Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Service Dogs Can't Read Your Mind

Service Dogs Can’t Read Your Mind
By Michele Forto


Reality Check: Service dogs cannot read your mind. Service dogs provide their handler's with specific "services". These "services" are performed when the handler communicates with the dog in one form or another. Communication is the key and the service dog trainer's job is to ensure that the dog is able to understand a variety of commands. Sharpen the saw: by maintaining good work ethic with your dog.

A service dog is a dog that is individually trained to perform tasks that mitigate the disability of the dog's owner.
The undertaking of training a service dog typically takes two years of constant training. Preparing a potential dog to live out his life doing “work” takes patience, perseverance, endurance, consistency and team work.

Starting in puppyhood, the selected dog, begins his training immediately learning that he is a dog surrounded by humans being asked to “work”, not just be a companion, but to provide a specific service for a person who cannot do for themselves.
There are several types of service dogs for various types of disabilities and as we discover new ways of helping people with psychological disabilities we are broadening our abilities to train “man’s best friend” to become “mans best assistant”.
A service dog is selected utilizing a series of temperament tests. Once the dog has passed these tests and has been deemed suitable for service work intensive training begins and can last up to two years. A trainer will develop training plans that grow with the dog as he grows. The trainer will spend over ten thousand hours training one dog in this two year period. It should be noted that even after all this time and all of those hours; the dog may not pass and may simply not be cut out for “work”.
In some cases, the service dog is placed with their “handler” prior to the training being completed. The dog is hand-selected by the trainer and has been placed for early placement for bonding, usually in psychological service work and in autistic service work. The need for the bond and immediate companionship can be a valuable service to the handler. But this can pose problems for the dog. Lack of training consistency and being allowed too much “dog time”, can lead to laziness and unruliness.

Rarely, a disabled person will contact a trainer with a dog that has already been selected and that has bonded well to the handler. In these cases, after the trainer has determined that the dog is temperamentally sound to work as a service dog, training can begin. These cases have a higher failure rate because the handler may not be able to give their dog up during the training period thus creating a strain and difficulty in the training regimen, length of training, and stress levels on the dog and the handler. Also, the dog can experience confusion between what is now being commanded as “work” versus previously being commanded just to perform companion style pet dog commands. The difference; when a dog is “working” they are expected to perform commands quickly and efficiently without being noticed by society.

The rate of success in training a service dog depends on many factors; ability to work and handle the stress involved physical and mental health, and being able to perform in public and not become a nuisance. Service dogs are expected to go virtually unnoticed.

In the cases where the dog was previously selected by the handler and then later trained, the trainer now has to undo all of the dog’s bad habits and incorporate new ones as well as perfect the commands the dog may already know. The family of the handler and the handler themselves are incorporated into the training regimen daily. The trainer will meet with them weekly or monthly depending on the services needed. Certain commands that may be necessary to the handler such as the dog picking up things from the floor and placing onto the lap, are very difficult to teach a dog that is over the age of nine months and will take much longer and will need consistent training done daily.

In the past, I have taken on such cases for psychiatric service work and mobility. I have learned that undertaking established dogs even IF they pass the temperament testing, public access testing, and can perform six to ten necessary and specific commands pertaining to the person’s disability many of these dogs never develop the work ethic necessary to perform their “job” consistently on a daily basis. They become more of a therapy dog that goes everywhere with the handler. Although I am not against early bonding with a dog, I am against the handler choosing the dog, raising him through puppyhood with virtually no training or the wrong training foundation has been applied and then attempting to train and prepare this nearly two year old dog as a service dog.

At Dog Works, I have developed a program that is successful in the training and placement of service dogs. I choose the puppy, begin training immediately, and when the pup is about six months of age a potential handler is chosen for the puppy and weekly lessons begin while the puppy remains under my care and control. By the time the puppy is eighteen months of age they will be living with their handler full time and working as a service dog in training with their handler. I have found that training the handler for nine months or longer helps to seal that necessary bond and build trust between both the handler and the dog.

If you are looking for a service dog for yourself or a loved one, please contact a professional such as myself prior to running out there and getting that puppy that you think you’ll have the time and wherewithal to train yourself. Service dogs are large investments and yes it may be more cost effective for you to do it yourself but don’t let the industry keep you from asking questions. Dog Works Service Dogs can be trained for your needs with you alongside for the majority of the training. It’s all about the end result and finding the best way to get there. If I get you thinking about anything please remember that with any training it takes consistency.

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
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Michele Forto is the business manager for Dog Works Training Center and is the co-host of the Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Who Are These Dogs That Pull Sleds? The Malamute

Who are These Dogs That Pull Sleds
By Robert Forto, PhD


The Dogs

Who are these dogs that pull sleds? Are they purebreds or mongrels? What sets them apart from other dogs and enables them to work with man under brutal weather conditions? What sort of strange dog is it that yammers and yowls to be a part of a team, preferring to work or race than rest in a warm kennel?

Written pedigrees are not required to enter a sled dog race, nor does the dog have to be a northern breed, although a majority of dogs on the racing trail are related to working dogs of the North. These dogs have a strong instinct to pull. These dogs can be everything from an American Kennel Club registered Siberian Husky, a “one-quarter husky” mixed breed, or any variety in between. These dogs can be Irish Setters, Walker Coonhounds or even a Border Collie. In search of an unbeatable dog team, dozens and dozens of cross-breedings, in-breedings and line breedings have been tried. Some breeders work within a recognized breed, seeking to refine that breed’s natural talents; others select the fastest and strongest or whatever dogs come to their attention, caring more about performance than good looks or a fancy pedigree.

The Alaskan Malamute

The second most popular registered sled dog in North America is the Alaskan Malamute. Superficially the Malamute resembles the Siberian, with pricked ears, facemask, and bushy tail. In fact the Mal, as they are often called, is a larger dog bred for freighting. It averages an inch or two more in height and 15 to 20 pounds heavier than the Siberian. A Malamute’s coat is either black with white markings, like some Sibes, or wolfish gray. It’s eyes, almond shape and set obliquely into its broad head, are dark. As a sled dog, the Malamute is known as the “Workhorse of the North”, and is a superb and dependable animal. In a race he is not as fast as the Siberian, but his power and endurance have kept him as a favorite sled dog.
The Alaskan Malamute is one of five dog breeds that are reputedly native to the Western Hemisphere. A distinct native breed of the Arctic, having evolved from the breeding practices of Eskimos in the far northwest, it is one of the oldest known breeds of sled dog. Russian explorers were among the first white men to record the Malamute’s existence having found the dog among the native Inuit tribe of Kotzebue Sound, a people known then as the Mahlemut or Malemuit, hence the dog’s name.

The Alaskan Malamute sled dog contributed substantially to the rapid exploration and development of Alaska, the Yukon and the Arctic. This dog also “figured importantly in polar expeditions to the far reaches of the planet” and in both World Wars. With the advent of sled dog racing at the turn of the century in Alaska, the breed was threatened by cross-breeding practices of men who were interested in speed. The Mal was called upon to contribute its stamina to a variety of smaller, faster racing dogs. At Chinook Kennels in New Hampshire however, the Seeley’s concentrated on establishing perpetuity for this breed, and succeeded in registering the first one, Rowdy of Nome, in 1935.

Like the Siberian, the Malamute is a highly intelligent, loyal dog, one that loves to work and also loves to lie quietly in his own place. Malamutes are bred for show and racing. Faster members of the breed have helped improve the racing skills of the mixed Alaskan Husky. In the North the Malamute is still used; here and there, for its original purposes of freighting and tending to the trap lines. ( Note: endnotes have been removed for blog posting. If you would like to read article in its entirety please contact me through email at train@denverdogworks.com )

Next Week: The Samoyed

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Top Ten Dog Breeds in the United States

Top Ten Dog Breeds in the United States
By Robert Forto, PhD

According to the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) registration records, Americans love their Labrador Retrievers. The popular Golden Retriever held the second spot for years but has been passed over in recent years by the intelligent and always-ready-to-work (and train) German Shepherd.

I am not at all surprised by the Yorkie in the top three. Over the past few years we have seen more and more of these dogs come in to Denver Dog Works for training. Unfortunately these little dogs have been made popular by what I call the accessory dog phase”. I just hope that new owners do their homework before buying this little dog (or any dog for that matter) and learn as much as they can about each breed.

The AKC Top 10 Dog Breeds:
Labrador Retriever
German Shepherd
Yorkshire Terrier
Golden Retriever
Beagle
Boxer
Bulldog
Dachshund
Poodle
Shih Tzu

If you would like assistance in choosing the breed that is right for you and your family give us a call at Denver Dog Works. We routinely do breed referral new pet owners looking to acquire the perfect family pet.

Citation: http://www.akc.org

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Thursday, March 25, 2010

FAQ's Feeding a Raw Diet to Dogs

FAQ's Feeding a Raw Diet to Dogs
By Leah Morse


This is a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs.  I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs.  I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it.  I am simply sharing my experiences.  I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional.  This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding.  NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES!  Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog!  Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth.  All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding.  Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems.  If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible.  Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors.  Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it.   The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way, unless otherwise credited.  I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs.  Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion.   I, for one, have found it worth it.
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I have now been feeding all of my dogs raw diet for some time now. I have some of the same questions frequently asked of me. There are many who want to explore feeding their dogs this way but, as I was, they are concerned about many facets.

