Holiday Pet Safety
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. I am asked all the time about holiday do’s and don’ts from pet owners. While I always offer an article right around Christmas about training Christmas puppies I thought it would be wise to offer some tips to pet owners on holiday safety before the season’s festivities reaches a crescendo. While most of this is common sense, it is the little things that we overlook during this busy time of the year that can turn a joyous season into a nightmare for your pet if you do not take some steps to ensure their safety.
The holiday season can get pretty hectic, and with the decorations and extra goodies around the house, there is a lot your pet can find to get into. Here are a few safety tips to help keep your pets safe and happy during the festivities:
Christmas trees
Firmly secure the tree in its stand, and consider wire or twine ties attached to the wall to help secure the tree. You’ll want to make sure the tree doesn’t topple over if, or more likely when, kitty tries to climb the tree.
Dogs and cats will often try to drink water from the reservoir in the stand. The sap from the tree itself may irritate your pet's stomach, and preservatives added to the water may be toxic. Devise a cover to fit around the base of the tree—even a towel wrapped around the trunk covering the stand will do.
Research also shows that the chemicals used in producing artificial trees contain chemicals that can be harmful or even fatal if ingested by your pet. While there are many pro’s and con’s to having a natural versus an artificial Christmas tree, this fact alone should make the decision a little easier.
Ornamentation is very attractive, especially to kittens, cats and puppies, but may be deadly. The tinsel, ribbon and glitter can cause intestinal blockages. Protect your pet by placing these items high enough to be out of reach. Packages under the tree may offer the same threat—the ribbons are just too hard to resist, and your pet may end up chewing on them while playing.
Those wonderful goodies
Holidays are the time for lots of baking, and receiving of baked gifts. These items smell just wonderful to your pet. Your dog may help himself to the candy, cookies, or part of the holiday meal if you are not looking. Eating people food may lead to indigestion, diarrhea, or worse. Remember, items containing chocolate can poison a dog, even if it is a small amount.
Remains of the holiday meal left on countertops, tables, and even in the garbage will entice your pets. If there is a way to get to it, be assured your dog will certainly try. Bones from turkey, a roast, or ham may splinter if eaten. Older garbage may even contain enough bacteria to poison a pet. Be careful where the trash is held while waiting to be disposed of.
And of course I don’t need to remind you that begging at that table can cause major behavior problems in the future…
Other Decorations
Plants, especially poinsettias, are often used for decoration in November and December. Some of these plants contain toxins that can irritate your pet’s gastrointestinal tract if chewed on or eaten. Eating enough of some plants may poison your dog or cat. In some cases it may be the leaves, in others the stem, berries, or roots. Your veterinarian or behaviorist can help guide you, or you can do a bit of research at the library or online to see if any of your holiday plants may be harmful to your pets.
Toys
On Christmas morning when all of those toys are being played with (and soon forgotten, I might add) they contain many hazards for pets. Small toys, balls, marbles, board game pieces, BB’s from the Red Rider BB gun with the compass in the stock that your son just had to have!, and electric cords are all dangerous to your cat or dog.
Taking a few minutes to set some family guidelines and spot potential safety hazards could keep this holiday season from having serious consequences for your four-footed family member.
In the coming weeks Dr. Forto will be publishing and article on training Christmas puppies. His position is that you should never give a puppy for a Christmas present but thousands are given as gifts each year. In this article Dr. Forto will discuss when to train your dog, how to properly care for him and who should be in charge. Just remember that shelters are full of dogs that were once bundles of Christmas morning joy that grew up too fast and were not trained. Dr. Forto and his certified trainers at Denver Dog Works are here to help.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic. Always consult your veterinarian or behaviorist for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is a canine behaviorist and the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Competition between Dogs
Competition between Dogs
By Robert Forto, PhD
When animals live together in close social groups such as a sled dog kennel, they often compete for limited resources and dominance of the dog pack. These situations create the need for social communication systems. If the dogs in the kennel do not communicate with each other, the competition is unregulated and uncontrolled. If there is no control over the competition the dogs waste time in pointless fighting and the risk of injury is greater for those dogs competing for those resources. One of Robert Forto’s dogs, Muffassa, would constantly be getting into fights over the daily food ration. It came to the point where human intervention was required to save this dog’s life. Communication systems have been developed for regulating such a conflict. Techniques such as threat and submissive displays make fighting less frequent, less disruptive, and less severe. If fighting is a problem in a sled dog kennel, then it will be the musher’s number one priority to find a solution to this problem. If the dogs fight at home, then they will surely fight at a race, which can cause severe consequences to both the musher and the team.
When dogs live in large social groups, such as a sled dog kennel, they can present significant problems to their environment. To prevent such problems, groups develop a territory for themselves and organize their groups with a definite hierarchy. The groups are maintained by a variety of auditory, visual, and olfactory signals.
