A Raving Fan - The Reason I Do What I Do

A Raving Fan - The Reason I Do What I Do

When I receive a testimonial that shares the many changes that I've have made in a families life I can't help but feel so proud and happy that I was able to change another client and their furry friend's life! The story about Leica is one that makes me so unbelievable happy and gives inspiration to continue educating owner and their dogs everyday!

"As I sit here writing this testimonial I currently have our 2 year old Golden-doodle stretched out on her bed napping in the sunshine, and our 7 year old Black Lab, Leica, laying by my feet dreaming. About 10 minutes ago the mailman came to the door and the dogs lifted their heads, yawned and rolled over. Flashback 2 years ago…my then boyfriend now husband, Jackson and I were living with the worst roommate ever. When we came home from work we often had to clean up garbage strewn across the kitchen, our fridge being raided, the stove being tipped over, paw prints all over the counters from counter surfing, hair all over our couches, leash pulling, lunging at other dogs and general rudeness. If you haven’t guessed our rowdy roommate was our dog Leica. Leica came from my side of the relationship when Jackson and I got together 2 years earlier and he was turning into the reason we nearly called it quits. Every day of bad behaviour from Leica added small but accumulating amounts of stress to us. We went to a training class in Kitchener. We graduated. We were given a Gold Certificate, but Leica’s behaviour did not change. In-fact NOTHING changed except I was $300 poorer. We were told to bring treats to class. As many dog owners know, most dogs will stand on their left ear when a treat is presented, but try telling your dog to ‘COME NOW!’ when there’s a potential threat and you don’t have a treat… Good Luck!The instructor made us use a gentle leader which is a type of harness that goes around the dog’s face. The gentle leader controlled his head therefore his body but it didn’t teach him to follow us and it definitely didn’t build a bond of trust or respect. The treats didn’t get Leica to do what he was told because we asked him to, he expected a reward. He turned into a weird robot dog. Sit. Treat. Stay. Treat. Stay longer. Treat. Down. Treat. Come. Treat. Sit. Treat. I finally reconnected with Heidi from Complete K9 and signed up for her Street Safety Training Class in Spring of 2014. Jackson and I were both fed up but we thought that we owed it to each other and to Leica that we do this training, give it a solid effort and if things didn’t improve then we could reevaluate after the 12 weeks. Heidi’s classes were the hardest but most rewarding thing we have ever accomplished. We had trained Leica to pay attention when we had treats and in Heidi’s classes treats were not allowed. We learned the importance of having our dog listen to us all of the time without negotiation or hesitation because when we are in the outside world it can be incredibly dangerous for dogs! Dogs get hit by cars, clipped by bikes, hurt in elevators, run over in parking lots when getting in and out of cars etc. Heidi taught us the importance and the skills to keep our dogs safe all of the time, and that we are their protectors and not the other way around. What we learned from Heidi is that humans set the expectations of their best dog friends. If we don’t challenge our dogs we end up with behaviours that we don’t like, simply because our dogs are BORED! Heidi’s training did not take place in a sterile classroom inside a building or warehouse it took place outside in the real world. We went to banks, malls, playgrounds, coffee shops, shoe shops, parking garages, elevators, stairs. Heidi brought so much experience to the table with all of her clients. She reminded us the pleasure of having a dog by showing us how clever, intuitive and capable they are. She taught us that our dogs should be looking to us for guidance in all situations and that comes through building trust and we have a responsibility to keep them safe, challenged and engaged. Dog training is not just course where you get a Gold Certificate saying you passed. Heidi’s classes teach you skills for everyday situations that you might find yourself in with your dog! It’s life skills for dog owners. It is a hardcore class but if you do the work, apply the lessons you are going to have not a dog, you are going to have the best dog ever! A dog that loves, respects, listens and trusts you! With Heidi’s help Leica’s behaviour has never been better. He still gets persnickety when meeting certain new dogs, but we have the skills and the tools to manage these types of interactions in a positive way so that Leica continues to relearn and readjust these behaviours without constantly crossing the street and avoiding everything! Leica is super polite now and gives us our personal space, he doesn’t push past on the stairs, he doesn’t jump up, steal food or pull us around on leash. He is an incredibly awesome dog that we didn’t even realize we had. We were so stuck on the bad behaviours but Heidi was able to pull our heads out of the sand and open our eyes to how much Leica had to offer us if we asked him for it. Heidi showed us that if you expect 110% from your dog they will give it to you no questions asked, no treats given, just a “good boy” and a pat on the chest. Thank you Heidi!!!"