FAQ #1: Won’t feeding your dog raw meat make your dogs mean or want to go kill things?

Answer: I have not experienced any kind of increased aggression. I have not seen my dogs become more motivated to hunt; they seem to be less interested. We actually had pigeons that were foraging on our property fairly close to us, not too long ago, and the dogs were all but completely disinterested. One of our dogs has always hunted mice but she doesn’t go out of her way to do this. I have done a lot of reading and have even read of people who regularly feed raw chicken and also keep live chickens and not had a problem with their dogs killing the chickens. If this were to happen, dogs are carnivores and they do have the instinct to stalk, kill and eat prey but it is not because they are now eating raw meat. Dogs are conservationist. Anyone who has ever trained can plainly see this. Dogs will only do what they absolutely have to do to get their reward. If we are providing their meals and giving sufficient amounts they have more lounging, napping and play time. If they are getting the protein that they need, for them it is better to conserve the energy. However, dogs being dogs, they love the chase, a wayward critter could cause prey drive to kick in simply because the creature ran away.

FAQ #2: Aren’t you afraid you won’t give them all that they need? The pet food companies have researched their product production and they add all of the supplements to the food.

Answer: Dogs have very simple needs. Giving a variety of meaty bones, organs and veggies along with some supplementation is easier than you think. Pet food companies cook their kibble at such a high temperature that the protein is changed and many of the vitamins and nutrients are made inactive from the processing. This is why they have to add the nutrients back into the food. Raw Meat and bones provide the best source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Some seasoned Raw Diet feeders state that no supplementation is necessary, others say add a small amount of veggies and natural supplements (kelp powder, alfalfa powder and bee pollen as opposed to an actual supplement) I do supplement veggies in my dogs diet as they tend to get a little constipated if I don’t. However, the skin and coat is the last to net nutrition from what a dog eats. I have never seen skin and hair health like I have seen on my dogs (not in 20 years of pet retail, 10 years of vet assisting and all of my experience with dog training) They look like they have been dipped in a clear coat of pure gloss, only dandruff if they are nervous (like at the vet) and very reduced shedding. If this is any indication of what is going on inside their bodies I have to ask what was missing in the commercial food. I have fed my children and kept them healthy; I will also feed my dogs and keep them healthy.

FAQ #3: What about cost? It must be expensive.

Answer: Actually it has worked out to be much cheaper. The commercial food I was feeding is $46.99 for a 30lb. bag. That works out to actually about $50.51 with Tax which then figures into about $1.69 a pound. I buy chicken necks and backs for .99 a pound and I have figured that I give about 50 cents or less to the amount of veggies I use. Even the supplementation that I do with the kelp, alfalfa and bee pollen, which is such a sparing amount, I spend just about the same. I don’t supplement every day.

FAQ #4: What about making your dog sick. What about Salmonella poisoning from the raw meat.

Answer: According to Dr. PitCaren in the DVD “Eat, Drink and Wag your Tail” Dogs have a more efficient digestive tract that can handle bacteria better. This is why they survive after eating a dead thing from the field, eating their stool or just licking their butts. Salmonella has actually been found on commercial dog food. We are more likely to get sick from handling so just be sure to follow proper meat handling protocol and sanitize, use stainless steel bowls or crocks that are dishwasher safe.

FAQ #5: I thought Chicken bones were bad for dogs!

Answer: They are if they are cooked. Chicken bones are surprisingly soft and easy for the dogs to get through. Cooking makes the bones change on a molecular level so that they splinter and become dangerous. Dogs have been known to choke on kibble. I will chop up bigger bones for my puppies so they don’t try to swallow something too large, but I have never had a problem and those that I consult have never had a problem. Once you start feeding raw chicken meat and bones or any bones for that matter, you will start to see white stool which is the digested bone.

More about feeding Raw Diet Next week.

Tags:Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
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Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

The Evaluation Process for Your Dog's Training

The Evaluation Process for Your Dog’s Training
By Michele Forto

Some of you may be wondering why dog trainers perform evaluations on your dog. At Denver Dog Works we perform a thorough evaluation to determine your dog’s personality profile. Many people believe their dog is an “alpha”; this in most cases couldn’t be farther from the reality.

During the evaluation I will ask you specific questions and some that are not so specific all in hopes of getting a quick picture of how your dog behaves and how your dog interacts with you, your friends and family, the public, and other animals. All of these observations help me to develop a proper training regimen that will suit your dogs’ abilities and your lifestyle.
An experienced dog trainer can determine exactly the style of training and methods necessary to get your dog under control by simply working with your dog for five minutes. I like to get your observations and understanding as to why you think your dog is unruly, destructive and just plain out of control.

Recently I performed an evaluation for a couple with two golden retrievers. The dogs are both male and two and three years of age. As soon as (I’ll call them “a” and “b”) walked in the door dragging their owners behind them, running towards me and jumping on me, my counter and then immediately sniffing the floor, I determined that these dogs were highly excitable, distracted, and have no respect for their owners or the public.

The evaluation revealed that both dogs run the house, have no respect, no manners, mount guests, hide, counter surf, jump on people, lick obsessively, dart out open doors, chase/lunge at moving objects, destroy the carpet, and bark excessively. While working with dog “a” alone, I found him willing to learn quickly and able to earn rewards and give respect. Although, I had to remain calm and assertive when giving commands. While working with dog “b” alone, I found him to be highly distracted and unable to focus. He did not give respect nor did he feel he needed to work for any rewards. I noted that he is younger and was adopted just one year before and could have some underlying behaviors due to lack of socialization and respect training as a young dog.

Both dogs have high prey and pack drives, low defensive fight and flight, and even though both dogs are neutered both dogs go through a mounting ritual daily and dog “a” mounts the owner’s sister. Both dogs compete for the woman’s attention and would rather be with her than with the man.

I noted that when I offered a treat or a toy or even a simply pet on the head that both dogs became more interested in the reward than performing the command. So treat training would not work in their cases. Praise with words and light petting at the proper time worked best.

I developed a training package for this family based on my private lessons. We will meet for one hour weekly for a minimum of eight weeks. Although these dogs are older and understand some commands we are starting at square one. The owners will be the focus of the training. Their package concentrates more on them being able to give their dogs commands, following through with those commands, winning all games, and being able to become pack leaders for both dogs at the same time.
I scheduled their first class a week from the evaluation and sent them home with a few commands to practice during the week. At our first class, I pleased to observe that the woman had worked with both dogs and was receiving almost immediate reactions to commands being given. It was noted that the man did not work as much with the dogs and they both were showing him less respect than the week before. This was addressed by giving him specific instructions and a schedule. Five minutes here and there is better than resolving yourself to committing to a full thirty minutes every day and with two dogs this can be impossible at times.

With this example the biggest part of my job is to instill into this family that they need to make slight lifestyle adjustments for a happy harmonious home with their beloved pets. By involving your pets in everything you do and demanding respect from them at all times as a pack leader you are helping your dog follow rather than lead. Dogs will make this choice for you IF you allow them too and they will always choose to lead.

Every evaluation is different and therefore the sole reason why they are important to giving you the best training possible. Dog training shouldn’t be cookie cutter from a big box store. Dog training is individualized for your needs and the needs of your dog. Training has many different facets and should begin the moment you get your dog and should continue throughout their lives. Training solidifies the bond between you and your dog. Training also gives your dog the opportunity to think which reduces boredom and eventually destructive behaviors.

Remember there are many trainers out there to choose from with many different methods, do your research, attend more than one evaluation, and make the choice that best meets the needs of you and your dog. Be aware that big box stores that offer low price group classes with no evaluations, may not be appropriate for you or your dog. Consult a professional and speak with your veterinarian.

If you believe your dog is having dangerous behavior problems consult with a canine behaviorist who will be able to observe your dog’s behaviors scientifically and then administer proper modifications, treatments, and maintenance programs to return your dog to a healthier way of being.

There is a controversy in the industry about charging for evaluations. At Denver Dog Works we charge a nominal fee for the evaluation because our time is valuable and we are developing your training plan and package at this time. The fee is included in your training package when you sign the contract. If you do not sign up, we simply ask you to pay the fee for the evaluation. It is our experience that you will appreciate and value our expertise and time if you are expected to pay for that expertise and time.

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
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Michele Forto is a certified trainer and the business manager at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Who Are These Dogs That Pull Sleds?

Who are These Dogs That Pull Sleds
By Robert Forto, PhD


The Dogs


Who are these dogs that pull sleds? Are they purebreds or mongrels? What sets them apart from other dogs and enables them to work with man under brutal weather conditions? What sort of strange dog is it that yammers and yowls to be a part of a team, preferring to work or race than rest in a warm kennel?