Establishing a Territory
Wolves in the wild look as if to establish a territory and define an area through urine marking and vocalization. Sled dogs appear do the same thing. As males mature they begin to mark their kennel areas and their places on the dog truck to define their space.
If the wolves detect other wolves intruding on their territory they will threaten or attack the intruder if necessary. Establishing and defending a territory helps wolves to spread themselves over a wider geographical area, thereby preventing over-hunting, which results in a reduction in the number of prey animals.
Competition between individuals in the same group is regulated through the use of threat and submissive displays. The most easily recognized social communication displays are those associated with threat and submission. With sled dogs, threat displays may involve alpha takedowns, growling or snapping, and urinating in the water bowls and other the more subordinate dog’s faces.
Establishing a Dominance Hierarchy
Establishing a territory in the wild puts some distance between groups, which in turn helps to regulate excessive competition and conflict over environmental resources. Establishing a dominance hierarchy within a sled dog kennel will put distance between the individual members in terms of social rank or status. Social harmony between animals living in groups depends on a fine balance between competition and cooperation. Excessive conflict and strife between members of a social group will gradually cause the group to dissolve. Communicating through highly ritualized threat and submissive displays allows competitive animals to interact and cooperate with one another in relative harmony.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers and is the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
When animals live together in close social groups such as a sled dog kennel, they often compete for limited resources and dominance of the dog pack. These situations create the need for social communication systems. If the dogs in the kennel do not communicate with each other, the competition is unregulated and uncontrolled. If there is no control over the competition the dogs waste time in pointless fighting and the risk of injury is greater for those dogs competing for those resources. One of Robert Forto’s dogs, Muffassa, would constantly be getting into fights over the daily food ration. It came to the point where human intervention was required to save this dog’s life. Communication systems have been developed for regulating such a conflict. Techniques such as threat and submissive displays make fighting less frequent, less disruptive, and less severe. If fighting is a problem in a sled dog kennel, then it will be the musher’s number one priority to find a solution to this problem. If the dogs fight at home, then they will surely fight at a race, which can cause severe consequences to both the musher and the team.
When dogs live in large social groups, such as a sled dog kennel, they can present significant problems to their environment. To prevent such problems, groups develop a territory for themselves and organize their groups with a definite hierarchy. The groups are maintained by a variety of auditory, visual, and olfactory signals.
Establishing a Territory
Wolves in the wild look as if to establish a territory and define an area through urine marking and vocalization. Sled dogs appear do the same thing. As males mature they begin to mark their kennel areas and their places on the dog truck to define their space.
If the wolves detect other wolves intruding on their territory they will threaten or attack the intruder if necessary. Establishing and defending a territory helps wolves to spread themselves over a wider geographical area, thereby preventing over-hunting, which results in a reduction in the number of prey animals.
Competition between individuals in the same group is regulated through the use of threat and submissive displays. The most easily recognized social communication displays are those associated with threat and submission. With sled dogs, threat displays may involve alpha takedowns, growling or snapping, and urinating in the water bowls and other the more subordinate dog’s faces.
Establishing a Dominance Hierarchy
Establishing a territory in the wild puts some distance between groups, which in turn helps to regulate excessive competition and conflict over environmental resources. Establishing a dominance hierarchy within a sled dog kennel will put distance between the individual members in terms of social rank or status. Social harmony between animals living in groups depends on a fine balance between competition and cooperation. Excessive conflict and strife between members of a social group will gradually cause the group to dissolve. Communicating through highly ritualized threat and submissive displays allows competitive animals to interact and cooperate with one another in relative harmony.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers and is the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Monday, December 7, 2009
Canine C.P.R.
Canine C.P.R.
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. We specialize in canine sports and working dogs. Our training school is not like any other in the Denver area. We train your dog after he already has manners (well, we train for that too) and provide you and your dog “fun” and “challenging” avenues to build the human-canine bond. It is my opinion that every dog needs a job to do. Whether that job is competing in agility, working as a service dog, hiking in the mountains with you, just being a couch potato, or just fetching the morning paper, they need something to occupy their time. With that, dogs can get themselves into trouble, sometimes life-threatening, and you should know what to do in case of an emergency. Denver Dog Works is one of the only schools in Colorado that teaches a canine first aid and C.P.R. course. It not only teaches you how to respond in an emergency, but certifies you too!
In this article I am going to talk about canine cardio-pulmonary-resuscitation. Knowing this procedure could mean life or death for your best (furry) friend and I will attest I have used it several times on dogs over the years and it does work. I am sure that many of you have been certified from time to time in human C.P.R. at your local Red Cross chapter if you were a life-guard, a boy/girl scout, a babysitter, and myriad other jobs, but did you ever think that your dog may need this life saving procedure too? The steps in canine C.P.R. are very similar to the human counter-part but I do not advise you to expect that the techniques you learned when you were a scout will just magically come back to mind when your dog is in dire distress.
