, while we were responsible with our dogs (I think that counts as being responsible--no litters), we had a barn kitty named Baby who had litter, after litter, after litter. We loved playing with the kittens and they "always found homes" so, really, it was ok, right? Wrong. Baby was born in 1990 and had litters of kittens until 1997. Seven years of uncontrolled reproducing. She was our pet, and was vaccinated, but she had litters and litters of kittens. We tried (unsuccessfully) for about a year and a half to contain her after weaning kittens to have her spayed. She always escaped. It did not fail. Her second to last litter of kittens contained Rasza, our beautiful grey kitty boy. She escaped ONE MORE TIME and had a singleton litter of a short haired calico female we named Mischief. Baby was then, finally, spayed. Except it didn't go so smoothly. The vet "misunderstood" and declawed our outdoor, barn, kitty that we were trying to HELP (yeah, she was spayed too)! My dad said NO More Cats In The House (we had Rascal and Rasza inside at this point), so she had to live outside, with no front claws. Somehow, she still survived. (The vet spayed her daughter Mischief for free to "try" to make up for declawing Baby... and Mischief died shortly thereafter.)
After a tragic family loss in 2005, everyone ended up coming to live in the house. No more losses, no more tragic losses needed to take place. We went from having one cat live inside permanently, to having five animals living inside all the time. Some may say THAT was ridiculous, but it has worked for us.
I've done as much as I can humanly do for all of our animals, who didn't have the best start here, in an attempt to make up for it. Nobody has had a truly bad life, but I've provided them with all the necessary veterinary care and good food and clean, safe, warm environments since then. My perception of others has changed a lot, knowing how difficult it can be to make changes like that.
The point of this? I'm human, I learn from (most) mistakes, and I have a genuine passion to provide the best life for my critters as I can.
As my dad would say, "Accident's don't just happen." Well, he's right.
With that said. Irresponsible breeding kills me. I have a hard time feeling sorry for people who have had litter, after litter, of non-health tested, non-otherwise tested stock.
Buzz was intact until 28 months old. Bailey was 9 months old when Buzz was neutered. Bailey was bough for me, to "possibly breed" with. My dad thought if you have one of each sex and they're of the same breed, you might as well breed them, right? Thankfully we neutered Buzz. No Buzz puppies.
Bailey was intact until 14 months. "We" (the family) had intentions of breeding her. Then we went through a single hellacious heat cycle with her (half of which happened while we were on vacation, you see how wimpy we were) and she was spayed soon after coming out of heat. They were then given the title of "just pets" or "farm dogs" or "hey, you, go chase the guinea hens off the cars."
So, while we were responsible with our dogs (I think that counts as being responsible--no litters), we had a barn kitty named Baby who had litter, after litter, after litter. We loved playing with the kittens and they "always found homes" so, really, it was ok, right? Wrong. Baby was born in 1990 and had litters of kittens until 1997. Seven years of uncontrolled reproducing. She was our pet, and was vaccinated, but she had litters and litters of kittens. We tried (unsuccessfully) for about a year and a half to contain her after weaning kittens to have her spayed. She always escaped. It did not fail. Her second to last litter of kittens contained Rasza, our beautiful grey kitty boy. She escaped ONE MORE TIME and had a singleton litter of a short haired calico female we named Mischief. Baby was then, finally, spayed. Except it didn't go so smoothly. The vet "misunderstood" and declawed our outdoor, barn, kitty that we were trying to HELP (yeah, she was spayed too)! My dad said NO More Cats In The House (we had Rascal and Rasza inside at this point), so she had to live outside, with no front claws. Somehow, she still survived. (The vet spayed her daughter Mischief for free to "try" to make up for declawing Baby... and Mischief died shortly thereafter.)
After a tragic family loss in 2005, everyone ended up coming to live in the house. No more losses, no more tragic losses needed to take place. We went from having one cat live inside permanently, to having five animals living inside all the time. Some may say THAT was ridiculous, but it has worked for us.
I've done as much as I can humanly do for all of our animals, who didn't have the best start here, in an attempt to make up for it. Nobody has had a truly bad life, but I've provided them with all the necessary veterinary care and good food and clean, safe, warm environments since then. My perception of others has changed a lot, knowing how difficult it can be to make changes like that.
The point of this? I'm human, I learn from (most) mistakes, and I have a genuine passion to provide the best life for my critters as I can.
As my dad would say, "Accident's don't just happen." Well, he's right.
2010-07-23
Tags
My dogs have been wearing collars lately. They never used to. Every collar they wear has a "name tag" on it. Typically a Boomerang Tag, because I love those. It's pretty uncommon though, for them to wear the collar with microchip/rabies tags attached too.
