The Future of Iditarod Dreams Part 2
If you got a chance to listen to the latest episode of the Mush! You Huskies Radio show you will know by now that the future home of the Team Ineka mushing kennel will be in Willow, Alaska.
Listen to the show here: Team Ineka in Alaska
After almost six months of traveling across North America, searching out suitable properties in Minnesota (twice), California and Alaska, we have settled on the Alaska property. While we would have loved to stay here in the Lower-48 states, it was just not possible. The Minnesota kennels were either too expensive or the county would not allow us to have a sled dog kennel. The California property was very nice but you had to drive well over an hour to run dogs and it was just too hot!
The Willow property is not a mansion by any stretch of imagination. It is a true musher’s property but it does have running water, electricity and full speed internet. There is an outhouse on the four acres “just in case”.
It is every mushers dream of finding a place in Alaska, and many of us have hopes of running the Iditarod one day. Team Ineka is one step closer now with the purchase of this property.
There are many things that are appealing about this place but a couple to note are: 1. dogs are allowed and we will not need special permission from the county or our neighbors. In fact there are several mushers in the neighborhood. 2. There are already kennel runs on the property. They need repair but they are there. 3. You can run dogs right from your property. I can literally hook up my team and go with a trail-head leading right up to the kennel.
Our goal is to spend six months a year in Alaska and six months in Colorado. We will maintain our business, Denver Dog Works here and it will remain fully operational with our third partner taking over the day to day tasks in about a year. We love Colorado but this is a place that we could not pass up.
My goal is to run the Iditarod in 2013. I will begin building my team immediately after my arrival in Alaska and start to run races starting this winter. By 2012 I will be running my qualifiers for the Iditarod and enter the race the following year.
While I have thought about this dream since the day I purchased my first Siberian Husky in the fall of 1987, it will take a tremendous amount of work to make this dream a reality but this is the first step to make it happen.
________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the Dog Sledding Examiner, a musher training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner and the host of the Mush! You Huskies Radio show.
Showing posts with label mushing radio. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mushing radio. Show all posts
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
How Do You Train?
How Do You Train?
By Michele Forto
What do you do to get yourself ready physically and mentally ready for the challenges ahead?
When you train for a physical challenge you prepare your body, mind, and spirit. You will put yourself through rigorous training routines preparing for the challenge ahead. When you include Max in your training and challenges be aware that he will need to prepare his body, mind, and spirit as well.
Dog sports are becoming more and more popular as are physical challenges that you can do with your dog. For instance, recently in Denver there was a 5k/1k Run/Walk in the park for people and their dogs. Some of the dogs were not prepared for the race and it showed afterwards.
How do I prepare my dog to compete with me?
The same way you prepare yourself after a long winter. You don’t go running out the door and complete a 10-mile run; your dog won’t be able to either. Instead you go out and run two miles and build on that week by week until ten miles feels like two miles. You and your dog will find more enjoyment in training together by taking it slowly than taking on too much too fast.
To reach your peak performance training with your dog is easy, take on shorter distances more often during the week and your dog will be bringing you his leash in no time. The key is to avoid burnout. Your familiar with burnout but did you know your dog can experience burn out as well? He may not show you he’s burned out, but he may get injured during training and that is his body letting him know he cannot go further. Dogs suffer from knee injuries and to avoid them during training it is best to go on shorter runs at first and build the endurance and stamina that both your bodies need to avoid injuries.
Remember to drink lots of water when you train, don’t forget Max here either. Offer Max water but do not let him drink too much too fast. Avoid letting Max drink from lakes, streams, and rivers bring along his own water bottle. Max does not need a snack if you are training hard. This can give Max an upset stomach and can lead to other health issues. It is best to offer Max a treat or snack at least 30 minutes after training.
Training with Max is fun and keeps you going longer. In Denver there are lots of competitions to do with your dog. Get involved. If you need any assistance or would like to learn a new sport with Max contact Denver Dog Works.
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
___________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
What do you do to get yourself ready physically and mentally ready for the challenges ahead?
When you train for a physical challenge you prepare your body, mind, and spirit. You will put yourself through rigorous training routines preparing for the challenge ahead. When you include Max in your training and challenges be aware that he will need to prepare his body, mind, and spirit as well.
Dog sports are becoming more and more popular as are physical challenges that you can do with your dog. For instance, recently in Denver there was a 5k/1k Run/Walk in the park for people and their dogs. Some of the dogs were not prepared for the race and it showed afterwards.
How do I prepare my dog to compete with me?
The same way you prepare yourself after a long winter. You don’t go running out the door and complete a 10-mile run; your dog won’t be able to either. Instead you go out and run two miles and build on that week by week until ten miles feels like two miles. You and your dog will find more enjoyment in training together by taking it slowly than taking on too much too fast.
To reach your peak performance training with your dog is easy, take on shorter distances more often during the week and your dog will be bringing you his leash in no time. The key is to avoid burnout. Your familiar with burnout but did you know your dog can experience burn out as well? He may not show you he’s burned out, but he may get injured during training and that is his body letting him know he cannot go further. Dogs suffer from knee injuries and to avoid them during training it is best to go on shorter runs at first and build the endurance and stamina that both your bodies need to avoid injuries.
Remember to drink lots of water when you train, don’t forget Max here either. Offer Max water but do not let him drink too much too fast. Avoid letting Max drink from lakes, streams, and rivers bring along his own water bottle. Max does not need a snack if you are training hard. This can give Max an upset stomach and can lead to other health issues. It is best to offer Max a treat or snack at least 30 minutes after training.
Training with Max is fun and keeps you going longer. In Denver there are lots of competitions to do with your dog. Get involved. If you need any assistance or would like to learn a new sport with Max contact Denver Dog Works.