I urge all of you to read this article and sign up for our course in canine first aid and C.P.R. it could be the best decision you ever make for your dog. For more information on upcoming classes check us out at www.denverdogworks.com or give us a call at 303-522-1727 anytime.
As I said before, providing C.P.R. to a pet is very much like giving C.P.R. to a human. The same steps are followed:
A. Airway
Is there an open airway from the mouth to the lungs? Can you feel any breath passing in/out of the nose or mouth? Check the mouth by opening the jaws and pulling the tongue forward, and look for any blockages or foreign objects. Remove any foreign objects and check again for breath. If the airway is still blocked, and the pet’s mucous membranes (gums) are blue, then you may need to perform a Heimlich-like action to loosen any object that may be farther back in the throat.
B. Is the animal breathing on its own?
If no objects, food or mucus are obstructing the airway, you may begin artificial respiration. Lay the animal on its side, and gently tilt the head back. Pull the tongue forward. Close your hands around the muzzle to form as airtight a seal as possible, and place your mouth over the nostrils of the pet’s nose. Blow 4-5 breaths rapidly, then check to see if the pet begins to breathe on its own. Smaller pets will need more breaths per minute (20-30) than a large dog that requires only 15-20 breaths per minute.
C. Circulation
Can you feel a heartbeat or pulse? An animal that is alert and responsive, even if it can't get up, will not require compressions. If there is no heartbeat, then you may begin chest compressions. Lay the pet on its right side, find the point of the pet’s elbow and place it against the ribs. This is where your hands need to go. Compress the chest 1/2 to 1 inch (slightly more for a giant breed or really large dog), and provide a breath every 5-6 compressions (have a second person do the breathing if available). Check for a pulse. Repeat the process if no pulse or heartbeat is detected. Transport the pet to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible; if after twenty minutes your efforts are not producing results, then you have done your best under difficult circumstances.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic and not meant to be used as instructions at the time of an emergency for your dog. If you would like more information on our canine first aid and C.P.R. classes please give us a call. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
_______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday at 9:30 am MDT. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. We specialize in canine sports and working dogs. Our training school is not like any other in the Denver area. We train your dog after he already has manners (well, we train for that too) and provide you and your dog “fun” and “challenging” avenues to build the human-canine bond. It is my opinion that every dog needs a job to do. Whether that job is competing in agility, working as a service dog, hiking in the mountains with you, just being a couch potato, or just fetching the morning paper, they need something to occupy their time. With that, dogs can get themselves into trouble, sometimes life-threatening, and you should know what to do in case of an emergency. Denver Dog Works is one of the only schools in Colorado that teaches a canine first aid and C.P.R. course. It not only teaches you how to respond in an emergency, but certifies you too!
In this article I am going to talk about canine cardio-pulmonary-resuscitation. Knowing this procedure could mean life or death for your best (furry) friend and I will attest I have used it several times on dogs over the years and it does work. I am sure that many of you have been certified from time to time in human C.P.R. at your local Red Cross chapter if you were a life-guard, a boy/girl scout, a babysitter, and myriad other jobs, but did you ever think that your dog may need this life saving procedure too? The steps in canine C.P.R. are very similar to the human counter-part but I do not advise you to expect that the techniques you learned when you were a scout will just magically come back to mind when your dog is in dire distress.
I urge all of you to read this article and sign up for our course in canine first aid and C.P.R. it could be the best decision you ever make for your dog. For more information on upcoming classes check us out at www.denverdogworks.com or give us a call at 303-522-1727 anytime.
As I said before, providing C.P.R. to a pet is very much like giving C.P.R. to a human. The same steps are followed:
A. Airway
Is there an open airway from the mouth to the lungs? Can you feel any breath passing in/out of the nose or mouth? Check the mouth by opening the jaws and pulling the tongue forward, and look for any blockages or foreign objects. Remove any foreign objects and check again for breath. If the airway is still blocked, and the pet’s mucous membranes (gums) are blue, then you may need to perform a Heimlich-like action to loosen any object that may be farther back in the throat.
B. Is the animal breathing on its own?
If no objects, food or mucus are obstructing the airway, you may begin artificial respiration. Lay the animal on its side, and gently tilt the head back. Pull the tongue forward. Close your hands around the muzzle to form as airtight a seal as possible, and place your mouth over the nostrils of the pet’s nose. Blow 4-5 breaths rapidly, then check to see if the pet begins to breathe on its own. Smaller pets will need more breaths per minute (20-30) than a large dog that requires only 15-20 breaths per minute.