Written pedigrees are not required to enter a sled dog race, nor does the dog have to be a northern breed, although a majority of dogs on the racing trail are related to working dogs of the North. These dogs have a strong instinct to pull. These dogs can be everything from an American Kennel Club registered Siberian Husky, a “one-quarter husky” mixed breed, or any variety in between. These dogs can be Irish Setters, Walker Coonhounds or even a Border Collie. In search of an unbeatable dog team, dozens and dozens of cross-breedings, in-breedings and line breedings have been tried. Some breeders work within a recognized breed, seeking to refine that breed’s natural talents; others select the fastest and strongest or whatever dogs come to their attention, caring more about performance than good looks or a fancy pedigree.

The Siberian Husky

The most popular of the registered breeds for sled dog racing is the Siberian Husky. An uncommonly attractive dog, the Siberian evokes for many the call of the wild, the lure of the North. The finely chiseled, fox-like head, the pricked ears, the “mask” markings on the face, and the expressive eyes (often a light, icy blue), seems to personify the romantic image of the North country. In temperament, Sibes, as they are often called, can be affectionate or aloof, playful or serious. They are basically gentle, protective dogs. Stories about their exploits as guardians of children are legend, and a keener companion would be hard to find.

Siberians are bred today for the show ring or for racing, and sometimes for both. The original standard of the breed, accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1930, purposefully described the qualities of the Siberian that made him a fine working animal.The peoples of the Chukchi Peninsula in Siberia had already developed a dog which excelled as a draft animal and companion; in the hands of Alaskan sport racers at the turn of the century the husky from Siberia was selectively bred to improve these desirable traits.

When Leonhard Seppala took some forty-four of these dogs to New England in 1927 and began racing and promoting the breed there, the stage was set for the development of the American Kennel Club registered Siberian Husky. Most of Seppala’s dogs figured significantly in the foundation stocks of such influential eastern kennels as Chinook, Foxstand, and Monadnock (these dogs from Harry Wheeler’s kennel at Gray Rocks carried the suffix “of Seppala”). This researcher even has a spattering of the Seppala lines in his own breeding stock and kennel under the name of Trafalgar. Seven other imported dogs found their way to the kennels of Elizabeth Ricker, in partnership with Seppala, and to Gray Rocks. The two males in Quebec, Kree-Vanka and Tserko, influenced the registered breed tremendously. In 1946, two descendents of these dogs were sent back to Alaska, care of Earl and Natalie Norris’s Anadyr Kennels, and a new generation of racing drivers rekindled the interest of Alaska in Siberian Huskies.

Siberians predominated on the best New England teams in the thirties, forties, and fifties. Roland Lombard drove Siberians when he won the World Championships at The Pas in 1957, and took second at the North American Championship in 1958. His dogs, especially one named Igloo Pak’s Tok, showed excellent Siberian conformation and would have provided tough competition in the show ring. In Alaska in the fifties, Champion Tyndrum’s Oslo, C.D.X. led the team of Charles and Kit MacInnes to dozens of victories. Champion Bonzo of Anadyr, C.D., led Earl and Natalie Norris team in sixteen championship races and was never out of the money.

The suffix of C.D.X. and C.D. are titles given to dogs at an American Kennel Club obedience trial. C.D.X. stands for Companion Dog Excellent and C.D. stands for Companion dog. These are advanced titles for a sled dog to obtain. Most of the time these titles are given to dogs that show promise for service dog work such as guide dogs for the blind or assistance dogs. For a sled dog to obtain these titles shows an excellent temperament and the ability to adapt to training. This in turn shows a strong correlation of the human-canine commination conundrum. Many times pure sled dogs do not do well in the obedience ring due to their innate nature to pull and their desire to roam. In an obedience trial one of the commands that must be mastered is a long down where the handler leaves the sight of the dog for up to five minutes. Typically a sled dog is too anxious to stay in one place for an extended period of time. Therein a sled dog with an advanced title shows the correlation to the sport of dog sledding and the training procedures used to train them.

Purebred Siberian teams abound wherever there is racing, and although they are often eclipsed in speed by the mixed-breed Alaskan Husky, their racing records are solid. Today’s racing Siberian can be a credit to good breeders, for behind the breed statistics (average 22 inches at the shoulders and 45 to 50 pounds), and beneath it’s glossy coat, still stands much of the graceful, intelligent, light footed, speedy husky from Siberia. It seems harder to tell what a blue-eyed dog is thinking than a brown-eyed dog, but when the sporty Siberian is harnessed to a sled, his thoughts are transparent. “He is all go! ( Note: endnotes have been removed for blog posting. If you would like to read article in its entirety please contact me through email at train@denverdogworks.com )

Next Week: The Alaskan Malamute

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com

Monday, March 22, 2010

Treat Me Like a Dog

Treat Me Like A Dog
by Robert Forto, PhD


On one of the most historic days in American history, Congress and the Senate agreed what is best for the American people concerning health care, I sit here and wonder. I am thinking first: Is my mom in charge of the Government because it feels like they are telling me what to do regarding my health care just like my mom used to do when I was a kid. And second, how does the Government know what is best for me anyway? Heck, they just sent out a Census form asking who lives in my house. So if they don't know that how do they know that I even want healthcare (tongue in cheek)?

I am perfectly healthy, so are my wife and kids. Yes we have to go to the emergency room from time to time to fix broken bones from a football game or some other “kid” accident. We are also self-employed. I have been my entire working life and I have never had health insurance. I do what is right and pay cash or utilize a health savings account. As a matter of fact, I went to the doctor a couple weeks ago with the complaint of asthma-like symptoms, the remnants of a bout with a nasty bronchitis two years ago. The doctor gave me a 40% discount because I paid cash!

Rarely does a President have so much power with the stroke of his (many) pens than he does when he signs this healthcare reform bill into law in a few days. I don’t know if this is political suicide for “P-BO” or the beginning of socialism in this country but I do think that they should look at what the people of this country really want before taking away our free-market system of healthcare and change the way that we conduct our lives from this day forward.

I, for one, think that they should follow the model used by veterinarians. It seems to be very effective and according to a conference on animal law that I attended a while back, a lot less litigious than our human doctors’ practices.

Think about it; the veterinary practice works. We just took our old guy, Ineka, a 12-year old Siberian, to the vet last week and we were given all kinds of choices.

First, the veterinarians welcome a free market choice. There are vet clinics on every corner. We can pick and chose the one we want to go to, anyway we choose. There is a veterinarian right next door to our training center but we chose not to go there because we liked how the folks at Aurora Animal Hospital treated us the last time we where there.

Second, our choice to use one veterinarian over another is based on the principles of a progressive society: Word of mouth referrals, location, inspection of the offices, prices, past experiences, etc. When we make an appointment at a doctor’s office do we get to make that choice or are we forced to go somewhere based on a referral from another doctor?

Third, we have the choice of what treatments that we want and when. When we take our dogs to the veterinarian they give us a price breakdown right on the spot. We can choose to buy a vaccine now or wait till later. We can choose to have our dog’s teeth cleaned now or later. Rarely is there any pressure.

Fourth, on most occasions the vet is open evenings and weekends and has appointments to fit our timetable. There is no need to wait six weeks for a neuter for our pup. We will just call another vet clinic in the area.

Fifth, in most instances people respect their veterinarian much more than they do their family doctor. Why? Because they are approachable, they talk with us in the office and they call us in the middle of the night if “Max” is not doing well. The same goes for the techs. When was the last time a nurse in your doctor’s office called you to follow up to see if little “Johnny” was taking his medicine okay? Our vet tech did just this morning and this was the second time she called in a week to see how Ineka was responding to his medicine. According to the information at that animal law conference I attended, people trust their veterinarian higher than most other service providers that they deal with. The family doctor was down there with lawyers and car salesmen.

Sixth, we have the right to choose when enough is enough and euthanasia is an option. While I am not suggesting that we put grandma to sleep, at the veterinarian at least we have that option. True, a Living Will should work for us humans but does it really? I have one and it explicitly says that if I am brain-dead to “pull the plug” no if-ands-or-buts about it. I don't want to live as a vegetable. Do you? In our case, when we took Ineka to his appointment, our veterinarian found a lump near his thyroid. She thinks it is “most likely” cancer and she agreed that we should not put him through the pain of radiation and chemotherapy. Most likely it would kill him. We agreed and as long as his quality of life is good we will do nothing. Wouldn’t you like to have that choice in your own healthcare?

Seventh, many people form long lasting relationships with their veterinarian and they make sure they know who we are and that they are thinking of us. Many veterinarians send out appointment cards and birthday wishes for our pets. They know our pets by name. When was the last time your doctor did this for you? Or did they come into the room, spend five minutes with you and kept having to refer to your chart to remember your name?

Lastly, payment is due at the time services are rendered. No questions, no comments, no collecting two hundred dollars as you pass “Go”. Unless you work out a payment plan with your veterinarian you better have your checkbook or a credit card ready to go. This is how human medicine should be paid for as well. As I said earlier, that’s how I did it just a couple weeks ago at my doctor’s office and they gave me a discount of 40%. Sure medical care is expensive, and yes, medical bills have caused many people to go bankrupt but do we really need the government subsidizing our care because “some” people can’t pay?