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
___________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Sunday, May 2, 2010
K-9 Communication 2 by Al Magaw
K-9 Communication 2
By Al Magaw
I've had so many comments on last week's blog, all positive - I really expected some controversy about animals, and us, to a lesser degree, being able to communicate wordlessly, and without motion, to indicate thoughts - I've received stories that told about dogs being able to inform their owners when there was a sick lamb, stories about dogs that just "know" when there is something that's going to happen that involves them without any obvious indication from the owners, to the story of the siberian husky that wakes it's owners every morning from Monday to Friday so they aren't late for work, but lets them sleep in on Saturday and Sunday - obviously, the siberian can read the calendar? - no, I didn't think so - I'd like to share part of a letter from an old friend that I received a number of years ago - a letter that started me wondering a bit more and observing more closely, how animals communicate without words - In part, the letter reads ----
"Kuma, my Rottie, is an angel in the shape of a dog. He made his way through three bullets to reach my door. He has taught me much about play, about lightening up (in training), and visualization. He has led the way for me (to) learn deep mind/body/spirit communication from him". -------- "Kuma has showed me what my next pathway will be as an animal communicator. I am seriously looking into that field as I would truly like to be able to "speak" with dogs and horses and learn what they really have to say about issues in their lives." She goes on to say, "Rottweilers are pretty intensive dogs, different from any I have owned before. Kuma is teaching me to "send" pictures to him as a way of communicating".
My friend goes on to describe how she found Kuma on her porch one morning, badly wounded with three bullet holes in him. She nursed him back to health and on one of the first walks with him.
"He started to chase some deer that went flying off in front of him." "I immediately sent off a picture of him in the stage of a stock horse doing a sliding stop." -- "He looked just like a stock horse as he slid to a stop. He immediately came right to me, the first time he had done so off leash." "I felt like I had just won a championship!" "it was an awesome moment. He is one powerful dog who displayed a fine line between play and aggression when he first came into my life."
The letter goes on to talk about mutual friends and interests --- I've read this letter from my friend many times over the years since I received it and it still sends shivers up my spine, shivers of recognition of what is what is real and possible, if only we could learn.
We would love to hear your comments regarding this article. Please let us know at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Al Magaw | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
____________________
Al Magaw is a musher from Salmo, BC. Al keeps a medium sized kennel of 20 - 45 alaskan huskies as well as several pet dogs of various breeds. Al has been training and racing for the last 33 years. Before becoming involved with sled dogs, Al, along with his family, kept and competed with horses for many years. Al can be reached through his website at http://www.spiritofthenorthkennels.com Al is a guest blogger for Denver Dog Works and can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Al Magaw
I've had so many comments on last week's blog, all positive - I really expected some controversy about animals, and us, to a lesser degree, being able to communicate wordlessly, and without motion, to indicate thoughts - I've received stories that told about dogs being able to inform their owners when there was a sick lamb, stories about dogs that just "know" when there is something that's going to happen that involves them without any obvious indication from the owners, to the story of the siberian husky that wakes it's owners every morning from Monday to Friday so they aren't late for work, but lets them sleep in on Saturday and Sunday - obviously, the siberian can read the calendar? - no, I didn't think so - I'd like to share part of a letter from an old friend that I received a number of years ago - a letter that started me wondering a bit more and observing more closely, how animals communicate without words - In part, the letter reads ----
"Kuma, my Rottie, is an angel in the shape of a dog. He made his way through three bullets to reach my door. He has taught me much about play, about lightening up (in training), and visualization. He has led the way for me (to) learn deep mind/body/spirit communication from him". -------- "Kuma has showed me what my next pathway will be as an animal communicator. I am seriously looking into that field as I would truly like to be able to "speak" with dogs and horses and learn what they really have to say about issues in their lives." She goes on to say, "Rottweilers are pretty intensive dogs, different from any I have owned before. Kuma is teaching me to "send" pictures to him as a way of communicating".
My friend goes on to describe how she found Kuma on her porch one morning, badly wounded with three bullet holes in him. She nursed him back to health and on one of the first walks with him.
"He started to chase some deer that went flying off in front of him." "I immediately sent off a picture of him in the stage of a stock horse doing a sliding stop." -- "He looked just like a stock horse as he slid to a stop. He immediately came right to me, the first time he had done so off leash." "I felt like I had just won a championship!" "it was an awesome moment. He is one powerful dog who displayed a fine line between play and aggression when he first came into my life."
The letter goes on to talk about mutual friends and interests --- I've read this letter from my friend many times over the years since I received it and it still sends shivers up my spine, shivers of recognition of what is what is real and possible, if only we could learn.
We would love to hear your comments regarding this article. Please let us know at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Al Magaw | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
____________________
Al Magaw is a musher from Salmo, BC. Al keeps a medium sized kennel of 20 - 45 alaskan huskies as well as several pet dogs of various breeds. Al has been training and racing for the last 33 years. Before becoming involved with sled dogs, Al, along with his family, kept and competed with horses for many years. Al can be reached through his website at http://www.spiritofthenorthkennels.com Al is a guest blogger for Denver Dog Works and can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Aggression by Michele Forto
Aggression
By Michele Forto
Aggression is defined as follows:
1 : a forceful action or procedure (as an unprovoked attack) especially when intended to dominate or master 2 : the practice of making attacks or encroachments; especially : unprovoked violation by one country of the territorial integrity of another 3 : hostile, injurious, or destructive behavior or outlook especially when caused by frustration
citation: Merriam-Webster
Aggression is defined as behavior aimed at causing harm or pain, psychological harm, or personal injury or physical distraction. An important aspect of aggressive behavior is the intention underlying the actor's behavior. Not all behaviors resulting in harm are considered aggression. For example, a doctor who makes an injection that harms people, but who did so with the intent of preventing the further spread of illness, is not considered to have committed an aggressive act.