The point of this pointless post is to ask if your dogs wear tags, or even collars...
I have no real reason.
The point of this pointless post is to ask if your dogs wear tags, or even collars...
I have no real reason.
2010-07-22
I'm Exhausted!
Between being Trial Secretary, going to School, exercising and stretching Bailey As Is Allowed, and dealing with Buzz's medical issues... I'm exhausted!
Recheck for Bailey tomorrow morning. We've not been as good this week about stretches for various reasons. Surprisingly, when I do them, she seems to be improving--rather than me getting frustrated that she is sliding backwards! Maybe it's my imagination... we'll see tomorrow.
In other wonderful news, we finally got whole-blood DNA samples sent out for the CHIC repository. They went out yesterday. Let's hope the shipping place I used actually knows what the hey is going on. They were mighty confused, and mighty slow.
Our house is a state of construction--still. I think everyone's fuse is getting short because it feels like we live in a one room house for right now.
The dogs need baths. Who wants to come do that for me?
Recheck for Bailey tomorrow morning. We've not been as good this week about stretches for various reasons. Surprisingly, when I do them, she seems to be improving--rather than me getting frustrated that she is sliding backwards! Maybe it's my imagination... we'll see tomorrow.
In other wonderful news, we finally got whole-blood DNA samples sent out for the CHIC repository. They went out yesterday. Let's hope the shipping place I used actually knows what the hey is going on. They were mighty confused, and mighty slow.
Our house is a state of construction--still. I think everyone's fuse is getting short because it feels like we live in a one room house for right now.
The dogs need baths. Who wants to come do that for me?
2010-07-04
Embracing My Dog
Our good friends Crystal and Maisy recently wrote a post titled, "In Praise of the Abnormal Dog." It's a wonderfully inclusive post that you'll have to read to get the full effect.
It's something I've thought about a lot, and especially this morning.
We all spent the night at our cabin, and after arriving home this morning, I didn't put the kitties crates away (or close the door). Buzz went to sniff Rascal's crate and Bailey immediately shoved herself into a tiny crate so she could guard it.
Why am I posting this? Because all my girlie-dog did was lift a lip. I've been oh-so-concerned about the relationship between my two dogs now that Buzz is deaf and doesn't respond to her "get away" cues. Buzz has had teeth on him more times than I wish to convey, despite me trying very hard to protect both of them.
In the past Bailey has gone from lip lifting to snarl/lunge in record time because other creatures did not respond the way she wanted. For her to lift a lip... and WAIT, is pretty darn impressive. She's been showing me a lot lately that she's capable of quite a bit more than I give her credit for. She's learning that even at home, I can manage things that are going on, and she doesn't have to take on the Hallway Monitor job she doesn't really want.
Buzz responded, she didn't aggress... and it was a pretty funny situation after that. I practiced calling her away/out (she did so successfully, score one for training), and then I put her into her own crate, for a break.
Improvement, improvement, improvement. We can do this, we can function as a household.
It's something I've thought about a lot, and especially this morning.
We all spent the night at our cabin, and after arriving home this morning, I didn't put the kitties crates away (or close the door). Buzz went to sniff Rascal's crate and Bailey immediately shoved herself into a tiny crate so she could guard it.
Why am I posting this? Because all my girlie-dog did was lift a lip. I've been oh-so-concerned about the relationship between my two dogs now that Buzz is deaf and doesn't respond to her "get away" cues. Buzz has had teeth on him more times than I wish to convey, despite me trying very hard to protect both of them.
In the past Bailey has gone from lip lifting to snarl/lunge in record time because other creatures did not respond the way she wanted. For her to lift a lip... and WAIT, is pretty darn impressive. She's been showing me a lot lately that she's capable of quite a bit more than I give her credit for. She's learning that even at home, I can manage things that are going on, and she doesn't have to take on the Hallway Monitor job she doesn't really want.
Buzz responded, she didn't aggress... and it was a pretty funny situation after that. I practiced calling her away/out (she did so successfully, score one for training), and then I put her into her own crate, for a break.
Improvement, improvement, improvement. We can do this, we can function as a household.
2010-07-03
Not Enough Improvement
Bailey had another appointment with Dr. Julia on Wednesday. She was slightly better, but Dr. Julia wasn't very happy with her progress.
Still right quad stiffness, her core muscles aren't building, and she needed another adjustment (or five).
We go back next Friday, and I'm hoping for better news... but if not, Bailey will be getting vibrational therapy to hopefully jump start her recovery.