Before you get all upset and think that I am crazy remember that there are 77.5 million dogs in this country and many are owned by conscientious pet owners who take their dog to the veterinarian on a regular basis. Do you ever complain about the care they receive? The overwhelming majority would say NO.

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dogworks) Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Iditarod Recap 2010

Iditarod 2010 Recap
By Robert Forto, PhD and Michele Forto


What started out as a Facebook message almost a year ago has brought us full circle with the cumulation of our stories, our radio show, our travels and our experiences covering the 38th running of the 2010 Iditarod.

March 7, 2009

At the start of last year’s Iditarod I made it known to everyone who would listen or even care, about my intentions to run the Last Great Race in 2013 on my radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show (http://www.dogdoctoradio.com) By doing so I knew it was time to get to work. I started what I call the Mushers Workout at 24-hour fitness and I began my quest to start to build a team to race in my two qualifiers for the race in four years. I had no idea where this road would take me but as they say it is a journey and one that I am learning from every day.

May 2009

In early May I was on Facebook and I saw that Iditarod musher Hugh Neff was booking school tours in Colorado. I thought how cool it would be to bring Hugh to my daughters school the next school year and maybe she would even learn something! Through the summer Hugh and I remained in contact and we finally got a date set for him to speak to the students at Prairie Middle School the next September.

September 2009

With the start of the school year, the final preparations were put into place to have Hugh Neff speak at our daughter’s school. The event went well, even though Hugh showed up without a sled. Not to worry, we ran home and got ours and the program went off without a hitch and they kids loved it! After the program, Hugh, a childhood friend of his, and myself had breakfast and talked dogs, sports and life. It was a great time. We promised to stay in touch and if I ever make it to Alaska give him a call.

January 2010

In mid-January I received another Facebook message. This time it was from an author, leadership trainer, business coach and adventurist, Chris Fuller. He was putting on a seminar for his book, Iditarod Leadership (http://www.iditarodleadership.com) about how to harness the power of your team in business using the Iditarod team as a model. I spoke to Chris and his wife several times and made arrangements to attend the seminar in Anchorage to coincide with the start of this year’s Iditarod.

February 2010

With final preparations made and thanks to our partners at E-travel Unlimited (http://www.etravelunlimted.com) for all of my travel plans I was well on my way to Alaska. My wife and business partner gave me the requisite days off from work and we had a cushion in our budget to allow me to travel and I was set to go on March 3rd.

March 4, 2010

I arrived in Anchorage in the middle of the night and attended a Chris Fuller’s Iditarod Leadership conference the next morning at 9 am. While waiting in the lobby of the Millennium Hotel for a cab to the airport to pick up a rental car, I ran into Hugh Neff. He invited me to come out to his place the following day to talk dogs and talk about the race. That evening, after the conference I attended the Musher’s Banquet and met a lot of great folks. I learned quickly that people came from all over the world to be a part of the Iditarod and I was glad to experience it first hand.

March 6, 2010

Saturday, March 6, marked the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in downtown Anchorage. What an experience. I was privileged to handle for Hugh Neff’s team at the starting line and spend the day with these remarkable people. I met Hugh’s Idita-rider from 2008 and this year’s as well and we all got to know each other at an overpriced lunch of $17.00 burgers at the hotel. It is true everything costs twice as much in Alaska!

Mush! You Huskies Nightly Radio Reports

Each night we hosted a podcast, Mush! You Huskies (http://www.mushingradio.com) and we updated you on the standings, the mushers, and tried to give you a little behind the scenes story. The show became pretty successful and we were given several compliments for our coverage of the race from our musher friends. It was a blast to do and we are glad that we did.

Interview with Hugh Neff on Mush You Huskies

We ended our coverage of this year’s Iditarod by having Hugh Neff on as a guest on our wrap up show. His interview brought to light what he mushes for. Not the glamour or the money but to be a part of a journey that is sometimes bigger than ourselves. Hugh is a special kind of musher. He gives back. Just as he did in September of last year at my daughter’s school, he teaches children all over the country to never give up on their dreams.

What’s Next?

In the coming weeks I will be traveling to California to talk dogs with a musher friend of mine, and we are looking at property in Northern Minnesota that will allows us to train for the races starting this winter.

My first race will be a race in West Yellowstone, Montana in December, followed by some other mid-distance races to gear up for the qualifiers the next winter.

We will continue to host Mush! You Huskies and are planning some great shows in the near future on topics such as urban mushing, Iditarod nutrition, Iditarod history, musher interviews and more. We hope that you will become loyal listeners.

Never Forget You Dreams and See You on the Trail!

Tags: Hugh Neff | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is a musher training for his first Iditarod racing under the Team Ineka banner. Michele Forto and Robert host Mush! You Huskies, a bi-weekly radio show on Http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dogworks

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Dogs Need Heroes Too

Dogs Need Heroes Too
By Michele Forto


"I had seven dogs who would go to the end of the earth for me, and nine more who would try," Lance Mackey, 4-time Iditarod Champion

When I was a kid superheroes were still popular. I remember being seven years old and not just dressing up as Wonder Woman for Halloween but wishing I had that invisible airplane of hers to travel around in.

My kids generation, being born in the nineties, I can’t recall them actually having superheroes to look up to. That was the time of sport heroes. We all know and can understand when we place the burden of being a superhero onto a regular person who just happens to be able to “fly” on the basketball court that it sets that person up to quite a bit of scrutiny.

It’s refreshing to read stories about the Iditarod in its 38th year and listen to the passion in the voices of the men and women as they talk about their dogs and the Last Great Race. I myself turn 38 years old this year and I’m always saddened to realize that I didn’t know that the Iditarod was even a race until about 18 years ago. Growing up in California it wasn’t taught in the schools. Sure I saw the movie Iron Will and read the stories about Balto. I knew of the Great Serum Run and the significance that it had on the State of Alaska, but other than that it seemed like fiction to me.

When I met my husband Robert, within four months he had my eight year old son Kyle, and myself on the back of a dog sled, the cool wind in our faces, holding on for dear life. I remember feeling very afraid, “where are these dogs going to take me!” After my first run and losing my team, I realized it wasn’t about the dogs it was about the musher. I had to learn to trust my dogs, especially my leader, and work with them as a team.

This realization came together for me on a very bad six mile run on Casper Mountain in Wyoming. I was running a new lead dog, her first race with me, a dog just 10-weeks postpartum, and four yearlings in their first race. There was a terrible snow storm that blew out the trails; visibility was zero in places and the other mushers where too far ahead of me to be of any guidance. At one point I stopped my team to adjust their harnesses, the snow on the trail was about 8 inches deep and there was a steep hill ahead of us. I got to my leaders, Moon, my newest dog, and Tamaya, a great dog who ran for my three year old daughter, I told my girls to take us home. I set us back on the trail and we headed out with me dredging through the thick wet snow with my girls digging in and tugging hard. We finally arrived at the finish line with my husband and two other people that were mushing our dogs and my three kids, everyone happy to see me. I was happy to see them too, but I was proudest of my dogs, the seven of us learned how to be a team.

You see the Iditarod and all the dog sled races out there are just there as a way for the musher to pay back to his team, it’s their reward for being heroes along the way. The dogs will let you yell, cry, laugh, and joke around, they won’t ever judge you and IF you can let yourself go you will find the hero within you.

I have a poster up in my training center of Iditarod champion Doug Swingley it simply says “Dog’s Need Heroes Too”. I know I was a hero to my dogs that day and they know they were my heroes.

Tags: Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
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Michele Forto is the business manager and lead trainer at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Friday, March 19, 2010

The Dog Doctor Radio Show is Back!

The Dog Doctor Radio Show is Back!
By Robert Forto, PhD


After a month long hiatus, the Dog Doctor Radio Show (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dogworks) is back on the air every Saturday morning at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or our you can download the show anytime from http://www.dogdoctorradio.com and find us on iTunes. If you are searching for us on iTunes just type in “Dog Works Radio Shows” in the search bar.

The Dog Doctor Radio Show is hosted by me, Robert Forto, and my business partner, wife and biggest fan, Michele. Our unique style is like no other Internet radio show in the world. We own and operate Denver Dog Works and we host the show from our training center and on location at several events each year like Denver’s Furry Scurry, the Summerset Festival and the Parker Barker Days. While you will find that all of our shows have a canine theme, we very rarely talk just about dog training. We focus our efforts on finding ways to capture the “behind the scenes” type stories in the world of our canine friends.

We frequently have on best selling authors, canine trainers from around the country and even a quirky guest or two. The Dog Doctor Radio Show strives to appeal to a broad audience and we have an International reach thanks to the power of the Internet and syndication on http://wwww.blogtalkradio.com

We save all of our past shows in our library and you can download an episode anytime by visiting our website at http://www.dogdoctorradio.com While we have parted ways with our previous producer due to creative differences we will continue to produce quality programing every week.

