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Our Blog
Check out our Grateful Pups Blog
Check out our Grateful Pups Blog
Continuing posts on Facebook
Continuing posts on Facebook
January 9, 2019
Sgt Pepper is Learning...
Sgt Pepper is Learning...
January 8, 2019
This is Sgt Pepper...a very sweet and excitable 8 month old puppy. Pepper is learning now to walk on a leash. He originally had a harness and he was walking me. We switched to a Martingale Collar and this is his second walk with me. He is doing so well. What a handsome dude...not to mention a real love.
You Were With Another Dog...
You Were With Another Dog...
January 8, 2019
Have you ever come in from a friend’s home (one who had a dog) and instantly, your dog knows. They smell you up and down and oh yes, they know you were with another dog. You were cheating…maybe for a brief moment, maybe only to help your friend into their house with their groceries, but nevertheless, the smell is there. I now have this experience daily…I come home and I have 2 dogs smelling all the other pups I was with for the day. They smell and sniff and run around the house (just to confirm no other dogs snuck in behind me). Some how, this never gets old…this repeated ritual of showing disgust…indignation even. Our animals and their reactions are so specific, they elicit a reaction and a series of emotion from us. For a moment, I feel…what is this? Guilt? Seriously? Like my grandmother, my dogs try and lay a guilt trip on me for running the show. Luckily, a bowl of food quickly restores order and all is right in the world again.
You Were With Another Dog...
You Were With Another Dog...
January 8, 2019
Have you ever come in from a friend’s home (one who had a dog) and instantly, your dog knows. They smell you up and down and oh yes, they know you were with another dog. You were cheating…maybe for a brief moment, maybe only to help your friend into their house with their groceries, but nevertheless, the smell is there. I now have this experience daily…I come home and I have 2 dogs smelling all the other pups I was with for the day. They smell and sniff and run around the house (just to confirm no other dogs snuck in behind me). Some how, this never gets old…this repeated ritual of showing disgust…indignation even. Our animals and their reactions are so specific, they elicit a reaction and a series of emotion from us. For a moment, I feel…what is this? Guilt? Seriously? Like my grandmother, my dogs try and lay a guilt trip on me for running the show. Luckily, a bowl of food quickly restores order and all is right in the world again.
Double Place...
Double Place...
January 7, 2019
I have been working both dogs with the place command. The results so far are great. These two don’t share a bed...until now when they are in place. Next step is to have them remain in place when the doorbell rings.
Place...
Place...
January 6, 2019
So place is one of the most valuable commands we use. Not only does it get a dog to lay down in their designated space, it also calms the dog as you work on duration. We just started and today is Delilah’s first duration run. She is doing really well. I even dropped a piece of chicken, and while she looked at it, she did not move. That is progress for my chow hound!
Old Dog...
Old Dog...
January 5, 2019
You can teach an old dog new tricks. Tennessee and I are working on place and he is getting the hang of it.ou can teach an old dog new tricks. Tennessee and I are working on place and he is getting the hang of it.
Volunteering
Volunteering
January 3, 2019
One of the main reasons I wanted to open Grateful Pups was to give back. While I did volunteer at the Good Dog Foundation back in 2010 (with Althea...she did all the work), I had a run where I could not find the time. Fortunately, now I am volunteering at some local animal shelters. While some may scoff at just walking dogs at a local shelter, those who truly love dogs understand the value of a walk and some attention and affection. I took out 3 different dogs for some playtime. We took a walk, shared some love, and I warmed my heart. These animals (luckily all in non-kill shelters) have so much to offer the right family. I am so fortunate to have had 4 wonderful rescue dogs. They meant the world to me and helped me during my hardest times. While I gave those 4 the best life I knew how, I can now help other rescues even if it is short lived.
Building Trust
Building Trust
January 2, 2019
Building trust with a dog takes time and patience...and with some dogs trust must be earned. A pup must realize, that not only will you treat them well, you will act in their best interest. You will protect them from situations where they are fearful. For example, if a dog is fearful of other dogs, then to build trust, you will help them avoid other dogs or socialize in a way that is comfortable for the dog. This does not happen overnight. One of the best ways to build this trust is through structured walks. Today, I worked on this with one of my pup clients. During our walk, we practiced heel, sit, stay and all while we were out. The result was I was allowed lots of pets both during and after the walk. While we still have work to do, the gratification felt when you earn a dog's trust is heartwarming.
New Beginnings
New Beginnings
January 1, 2019
As we kick off the new year, I feel so honored and lucky to have the chance to do what I love. As many of you may know, working with dogs has been a dream of mine for many years. Kicking off the business and looking to ramp up in 2019 makes the future look so much brighter than it did when I was a corporate wonk. To have time to build relationships, enjoy the outdoors, and meet and work with so many pups is exhilarating. Following your dreams does not need to be a fantasy. It requires a plan, and hard work. While I cannot claim success, I feel like a winner for just trying. And I plan to ride this wave right through 2019. Happy New Year!
Take a Hike...
Take a Hike...
December 31, 2018
Try taking a hike with your pup. It is a great way to keep you both in shape and connect with nature. Today, we hiked up Overlook and it was gorgeous. Remember to bring extra water for you and the pups and even a dog coat. It may be cold on top of the mountain for your furry friend.
Poop Happens...
Poop Happens...