C. Circulation
Can you feel a heartbeat or pulse? An animal that is alert and responsive, even if it can't get up, will not require compressions. If there is no heartbeat, then you may begin chest compressions. Lay the pet on its right side, find the point of the pet’s elbow and place it against the ribs. This is where your hands need to go. Compress the chest 1/2 to 1 inch (slightly more for a giant breed or really large dog), and provide a breath every 5-6 compressions (have a second person do the breathing if available). Check for a pulse. Repeat the process if no pulse or heartbeat is detected. Transport the pet to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible; if after twenty minutes your efforts are not producing results, then you have done your best under difficult circumstances.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic and not meant to be used as instructions at the time of an emergency for your dog. If you would like more information on our canine first aid and C.P.R. classes please give us a call. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
_______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday at 9:30 am MDT. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Monday, November 30, 2009
Winterrize Your Dog
Have You Winterized Your Dog?
By Robert Forto, PhD
Cold weather brings its own safety and health concerns for both people and dogs. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to pay attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter. Remember the following precautions to help keep your pet comfortable, healthy and safe all season.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.
Provide Plenty of Food
Feed your dog additional calories if it spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. It takes more energy in the winter to keep the body temperature regulated, so additional; calories are necessary.
Keep Your Dog’s Paws Dry
Rinse your dog’s feet and dry them completely after a walk. This helps avoid tiny cuts and cracked pads. A little petroleum jelly or bag balm may soften the pads and prevent further cracking. Dog booties also work well.
Groom Your Dog Regularly
Your dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep properly insulated. Towel or blow-dry your dog if it gets wet from rain or snow.
Keep Your Dog Warm, Dry and Away From Drafts
Adequate shelter is a necessity. Tiles and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold. Place blankets and pads on floors in these areas.
Watch Out for Winter Hazards
Cold: Do not leave your dog outside for long periods of time. Wind-chill makes days colder than actual temperature readings, and dogs are susceptible to frostbite on their ears, tails and feet.
Ice and Snow: Be extra careful when walking or playing with your dog outside. Your dog could slip or jump in a frozen lake, river or pond and get seriously injured. Snow can muffle scents and your dog can easily get lost.
Carbon Monoxide: Do not leave your dog alone in the car. It gets too cold, and carbon monoxide from an engine left running is dangerous.
Antifreeze: Although it smells and tastes good to your dog, antifreeze is highly poisonous and can be lethal.
Winter Sports
There are many winter sports that you and your dog can do together. Hiking, snowshoeing, skijoring, jogging, camping, cross-county skiing, mushing or dog sledding and more. Please make sure that you have your dog checked out by your veterinarian and it has a clean bill of health. It you plan to take part in any winter activity please train your dog accordingly and enjoy the snow! Denver Dog Works specializes in canine sports and we can help you and your dog achieve your goals together.
If you would like to schedule a no-cost evaluation to discuss winter sports with your dog please give us a call at 303-752-2818 or email at train@denverdogworks.com
Citation: www.akc.org
_______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Cold weather brings its own safety and health concerns for both people and dogs. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to pay attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter. Remember the following precautions to help keep your pet comfortable, healthy and safe all season.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.
Provide Plenty of Food
Feed your dog additional calories if it spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. It takes more energy in the winter to keep the body temperature regulated, so additional; calories are necessary.
Keep Your Dog’s Paws Dry
Rinse your dog’s feet and dry them completely after a walk. This helps avoid tiny cuts and cracked pads. A little petroleum jelly or bag balm may soften the pads and prevent further cracking. Dog booties also work well.
Groom Your Dog Regularly
Your dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep properly insulated. Towel or blow-dry your dog if it gets wet from rain or snow.
Keep Your Dog Warm, Dry and Away From Drafts
Adequate shelter is a necessity. Tiles and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold. Place blankets and pads on floors in these areas.
Watch Out for Winter Hazards
Cold: Do not leave your dog outside for long periods of time. Wind-chill makes days colder than actual temperature readings, and dogs are susceptible to frostbite on their ears, tails and feet.
Ice and Snow: Be extra careful when walking or playing with your dog outside. Your dog could slip or jump in a frozen lake, river or pond and get seriously injured. Snow can muffle scents and your dog can easily get lost.
Carbon Monoxide: Do not leave your dog alone in the car. It gets too cold, and carbon monoxide from an engine left running is dangerous.
Antifreeze: Although it smells and tastes good to your dog, antifreeze is highly poisonous and can be lethal.
Winter Sports
There are many winter sports that you and your dog can do together. Hiking, snowshoeing, skijoring, jogging, camping, cross-county skiing, mushing or dog sledding and more. Please make sure that you have your dog checked out by your veterinarian and it has a clean bill of health. It you plan to take part in any winter activity please train your dog accordingly and enjoy the snow! Denver Dog Works specializes in canine sports and we can help you and your dog achieve your goals together.