Aggression can be direct or indirect, active or passive, and physical or verbal. Using these categories, human aggression can be grouped into eight classes of behavior:
Punching the victim (direct, active, physical)
Insulting the victim (direct, active, verbal)
Performing a practical joke, setting a booby trap (direct, passive, physical)
Spreading malicious gossip (direct, passive, verbal)
Obstructing passage, participating in a sit-in (indirect, active, physical)
Refusing to speak (indirect, active, verbal)
Refusing to perform a necessary task (indirect, passive, physical)
Direct aggression, especially physically active aggression, is more common among animals. Actors who express indirect aggression usually feel less satisfaction, but they are also less concerned about retaliation. Passive and indirect aggression is the least noxious form. Subordinates rebelling against authority figures often use it. In the family relation it is often used by children against their parents. http://social.jrank.org
The above refer to aggression as defined by humans and in human behavior. We are consulting with more and more clients who describe their dogs as being aggressive solely based on the definitions listed above. This is dangerous ground to be on. Working with your veterinarian as well as a behaviorist can reduce the labeling effects humans place onto their animals. Aggressiveness in dogs is a multi-faceted complex diagnosis.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual behavior problems in dogs and aggressive behaviors lists thirteen types of aggression as well as explanations and treatments. Simply identifying your dog with a behavioral problem such as the most common we hear of; fear aggression gives the owner and society the impression that the dog has had something terrible occur in its lifetime and therefore should be protected. When other factors play into the fear that cannot be recognized by the owner. For instance, a general lack of proper socialization at key periods in the dogs life can severely affect how that dog will react to new situations, people, and other dogs/animals. This does not automatically mean that the dog is fear aggressive.
This article is being written today to give you a bit of insight into the world of canine behavior. Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. is the canine behaviorist for Denver Dog Works and oversees all of our behavioral modification clients. He has written more in-depth articles regarding this subject.
Again, this article is being written to peak your interest and help you in researching proper routes of action for your dog. Always consult with a canine behaviorist and your veterinarian if you experience any signs of aggressive behavior.
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 | Animal law | Dog Law
__________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele also co-hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
Aggression is defined as follows:
1 : a forceful action or procedure (as an unprovoked attack) especially when intended to dominate or master 2 : the practice of making attacks or encroachments; especially : unprovoked violation by one country of the territorial integrity of another 3 : hostile, injurious, or destructive behavior or outlook especially when caused by frustration
citation: Merriam-Webster
Aggression is defined as behavior aimed at causing harm or pain, psychological harm, or personal injury or physical distraction. An important aspect of aggressive behavior is the intention underlying the actor's behavior. Not all behaviors resulting in harm are considered aggression. For example, a doctor who makes an injection that harms people, but who did so with the intent of preventing the further spread of illness, is not considered to have committed an aggressive act.
Aggression can be direct or indirect, active or passive, and physical or verbal. Using these categories, human aggression can be grouped into eight classes of behavior:
Punching the victim (direct, active, physical)
Insulting the victim (direct, active, verbal)
Performing a practical joke, setting a booby trap (direct, passive, physical)
Spreading malicious gossip (direct, passive, verbal)
Obstructing passage, participating in a sit-in (indirect, active, physical)
Refusing to speak (indirect, active, verbal)
Refusing to perform a necessary task (indirect, passive, physical)
Direct aggression, especially physically active aggression, is more common among animals. Actors who express indirect aggression usually feel less satisfaction, but they are also less concerned about retaliation. Passive and indirect aggression is the least noxious form. Subordinates rebelling against authority figures often use it. In the family relation it is often used by children against their parents. http://social.jrank.org
The above refer to aggression as defined by humans and in human behavior. We are consulting with more and more clients who describe their dogs as being aggressive solely based on the definitions listed above. This is dangerous ground to be on. Working with your veterinarian as well as a behaviorist can reduce the labeling effects humans place onto their animals. Aggressiveness in dogs is a multi-faceted complex diagnosis.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual behavior problems in dogs and aggressive behaviors lists thirteen types of aggression as well as explanations and treatments. Simply identifying your dog with a behavioral problem such as the most common we hear of; fear aggression gives the owner and society the impression that the dog has had something terrible occur in its lifetime and therefore should be protected. When other factors play into the fear that cannot be recognized by the owner. For instance, a general lack of proper socialization at key periods in the dogs life can severely affect how that dog will react to new situations, people, and other dogs/animals. This does not automatically mean that the dog is fear aggressive.
This article is being written today to give you a bit of insight into the world of canine behavior. Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. is the canine behaviorist for Denver Dog Works and oversees all of our behavioral modification clients. He has written more in-depth articles regarding this subject.
Again, this article is being written to peak your interest and help you in researching proper routes of action for your dog. Always consult with a canine behaviorist and your veterinarian if you experience any signs of aggressive behavior.
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 | Animal law | Dog Law
__________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele also co-hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Sunday, April 25, 2010
K-9 Communication by Al Magaw
K-9 Communication
by Al Magaw
I think every dog owner has experienced incidents when their dog seems to know, without being told, when the owner is going to be doing something that the pet will be involved in. Much of this recognition can be put down to clues like a break in routine, body language, verbalization, etc. There are times, though, when none of the above apply. Times like a Saturday morning when the owner gets up at the same hour as normal, puts on the same clothes as normal, goes through the same routine as they do the rest of the week, yet the dog is filled with excitement because they "know" they are going too. There has been no verbalization, no change in routine, yet the dog knows. How is this possible? I've always wondered about this phenomena. I didn't pursue this line of thought though, even when I was demonstrating how my dog would do tricks as I silently read a list of tricks scribbled on a scrap of paper. I did my best to not move my body, nor give any clue, even avoiding eye contact, but "Cylus" would reliably roll over, sit up, speak, etc., as I read what ever trick was written on the list. It made a great parlour trick to show off to friends and family, but it wasn't until I got my little border collie, "Quick" that it dawned on me that this phenomenon of silent communication went much further than a parlour trick.
Many mushers have experienced having leaders that would go down the wrong trail, perhaps a dangerous one, no matter what command was being given. The common advice given is to keep your thoughts on the trail you want to be on, rather than the one you don't. I've heard mushers claim that all they have to do is to picture in their mind what trail they want to travel without giving a command, and that's where their "in tune" leader will go. Many obedience trainers will advise "picturing" the behavior you want from your dog, rather than fearing the behavior you don't want.