I have a feeling this will be longer than the anticipated 8-10 weeks. I'm working on letting go of the guilt, and focusing on the fact that she WILL improve, even if she can't compete again. She'll be pain-free, sometime in the near future.
Still right quad stiffness, her core muscles aren't building, and she needed another adjustment (or five).
We go back next Friday, and I'm hoping for better news... but if not, Bailey will be getting vibrational therapy to hopefully jump start her recovery.
I have a feeling this will be longer than the anticipated 8-10 weeks. I'm working on letting go of the guilt, and focusing on the fact that she WILL improve, even if she can't compete again. She'll be pain-free, sometime in the near future.
2010-07-02
Camp 2010
Camp is Awesome. That's all there is to it. We even got nap time this year!
The campers were awesome, all four dogs in the bad dog closet did a nice job. We squeezed seven people and nine dogs into the itty bitty red cabin. It was loads and loads of fun.
Buzz practiced his cookie moving powers after we used him for a structure lesson. The kids "drew" lines to see how well he was built and then... we played with the toothpaste. It says "4-H Dog" on his right side... He was such a good sport.
The campers were awesome, all four dogs in the bad dog closet did a nice job. We squeezed seven people and nine dogs into the itty bitty red cabin. It was loads and loads of fun.
Buzz practiced his cookie moving powers after we used him for a structure lesson. The kids "drew" lines to see how well he was built and then... we played with the toothpaste. It says "4-H Dog" on his right side... He was such a good sport.
And then it was bath time.
2010-06-19
When your dog is on leash restriction...
it just so happens that you tend to work on leashed behaviors. Bailey is on strict leash restriction until further notice (hereafter referred to as "UFN"). She is also on "no stairs" UFN. This could, potentially translate to "no fun" UFN, if I'm not careful! She may be Ten and a Half years old, but she sure doesn't act like it, even when she's hurting.
Now, for the not-so-fun-part. My dog has poor leash manners. I tend to avoid this topic because I'm not motivated to change it, I manage her when in public and we use(d to) use an x-back harness for walks in not-crowded public places. And I used an Easy Walk if I was feeling less lazy (the rate of reinforcement needed for the EW is actually pretty low, because I did attempt to train that a couple times in the last few years). A Gentle Leader was put on if we were going to be in a super crowded place.
The missing component? Teaching my dog to walk on a loose leash reliably.
The reason? I'm lazy and she got far better exercise running on property at home.
The justification? I'm lazy (What? Isn't that what all good trainers say?)
We were REALLY GOOD at walking in town this winter for exercise. We always went when nobody else was bound to be out, so we rarely had an issue that required her to be on a short leash at my side. Not irresponsible, but good planning I think!
Anyway, this post isn't to complain (rather... to brag!) because I've actually been training my dog! Her exercise(s) include 20-30 minutes of Leashed Walking (UFN) twice a day. How handy is it that I feed twice a day. How nice is it that she's eating kibbles that are easy to handle. I'm actually training my dog to do something practical! We do some sit stays occasionally, but no formal heeling (in fact, I do NOT click/treat if I'm getting eye contact--I want that body to stay as straight as possible), just some casual, loose leash walking.
Just don't ask about the rate of reinforcement for this whole Loose Leash Walking phenomenon yet, we've only had three sessions!
Bailey has woe.
2010-06-18
Hurting Right Quad
Bailey saw Dr. Julia Tomlinson today on the recommendation of many, many friends. It's taken us a while to get there due to a few reasons but boy am I glad we finally went. Dr. Julia was wonderfully competent and clearly understood dog behavior. She took the time to let Bailey get used to the room before even entering herself. After she entered, we chatted for a couple minutes as Bailey sniffed her and got to know her. She read our check in sheet and took care when working with Bailey's feet... oh, and she had dehydrated liver for her. Despite manipulating and poking and prodding Bailey for quite a while, my dog was relaxed, and in turn I was very at ease with the whole thing.
I was most impressed by her ability to find things that I clearly didn't tell her (because she didn't want to cloud her judgement). Measuring Bailey's right shoulder abduction at 30cm, when left was at 20cm, prompted a question about possible trauma. She made me recall that Bailey had dislocated her right shoulder as a young dog (we were playing frisbee, she lied down in front of me, I stepped on her foot as I threw and she leaped up to get it... it was NOT pretty and I'm sure quite painful, but it went back in on it's own in a matter of seconds). I don't think I've even told the vet about it, because it seemed so insignificant. It went back in, right? Obviously there was lasting trauma. She was even able to show me some changes on the x-ray.