If you would like to schedule a no-cost evaluation to discuss winter sports with your dog please give us a call at 303-752-2818 or email at train@denverdogworks.com
Citation: www.akc.org
_______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Power of Your Mind in Dog Training
The Power of Your Mind in Dog Training
By Robert Forto, PhD
Just this past week we had an encore airing of one of most popular shows, Mind-Body Dog Training on the Dog Doctor Radio Show. If you want to change the way your dog performs this is something you will not want to miss.
Think about it, you are about to head into the ring for a big obedience match or a conformation show. Of course you are nervous. You have worked so hard for this big day. Up until now you and your dog have been in perfect synchronicity. Haven't you? You have done your pre-game prep and you are up next.
Then something catches your dogs eye and your whole dog training world comes crumbling down. Your dog gets spooked, you tense up and your dog pulls away. Your run in the ring ends in chaos and you are disqualified. Something you have worked so hard on for the past two years: all of those individual lessons with your private trainer, the perfect pick of the litter puppy, all that money, gone in an instant!
What if you could change that just by harnessing the power of your mind? No, I am not talking about some freakish mind over matter, late night TV infomercial garbage. I am talking about a centuries old process known as Neuro Linguistic Programing (NLP). In a sense it is a model of how we communicate and our personality. While this process has been around for centuries, the NLP model was developed in the 1970’s by Richard Bandler, John Grinder and others. This model explains how we process the information that comes from our outside world. Their belief is “the map is not the territory.” And so the internal representations that we make about an outside event are not necessarily the event itself.
Makes sense doesn't it? Even in dog training we can use this process to make you and your dog the the best team in the world. Even if you don’t compete and just have a “lazy mutt” that likes to play fetch in the back yard.
You see, Dr. Robert Forto is a practitioner of NLP, and his training school, Denver Dog Works has a motto: We have the best and train the best. By employing the processes of NLP in our training programs we too can make your dog one of the best too. This is cutting edge training in the dog training world. Nobody does this and that is why they can not hold claim to our title.
Do you want to see how it works? Here’s how. Typically what happen is that there is an external event (your dog getting spooked in the ring) an we then run that event though our internal processing. We then make an Internal Representation (I/R) of that event. That I/R of the event combines with a physiology and that creates a state. “State” refers to our emotional state--a happy state, a sad state, a motivated state, or in our case with our dog in the ring, and anxious state. Our I/R includes our internal pictures, sounds and dialogue and our feelings (for example, whether we feel anxious and challenged in our dog’s training and performance). A given state is the result of the combination of an internal representations and a physiology. So what happens is that an event comes through our sensory input channels which I can teach you in NLP training and training your dog to be the best.
After the event becomes an I/R it is how our mind processes this information and the outcome that is achieved. We use filters in our mind to accomplish this and this is where the real power of NLP comes into play. For example I am just going to talk about one: Beliefs. Beliefs are generalizations about how our world is. One of the important elements in the NLP model is to find out a persons beliefs about a particular behavior we are trying to model. Richard Bandler says “Beliefs are those things we can’t get around.” Beliefs are the presuppositions that we have about the way of the world us that we either create or deny personal power to us. So beliefs are essentially our on/off switch for our ability to do anything in the world. In our dog training example. Make you and your dog the best dog team ever! Wouldn't that be great? Go into the ring and get a qualifying score every time? Heck yes it would!
So if you would like to find out more about mind-body dog training, I highly encourage you to give us a call. We truly to have the best and train the rest. Do you want to win too? Yes you do!
Citation: The Accelerated NLP Practitioner Certification Training Manual
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project. Dr. Forto is also a practitioner of NLP and is the host of a weekly show, The Dog Doctor Radio and can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Just this past week we had an encore airing of one of most popular shows, Mind-Body Dog Training on the Dog Doctor Radio Show. If you want to change the way your dog performs this is something you will not want to miss.
Think about it, you are about to head into the ring for a big obedience match or a conformation show. Of course you are nervous. You have worked so hard for this big day. Up until now you and your dog have been in perfect synchronicity. Haven't you? You have done your pre-game prep and you are up next.
Then something catches your dogs eye and your whole dog training world comes crumbling down. Your dog gets spooked, you tense up and your dog pulls away. Your run in the ring ends in chaos and you are disqualified. Something you have worked so hard on for the past two years: all of those individual lessons with your private trainer, the perfect pick of the litter puppy, all that money, gone in an instant!