To get back to "Quick". Quick was a rescue from the pound. I've always admired the intelligence of the border collie, the dedication to the job they have, their alertness and awareness of what's going on, but I had no expectations of what was going to happen with Quick. Quick assumed the job as caretaker of the kennel, a self imposed job that she has dutifully fulfilled for the past 13-years. She treats the kennel dogs as her charges, much as a dog like her would be expected to treat a herd of sheep. Not only does Quick do her best to keep order in the kennel, and does her best to help bring dogs from the kennel to the hook-up area, she has brought loose dogs back to the truck when we were traveling. Quick never leaves the kennel to follow a team when we're training at home. When we return from a run, she goes up the side of the team with me as I give each dog a pet and a "good dog" for a job well done. Quick will nuzzle an ear as I give each dog a pet, as if she too was saying "good dog". That is until we come to a dog that screwed up on the run. To me, once we are home, every dog is a "good dog" and they all get their pet, yet Quick will start to scold and nag that dog with a series of sharp yips and barks. How she knows what a dog did on the trail, I could only surmise. It took a friend of mine to point out the most remarkable thing about Quick and the sled dogs though. Occasionally, Quick will scold a dog on it's way from the kennel to the hook-up area, and sure enough THAT dog will screw up during the run! That's when I realized that dogs have a way of communicating well beyond mere words. Not only are they able to silently communicate complex things, they have an awareness of the future, and can make plans and follow through with those plans.
Some humans have admirable intuitions about people or events. Watching my dogs for all these years has made me wonder if what is commonly called "intuition" is a vestige of what animals do all the time, much as our tail bone is a vestige of a tail.
We would love to hear your comments regarding this article. Please let us know at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Al Magaw | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
____________________
Al Magaw is a musher from Salmo BC. Al keeps a medium sized kennel of 20 - 45 alaskan huskies as well as several pet dogs of various breeds. Al has been training and racing for the last 33 years. Before becoming involved with sled dogs, Al, along with his family, kept and competed with horses for many years. Al can be reached through his website at http://www.spiritofthenorthkennels.com Al is a guest blogger for Denver Dog Works and can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
by Al Magaw
I think every dog owner has experienced incidents when their dog seems to know, without being told, when the owner is going to be doing something that the pet will be involved in. Much of this recognition can be put down to clues like a break in routine, body language, verbalization, etc. There are times, though, when none of the above apply. Times like a Saturday morning when the owner gets up at the same hour as normal, puts on the same clothes as normal, goes through the same routine as they do the rest of the week, yet the dog is filled with excitement because they "know" they are going too. There has been no verbalization, no change in routine, yet the dog knows. How is this possible? I've always wondered about this phenomena. I didn't pursue this line of thought though, even when I was demonstrating how my dog would do tricks as I silently read a list of tricks scribbled on a scrap of paper. I did my best to not move my body, nor give any clue, even avoiding eye contact, but "Cylus" would reliably roll over, sit up, speak, etc., as I read what ever trick was written on the list. It made a great parlour trick to show off to friends and family, but it wasn't until I got my little border collie, "Quick" that it dawned on me that this phenomenon of silent communication went much further than a parlour trick.
Many mushers have experienced having leaders that would go down the wrong trail, perhaps a dangerous one, no matter what command was being given. The common advice given is to keep your thoughts on the trail you want to be on, rather than the one you don't. I've heard mushers claim that all they have to do is to picture in their mind what trail they want to travel without giving a command, and that's where their "in tune" leader will go. Many obedience trainers will advise "picturing" the behavior you want from your dog, rather than fearing the behavior you don't want.
To get back to "Quick". Quick was a rescue from the pound. I've always admired the intelligence of the border collie, the dedication to the job they have, their alertness and awareness of what's going on, but I had no expectations of what was going to happen with Quick. Quick assumed the job as caretaker of the kennel, a self imposed job that she has dutifully fulfilled for the past 13-years. She treats the kennel dogs as her charges, much as a dog like her would be expected to treat a herd of sheep. Not only does Quick do her best to keep order in the kennel, and does her best to help bring dogs from the kennel to the hook-up area, she has brought loose dogs back to the truck when we were traveling. Quick never leaves the kennel to follow a team when we're training at home. When we return from a run, she goes up the side of the team with me as I give each dog a pet and a "good dog" for a job well done. Quick will nuzzle an ear as I give each dog a pet, as if she too was saying "good dog". That is until we come to a dog that screwed up on the run. To me, once we are home, every dog is a "good dog" and they all get their pet, yet Quick will start to scold and nag that dog with a series of sharp yips and barks. How she knows what a dog did on the trail, I could only surmise. It took a friend of mine to point out the most remarkable thing about Quick and the sled dogs though. Occasionally, Quick will scold a dog on it's way from the kennel to the hook-up area, and sure enough THAT dog will screw up during the run! That's when I realized that dogs have a way of communicating well beyond mere words. Not only are they able to silently communicate complex things, they have an awareness of the future, and can make plans and follow through with those plans.
Some humans have admirable intuitions about people or events. Watching my dogs for all these years has made me wonder if what is commonly called "intuition" is a vestige of what animals do all the time, much as our tail bone is a vestige of a tail.
We would love to hear your comments regarding this article. Please let us know at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Al Magaw | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
____________________
Al Magaw is a musher from Salmo BC. Al keeps a medium sized kennel of 20 - 45 alaskan huskies as well as several pet dogs of various breeds. Al has been training and racing for the last 33 years. Before becoming involved with sled dogs, Al, along with his family, kept and competed with horses for many years. Al can be reached through his website at http://www.spiritofthenorthkennels.com Al is a guest blogger for Denver Dog Works and can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, April 15, 2010
A Day of Fasting (Raw Diet for Dogs)
A Day of Fasting
By Leah Morse
This is a part 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.
It is important to discuss fasting. After much of what I have read, whether on the internet, one of many books or other resources. It is highly recommended that a day of fasting is very beneficial (except growing puppies or pregnant/lactating females.) This, by far, was a the hardest concept that I considered when choosing raw diet. It took me a while to actually practice fasting with my adult dogs. How could I fast my dogs for 24 hours. They were better than alarm clocks when it came to feeding time. The Daylight Savings switch over and back means nothing to my dogs, days off and sleeping in have no meaning to my dogs. How is this going to be possible, without our peace being severely disturbed by our hungry dogs? It was easier than we thought.