I have a list of exercises to work on with Bailey (I lured/shaped a bow today... she doesn't have one apparently, but is learning pretty quickly) and a list of restrictions. She's still coming to Ohio with me (she HAS to) but she won't get to participate in anything, other than being a massage dog.
My dog has a hurt right quad, and hurts in a lot of other areas due to compensating.
I was most impressed by her ability to find things that I clearly didn't tell her (because she didn't want to cloud her judgement). Measuring Bailey's right shoulder abduction at 30cm, when left was at 20cm, prompted a question about possible trauma. She made me recall that Bailey had dislocated her right shoulder as a young dog (we were playing frisbee, she lied down in front of me, I stepped on her foot as I threw and she leaped up to get it... it was NOT pretty and I'm sure quite painful, but it went back in on it's own in a matter of seconds). I don't think I've even told the vet about it, because it seemed so insignificant. It went back in, right? Obviously there was lasting trauma. She was even able to show me some changes on the x-ray.
I have a list of exercises to work on with Bailey (I lured/shaped a bow today... she doesn't have one apparently, but is learning pretty quickly) and a list of restrictions. She's still coming to Ohio with me (she HAS to) but she won't get to participate in anything, other than being a massage dog.
My dog has a hurt right quad, and hurts in a lot of other areas due to compensating.
2010-06-08
A Sad Happy
I didn't even think about it until tonight, but I've been taking Buzz for off leash walks quite often, with Bailey, with a relatively low rate of reinforcement... for quite a while now. Not every time, mind you... but I don't think anything of just letting them both out the front door, and expecting them to both stick around with me.
Part of it is probably due to training, but I'm sure an even larger part is that he doesn't want to RUN anymore.
Definitely a sad happy. He gets more/better exercise this way but it's still a bit sad.
He's been going to the car leash-less for probably a year now. That is still something I'll have to get used to. He used to be incredibly naughty and RUN at any chance.
Part of it is probably due to training, but I'm sure an even larger part is that he doesn't want to RUN anymore.
Definitely a sad happy. He gets more/better exercise this way but it's still a bit sad.
He's been going to the car leash-less for probably a year now. That is still something I'll have to get used to. He used to be incredibly naughty and RUN at any chance.
2010-06-04
It is what it is.
Retirement.
It's a wonderful word when it pertains to humans and a lousy one when it pertains to dogs. I feel like I keep running into the same wall with both dogs. I research, ask around, talk to my vet and we think we solve "the" problem and it comes back again.
Even if I can get either one of them "fixed" I have a feeling I'll be so concerned about them getting hurt again, I still won't compete.
Buzz's acupuncture on Wednesday was... bad. He started shaking, flinching, and being so tense we were NOT doing anything good. We discussed a couple options.
1) Aquapuncture-yes, water acupuncture... B12 injected into the acupoint
2) X-ray the really sensitive areas and see what we find (I need to ask if we could then to Adequan injections if those super ouchy areas are joints).
3) Me realizing my dog is 12. I refuse to accept that statement.
I have a feeling both dogs will need multiple x-rays (there goes the rest of my savings after I paid for TAG teach and school) if I want to get a definitive diagnosis and start a treatment plan.
On the "to do" list outside of things I can have done at work are
1) CERF visits for both
2) Massage appointments (they've been made, I'm just waiting to hear if she found other people to make her trip worthwhile and thus available on that day for us to go see her)
Good news is that Buzz's senior blood work was all normal. We do need to run a urinalysis at some point (oops, I forgot) and it was suggested we send out a full thyroid panel because his level has changed.
Retirement is imminent. I just want my dogs to be happy and pain free.
Oh, and retirement does not pertain to Tracking and Hunt Tests. Buzz will continue to track and do rally. We'll see what Bailey can do, if she's ever sound again. She says fetching bumpers in the stinky lake is a great activity, and one she can enjoy for years to come.
It's a wonderful word when it pertains to humans and a lousy one when it pertains to dogs. I feel like I keep running into the same wall with both dogs. I research, ask around, talk to my vet and we think we solve "the" problem and it comes back again.
Even if I can get either one of them "fixed" I have a feeling I'll be so concerned about them getting hurt again, I still won't compete.
Buzz's acupuncture on Wednesday was... bad. He started shaking, flinching, and being so tense we were NOT doing anything good. We discussed a couple options.
1) Aquapuncture-yes, water acupuncture... B12 injected into the acupoint
2) X-ray the really sensitive areas and see what we find (I need to ask if we could then to Adequan injections if those super ouchy areas are joints).
3) Me realizing my dog is 12. I refuse to accept that statement.
I have a feeling both dogs will need multiple x-rays (there goes the rest of my savings after I paid for TAG teach and school) if I want to get a definitive diagnosis and start a treatment plan.