What if you could change that just by harnessing the power of your mind? No, I am not talking about some freakish mind over matter, late night TV infomercial garbage. I am talking about a centuries old process known as Neuro Linguistic Programing (NLP). In a sense it is a model of how we communicate and our personality. While this process has been around for centuries, the NLP model was developed in the 1970’s by Richard Bandler, John Grinder and others. This model explains how we process the information that comes from our outside world. Their belief is “the map is not the territory.” And so the internal representations that we make about an outside event are not necessarily the event itself.
Makes sense doesn't it? Even in dog training we can use this process to make you and your dog the the best team in the world. Even if you don’t compete and just have a “lazy mutt” that likes to play fetch in the back yard.
You see, Dr. Robert Forto is a practitioner of NLP, and his training school, Denver Dog Works has a motto: We have the best and train the best. By employing the processes of NLP in our training programs we too can make your dog one of the best too. This is cutting edge training in the dog training world. Nobody does this and that is why they can not hold claim to our title.
Do you want to see how it works? Here’s how. Typically what happen is that there is an external event (your dog getting spooked in the ring) an we then run that event though our internal processing. We then make an Internal Representation (I/R) of that event. That I/R of the event combines with a physiology and that creates a state. “State” refers to our emotional state--a happy state, a sad state, a motivated state, or in our case with our dog in the ring, and anxious state. Our I/R includes our internal pictures, sounds and dialogue and our feelings (for example, whether we feel anxious and challenged in our dog’s training and performance). A given state is the result of the combination of an internal representations and a physiology. So what happens is that an event comes through our sensory input channels which I can teach you in NLP training and training your dog to be the best.
After the event becomes an I/R it is how our mind processes this information and the outcome that is achieved. We use filters in our mind to accomplish this and this is where the real power of NLP comes into play. For example I am just going to talk about one: Beliefs. Beliefs are generalizations about how our world is. One of the important elements in the NLP model is to find out a persons beliefs about a particular behavior we are trying to model. Richard Bandler says “Beliefs are those things we can’t get around.” Beliefs are the presuppositions that we have about the way of the world us that we either create or deny personal power to us. So beliefs are essentially our on/off switch for our ability to do anything in the world. In our dog training example. Make you and your dog the best dog team ever! Wouldn't that be great? Go into the ring and get a qualifying score every time? Heck yes it would!
So if you would like to find out more about mind-body dog training, I highly encourage you to give us a call. We truly to have the best and train the rest. Do you want to win too? Yes you do!
Citation: The Accelerated NLP Practitioner Certification Training Manual
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project. Dr. Forto is also a practitioner of NLP and is the host of a weekly show, The Dog Doctor Radio and can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Friday, November 13, 2009
The Business End of the Leash: Dog Works Training Centers
The Business End of the Leash
Welcome to The Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity
By Robert Forto, PhD
Thinking about a career, maybe you’re thinking about your next career, or just supplementing your income. Look no further. At The Dog Works Training Center – We have the best and train the rest!
Our founders Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. and his wife Michele set out a decade ago to build the best dog training center in Denver, Colorado. Through hard work and perseverance they now can help you Never Forget Your Dreams!
A Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity not only trains you how to become the best dog trainer you can be but the training program has a key emphasis on training you how to manage and market your new business. Our program is different from the rest. Dr. Forto is an animal behaviorist and holds an M.B.A. with 20 years of dog training and industry experience. He has written and teaches his own canine obedience instructor certification course which is the first step. By ensuring that you learn the business end of the leash not only will you be successful you will see results immediately.
The pet industry is ever-expanding and growing, even in the current economic state. In today’s lifestyle many families are carrying more than one job and in some cases one or more persons is working a second job. Mom is looking for a legitimate work-from-home business are amongst are most interested clientele.
Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor and a business owner of your own dog works training center gives you a sense of worth and gives you opportunities every day to help people and their dogs begin to live the lifestyle that they imagined when they first got their dog. Challenging things happen along the way, that’s where a certified canine obedience instructor is most sought after. Just review some of the statistics. There are more than 75 million pet dogs in the U.S. This year Americans will spend more than $40 billion to keep our pets fed, adorned, amused, and healthy with more owners paying top dollar for elaborate medical treatments to forestall that inevitable last visit to the vet. By the end of the decade, Americans will be spending $50 billion on pet products, according to the APPMA (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association) (2000 – 2001). 47% of owners consider their pets full-fledged family members.
As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city, you will be the answer to those dog owners that love their dogs, but just cannot find a way to deal with barking, house breaking, obedience, or other behavioral problems. Every year thousands of dogs unfortunately end of in shelters because owners just cannot find a way to solve their dogs’ behavioral problems. We have many testimonials thanking us teaching families how to maintain the lifestyle with their dogs that they imagined when they picked out their dog that first day.
If you expect the best and want to be the best, then this is the business opportunity you have been looking for.