The purpose of the fast is to help clear out the digestive system for a fresh start. Fasting occurs naturally in carnivores. The day after a fast is a good time to feed a less desirable food, my dogs are not big spinach fans so this is added to their meat and bones the day after a fast.
Things that we do to help our dogs get through a fast. We always fast our dogs Friday night through Saturday morning (we generally feed twice a day) as this is the very busiest time of the week for us. Friday night we are busy working, coming home and then leaving again. Saturday’s are full of classes and dog training. Choosing the busiest time of our week really helps as our routine is disrupted. I will occasionally give some cooked veggies to help the adults when I have to feed the puppy as puppies should not be fasted.
Saturday afternoon I will give them a nice raw knuckle bone. King Soopers has been a good supplier of these and lately they have been cut in half which helps the dog get to the marrow. It is a good idea to give veggies with it though as they can get constipated with just bone and marrow.
We also play with our dogs between the hustle and bustle of Friday to Saturday. It has worked out really well as our dogs do not seem to be stressed or act like they are deprived. Finding an activity that your dog’s live for is very helpful. The world does not exist when the Frisbee comes out for Story our adult female. So Frisbee is part our Saturday routine.
9 Benefits of fasting (as reported by doggy bytes http://doggybytes.ca/9-health-benefits-fasting-dog/2266/)
Conserves energy
Revitalizes
Relaxes and energizes the body and mind
Rests the digestive organs
Improves the senses
Reduces allergies
Builds resistance to disease
Detoxifies
Optimizes health
Last but not least, our attitudes make a big difference when it comes to fasting or other changes in the routine. The less we let on that we are impacted the more our dogs take what we do or don’t do in stride. If we act as if fasting is the norm and don’t give attention for attempts, on the dog’s part, to solicit food, the solicitation will not last long. Especially of the demands are redirected to training or play. Keeping ourselves upbeat instead of apologetic is the best help of all. Our dogs trust us and accept willingly the change in feeding schedule.
Tags: Leah Morse | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Therapy Dog Denver
________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah Can also be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Leah Morse
This is a part 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.
It is important to discuss fasting. After much of what I have read, whether on the internet, one of many books or other resources. It is highly recommended that a day of fasting is very beneficial (except growing puppies or pregnant/lactating females.) This, by far, was a the hardest concept that I considered when choosing raw diet. It took me a while to actually practice fasting with my adult dogs. How could I fast my dogs for 24 hours. They were better than alarm clocks when it came to feeding time. The Daylight Savings switch over and back means nothing to my dogs, days off and sleeping in have no meaning to my dogs. How is this going to be possible, without our peace being severely disturbed by our hungry dogs? It was easier than we thought.
The purpose of the fast is to help clear out the digestive system for a fresh start. Fasting occurs naturally in carnivores. The day after a fast is a good time to feed a less desirable food, my dogs are not big spinach fans so this is added to their meat and bones the day after a fast.
Things that we do to help our dogs get through a fast. We always fast our dogs Friday night through Saturday morning (we generally feed twice a day) as this is the very busiest time of the week for us. Friday night we are busy working, coming home and then leaving again. Saturday’s are full of classes and dog training. Choosing the busiest time of our week really helps as our routine is disrupted. I will occasionally give some cooked veggies to help the adults when I have to feed the puppy as puppies should not be fasted.
Saturday afternoon I will give them a nice raw knuckle bone. King Soopers has been a good supplier of these and lately they have been cut in half which helps the dog get to the marrow. It is a good idea to give veggies with it though as they can get constipated with just bone and marrow.
We also play with our dogs between the hustle and bustle of Friday to Saturday. It has worked out really well as our dogs do not seem to be stressed or act like they are deprived. Finding an activity that your dog’s live for is very helpful. The world does not exist when the Frisbee comes out for Story our adult female. So Frisbee is part our Saturday routine.
9 Benefits of fasting (as reported by doggy bytes http://doggybytes.ca/9-health-benefits-fasting-dog/2266/)
Conserves energy
Revitalizes
Relaxes and energizes the body and mind
Rests the digestive organs
Improves the senses
Reduces allergies
Builds resistance to disease
Detoxifies
Optimizes health
Last but not least, our attitudes make a big difference when it comes to fasting or other changes in the routine. The less we let on that we are impacted the more our dogs take what we do or don’t do in stride. If we act as if fasting is the norm and don’t give attention for attempts, on the dog’s part, to solicit food, the solicitation will not last long. Especially of the demands are redirected to training or play. Keeping ourselves upbeat instead of apologetic is the best help of all. Our dogs trust us and accept willingly the change in feeding schedule.
Tags: Leah Morse | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Therapy Dog Denver
________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah Can also be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Who Are These Dogs That Pull Sleds? Other Northern Breeds
Who are These Dogs That Pull Sleds? Other Northern Breeds
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 haveto 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.
Other Northern Breeds
Other purebred Northern breeds have been used on dog teams, but mostly in Europe, include the Japanese Akita, the Norwegian Elkhound, the Finnish Spitz and the Canadian and Greenland Eskimo Dogs. Only the first three are recognized by the American Kennel Club, but all are recognized by other international kennel clubs such as the Canadian Kennel Club, Federation Cynologique Internationale, The United Kennel Club and The Swiss Club for Northern Dogs. The Akita is large for a racing sled dog, averaging 26 ½ inches and 85 to 110 pounds, but have a double coat, tough feet and a love to work that enables them to pull well in cold climates. The Akita is a versatile dog used for sentry duty, guiding the blind, protecting children and homes, hunting everything from bears to ducks and companionship. On the Northern Japanese Island of Hokkaidó the Akita is used for sled work. In Europe he has pulled in Scandinavian-style races and in California he has been trained in front of wheeled rigs for racing.