The Easter Bunny is Coming!!!

Things to Know This Easter

          With Easter fast approaching, we figured that some Easter fun and safety tips for your dog are in order. This holiday is a great time to spend with your family, ALL of your family. Don't forget to include your dog in family outings whenever possible. They love to be with you so help make this Easter a great one for everyone! Below are a few tips on how to get the most out of your Easter with your four-legged friend!

1. The number one rule this Easter is to make sure that your Easter egg hunt is dog friendly and candy/chocolate free. As an alternative put little toys in the eggs or colour real ones and have the kids hunt for those! 
2. A fun alternative if you'd like your dog to participate in family gatherings, is to great "dog-friendly eggs". Basically, hide a few treats or dog toys or both, around the house or yard for your dog to hunt for. This is a great way to keep your dog involved while at the same time it allows you to get your dog's brain working. Perfect for helping to tire them out!
   
3. Take your family and your dog on a nice spring walk or hike. This will help to involve your dog, get everyone a little exercise, and even make a few memories! pick a new trail or area to explore!
4. Make sure that any candy or chocolate is kept up high or put away in a place that is not accessible to your dog. Sugar is terrible for dogs and can give them stomach aches, diarrhea, or nausea. Reminder: the darker the chocolate, the worse it is for your dog! 
   
5. Keep your dog in mind at large family gatherings, if you know your dog gets nervous, uneasy, or anxious around crowds, put them somewhere safe or leave them at home (after your hike of course). 

        Have fun this Easter Holiday and keep your dog stimulated and involved. They love to be with you, so whenever possible include them! Happy Easter everyone and enjoy the holiday!

Tail Wags from the CompleteK9 Team!

10 Unbelievable Questions That Dog Walkers Get Asked

     When we tell people what we do for a living it often catches people off guard and next comes all of the...interesting, questions that we get asked. Below is a list of the top ten most interesting and ridiculous questions that walkers for the CompleteK9 team have been asked, Enjoy!

1. One of the most commonly asked questions is "are all of those dogs yours!?" This one always makes me laugh, because we very rarely have less than 4 dogs in a pack...crazy dog lady? Possibly ;)
2. One of the more difficult questions is the "which breeds would you recommend?" This is a very difficult question because it really depends on your lifestyle and your choice of training methods. Each breed is a little different, the best thing that a prospective dog owner can do, is do their research and find a breed that will fit into your lifestyle and family best. 
3. Then there's always the travel question "How did you get them all here??" Well you see, I'm magic and I click my heels together and all of a sudden we've arrived! (or none of us have back seating). 
4. The bowel reference is always a fun question "how much poop do you pick up a day??" Let's just say, we are very very comfortable with everything that comes out of the body...or that gets put into the body. 
5. "How do you walk all of those dogs at once?" I cannot say that it is always easy, but after a few minutes everyone gets in the groove and walks well together. It take patience and good control, but with practice it becomes easier and easier (most days)!
   
6. The treat question is a common one when people see us practicing our sit stays "did you bribe them with treats?" Absolutely not, we do not use treats when we are out walking the dogs.  Food in a group setting is not wise because food aggression is real!
7. "Do they all get along?" Like people, not all dogs are going to get along and like one another, its just not possible. We always do our best to make sure the 'disagreements' are kept to a minimum. 
8. The numbers game "How many dogs do you have with you? or How many dogs do you walk?" On average our pack walks are kept at 6 dogs... and let me just count to make sure everyone is here! #rolecall 
9. And of course, the dragging question "have you ever been dragged by a dog?" Being dragged is kind of like a dog walker right of passage... YES at some point we have all been dragged into snow, mud or water. The surprising part for everyone is that its never by the group of dogs, its always when you just have one! Note to everyone: When you see someone trying to walk away from the water with a dog that wants to go back...do NOT throw ANYTHING! This is much appreciated. 
   