What could dog training do for me? Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor allows you to set your own schedule, help people to have a more enjoyable relationship with their dog and much more. Dog training allows you to work closely with dogs and if you’re already dabbling in dog training then this is the perfect business opportunity for you.
I am sure there are plenty of dog trainers out there, why would someone pick me? As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city you will be the most sought after trainer because you took the time to become certified. You will be trusted and awarded for your efforts in the dog training community.
A Dog Training Career is what you will have when you complete are comprehensive training program.
• Positive reinforcement training;
• The business end of the leash – effectively learn how to promote your new business;
• Continued support from Dog Works Training Center headquarters;
• Business Package includes; correspondence certification course that prepares you to take the National Certification exam, business and sales development training, branding, advertising, website, on-site apprenticeship, life time support, access to our training resources database, Behaviorist Consultations, seminars, conferences, events, and much more.
At The Dog Works Training Center, We have the best and train the rest! We provide you with detailed information and training to get your business of to a great start. Not only are we canine obedience instructors and business savvy, but Dr. Forto has written a course to help you become a certified obedience instructor. The Canine Behavioral Sciences course is what sets The Dog Works Training Center apart from all other franchise opportunities out there. The course can be completed in just 12 weeks, making it the most comprehensive course out there. Not only teaching you how to train but recognize behaviors and certain health conditions contributing to the dogs overall stability.
If you would like to learn more information please contact us by email at info@dogtrainingcenter.com or call anytime at 303-578-9881.
The Dog Works Training Center, LLC will refund 100% of licensing fees you pay us if, at any time during the 12 week training program, it is deemed by the instructors that you will not successfully complete the DW Business Owner Certification. Why do we have such simple, pervasive guarantee and put it in writing? We have a reputation to protect. If you cannot grasp the business from the outset, we’d rather recruit and train another owner in your market right away.
_________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for The Dog Works Training Center, LLC and of several other dog training schools. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio show, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Welcome to The Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity
By Robert Forto, PhD
Thinking about a career, maybe you’re thinking about your next career, or just supplementing your income. Look no further. At The Dog Works Training Center – We have the best and train the rest!
Our founders Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. and his wife Michele set out a decade ago to build the best dog training center in Denver, Colorado. Through hard work and perseverance they now can help you Never Forget Your Dreams!
A Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity not only trains you how to become the best dog trainer you can be but the training program has a key emphasis on training you how to manage and market your new business. Our program is different from the rest. Dr. Forto is an animal behaviorist and holds an M.B.A. with 20 years of dog training and industry experience. He has written and teaches his own canine obedience instructor certification course which is the first step. By ensuring that you learn the business end of the leash not only will you be successful you will see results immediately.
The pet industry is ever-expanding and growing, even in the current economic state. In today’s lifestyle many families are carrying more than one job and in some cases one or more persons is working a second job. Mom is looking for a legitimate work-from-home business are amongst are most interested clientele.
Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor and a business owner of your own dog works training center gives you a sense of worth and gives you opportunities every day to help people and their dogs begin to live the lifestyle that they imagined when they first got their dog. Challenging things happen along the way, that’s where a certified canine obedience instructor is most sought after. Just review some of the statistics. There are more than 75 million pet dogs in the U.S. This year Americans will spend more than $40 billion to keep our pets fed, adorned, amused, and healthy with more owners paying top dollar for elaborate medical treatments to forestall that inevitable last visit to the vet. By the end of the decade, Americans will be spending $50 billion on pet products, according to the APPMA (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association) (2000 – 2001). 47% of owners consider their pets full-fledged family members.
As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city, you will be the answer to those dog owners that love their dogs, but just cannot find a way to deal with barking, house breaking, obedience, or other behavioral problems. Every year thousands of dogs unfortunately end of in shelters because owners just cannot find a way to solve their dogs’ behavioral problems. We have many testimonials thanking us teaching families how to maintain the lifestyle with their dogs that they imagined when they picked out their dog that first day.
If you expect the best and want to be the best, then this is the business opportunity you have been looking for.
What could dog training do for me? Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor allows you to set your own schedule, help people to have a more enjoyable relationship with their dog and much more. Dog training allows you to work closely with dogs and if you’re already dabbling in dog training then this is the perfect business opportunity for you.
I am sure there are plenty of dog trainers out there, why would someone pick me? As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city you will be the most sought after trainer because you took the time to become certified. You will be trusted and awarded for your efforts in the dog training community.
A Dog Training Career is what you will have when you complete are comprehensive training program.
• Positive reinforcement training;
• The business end of the leash – effectively learn how to promote your new business;
• Continued support from Dog Works Training Center headquarters;
• Business Package includes; correspondence certification course that prepares you to take the National Certification exam, business and sales development training, branding, advertising, website, on-site apprenticeship, life time support, access to our training resources database, Behaviorist Consultations, seminars, conferences, events, and much more.