The Norwegian Elkhound resembles a small, stocky husky. At 20 ½ inches and 50 pounds he is smaller than the Siberian, and not as speedy over long distances. The Elkhound was bred in Norway for tracking and hunting. He is a bold, powerful, agile, fast, dignified, independent animal. He is amenable to intelligent training, serving as a popular “pulk” dog in Norway. The Finnish Spitz has been used as a sled dog, but more popular as a pet. The Canadian and Greenland Eskimo dogs are rarely seen on racing teams. Roald Amundsen took one hundred Greenland huskies with him on his successful South Pole expedition of 1910-12. Much to the expense of the dogs, many died along the expedition mostly due to lack of training and sometimes were even used as food for the explorers.
Next Week: The Alaskan Husky
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver |Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_______________________
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
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 haveto 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.
Other Northern Breeds
Other purebred Northern breeds have been used on dog teams, but mostly in Europe, include the Japanese Akita, the Norwegian Elkhound, the Finnish Spitz and the Canadian and Greenland Eskimo Dogs. Only the first three are recognized by the American Kennel Club, but all are recognized by other international kennel clubs such as the Canadian Kennel Club, Federation Cynologique Internationale, The United Kennel Club and The Swiss Club for Northern Dogs. The Akita is large for a racing sled dog, averaging 26 ½ inches and 85 to 110 pounds, but have a double coat, tough feet and a love to work that enables them to pull well in cold climates. The Akita is a versatile dog used for sentry duty, guiding the blind, protecting children and homes, hunting everything from bears to ducks and companionship. On the Northern Japanese Island of Hokkaidó the Akita is used for sled work. In Europe he has pulled in Scandinavian-style races and in California he has been trained in front of wheeled rigs for racing.
The Norwegian Elkhound resembles a small, stocky husky. At 20 ½ inches and 50 pounds he is smaller than the Siberian, and not as speedy over long distances. The Elkhound was bred in Norway for tracking and hunting. He is a bold, powerful, agile, fast, dignified, independent animal. He is amenable to intelligent training, serving as a popular “pulk” dog in Norway. The Finnish Spitz has been used as a sled dog, but more popular as a pet. The Canadian and Greenland Eskimo dogs are rarely seen on racing teams. Roald Amundsen took one hundred Greenland huskies with him on his successful South Pole expedition of 1910-12. Much to the expense of the dogs, many died along the expedition mostly due to lack of training and sometimes were even used as food for the explorers.
Next Week: The Alaskan Husky
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver |Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_______________________
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
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Denver Dog Works Internship Opportunity
Denver Dog Works Internship Opportunity –Posted April 10, 2010
Denver Dog Works is an industry leader in the professional canine training industry worldwide. Clients range from private individuals, rescue groups, private companies to local and state governments. An internship at DDW is an intensive mix of practical business experience (work), menial tasks, and opportunities not generally afforded to anyone with the intern’s level of experience in the industry. A successful intern will be motivated, positive, seek to volunteer for tasks to assist the senior staff, and shall be included in every facet of the business. A successful intern understands that sacrifices of time are inherent in the internship and that as the intern progresses in the program more freedom and preferred assignments shall be earned by hard work and a positive proactive attitude. Short term sacrifice leads to long term preparation at a level beyond what is generally afforded students in the dog training industry. Interns shall receive the benefits of:
1. First consideration among qualified applicants should a trainer position become open at DDW.
2. Recommendations from industry leading trainers, commensurate with performance during the internship, to other professional training facilities for employment.
3. Opportunity to receive a certified canine obedience instructor certificate upon completion of the internship and examination requirements at a reduced rate of our regular tuition.
4. Opportunities to network and interact with students, instructors, trainers, and clients of DDW.
5. Opportunities to work on projects relevant to the marketing of training services.
6. Opportunities to learn sales techniques germane to the canine industry.
7. Opportunities to attend cost free, seminars and other events ongoing at DDW.
8. Compensation is afforded as a contract trainer once qualifications are met.
Hours of internship will vary with needs and the opportunities afforded the intern. There will be one scheduled day off per week. Adjustments to the schedule will be made through direct superior. You must commit to one year of internship, where other outside interests and distractions shall all be of secondary concern relative to the opportunity to build the beginning foundation of your career in the canine industry. If you are not willing to make this commitment, at this level, for one year, you need not apply. Should you commit, you will learn, specifically:
Pet dog training and all relevant facets of the pet dog industry. As time and business requirements permit, you shall cover as much dog training programs as possible including service dog training and placement, canine sports, pet dog training and behavioral modification.
Learn curriculum from our canine career course to include hands on and lecture, Interaction with pet dog clients, training pet dogs from start to finish. Included in business and marketing aspects of the business.
You will be used in the kennels as needed. This need shall be determined solely by your superiors. The intent is to have kennel staff work the majority of kennel hours weekly, but for each intern to spend around 20-hours a week in the kennels. This will go up and down with staff and business requirement changes.
If interested please forward a complete resume, cover letter, and three professional references to:
Dr. Robert Forto, Training Director: train@denverdogworks.com Tel: 303-578-9881
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
Denver Dog Works is an industry leader in the professional canine training industry worldwide. Clients range from private individuals, rescue groups, private companies to local and state governments. An internship at DDW is an intensive mix of practical business experience (work), menial tasks, and opportunities not generally afforded to anyone with the intern’s level of experience in the industry. A successful intern will be motivated, positive, seek to volunteer for tasks to assist the senior staff, and shall be included in every facet of the business. A successful intern understands that sacrifices of time are inherent in the internship and that as the intern progresses in the program more freedom and preferred assignments shall be earned by hard work and a positive proactive attitude. Short term sacrifice leads to long term preparation at a level beyond what is generally afforded students in the dog training industry. Interns shall receive the benefits of:
1. First consideration among qualified applicants should a trainer position become open at DDW.
2. Recommendations from industry leading trainers, commensurate with performance during the internship, to other professional training facilities for employment.
3. Opportunity to receive a certified canine obedience instructor certificate upon completion of the internship and examination requirements at a reduced rate of our regular tuition.