10. "Can you make a career out of this?" You absolutely can! One that not only pays the bills on time, but that is very rewarding. Not many people can say they love their job on a regular basis, but I have the pleasure of saying that I truly love my job. The good days strongly outweigh the difficult days. 

Well, there you have it! The top 10 most frequently asked questions for a dog walker. I hope you enjoyed this week's #woofwednesday!

Tail Wags From the CompleteK9 Team!

Dog Walker Problems Round 2!

       Anyone who works with dogs knows just how we feel...#dogwalkerproblems However anyone who knows dogs can relate! So, enjoy phase two!

1. When a mitten is taken by a dog...it is lost forever...RIP mitten. 
2. Or when you always carry a back up pair of gloves just in case a dog steals the first pair. 
3. When you walk long haired dogs (AKA doodles) and by the end of a snowy walk, the dog has transformed into a giant snowball!
   
4. When the snow hasn't been touched yet and you have to plough your way through it one sweaty and exhausting step at a time...
5. When everything freezes...including the mud!!!!...FINALLY
6. When you are trying to eat your lunch with 6 pairs of eyes on you. 
   
7. When the burrs should be gone, yet, there is always at least one dog that comes back to your with covered in them.
8. When all of the trails are half melted making them an icy nightmare that requires skates to navigate.
9. When you shop based on things that can be worn to work.
10. Although you try to set aside certain "dog-walker" clothes, everything eventually goes to the dogs.
11. When the snow melts in the middle of winter and all of the dogs are covered in mud, yet no one has their hoses turned on yet...#muddydogs  
12. When you wear layers upon layers to prepare for the cold, yet you are sweating out on the trail.
13. When the snow begins to thaw and the mud is EVERYWHERE!
14. When some of the dogs have nicer winter wardrobes then you do.
    
15. When you give a run-away-dog a buddy to stay close and the leashes trip you as they run by...
16. When a dog goes to jump in the snow and completely disappears in a pile of deep snow. 
    
17. When you throw a ball or a stick for the dogs and it gets lost in the snow. 
18. When you slip and fall on the ice and all of the dogs run over to lick your face with big wet puppy kisses! #feelingthelove
19. When you don't mind going out in the cold because you get to spend your day with a pack or two of dogs.
20. When you love what you do and would not trade this job for any other.

        Although like everything dog walking has its ups and down, I still wouldn't trade my job for anyone elses. We love each dog like they are our own! Go out and enjoy the snow with your favourite four-legged family members, they love it and you will too!

Tails Wags From the CompleteK9 Team

Winter Safety For Your Dog

Keeping Your Dog in Tip-Top Shape This Winter

        Today's post focuses on how to keep your dog winter ready with tips and tricks on how to keep them warm, how to keep their paws safe, 

1. Go by the idea that if you are cold, so is your dog! Coats for dogs that have short fur can help keep them warm and frostbite free. 
   
2. The salt that keeps us from slipping on ice is TERRIBLE for your dog's paws. Salt can cause cuts, irritation, and infection. Try winter booties when walking your dog on sidewalks and use sand rather than ice when getting side of slippery spots on your property.
   
3. Watch for the signs! If your dog is constantly biting at its paws it could mean that your dog is too cold. Another sign is if your dog's skin is turning red.
4. Make sure that any antifreeze is kept in a safe and secure location far from the reach of your dog. To them, anti-freeze taste very sweet and they love it. Just like for us, it is very poisonous for dogs. 
5. Grooming in the winter is actually very important, it helps get ride of your dog's lighter coat. Their winter coat cannot grow if their old coat is still moulting, brushing your dog helps speed this process along. 

         

        Do not be afraid to take your dog out in the snow because most dogs LOVE playing with you out all the fun fluffy snow, just make sure that they are safe and warm when doing it!

Tails Wags from the CompleteK9 Team!

Look What I Can Eat!

15 Foods That Both You AND Your Dog Can Eat

     This week's post focuses on every day foods that are safe, even healthy, for your dog to consume. Many of these are great alternative for training treats or if you are on the road and need to feed your dog. 