At The Dog Works Training Center, We have the best and train the rest! We provide you with detailed information and training to get your business of to a great start. Not only are we canine obedience instructors and business savvy, but Dr. Forto has written a course to help you become a certified obedience instructor. The Canine Behavioral Sciences course is what sets The Dog Works Training Center apart from all other franchise opportunities out there. The course can be completed in just 12 weeks, making it the most comprehensive course out there. Not only teaching you how to train but recognize behaviors and certain health conditions contributing to the dogs overall stability.
If you would like to learn more information please contact us by email at info@dogtrainingcenter.com or call anytime at 303-578-9881.
The Dog Works Training Center, LLC will refund 100% of licensing fees you pay us if, at any time during the 12 week training program, it is deemed by the instructors that you will not successfully complete the DW Business Owner Certification. Why do we have such simple, pervasive guarantee and put it in writing? We have a reputation to protect. If you cannot grasp the business from the outset, we’d rather recruit and train another owner in your market right away.
_________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for The Dog Works Training Center, LLC and of several other dog training schools. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio show, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Monday, November 9, 2009
Unleashed Show 1
Unleashed
Show Notes: Show 1
November 9, 2009
Welcome to Unleashed a show about dogs, training, education, business, and dog related subjects.
I’m your host, Michele Forto. I co-own and operate Denver Dog Works a premier training center in Denver, Colorado. In fact, Denver Dog Works is the first Dog Works Training Center.
A Dog Works Training Center is the most comprehensive dog training facility of its kind. Dog Works Training Centers offer; puppy classes, obedience, board and train, group, Canine Good Citizen, competition obedience, rally, agility, skijoring, mushing and many other dog related sports.
Denver Dog Works Training Center also has at our disposal the expertise of our own canine behaviorist, Dr. Robert Forto.
Dr. Forto is the most sought after expert on aggression in the region.
Unleashed in the future shows will be demonstrating training tips and tricks. Be sure to tune in weekly here at http://www.ustream.tv/dogdoctorradio
Since this is our first show I’d like to take the next minute or two and introduce myself.
I have over 15 years of dog training, breeding, and kennel management experience. I work closely with my husband Dr. Forto on a program we developed called Peak Performance. Peak Performance is a specialized training program which encompasses basic obedience or Canine Good Citizen training with an introduction to higher more advanced or specific training such as protection.
I supervise and developed the training program for the service dogs trained through Denver Dog Works. We train for a multitude of ailments; psychiatric, autistic, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, mobility, and medical alert.
Check out my page on our website http://www.denverdogworks.com
You can follow me on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, and U Stream. Become a fan of Denver Dog Works on Facebook for up to date training tips and tricks.
For more in-depth subjects listen to our radio show. The Dog Doctor Radio show at http://dogdoctorradio.com
Or
You can read the many blog posts at http://www.fortoblog.com
Next week’s show: The Difference Between a Therapy Dog and Service Dog.
Thank you watching Unleashed
Show Notes: Show 1
November 9, 2009
Welcome to Unleashed a show about dogs, training, education, business, and dog related subjects.
I’m your host, Michele Forto. I co-own and operate Denver Dog Works a premier training center in Denver, Colorado. In fact, Denver Dog Works is the first Dog Works Training Center.
A Dog Works Training Center is the most comprehensive dog training facility of its kind. Dog Works Training Centers offer; puppy classes, obedience, board and train, group, Canine Good Citizen, competition obedience, rally, agility, skijoring, mushing and many other dog related sports.
Denver Dog Works Training Center also has at our disposal the expertise of our own canine behaviorist, Dr. Robert Forto.
Dr. Forto is the most sought after expert on aggression in the region.
Unleashed in the future shows will be demonstrating training tips and tricks. Be sure to tune in weekly here at http://www.ustream.tv/dogdoctorradio
Since this is our first show I’d like to take the next minute or two and introduce myself.
I have over 15 years of dog training, breeding, and kennel management experience. I work closely with my husband Dr. Forto on a program we developed called Peak Performance. Peak Performance is a specialized training program which encompasses basic obedience or Canine Good Citizen training with an introduction to higher more advanced or specific training such as protection.
I supervise and developed the training program for the service dogs trained through Denver Dog Works. We train for a multitude of ailments; psychiatric, autistic, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, mobility, and medical alert.
Check out my page on our website http://www.denverdogworks.com
You can follow me on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, and U Stream. Become a fan of Denver Dog Works on Facebook for up to date training tips and tricks.
For more in-depth subjects listen to our radio show. The Dog Doctor Radio show at http://dogdoctorradio.com
Or
You can read the many blog posts at http://www.fortoblog.com
Next week’s show: The Difference Between a Therapy Dog and Service Dog.
Thank you watching Unleashed
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