4. Opportunities to network and interact with students, instructors, trainers, and clients of DDW.
5. Opportunities to work on projects relevant to the marketing of training services.
6. Opportunities to learn sales techniques germane to the canine industry.
7. Opportunities to attend cost free, seminars and other events ongoing at DDW.
8. Compensation is afforded as a contract trainer once qualifications are met.
Hours of internship will vary with needs and the opportunities afforded the intern. There will be one scheduled day off per week. Adjustments to the schedule will be made through direct superior. You must commit to one year of internship, where other outside interests and distractions shall all be of secondary concern relative to the opportunity to build the beginning foundation of your career in the canine industry. If you are not willing to make this commitment, at this level, for one year, you need not apply. Should you commit, you will learn, specifically:
Pet dog training and all relevant facets of the pet dog industry. As time and business requirements permit, you shall cover as much dog training programs as possible including service dog training and placement, canine sports, pet dog training and behavioral modification.
Learn curriculum from our canine career course to include hands on and lecture, Interaction with pet dog clients, training pet dogs from start to finish. Included in business and marketing aspects of the business.
You will be used in the kennels as needed. This need shall be determined solely by your superiors. The intent is to have kennel staff work the majority of kennel hours weekly, but for each intern to spend around 20-hours a week in the kennels. This will go up and down with staff and business requirement changes.
If interested please forward a complete resume, cover letter, and three professional references to:
Dr. Robert Forto, Training Director: train@denverdogworks.com Tel: 303-578-9881
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
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Raw Diet and "Legend"
Raw Diet and “Legend”
By Leah Morse
This is a part 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.
November 13th, 2010 we received our most recent boxer, Legend. He was eight weeks old and delivered from Georgia after much research. This would be my first little puppy on raw diet; Story was almost a year old when I made the switch to raw. I could not imagine the puppy teeth and still developing jaws of an eight week old getting through bones. I am very lucky to have access to a good friend that could get large quantities of chicken necks ground up. We asked for about 20-pounds that we divided into half pound baggies and froze. The small portions were easy to handle on a daily basis. Though the breeder did her due diligence and sent the Eukanuba puppy food he had been eating we switched him onto raw immediately. There would not be any gradual change as I had read that it was not good to combine cooked with raw (except vegetables). Processed dog food is most definitely cooked.
The first day we offered the ground chicken necks to Legend. He was not sure what to do with it. We doctored it with a little bit of plain Horizon yogurt and just a sprinkle of the mixed supplement powder. I literally had to spoon feed him in the beginning, which I liked to do to help him want hands near his food bowl. Lots of encouragement from us with the spoon feeding (he had never had mushy food like this before) and he ate a decent small amount for his first feeding. Out to the potty area and Legend eliminated normal stool, even after the trauma of being taken from home and brought to a strange new house, strange new people and even weirder food.
We continued to feed the ground chicken necks to him through the next few days. He started to anticipate and get excited about it. Again, normal stool with white specks of digested bone with no sign of diarrhea was all that was found. We would give him raw hamburger meat periodically but thankfully (as beef is so much more expensive) Legend really preferred his ground chicken.
We started to see him grow and put on a little weight (a little weight is key as you do not want to grow puppies too fast!) At 11-weeks, it was time for another vaccination and a de-wormer. Ok now we had some diarrhea after the de-wormer but only for a day or so then back to normal stool.
I had never had a young puppy that had such consistent normal stool. Usually they would have episodes here and there but not Legend. His puppy hair started to become extremely shiny, His eyes were bright and he had the typical puppy energy.
At about 16-weeks I started to cut up chicken wings (separate into 3 sections) for Legend. I was amazed at how easily I could cut through them with kitchen scissors. Legend had no problem eating the wing pieces. I stayed with him and watched for several days to be sure he did not choke on them. Again, normal stool no problems.
Legend is now seven months old and getting ready for his first conformation show. He has developed nicely on raw diet. He has the silky high gloss coat that my adults have. He sheds very little and his red fawn coat has taken to a deep shiny red. As with my adults, he is a pleasure to touch as his fur is so silky.
I am very pleased with the results and have absolutely no regrets of starting a very young puppy on a Raw Diet.
Tags: Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine
_____________________
Leah Morse is the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine and a certified canine trainer. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works.
By Leah Morse
This is a part 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.
November 13th, 2010 we received our most recent boxer, Legend. He was eight weeks old and delivered from Georgia after much research. This would be my first little puppy on raw diet; Story was almost a year old when I made the switch to raw. I could not imagine the puppy teeth and still developing jaws of an eight week old getting through bones. I am very lucky to have access to a good friend that could get large quantities of chicken necks ground up. We asked for about 20-pounds that we divided into half pound baggies and froze. The small portions were easy to handle on a daily basis. Though the breeder did her due diligence and sent the Eukanuba puppy food he had been eating we switched him onto raw immediately. There would not be any gradual change as I had read that it was not good to combine cooked with raw (except vegetables). Processed dog food is most definitely cooked.
The first day we offered the ground chicken necks to Legend. He was not sure what to do with it. We doctored it with a little bit of plain Horizon yogurt and just a sprinkle of the mixed supplement powder. I literally had to spoon feed him in the beginning, which I liked to do to help him want hands near his food bowl. Lots of encouragement from us with the spoon feeding (he had never had mushy food like this before) and he ate a decent small amount for his first feeding. Out to the potty area and Legend eliminated normal stool, even after the trauma of being taken from home and brought to a strange new house, strange new people and even weirder food.
We continued to feed the ground chicken necks to him through the next few days. He started to anticipate and get excited about it. Again, normal stool with white specks of digested bone with no sign of diarrhea was all that was found. We would give him raw hamburger meat periodically but thankfully (as beef is so much more expensive) Legend really preferred his ground chicken.
We started to see him grow and put on a little weight (a little weight is key as you do not want to grow puppies too fast!) At 11-weeks, it was time for another vaccination and a de-wormer. Ok now we had some diarrhea after the de-wormer but only for a day or so then back to normal stool.
I had never had a young puppy that had such consistent normal stool. Usually they would have episodes here and there but not Legend. His puppy hair started to become extremely shiny, His eyes were bright and he had the typical puppy energy.