The Doctor Radio Show celebrated our one year anniversary this past January and we hope to be on the air for years to come. We welcome any show topics, guest suggestions or if you have a question for us please feel free to email us anytime at live@dogdoctorradio.com

The Dog Doctor Radio Show is presented by Dog Works Training Centers, a professional canine training center in Denver, Colorado and is the co-sponsor for our sister show Mush! You Huskies (http://www.mushingradio.com) Mush! You Huskies is a show about dog powered sports and mushing. This show is geared towards winter dog sports enthusiasts and fans of the Iditarod. I am training for my first Iditarod in 2013 and both our shows: The Dog Doctor Radio Show and Mush! You Huskies will chronicle my adventures on the trail.

Come along and join our listenership. If you want up to date news and notes please become a fan of Denver Dog Works on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/denverdogworks) and follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/denverdogworks)

Tags: Michele Forto | Robert Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Feeding a Raw Diet and Sharing My Discoveries

The apparent benefits after only about six weeks
By Leah Morse


This will be the fourth of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs.  It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs.  I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs.  I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it.   I have seen some amazing changes in the health of my dogs but this is, by any means, a simple way to feed your dog.  It takes planning and work.  The days that you are tired and don’t feel like preparing an extra meal, or paying for it, for that matter, you still have to do it.  Your dogs can’t feed themselves.  I have gotten creative at saving on the cost but again this creates more work.  I am simply sharing my experiences.  I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional.  This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding.  NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES!  Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog!  Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth.  All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding.  Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems.  If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible.  Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors.  Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it.   The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited.  I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs.  Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion.   I, for one, have found it worth it.
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So now by about the 6th week my dogs have completely transformed. It is almost like they had one of those drastic make overs like you see on reality TV shows.

One very important transformation that I noticed was the nearly complete reduction in how much hair I was getting from sweeping the kitchen floor. Normally I was sweeping two or three fist sized piles daily. I was now only getting about 2 tablespoons of hair daily. The dogs seemed happier, their eyes brighter and their coats, which did have a healthy sheen before, now looked like they were dipped in a glossy clear coat. Their coats actually felt different. They were softer and you could actually feel the smoothness that gave their coats the high gloss shine that I was now observing. Upon brushing them I was, again, getting less hair with each brushing session. I have been told many times about how much of a pleasure it is to touch my dogs. They did not have a greasy oily feel but there is a wonderful soft, smooth texture to their coats that it is wonderful to touch them. I have learned that the skin and coat is the last get the nutrients of what a dog consumes. If their skin and coats were any indication about what was happening in their bodies, I have to believe that the same transformation was happening inside. I can’t even take a picture of Story, my reverse brindle boxer, and use a flash as the sheen is so bright that it skews the cameras ability to take a picture without the shine being overbearing in the picture.

I also notice that my dogs do not have a doggy odor. I keep my dogs pretty clean, living in the country on acreage I do frequently bathe them as they tend to get quite muddy. Muddy feet and white carpet don’t mix well. Even with the frequent bathing (which in Colorado typically dries out their coats terribly) their coats still seamed to be healthy and their skin did not have dandruff like a dried out coat often has.

The next amazing thing that I noticed was the improvement of their oral health. Starting with the younger dog, I noticed that, even though Story was less than a year old, she had started to develop a tarter build up on her molars. I only had fed hard kibble and brushed regularly but even still there was clearly a brown staining and even tarter in her upper Carnasal molars. Bohdi, my 9 year old, always was a struggle to keep his teeth in good shape. Bohdi came to us from rescue with stained teeth at a young age of 18 months. After about 6 weeks all tarter and staining disappeared. Both Story, the 10 month old, and Bohdi the 9 year old had white, not stained, teeth. Their breath was the other wonderful discovery as neither dog had foul breath, not even Bohdi. I was very pleased. I have always been meticulous with good oral hygiene in both people and dogs. Being that I was a veterinary assistant for nearly 10 years, I have done 100s of dentals on a wide variety of both dogs and cats. Nothing saddened me more when either a dog or a cat needed to loose teeth due to dental disease. I have always been an advocate for brushing a dogs teeth with an enzymatic tooth paste, designed for a dog of course. I even payed thousands of dollars on dentals through out the years for my own pets. I would use a dental tool to scrape some of the tarter myself. I spent hundreds of dollars on Tarter Diet, special chews and dental hygiene toys. I could not believe how white and beautiful both dogs teeth looked from simply eating raw bones and meat. So now besides the total health that I was observing after feeding Raw diet, I would now be saving hundreds if not thousands of dollars on dental hygiene items and costly dentals that require anesthesia to be done properly and humanely.

The vomiting and diarrhea that had plagued Bohdi all the time that we had him (nearly 8 years) disappeared. Again, through his life time we had purchased hundreds of dollars in pepcid, other antacids and many prescription medications to help with his digestive upset. We had been dealing with this since 2001 when we adopted him. I have been told that the live enzymes present in the raw food were the reason for his improved digestive system health. I was sold on this idea as well. There was plenty on the internet and in the books on Raw Diet about this.

Last but not least, the attitude change that I noticed after 6 weeks, especially in my older dog, was very encouraging. Before beginning raw diet with our dogs, Bohdi’s attitude had started to decline. He was depressed and lethargic. I am not unrealistic, I understand that he was a senior and that this was the natural progression of life. I did want to give him the best care possible through to the end. I saw him perk up considerably. He lasted longer on walks, stayed with us more often during the day and he seemed more alert. Story became an unbelievable picture of health. Her muscle tone was very defined and she seemed to have more of a spring in her step as well, even though she was a puppy at the time.

All in all, raw diet was already showing a significant way that I would be saving on both medication and vet bills as well as all of the dental items that I have purchased over and over for all of my dogs through out the years. Just the savings in Dental procedures was huge. If you have ever priced a dental, you know they are not cheap. There is the price of the pre anesthesia blood work, the anesthesia, the dental procedure and God forbid the cost of extractions. Anyone who has had this done with their pet knows you can get into a cost of hundreds of dollars if not more. Don’t misunderstand, pet dentals are a very necessary part of good health care for your dog. Bohdi’s teeth were in relatively good shape when we started, they just improved. (Raw diet should not be seen as an alternative if a dog has serious dental needs. Rather have the dental needs attended to then discover the benefits of raw diet to maintain.) The savings that I was going to see in not having to purchase over the counter and prescription medications for the intestinal well being of my senior boxer was another substantial gain. I do not think that Raw Diet is an end all to all ailments or that a veterinarian should not be consulted for serious reasons. I am merely sharing my pleasant discoveries of financial savings with my own dogs. I very much value my veterinarians! I am just happy to have relief from some of the costs of keeping my dogs in the best health possible. I am certainly glad that I have started a journey of learning and exploring the best ways to incorporate the knowledge that I gain to keep my dogs as healthy and happy as possible. I owe them this much for all they do for me.

Tags: Leah Morse | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
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Leah Morse is a canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine in Colorado. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Hugh Neff Finishes 9th in 2010 Iditarod

Hugh Neff Finishes in Ninth Place in 2010 Iditarod
By Robert Forto, PhD

I have met a lot of mushers in my days behind the sled of my own teams and over the years at dog sledding events, but I will say that you can not find a nicer, more down to earth guy than Iditarod musher, Hugh Neff. I was honored to spend about three days with Hugh, his partner, Tamra, and his amazing sled dogs when I was up in Anchorage for the ceremonial start of this years race.

I met Hugh through Facebook, of all places, in the spring of 2009 when he posted on the social media site that he was booking school tours in Colorado. I sent him a message and we spoke on the phone and the next thing you know he is at my daughter’s middle school in Aurora, Colorado in September. Hugh showed up with a bag of “gear” but no sled so we ran home and got our’s for the demonstration and the show went off as planned in front of hundreds of kids.

After the school visit, Hugh, a childhood friend of his, and I had breakfast at a local place and talked dogs, mushing, football and just life. What a great guy and ambassador for the greatest race in the world, the Iditarod.

I was planning on being in Anchorage this year for a conference, so I decided to give Hugh a call and see if we could hook up before the race. His hospitality was gracious at the musher’s banquet and one afternoon we spent at his place while he was making final preparations for this years race.

On the day of the ceremonial start I was one of the handler’s for Hugh’s team and what an experience. Something that I will remember for the rest of my life.

Neff 42, of Tok, Alaska was the rookie of the year in 2004 and 2010 marked his 6th Iditarod. His best finish before this year was in 2009 when he placed 15th. This year was a marked improvement. Neff and his partner operate Laughing Eyes Kennel (http://www.laughingeyeskennel.com) and lists his profession as a professional dog musher and public speaker. He is quoted for enjoying “making people smile.” Neff is also a graduate of the University of Illinois and an Eagle Scout.

Early in the race Hugh had some trouble with his sled and lost his runners for a long stretch of the trail early in the race. I can only image what that was like.

Hugh had tough competition this year. With the likes of 4-peat Champion Lance Mackey, Iditarod icon, Jeff King and this year’s Yukon Quest champion, Hans Gatt, Hugh kept up with the leaders the entire race. Nothing could beat Mackey, one of Hugh’s good friends on and off the trail. Hugh spoke at White Mountain taking an 8-hour rest-stop of Mackey’s dogs: "He could take your dogs and beat his team with your dogs. That's how good of a musher he is," said Neff.


