Service Dogs Can’t Read Your Mind
By Michele Forto
Reality Check: Service dogs cannot read your mind. Service dogs provide their handler's with specific "services". These "services" are performed when the handler communicates with the dog in one form or another. Communication is the key and the service dog trainer's job is to ensure that the dog is able to understand a variety of commands. Sharpen the saw: by maintaining good work ethic with your dog.
A service dog is a dog that is individually trained to perform tasks that mitigate the disability of the dog's owner.
The undertaking of training a service dog typically takes two years of constant training. Preparing a potential dog to live out his life doing “work” takes patience, perseverance, endurance, consistency and team work.
Starting in puppyhood, the selected dog, begins his training immediately learning that he is a dog surrounded by humans being asked to “work”, not just be a companion, but to provide a specific service for a person who cannot do for themselves.
There are several types of service dogs for various types of disabilities and as we discover new ways of helping people with psychological disabilities we are broadening our abilities to train “man’s best friend” to become “mans best assistant”.
A service dog is selected utilizing a series of temperament tests. Once the dog has passed these tests and has been deemed suitable for service work intensive training begins and can last up to two years. A trainer will develop training plans that grow with the dog as he grows. The trainer will spend over ten thousand hours training one dog in this two year period. It should be noted that even after all this time and all of those hours; the dog may not pass and may simply not be cut out for “work”.
In some cases, the service dog is placed with their “handler” prior to the training being completed. The dog is hand-selected by the trainer and has been placed for early placement for bonding, usually in psychological service work and in autistic service work. The need for the bond and immediate companionship can be a valuable service to the handler. But this can pose problems for the dog. Lack of training consistency and being allowed too much “dog time”, can lead to laziness and unruliness.
Rarely, a disabled person will contact a trainer with a dog that has already been selected and that has bonded well to the handler. In these cases, after the trainer has determined that the dog is temperamentally sound to work as a service dog, training can begin. These cases have a higher failure rate because the handler may not be able to give their dog up during the training period thus creating a strain and difficulty in the training regimen, length of training, and stress levels on the dog and the handler. Also, the dog can experience confusion between what is now being commanded as “work” versus previously being commanded just to perform companion style pet dog commands. The difference; when a dog is “working” they are expected to perform commands quickly and efficiently without being noticed by society.
The rate of success in training a service dog depends on many factors; ability to work and handle the stress involved physical and mental health, and being able to perform in public and not become a nuisance. Service dogs are expected to go virtually unnoticed.
In the cases where the dog was previously selected by the handler and then later trained, the trainer now has to undo all of the dog’s bad habits and incorporate new ones as well as perfect the commands the dog may already know. The family of the handler and the handler themselves are incorporated into the training regimen daily. The trainer will meet with them weekly or monthly depending on the services needed. Certain commands that may be necessary to the handler such as the dog picking up things from the floor and placing onto the lap, are very difficult to teach a dog that is over the age of nine months and will take much longer and will need consistent training done daily.
In the past, I have taken on such cases for psychiatric service work and mobility. I have learned that undertaking established dogs even IF they pass the temperament testing, public access testing, and can perform six to ten necessary and specific commands pertaining to the person’s disability many of these dogs never develop the work ethic necessary to perform their “job” consistently on a daily basis. They become more of a therapy dog that goes everywhere with the handler. Although I am not against early bonding with a dog, I am against the handler choosing the dog, raising him through puppyhood with virtually no training or the wrong training foundation has been applied and then attempting to train and prepare this nearly two year old dog as a service dog.
At Dog Works, I have developed a program that is successful in the training and placement of service dogs. I choose the puppy, begin training immediately, and when the pup is about six months of age a potential handler is chosen for the puppy and weekly lessons begin while the puppy remains under my care and control. By the time the puppy is eighteen months of age they will be living with their handler full time and working as a service dog in training with their handler. I have found that training the handler for nine months or longer helps to seal that necessary bond and build trust between both the handler and the dog.
If you are looking for a service dog for yourself or a loved one, please contact a professional such as myself prior to running out there and getting that puppy that you think you’ll have the time and wherewithal to train yourself. Service dogs are large investments and yes it may be more cost effective for you to do it yourself but don’t let the industry keep you from asking questions. Dog Works Service Dogs can be trained for your needs with you alongside for the majority of the training. It’s all about the end result and finding the best way to get there. If I get you thinking about anything please remember that with any training it takes consistency.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
___________________
Michele Forto is the business manager for Dog Works Training Center and is the co-host of the Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
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
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Top Ten Dog Breeds in the United States
Top Ten Dog Breeds in the United States
By Robert Forto, PhD
According to the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) registration records, Americans love their Labrador Retrievers. The popular Golden Retriever held the second spot for years but has been passed over in recent years by the intelligent and always-ready-to-work (and train) German Shepherd.