December 30, 2018
On a recent walk at Thorn Preserve I was dismayed to see all the piles of dog poop which were laying around in the middle of the path. Those piles not only ruin the appearance...it makes for a "crappy" day if anyone is not watching where they are walking and takes a bad step. Bad puns aside, we are so lucky to have beautiful places such as Thorn Preserve and Comeau to walk our dogs. By keeping it clean, we can maintain this privilege. So yes, poop happens, but please stop and make sure it is also cleaned up...and even pick up another if you have the desire...I often do. You will see me with at least one used bag, walking around the preserve. If you need a bag, ask, and if you see someone not acting responsibly, please offer them a bag...they may have run out. Those not living in the area...please keep your parks clean as well...
Show Up
Show Up
December 29, 2018
One of the things I vowed to do when I opened was show up. What does that mean, it means be present everyday with every animal. I learned this from Cara, a member of our family...who was with me and the pups for 14 years in NYC. She always showed up! She did not play on the phone, or talk to others, the pups were her focus. Everyone who saw her with the dogs told me how she was tuned into them. Today, with some pups, we played for over an hour. Chasing, playing fetch, making sure they were running around. That is showing up...and the reward is amazing. Tired pups after an hour of play, so they can settle in for some downtime is how it should be. It is easy to show up, when you love what you do. I am so lucky, to have found my dream...and now I will just continue to show up...and work for the dogs!
The Walk
The Walk
December 27, 2018
I remember the first walk with each of my dogs. The pups had no leash training, so I was pulled along the road. Being dragged down the street is far from a pleasant experience, and it can make you dread, or even avoid the walks. I learned that taking control of the walk, was my best defense and for each dog, I used the collar/harness which was best for that dog. But the one constant, I refused to be dragged down the street. When the pulling started, I changed directions, and did so constantly until the pup learned that they needed to stay tuned into me to determine where and when we would go. It is not an easy process...or fun. But what is fun is when you have a dog what walks by your side without pulling.
Dogs and Children
Dogs and Children
December 25, 2018
Growing up, all I wanted for Christmas was a dog...for years. Years later, I watched my nephews grow up with dogs in the home...mine and theirs. The bonds that form between children and pups are precious. They enrich each others lives and foster a sense of love of animals that will follow them for the rest of their lives. Tennessee (my older dog) was afraid of children when I first got him. Now, he adores them. When we walk into my sister's home, he runs towards the children and immediately rolls onto his back. The sound of one nephew calling to the other saying, "T wants belly rubs" and watching both children run over to rub my pup's stomach is something warms the heart. Wishing your family, both furry and human a wonderful and happy holiday!
Love Me Love My Dog
Love Me Love My Dog
December 23, 2018
When I got my first dog, my family quickly accepted that when I visit, my dogs are part of the package. So during the holidays (or any visit) my pups would accompany me to wherever the festivities were taking place. So, for those long car rides it is critical for everyone's safety that the pups to stay in place and not bound around the car. I found seatbelts keep the pups close, allows them some movement (they can look out the windows and lie down) and holds them in place for those longer rides. When traveling this holiday season, remember to prioritize safety and consider seatbelts (or crates) when driving.
Do I Stay or Do I Go?
Do I Stay or Do I Go?
December 22, 2018
With the inclement weather approaching, each day we are faced with the question, do I stay or do I go? It is so easy to follow the excuses (I can let them in the backyard, they don't like the bad weather, it is too cold for the dogs, etc.). Then you look at their little faces and realize, you all could use the walk. Yes, there will be days when it is safer not to go out, just remember those days are the exception. Put on the raincoat, gloves and/or hat and leash up the pup. The exercise and discipline is good for you and the dog, and it will help keep you pup more relaxed when at home. It may be painful heading out, but you will feel accomplished when you walk back in the house.
A New Path
A New Path
December 13, 2018
So a new path can be a metaphor, or we can take it more literally. On this day, a new path was found near my home which provides a better route for me and the dogs. However, a new path can be scary. You do not know where it leads or what obstacles you may encounter. Nothing ventured, nothing gained...on both the metaphorical and physical paths. Grateful Pups is also a new path. And like any physical path, if we do not venture down the road, we do not know what we will encounter. We face these new paths both optimistically and cautiously. I look forward to these new paths, as well as the others which we will face in the months and years to come.
My Family is Furry
My Family is Furry
December 12, 2018
We have all different types of families (don't worry...this won't get political). We have our extended family, our immediate family, and of course, our family of friends who support us when we need it most. Well...my immediate family is furry. I was in a promotion presentation where I had to describe me...and that is what came out. My family is furrier than most (that got a few chuckles). Not everyone shares (or even recognizes) the bond that people share with their pets. My pups are a huge part of my life. They provide comfort and warmth. After my first dog, Cassidy, I realized I would never be without a dog again...why? Because I love coming home to wagging tails, I love a dog's head on my lap as I watch TV, and I feel joy as I watch them run and play in the yard. To me, that is a family.
My Favorite Time of the Day
My Favorite Time of the Day
December 11, 2018
As I start out on our daily dog walk, I am reminded that this is and always has been my favorite time of the day... the morning dog walk. What better way to start your day, than with some fresh air, exercise, and of course, the dogs. No matter what the weather the morning dog walk is the best way to start any day and it provides the time to clear my head first thing in the morning. So hold off on reading those emails or turning on the TV. Take the pups out, even if for a brief walk, and tune into them, your thoughts and nature.