Hugh did something special this year. He was part of the National Education Association’s Read Across Alaska program and he carried a copy of Dr. Seuss’ Cat in the Hat book in his sled from Anchorage to Nome. When he arrives he will deliver it to the children of the village at the edge of the earth. Hugh also carried ribbons of fallen soldiers for the organization, T.A.P.S. (http://www.taps.org)

Hugh was quoted as saying that he will “never retire” and was described as the “energizer bunny” during this year’s race. While I am sure he would have like to win the race, he did gain six spots from the his 2009 campaign. What is in the future for Hugh? I hope to find out when things settle down and he gets a chance to rest. I hope to have him on my show, Mush! You Huskies (http://www.mushingradio.com) in the coming weeks and ask him what is next. I know he plans on visiting schools this off-season and what more of an ambassador than, Mr. Neff.

Citation: The Official Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Guide 2010, Alaska Daily News website.

Tags: Hugh Neff | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is a musher training for his first Iditarod in 2013 mushing under the Team Ineka banner. Dr. Forto hosts a radio show, Mush! You Huskies that can be heard at http://www.mushingradio.com. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com 

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Candlelight and Books = 4-Peat for Iditarod Champion Mackey

Candlelight and Books=4-Peat for Mackey
By Robert Forto, PhD


Four-time Iditarod Champion, Lance Mackey, will go down in history as the only musher (to date) to do the unprecedented, win the Iditarod four times in a row. 

Mackey, 39, was born and raised in Alaska. The back-to-back-to-back-to-back Iditarod Champion and four-time Yukon Quest champion and current record holder says he began mushing "at birth."

"I grew up around racing and the Iditarod. I was at the finish lie in 1978 to see my father, Dick, win by one second. In 1993, my older brother, Rick, won. Both my father and brother won wearing bib #13 in their sixth Iditarod." says Mackey.

Mackey's finish today was like no other in history. Not only did he win the 'Last Great Race' for the fourth time in a row, he did it in typical Mackey style with little to no-rest and blowing past the competitors, King, Baker, Neff, and 2010 Yukon Quest champion, Hans Gatt. In an interview this year on the website http://www.mushing.tv Mackey explains how he prepares for racing the Iditrod with little to no sleep at all. He explains that he starts off by turning out all the lights and turning the heat on full blast and reads by candlelight. He increases the time each day until he has no problem staying up for extended periods of time. 

The winner of this year's Iditarod wins $50.400 and a new dodge truck. Does Mackey really need another truck? He has won the prize the last four years in a row! I think last year he claimed a new car for his wife Tonya. He does have three children: Amanda, Britney and Cain, all of driving age. Maybe they can start a Mackey convoy! 

Citation: The Official Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Guide 2010.

Tags: Lance Mackey | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is a musher training for his first Iditarod in 2013 mushing under the Team Ineka banner. Dr. Forto hosts a radio show, Mush! You Huskies that can be heard at http://www.mushingradio.com. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com 

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Mia: Part 2 By Chris Bridge

Mia: Part 2
By Chris Bridge


Mia and I are a Registered Therapy Dog Team with American Humane Association.  This is "part 2" of our story of how we DISCOVERED that this was the direction that she and I were to take as a team.  Please return to last weeks blog and read "part 1" if you missed it.  This is a continuation of that story.
 
In writing this week's blog I have spent the last week in the elementary school where Mia and I first started our career as a Therapy Team 4 years ago.  Again we had something happen that we can add to our MOST AMAZING experience list.  We have truly come full circle.
 
My husband's work involved much travel at that time our our lives, so Mia and I would often tag along.  Because of the travel, Mia and I were invited to visit my sister's Special Education classroom in Oklahoma.  Prior to our visit, my sister and I began to talk of one of her new students, whom we will call "John".  John had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.  John had a monkey he had named "Monk" who would sit beside him daily to help him get through his classwork.  I then shared with my sister and John that Mia also had a monkey who she sleeps with and even travels with, I then named Mia's monkey "Monk" also.  I took a picture of Mia and her "Monk" and mailed it to my sister, who then gave it to John.  He was so taken with Mia that he wanted to meet her, so...at John's request...Mia and I went to Oklahoma for our first classroom visit with children.  John kept Mia's picture in his desk until our visit.  Every time he would begin to miss her, he would take out her picture and sit the picture beside him at his desk and leave his "Monk" on the shelf.  He was not needing his "monk" as often to help him with his classwork because he had Mia's picture instead.  John has since made tremendous progress and no longer needs his "Monk", but Mia, after a long days work with kiddos still needs hers, she is still VERY ATTACHED to her "Monk".  Every year we return to this Oklahoma classroom, you should see John and Mia together, what a reunion.  He sees her and and his little eyes light up as big as saucers as he says "Mia, you came back to see me".  At the same time this big Bernese Mountain Dog is loving all over this little boy.
 
Our very first day in the classroom was a huge success. Mia took to the kids just as much, if not more, than the kids took to her, she loved them.  While at the school we were also asked to visit the Multi-handicapped classroom.  We walked in and introduced ourselves.  Mia led me over to one little boy, we will call "Jack'.  Jack was sitting quietly in his chair and began to pet Mia.  This was a child who did nothing but scream, kick and pound his fists on his desk the whole class period, every day of school.  He was now sitting calmly and petting Mia.  We went on to visit each of the other children, and Jack got up to get his coat in preparation for lining up to go to lunch.  As the other children lined up, Jack came to give Mia one last pet.  The teacher asked the kids to tell Mia "thank-you" and of course this huge chorus of  "thank-you" rang out.  Jack leaned over to Mia and said "thank-you Mia".  The teachers all went silent and looked at each other in amazement.  They later told me that Jack had never talked, "Thank-you Mia" were Jack's very first words.  I went back to my sister's classroom and told her of the experience.  She and I both, with tears streaming down our faces, knew at that moment Mia was to work with children.  
 
This last week Mia and I have been volunteering at the school where we started our career in, 4 years ago. Again we visited the Special Education classroom and the Multi-handicap classroom.   We added a visit to the 4 year old preschool class.  When we arrived to the classroom, pat this teacher on the back, all the kids were sitting calm and quietly in a circle.  Mia and I enter, introduce ourselves, explain what we do, and ask the kids if they have any questions.  This little boy we will call "Rusty"  raises his hand, VERY shy, and teacher calls on him.  He wants to ask his question SO BAD, but just can't say it.  We move on the the others, then let the kids lay on their tummies in a circle around Mia so everyone can have a chance to pet her.  Before we leave the classroom all the kids return to their seats and I ask again if anyone has any questions before we leave.  Little Rusty again raises his hand and the teacher calls on him.  He still can't say his question.  The teacher then asks Rusty if he knows the dogs name.  He responds VERY QUIETLY "Mia".  The teacher just grins from ear to ear...as she walks Mia and I out of the room she explains to me that Rusty is mute, he has never talked.  "Mia" was his first word.  I then realized we had gone full circle.  We started out our career in this school helping a little guy say his first words and we DID IT AGAIN.  Way to go Mia, I am so proud of her. 
 
This is our story of how we began to volunteer at Fletcher Miller Special School in Jefferson County, a unique Special Education School for preschool-12.  This school serves a variety of special needs children who are medically fragile and severely developmentally delayed.  We also volunteer at Mental Health Center of Denver, doing group therapy with elementary, (age 6-9) and Middle School (age 9-14) children. 
 
I now understand what it means to be an Animal Assisted Pet Therapy Team and what an honor it is to have Mia as my partner.  Pet Therapy has allowed us to work together with special children, to touch their lives and hearts, if only for a moment, and hope that moment will be remembered by them forever. 
 
Mia had her last visit at VRCC to see her cardiologist in June 2009.  As expected, her heart condition is very stable and does not appear to be progressing. I am so VERY BLESSED to have her in my life.  Because of her, so many wonderful things have come into my life....wonderful children, great friends and meaningful service to others through our volunteer work.  Mia has a tremendous capacity to love children, unconditionally, as I do.  Her skills are too precious not to share with others.  Mia turned 5 in April 2009 and is helping me fulfill my life's passion - to help make a positive difference in the lives of others. 
 
Mia my girl, this is to you..."I Love You".  She is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog.  You are her life, her love, her leader.  She will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of her heart.  You owe it to her to be worthy of such devotion.    Anonymous 
Tags: Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
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Chris Bridge and Mia are a Registered Therapy Dog Team with the American Humane Association.   Mia is a 5 year old Bernese Mountain Dog. They volunteer weekly in the Denver area. Chris writes a weekly article for our blog at Denver Dog Works. Chris can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com 

Friday, March 12, 2010

Grooming: Spring is Clean Up Time!

Grooming: Spring Is Clean up Time!
By Robert Forto, PhD

Next week we will usher in the new season and spring will be upon us. Depending on where you live it could be a welcome respite or just a change on the calendar. But for our furry friends, the warmer weather of spring will mean a change in their coat and grooming at this time of year is a must for most breeds, especially our beloved Siberian, Ineka.

This article is a clip and copy article produced by the American Boarding Kennel Association. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. At Denver Dog Works we can help you find a good groomer and assist you in determining the proper care for your dog’s needs.

Spring Clean Up Time!