1. Apples (without the seeds)

1. Apples help to clean the residue off of a dog's teeth they are also an excellent source of fibre and vitamin A and C. 
2. Kelp
1. Kelp is rich in iodine, making is a supplement for dogs with Thyroid issues. It is also a good form of flea prevention and it helps with allergies. 
3. Yogurt 
1. Yogurt can be very healthy for you dog as long as it has no added sugars. Unflavoured and unsweetened greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein for both humans and dogs!
4. Pumpkin 

1. Pumpkin is like pepto for dogs! It helps to settle indigestion, upset stomachs, or diarrhea. 
5. Sweet Potatoes 
1. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fibre and contain vitamins such as B6, C, Manganese, and beta carotene. 
6. Bananas 
1. Bananas are high in fibre, potassium, and magnesium, making them great for doggy diarrhea home remedies. 
7. Oats or Oatmeal 
1. Oats or Oatmeal is an excellent source of fibre and is beneficial for senior dogs that may have bowel issues. It is a great alternative to wheat!
8. Peanut Butter
1. Peanut butter contains heart healthy fats and is an excellent source of protein. 
   
9. Green Beans 
1. Green beans are filling and low calorie, making them a tasty treat for your dog. 
10. Coconut Oil
1. Coconut oil is great for your dogs skin, digestion, and immune system. 
11. Spinach 
1. Spinach is high in iron, fibre and calcium. Spinach is great for warding off cardiovascular diseases, cancer and inflammatory problems.   
12. Carrots 
1. Carrots are good for a dog's teeth and they are high in fibre and vitamin A. 
   
13. Zucchini 
1. Zucchini is great for your dog's skin and fur. It is also great for encouraging weight loss in your dog. 
14. Cantaloupe
1. Cantaloupe promotes good eyesight and they are an excellent source of vitamin A.
15. Broccoli 
1. Broccoli is extremely nutritious for your dog it contains numerous vitamins and fibre.

       Remember to make sure that foods you are giving your dog are healthy for them, although these are all healthy alternatives, there are many foods that are not good for your dog. Make sure to look into it before giving your dog human food. 

Tail Wags from the CompleteK9 Team

Common Myths About Dogs

Doggie Myth Busters 

         This week we decided to focus on the ten most common myths that people believe about dogs. I hope these help you and even surprise you! Enjoy:)

1. A dogs mouth is NOT cleaner than a humans. A dog's mouth has tons of dog specific bacteria in their mouths, as long as its a healthy dog it wont cause us any harm, but the whole a dog's mouth is cleaner than ours is a complete myth!
2. A warm or dry nose does not mean that your dog is sick, this is a common myth. Often, dogs have warm or dry noses after they wake up, which is completely normal!
3. Dogs do NOT only see in black and white, in fact, they can see colours, just not in the same manner as we do. 
4. Dogs do NOT specifically eat grass to induce vomiting, although they some times do vomit after eating grass, the grass was not the cause of this. Some dogs just like to eat, chomp or graze on grass. It will not hurt them (as long as it is not chemically treated) they may just need some extra greens in their diets.  
   
5. A wagging tail does NOT mean that a dog is happy, yes, commonly a dog will wag its tail when happy or excited, however this is not always the case. K9 body language can get pretty complex and difficult for humans to pick up on. A wagging tail can also be a sign of fear, anxiety or even aggression. Be sure to look for other signs in body language before engaging. 
6. Although many believe that only male dogs "hump" or lift their leg to pee is not true, both male and female dogs show this behaviour. 
7. Licking wounds does NOT mean healing, generally, licking wounds is significantly worse for a dog's wounds and should be prevented. 
8. Certain dog breeds being more aggressive than others is a myth. Although larger and stronger dog breeds have the ability to be more dangerous when aggressive, smaller breeds can be just as aggressive as a larger dog. Any breed can show aggression towards other dogs or humans. 
9. When two dogs are barking at each other through a fence (for example the neighbours dog) it does NOT mean that they hate each other. The dogs are simply claiming their territory and making it known to the other, it could also mean they are simply excited and want to meet and play with one another. 
   
10. People often believe that if their dog has been running in the yard all day that they do not need a walk, however this is not true. The energy that they are burning in the backyard requires very little thought or brain power. Walks allow your dog to focus and will give you a much more tired and content dog. 

        I hope you all learnt something about your dog today and the ten most common myths about dogs! Be sure to check back in with us next wednesday for a new #woofwednesday. 

Tail wags from the CompleteK9 team! :)