I am not at all surprised by the Yorkie in the top three. Over the past few years we have seen more and more of these dogs come in to Denver Dog Works for training. Unfortunately these little dogs have been made popular by what I call the accessory dog phase”. I just hope that new owners do their homework before buying this little dog (or any dog for that matter) and learn as much as they can about each breed.
The AKC Top 10 Dog Breeds:
Labrador Retriever
German Shepherd
Yorkshire Terrier
Golden Retriever
Beagle
Boxer
Bulldog
Dachshund
Poodle
Shih Tzu
If you would like assistance in choosing the breed that is right for you and your family give us a call at Denver Dog Works. We routinely do breed referral new pet owners looking to acquire the perfect family pet.
Citation: http://www.akc.org
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
___________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
According to the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) registration records, Americans love their Labrador Retrievers. The popular Golden Retriever held the second spot for years but has been passed over in recent years by the intelligent and always-ready-to-work (and train) German Shepherd.
I am not at all surprised by the Yorkie in the top three. Over the past few years we have seen more and more of these dogs come in to Denver Dog Works for training. Unfortunately these little dogs have been made popular by what I call the accessory dog phase”. I just hope that new owners do their homework before buying this little dog (or any dog for that matter) and learn as much as they can about each breed.
The AKC Top 10 Dog Breeds:
Labrador Retriever
German Shepherd
Yorkshire Terrier
Golden Retriever
Beagle
Boxer
Bulldog
Dachshund
Poodle
Shih Tzu
If you would like assistance in choosing the breed that is right for you and your family give us a call at Denver Dog Works. We routinely do breed referral new pet owners looking to acquire the perfect family pet.
Citation: http://www.akc.org
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
___________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, March 25, 2010
FAQ's Feeding a Raw Diet to Dogs
FAQ's Feeding a Raw Diet to Dogs
By Leah Morse
This is a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
______________________
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
_______________
Michele Forto is a certified trainer and the business manager at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Who Are These Dogs That Pull Sleds?
Who are These Dogs That Pull Sleds
By Robert Forto, PhD
The Dogs
Who are these dogs that pull sleds? Are they purebreds or mongrels? What sets them apart from other dogs and enables them to work with man under brutal weather conditions? What sort of strange dog is it that yammers and yowls to be a part of a team, preferring to work or race than rest in a warm kennel?
Written pedigrees are not required to enter a sled dog race, nor does the dog have to be a northern breed, although a majority of dogs on the racing trail are related to working dogs of the North. These dogs have a strong instinct to pull. These dogs can be everything from an American Kennel Club registered Siberian Husky, a “one-quarter husky” mixed breed, or any variety in between. These dogs can be Irish Setters, Walker Coonhounds or even a Border Collie. In search of an unbeatable dog team, dozens and dozens of cross-breedings, in-breedings and line breedings have been tried. Some breeders work within a recognized breed, seeking to refine that breed’s natural talents; others select the fastest and strongest or whatever dogs come to their attention, caring more about performance than good looks or a fancy pedigree.
The Siberian Husky
The most popular of the registered breeds for sled dog racing is the Siberian Husky. An uncommonly attractive dog, the Siberian evokes for many the call of the wild, the lure of the North. The finely chiseled, fox-like head, the pricked ears, the “mask” markings on the face, and the expressive eyes (often a light, icy blue), seems to personify the romantic image of the North country. In temperament, Sibes, as they are often called, can be affectionate or aloof, playful or serious. They are basically gentle, protective dogs. Stories about their exploits as guardians of children are legend, and a keener companion would be hard to find.
Siberians are bred today for the show ring or for racing, and sometimes for both. The original standard of the breed, accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1930, purposefully described the qualities of the Siberian that made him a fine working animal.The peoples of the Chukchi Peninsula in Siberia had already developed a dog which excelled as a draft animal and companion; in the hands of Alaskan sport racers at the turn of the century the husky from Siberia was selectively bred to improve these desirable traits.