At about 16-weeks I started to cut up chicken wings (separate into 3 sections) for Legend. I was amazed at how easily I could cut through them with kitchen scissors. Legend had no problem eating the wing pieces. I stayed with him and watched for several days to be sure he did not choke on them. Again, normal stool no problems.
Legend is now seven months old and getting ready for his first conformation show. He has developed nicely on raw diet. He has the silky high gloss coat that my adults have. He sheds very little and his red fawn coat has taken to a deep shiny red. As with my adults, he is a pleasure to touch as his fur is so silky.
I am very pleased with the results and have absolutely no regrets of starting a very young puppy on a Raw Diet.
Tags: Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine
_____________________
Leah Morse is the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine and a certified canine trainer. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Game On!
Game On!
By Michele Forto
In our private basic obedience classes at Denver Dog Works we address commands such as; sit, come, stay, down, wait, and loose leash walking. These commands are outlined for you on homework sheets and you are shown how to teach your dog these commands. It’s a simple concept. After about eight weeks you are invited to try out your new skills in a group setting. Group is set up to test your new skills, your dogs’ new skills and your ability as a “team” to remain focused. Some of our students are invited to group class after just two private classes because they are already showing focus as a team.
Every once in a while we notice that our teams aren’t having fun, they have reached a plateau in their training and they are no longer having fun. This goes for the dog and their handler. That’s when we remind our handlers why they got a dog in the first place. Dogs are fun! Teaching them to be obedient is supposed to be fun too. Obedience classes can be stressful not only to your dog who is now being asked to sit when you say, but to you as well. There will be times when you ask your dog to sit and they will just flat refuse. Remember our article “Win All Games”; and choose how to win the game.
Part of our job as trainers is to teach you how to identify when your dog is no longer learning. We do this by constantly observing his behavior during play, training, and just by how they are interacting with you. Your dog will tell you when they don’t like something, tell you when they are stressed, and they will tell you when they just want to goof off. No they won’t speak it to you but they will communicate by using their body language.
Say for instance, you notice that your dog is refusing to do commands that you know full and well he is capable of performing the first time you ask. Do not become compulsive in your training style here, instead take a moment and think about the energy you are putting off, change your attitude, uplift your spirits and see if your dog reacts. If he still is refusing to perform the commands you are asking him to do then turn your training session into a game.
A simple game of come, yes come can be a game. We have spoken about fetch being a great way to teach your dog while having fun, but there are times when fetch turns into keep-away because your dog isn’t in the mood to get a ball for you.
Here’s how we do it: while on leash at first to maintain control, sit/stay your dog and then go six feet in front of him, call him to you in the happiest voice you can muster, as he approaches you give him the sit hand signal and then praise. Repeat four or five times and then begin dropping the leash and adding distance. You are in constant motion moving backwards and your dog is in constant motion moving forward. We utilize treats, toys, or just ourselves during this game. If this is not something you do with your dog often it will surprise him and he will become more receptive to doing those commands that he was refusing to do. Sit is easy, what if he is refusing to do down, no problem, when he comes to you ask him to sit and then down and then return him to sit before leaving him again.
After about ten minutes of this you and your dog will have completed a great training session that has worked on sit, down, stay, and come. Viola! It’s that easy! So we challenge you to get up off that coach and challenge your dog to a game. Game On!
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
________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
In our private basic obedience classes at Denver Dog Works we address commands such as; sit, come, stay, down, wait, and loose leash walking. These commands are outlined for you on homework sheets and you are shown how to teach your dog these commands. It’s a simple concept. After about eight weeks you are invited to try out your new skills in a group setting. Group is set up to test your new skills, your dogs’ new skills and your ability as a “team” to remain focused. Some of our students are invited to group class after just two private classes because they are already showing focus as a team.
Every once in a while we notice that our teams aren’t having fun, they have reached a plateau in their training and they are no longer having fun. This goes for the dog and their handler. That’s when we remind our handlers why they got a dog in the first place. Dogs are fun! Teaching them to be obedient is supposed to be fun too. Obedience classes can be stressful not only to your dog who is now being asked to sit when you say, but to you as well. There will be times when you ask your dog to sit and they will just flat refuse. Remember our article “Win All Games”; and choose how to win the game.
Part of our job as trainers is to teach you how to identify when your dog is no longer learning. We do this by constantly observing his behavior during play, training, and just by how they are interacting with you. Your dog will tell you when they don’t like something, tell you when they are stressed, and they will tell you when they just want to goof off. No they won’t speak it to you but they will communicate by using their body language.
Say for instance, you notice that your dog is refusing to do commands that you know full and well he is capable of performing the first time you ask. Do not become compulsive in your training style here, instead take a moment and think about the energy you are putting off, change your attitude, uplift your spirits and see if your dog reacts. If he still is refusing to perform the commands you are asking him to do then turn your training session into a game.
A simple game of come, yes come can be a game. We have spoken about fetch being a great way to teach your dog while having fun, but there are times when fetch turns into keep-away because your dog isn’t in the mood to get a ball for you.
Here’s how we do it: while on leash at first to maintain control, sit/stay your dog and then go six feet in front of him, call him to you in the happiest voice you can muster, as he approaches you give him the sit hand signal and then praise. Repeat four or five times and then begin dropping the leash and adding distance. You are in constant motion moving backwards and your dog is in constant motion moving forward. We utilize treats, toys, or just ourselves during this game. If this is not something you do with your dog often it will surprise him and he will become more receptive to doing those commands that he was refusing to do. Sit is easy, what if he is refusing to do down, no problem, when he comes to you ask him to sit and then down and then return him to sit before leaving him again.
After about ten minutes of this you and your dog will have completed a great training session that has worked on sit, down, stay, and come. Viola! It’s that easy! So we challenge you to get up off that coach and challenge your dog to a game. Game On!
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
________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. 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
_______________________
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
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
_______________________
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
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.
______________________
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
________________
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
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.
______________________
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
________________
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
_______________
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
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
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
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
_______________
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
_______________
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
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
_______________
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
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