Spring and early summer are typically the times when many people bring their pets in for grooming after a long winter. Without regular grooming or brushing, the coat is probably matted and dirty. Unfortunately, these conditions make grooming much more difficult. Your groomer may not be able to give the pet the clip you prefer and, in fact, may have difficulty grooming the pet at all.

Here are some things to take into consideration:

A tightly matted coat cannot be brushed out. It will need to be shaved off. Your groomer may call this a puppy cut, a strip, or shave down. Basically, it requires shaving the coat off right down to the skin. This process may lead to skin irritation, nicks or cuts, regardless of how careful the groomer is. Excessive matting is difficult and dangerous to remove.

Your pet will be more likely to get sunburned if the coat is shaved, so do not leave him exposed to the sun for any length of time.

Ears may also be affected by a spring grooming. If the hair inside them has become impacted, the groomer may have difficulty removing the hair. There may also be an underlying infection. If problems develop within a day or two of grooming, the infection was most likely already there. Another problem called a hematoma may develop if the dog shakes his head a lot following ear plucking and shaving of matted ears. By shaking the head hard enough and hitting the ear flaps on the skull, blood vessels may break and cause swelling of the ear flap itself. Again, the grooming shop did not cause the problem; it is a result of grooming a matted pet. Poodles and sheepdogs are especially prone to hematomas.

A shorn pet may act differently for several days following a close cut. He may shake, hide or otherwise act abnormally. He may be cold, but it is more likely that he feels "naked" and different, and need a few days to adjust. It is not a physical problem, and a pet usually resumes normal activities as soon as the mental adjustment is made.
If your pet can be dematted, and you request it, be prepared for a substantial fee. It is very time consuming and difficult work. It can be uncomfortable for both the pet and the groomer. Dematting can leave behind irritated skin and an uneven coat that may need additional grooming to even it out.

While a spring grooming is better than no grooming, consider regular grooming appointments throughout the year to avoid these problems.

Tags: Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
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Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Feeding Your Dog a B.A.R.F. Diet

Feeding Your Dogs a B.A.R.F. Diet
By Leah Morse


This will be the third of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.

What Ingredients and Where to purchase for feeding Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (B.A.R.F)

The first few weeks of feeding continuous raw diet I did a lot of researching. I went to the local grocery stores and scanned the meat departments of each one. I started to really pay attention to the different cuts of meat, each price, what was available in the mark down area. I bought chicken quarters, hamburger meat, knuckle bones, chicken gizzards, hearts and livers, soup bones. I also purchased canned herring (yes these are not raw but full of omegas and calcium and other beneficial nutrients). I also made my rounds in the produce department. A trip to the local Liborio Markets (www.liborio.com) proved to be a worth the while trip as I found bulk chicken necks and a plethora of very different cuts of meat. I wanted to stick as close to the prey model as possible which meant a variety of bone, meat and innards. Living in a rural area has also proved to be very handy as we have many friends that raise their own meat and have many parts that they don’t care to fix for themselves or their families. I have acquired many beef hearts and livers this way. Likewise with all our hunter friends as I have put the word out that we will take the parts that they won’t eat.

I also love my Costco membership. The savings on both the fresh and the frozen vegetables is wonderful. I prefer the frozen vegetables when I can’t use fresh. I purchased the Normandy mix (cauliflower, broccoli and carrots) frozen peas, frozen green beans, fresh organic spinach and fresh organic carrots. We take the Frozen veggies (thawed frozen veggies seem to be easier for dogs to digest) and put them in a container in the refrigerator to thaw. This way they are ready to chop up or puree and use as we need them. Canned vegetables have salt added and do not have the nutritional value. I also get the fish oil and vitamin C from Costco.

I chose to start with chicken as their bones are relatively soft as chickens are typically fairly young when they are slaughtered. Most of what I feed is chicken due to cost and availability. Chicken Quarters are only about $0.79 a pound fresh. Wings are more than twice as much. The bulk necks were reasonable as they were $1.29 a pound. I try to get organic meat and produce as often as possible but it seems that public demand for meat with less additives and hormones has given us more companies that state that they don’t use additives an hormones. Walmart had their roll back on price for hamburger meat and it went from 2.49 a pound to $1.29 a pound (sadly the price has gone back up to $1.98 or so). We stocked up. I have never been so in tune with the price of meat as I am now, being a former vegetarian. Walmart was also the cheapest source for canned herring as well. As for the supplements I found bee pollen, Kelp powder and alfalfa powder at The Vitamin Cottage for a fairly reasonable price.

Having a large freezer has proven handy. Being able to buy large quantities of meat that is on sale and also frozen veggies and have a place to put them really makes life easier living in a rural area. The nearest grocery store is more than 10 miles from our house. I should mention again that all meat should be thoroughly thawed before feeding. I found out the hard way that frozen bones take their toll on canine teeth. I will not let that happen again.

I kept track of all the ingredients that I had acquired and tracked the cost for a month, carefully logging each meal and the price of all the ingredients. What I found was that it cost only slightly more than the expensive high quality premium kibble that I had been feeding. Again, I got back a fraction of what I fed. There was a substantial reduction in stool.
I must say that being an empty nester helps as I no longer was feeding my children, who have grown to adulthood. Though cooking is not involved, I liked being in the kitchen preparing. All the thought processes of feeding a family of four has really helped with all of my meal planning. To save time, we measure out meat and veggies and freeze individual portions. This way, we could just take out what we need the night before.

Last but not least I have found that you can purchase commercially produced raw foods. There are several really good companies, although it will cost you for the convenience. There are some that will even deliver to your door. These companies have done the searching for top quality ingredients for you, using human grade ingredients.Darwin’s Natural Pet Products (http://www.darwinspet.com ) , K-9 Kraving (http://www.k-9kraving.com/), Freezer space is going to be a necessity, as it is for doing it on our own. I have just discovered that you can order “green tripe” over the internet to be delivered to your door. (Green tripe is more nutritious and has the live enzymes that make this diet so good for your dog.) (http://www.greentripe.com/ )

Tags: Leah Morse| Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
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Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and owns Rocky Mountain Classic Canine in Colorado. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Chilpa

Chilpa
By Michele Forto


A few weeks ago I met a couple and conducted an evaluation on their dog. Victor was very concerned about his beloved german shepherd dog Chilpa. Chilpa had attacked the neighbors dog unprovoked and even though he swiftly paid the veterinarian bills and the neighbor did not contact animal control, Victor being a long time german shepherd owner, decided that he had better contact a trainer.

As I waited to meet Victor and Chilpa, I was excited to meet another german shepherd owner, I was also concerned about the description of the aggression Victor stated that Chilpa was displaying. The time of the evaluation came and went and it was now 15 minutes after the appointment was to take place. I called Victor and asked if he’d like to reschedule, he apologized and mentioned that he had forgotten our appointment and was not able to make it in this day. We rescheduled our appointment for the weekend.

To my surprise Victor, his wife Shirley, and Chilpa kept their appointment and showed up on time. Also to my surprise was Victor and Shirley an elderly couple with a young german shepherd. The evaluation was performed and it was determined that Chilpa has fear aggression. I developed a training plan for Chilpa and explained to Victor my concerns and strategies to help Chilpa get healthy.

Our first training session was the following Monday. I got to Victor’s house, he had told me during the evaluation that he is 92 years old, he met me at the door and said, “what’s the plan?” I explained that I would like to see Chilpa’s environment both inside their home and in their neighborhood. He proceeded to show me around and took me out back where I saw 9 prairie dogs and the neighbor whose dog was attacked. I also saw the little poodle who immediately began barking aggressively at Chilpa who paid him no mind. During the evaluation I had determined by using another dog that Chilpa is fearful to the point of physically shaking when other dogs are around. She has high defensive fight drives and uses this drive to ward off potential attacks from other dogs. Victor then suggested he walk with me around the neighborhood. I tried to be polite and let him know that I could take Chilpa alone, but he insisted. For 92 I’ve got to say I only hope I’m able to still drive my black Cadillac and walk two or three blocks with my dog! During our walk I asked Victor if I could bring Chilpa to my training center on Saturdays as the situation here at his home and in his neighborhood was not conducive to the training I needed to do with Chilpa. He agreed. He then stopped me and complimented me on my passion and genuine attitude toward him and his dog. He then said, “Michele, I’m 92 years old and I’m not going to live forever, I adopted Chilpa for my wife, her health is not good. My son cannot take Chilpa when I die and the retirement village won’t let Shirley keep her either. I need to ask if you would take her and if you would what would you do?” It took me a moment to answer honestly I was floored by what he just asked me to do. I had only known him for 4 days. I placed my hand on his shoulder and reminded Chilpa to sit, and told him that I would be proud to take his dog, that I couldn’t guarantee but I would try to train her for service work or I’d keep her myself for the rest of her life. I promised to always be here to care for her whenever he needed.