On the "to do" list outside of things I can have done at work are
1) CERF visits for both
2) Massage appointments (they've been made, I'm just waiting to hear if she found other people to make her trip worthwhile and thus available on that day for us to go see her)
Good news is that Buzz's senior blood work was all normal. We do need to run a urinalysis at some point (oops, I forgot) and it was suggested we send out a full thyroid panel because his level has changed.
Retirement is imminent. I just want my dogs to be happy and pain free.
Oh, and retirement does not pertain to Tracking and Hunt Tests. Buzz will continue to track and do rally. We'll see what Bailey can do, if she's ever sound again. She says fetching bumpers in the stinky lake is a great activity, and one she can enjoy for years to come.
Of Hairy Dogs
Or... not so hairy dogs.
I shaved Buzz down a couple months ago. He haaaaaaates being groomed.
I cut Bailey down to about 2" just before her birthday in January. I started by doing a "pet cut" with a 7 blade today. Then I gave her a bath and went a little crazy. My spaniel is nekkid, except for ears. I promised her I would never strip her out again and well... I certainly didn't do that. She looks a little rough around the edges, but we're off to play in the lake and I'm looking forward to the two minute bath afterwards, rather than the 15 minute bath. She looks a little ugly, but we are both pleased. I just won't have the courage to take her out in public for a couple months.
There are no photos of this ordeal. She'll be confined to The Farm and The Lake until it grows out a bit.
I shaved Buzz down a couple months ago. He haaaaaaates being groomed.
I cut Bailey down to about 2" just before her birthday in January. I started by doing a "pet cut" with a 7 blade today. Then I gave her a bath and went a little crazy. My spaniel is nekkid, except for ears. I promised her I would never strip her out again and well... I certainly didn't do that. She looks a little rough around the edges, but we're off to play in the lake and I'm looking forward to the two minute bath afterwards, rather than the 15 minute bath. She looks a little ugly, but we are both pleased. I just won't have the courage to take her out in public for a couple months.
There are no photos of this ordeal. She'll be confined to The Farm and The Lake until it grows out a bit.
2010-05-23
House Guest
We have a nine month old house guest until next Monday. I was skeptical because the last time I had to take him for a walk he was BAD but this was after I'd agreed to watch him while his family went on vacation.
I'm happy to say he's been really, really, good. Yesterday I let him out before I went to work, picked him up and off we went, with Buzz, to Elizabeth and Beckett's house! To say we had fun is a huge understatement. He and Beckett raced around the yard and much to Fritz's dismay, Beckett was much faster. Hmmm, greyhound vs sporting/herding/hound dog, I wonder who's gonna win?!
Today was a very. good. day. at the Funny Farm. I have a puppy choosing to sleep near me and relax, after he squeaked a toy to death. To say he's being good is an understatement. He even endured a bath and nail trim today without much complaint. Bailey is zonked out in her crate, Buzz hasn't recovered from yesterday yet, and I have a feeling I'll actually get a good night's sleep. I'm excited and not exhausted!
2010-05-16
Not a complete bust.
Although I'm pretty concerned about my dog, she put in a better than decent performance in the rally rings today. 87/3rd in Excellent B (I cost us 10 points on the offset figure 8), 91/3rd in Advanced B for RAE QQ #5. We won't talk about Open other than to say my dog is still broken and I'm going to pursue some more advanced options for hopefully getting her fixed for real this time.
Buzz was absolutely wonderful at camp yesterday, but more about that in a later post when I write my article for TD, Inc.
Buzz was absolutely wonderful at camp yesterday, but more about that in a later post when I write my article for TD, Inc.
2010-05-08
"easy to live with"
I've always said Bailey is easy to live with. She doesn't counter surf, care about litter boxes, get into the trash, eat plants, chew up things that shouldn't be chewed up, or do something she's been told not to. I adore these things about her, it balances Buzz out (what, there's a crumb on the floor, I'll chew through the rug it's on--true story) and it makes me call her the "perfect pet" with a few minor changes.
Today I was asked if she doesn't do those things because they scare her. I immediately said "no!" pretty emphatically, and then through a series of questions started to change my answer. I still don't think it's completely fear based, but I'm curious now if those "perfect pets" have some crazy fears outside of their "perfect" behaviors, and act that way due to a lack in confidence.
Today I was asked if she doesn't do those things because they scare her. I immediately said "no!" pretty emphatically, and then through a series of questions started to change my answer. I still don't think it's completely fear based, but I'm curious now if those "perfect pets" have some crazy fears outside of their "perfect" behaviors, and act that way due to a lack in confidence.
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