Chilpa’s first Saturday of training at the training center started off hectic. I brought her in and she barked at every camp dog staying with us. Nicole and I put her in a crate and proceeded to get things done that morning. We then went back to the van to get Nicole’s dog Qyain. Qyain would be our test dog with Chilpa today. We always just let Qyain loose in the training center because he gets along with all of the dogs and stays out of the way, for the most part. He is a 2 year old german shepherd so staying out of the way is relative! Of course, he found Chilpa in a crate in the office and he immediately went up to the crate and tried licking her face. Chilpa went off barking and lunging. I went and sat next her and called Qyain back over, this time she barked and growled but stopped when I told her to sit. Nicole then put a leash on Qyain and I leashed Chilpa and we got to work with them in the same room moving around the floor performing commands. Chilpa was shaking but as we went along she got calmer. Eventually she showed interest in Qyain so leaving the leashes on Nicole and I let them greet while we let the leashes go. Qyain is very balanced he chased her around and smelled her, licked her face, and tried to get her to play. Chilpa allowed this until Qyain cornered himself and he turned to run away and she attacked him. Nicole said nothing, and I only said Chilpa leave it. She stopped and Qyain began playing again with her and all was fine. They played throughout the day.

The following Monday I brought Qyain to Victor’s house to show him how well Chilpa and him got along. They did well in his backyard and on their walk. Victor was very pleased and I explained to him that this was just one dog and he’s an intact male of the same breed. That I have a lot of work ahead of me with other breeds. He understood.

Saturday training number 2, as I got ready to train Chilpa on leash around other dogs, I took her outside to use the bathroom. I noticed blood droplets, I checked her out, pads, tongue, nose and couldn’t find where she was bleeding. Then she lifted her tail and I saw it, she was in heat! But how could that be? Victor rescued her and he told me she was spayed. No training today, I had to find out what was wrong.

Victor and I decided to have me take Chilpa to my vet and get her checked out. Today, we found out from the first test that it appears that Chilpa was not spayed. We have three concerns here; not spayed, spayed partially and infection set in, a few months ago had a biopsy done on her kidney by Banfield and the records are inconclusive as to what they found or why they performed surgery.

We are awaiting additional blood work and Chilpa is off of the training routine until we find out what is going on with her health.

I decided to write this article today to remind everyone out there that taking your dog to a veterinarian and giving them the best possible care you can is the right thing to do. When you take your pet to a veterinarian no matter if they run their own private practice or you visit them at a big box corporate store, you have the right to get a second opinion if you feel that procedures are being done unnecessarily on your pet.

Also, when you get your pet spayed or neutered or the procedure was done before you rescued your dog, you need to be aware that the surgery may not have been successful. Our dog Ineka is a 12 year old male Siberian Husky who came to us neutered. We later discovered that his neuter was not complete, Ineka made us a great litter of pups for my racing team in 2001. My vet explained that in females if the vet performing the surgery did her incision high on the chest that they can’t always get deep enough to get the entire uterus out so a piece is left. Usually its fine, but there can be complications with infection and “false heat cycles”.

Your veterinarian can perform blood tests and other tests to determine if your spay or neuter is complete. There is usually no concern, but if you notice especially in your female dog any discharge, bloody, mucous, and/or foul odor get her to the vet immediately.

Chilpa does not appear to have an infection but we will know from her blood work in a few days. For now she is at home with Victor and Shirley lounging around and loving her life.

Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Dog Training Denver | Colorado Dog Training |Denver Dog Works |Dog Works Training Centers| Forto | Team Ineka | #dogs #denver #dogtraining
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Michele Forto is the business manager and lead obedience trainer at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Iditarod Musher: Hugh Neff

Iditarod Musher Hugh Neff
By Robert Forto, PhD


On my recent trip to Anchorage I had the pleasure of spending time with 6-time Iditarod musher, Hugh Neff. Hugh and I have developed a friendship over the past year since I invited him to come to Denver and speak to my daughter’s school about the Iditarod, mushing and living in the North.

Hugh and I spoke at length about my desire to run the Iditarod in 21013 and what it will take to get to that goal. I had the pleasure of handling for him at the ceremonial start in Anchorage and helped send him and his team off to Nome. What a great honor.

Hugh Neff is not your ordinary musher. He spends a lot of his time speaking to kids all over North America and stresses the importance of education and family values. In this year’s Iditarod, Hugh is doing something special: he is taking part in the National Education Association-Alaska’s first statewide Read Across Alaska celebration. Hugh is helping promote and celebrate the fun of reading. Hugh is carrying the Cat in the Hat book across Alaska in his sled bag. Once Hugh has crossed the finish line in Nome, he will deliver the book to the children of this small village at the edge of the Earth.

Hugh Neff, 42 was born in Tennessee. He gr up in Illinois and attended Loyola Academy and the University of Illinois. He says he moved to Alaska in 1995 to “run down a dream”. Hugh says, “racing is an excuse to play with our beloved beasts all over the North.

Hugh lists his occupation as dog musher and public speaker. He is a member of Mush with P.R.I.D.E and is an Eagle Scout and says he enjoys “making other people smile.”

If you would like to find our more about Iditarod musher Hugh Neff please visit his website Laughing Eyes Kennel at http://www.laughingeyeskennel.com and follow his race across alaska this year on http://www.adn.com Hugh is wearing bib number 56.

Citation: The Official Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Guide

Tags: Hugh Neff | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works

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Dr. Robert Forto is a professional musher training for his first Iditarod in 2013 racing under the Team Ineka banner. Dr. Robert Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com

Monday, March 8, 2010

Learning About Sanitation

Learning about Sanitation
By Leah Morse


Sanitation to me is so important so I am going to go into great detail.

So now I have joined the many who feed their dogs a species appropriate diet of raw meat and bones. I want to make sure that I keep my dogs and my family as safe as possible. This new diet now means that I will be handling substantially more raw meat and all the potential dangerous germs that can be associated with that. However, let’s not forget that simple dog food has been found to contain both salmonella and E. coli. I wanted to make sure that how I handled, prepared and cleaned and sanitized afterwards were very thorough. As I work for a major health care insurance company, it has been completely ingrained in my brain the dangers of contaminated surfaces, improper meat handling and how germs are so easily transferred. I think about the commercial that shows how germs transfer so easy from your hands to every surface that you touch. This was going to be a dilemma as I am not a big fan of using lots of chemicals. I do care about the environment and how these same chemicals can soak into our skin and fumes be inhaled.

So I purchased some new spray bottles and filled one with 50% Bleach and 50% Water the other spray bottle I filled with 50% White Vinegar and 50% water. DO NOT EVER MIX BLEACH AND VINEGAR as it is a dangerous and potentially lethal combination. I was not happy with the bleach solution as I ruined my clothes and the fumes were something else. I also did not like spraying the kennels with it as sensitive as a dog’s sense of smell is, the bleach fumes did not seem to dissipate. I had researched (http://allrecipes.com/HowTo/Kitchen-Sanitation/Detail.aspx ) environmentally friendly (and subsequently better for us) sanitizers. The best mix that I use is 50% White Distilled Vinegar and 50% water with a few drops of aroma therapy peppermint oil. The peppermint gave the staunch odor of the vinegar a more appealing fresh scent. Once the vinegar dried the smell seemed to dissipate.

I also purchased stainless steel bowls, which are better for our pets anyway as they can be run through the dishwasher and don’t harbor bacteria like porous plastic bowls do. After working in a vets office and hearing over and over again to use ceramic crock bowls or stainless steel to help prevent problems like canine and feline acne, it was not hard to transition to stainless steel.

I purchased 6 stainless steel bowls and 4 stainless steel buckets for water (water should be fresh, clean and always in a clean container), enough to be able to have at least 2 sets. This way I could put them all in the dishwasher to save time and have extra sanitation. After working in a vets office and hearing over and over again to use ceramic crock bowls or stainless steel to help prevent problems like canine and feline acne, it was not hard to transition to stainless steel.

I also purchased, from a local hardware store two remnant pieces of vinyl (5 foot by 6 foot) to put under their 4 foot by 6 foot kennels for easier clean up. The galvanized steel chain link was easily sanitized but the cement floor was not. Having the vinyl floor piece brightened up the kennel area for an added bonus.

Last but not least, I purchased nitrile disposable gloves to wear while I cleaned or handled the meat.

My procedure is to put on the gloves and measure out the meat, veggies and supplements for the meal. Each dog was then fed and allowed to finish. I always pick up bowls as soon as they are done. All go outside to lick and clean each other off, enjoy some sunlight and do their business then back inside. Meanwhile, I am cleaning bowls, cleaning the counter area with vinegar or loading the dishwasher and then quickly cleaning their respective areas with the vinegar solution. Everyone has a clean kennel to come back to and it literally only takes me a few minutes. From Preparation to clean up, it really only takes me about 20 minutes with 3 dogs in the morning and at night. It takes less time if I get it ready the night before. I am very conscience about what I touch and also making sure all surfaces are cleaned. I save used ziplock bags to enclose the meat packaging prior to throwing it away to help keep trash odor down. I also make sure to keep the dog run clean and I frequently am picking up what little my dogs are now leaving. Again it is substantially less (definitely not nearly the amount they are fed) and also seems to break down and decompose very quickly.

Next week: Where do I get the ingredients and what ingredients should I start with.
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Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine (http://www.rmclassiccanine.com) Leah can also be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com