When Leonhard Seppala took some forty-four of these dogs to New England in 1927 and began racing and promoting the breed there, the stage was set for the development of the American Kennel Club registered Siberian Husky. Most of Seppala’s dogs figured significantly in the foundation stocks of such influential eastern kennels as Chinook, Foxstand, and Monadnock (these dogs from Harry Wheeler’s kennel at Gray Rocks carried the suffix “of Seppala”). This researcher even has a spattering of the Seppala lines in his own breeding stock and kennel under the name of Trafalgar. Seven other imported dogs found their way to the kennels of Elizabeth Ricker, in partnership with Seppala, and to Gray Rocks. The two males in Quebec, Kree-Vanka and Tserko, influenced the registered breed tremendously. In 1946, two descendents of these dogs were sent back to Alaska, care of Earl and Natalie Norris’s Anadyr Kennels, and a new generation of racing drivers rekindled the interest of Alaska in Siberian Huskies.
Siberians predominated on the best New England teams in the thirties, forties, and fifties. Roland Lombard drove Siberians when he won the World Championships at The Pas in 1957, and took second at the North American Championship in 1958. His dogs, especially one named Igloo Pak’s Tok, showed excellent Siberian conformation and would have provided tough competition in the show ring. In Alaska in the fifties, Champion Tyndrum’s Oslo, C.D.X. led the team of Charles and Kit MacInnes to dozens of victories. Champion Bonzo of Anadyr, C.D., led Earl and Natalie Norris team in sixteen championship races and was never out of the money.
The suffix of C.D.X. and C.D. are titles given to dogs at an American Kennel Club obedience trial. C.D.X. stands for Companion Dog Excellent and C.D. stands for Companion dog. These are advanced titles for a sled dog to obtain. Most of the time these titles are given to dogs that show promise for service dog work such as guide dogs for the blind or assistance dogs. For a sled dog to obtain these titles shows an excellent temperament and the ability to adapt to training. This in turn shows a strong correlation of the human-canine commination conundrum. Many times pure sled dogs do not do well in the obedience ring due to their innate nature to pull and their desire to roam. In an obedience trial one of the commands that must be mastered is a long down where the handler leaves the sight of the dog for up to five minutes. Typically a sled dog is too anxious to stay in one place for an extended period of time. Therein a sled dog with an advanced title shows the correlation to the sport of dog sledding and the training procedures used to train them.
Purebred Siberian teams abound wherever there is racing, and although they are often eclipsed in speed by the mixed-breed Alaskan Husky, their racing records are solid. Today’s racing Siberian can be a credit to good breeders, for behind the breed statistics (average 22 inches at the shoulders and 45 to 50 pounds), and beneath it’s glossy coat, still stands much of the graceful, intelligent, light footed, speedy husky from Siberia. It seems harder to tell what a blue-eyed dog is thinking than a brown-eyed dog, but when the sporty Siberian is harnessed to a sled, his thoughts are transparent. “He is all go! ( Note: endnotes have been removed for blog posting. If you would like to read article in its entirety please contact me through email at train@denverdogworks.com )
Next Week: The Alaskan Malamute
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_______________________
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 Siberian Husky
The most popular of the registered breeds for sled dog racing is the Siberian Husky. An uncommonly attractive dog, the Siberian evokes for many the call of the wild, the lure of the North. The finely chiseled, fox-like head, the pricked ears, the “mask” markings on the face, and the expressive eyes (often a light, icy blue), seems to personify the romantic image of the North country. In temperament, Sibes, as they are often called, can be affectionate or aloof, playful or serious. They are basically gentle, protective dogs. Stories about their exploits as guardians of children are legend, and a keener companion would be hard to find.
Siberians are bred today for the show ring or for racing, and sometimes for both. The original standard of the breed, accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1930, purposefully described the qualities of the Siberian that made him a fine working animal.The peoples of the Chukchi Peninsula in Siberia had already developed a dog which excelled as a draft animal and companion; in the hands of Alaskan sport racers at the turn of the century the husky from Siberia was selectively bred to improve these desirable traits.
When Leonhard Seppala took some forty-four of these dogs to New England in 1927 and began racing and promoting the breed there, the stage was set for the development of the American Kennel Club registered Siberian Husky. Most of Seppala’s dogs figured significantly in the foundation stocks of such influential eastern kennels as Chinook, Foxstand, and Monadnock (these dogs from Harry Wheeler’s kennel at Gray Rocks carried the suffix “of Seppala”). This researcher even has a spattering of the Seppala lines in his own breeding stock and kennel under the name of Trafalgar. Seven other imported dogs found their way to the kennels of Elizabeth Ricker, in partnership with Seppala, and to Gray Rocks. The two males in Quebec, Kree-Vanka and Tserko, influenced the registered breed tremendously. In 1946, two descendents of these dogs were sent back to Alaska, care of Earl and Natalie Norris’s Anadyr Kennels, and a new generation of racing drivers rekindled the interest of Alaska in Siberian Huskies.
Siberians predominated on the best New England teams in the thirties, forties, and fifties. Roland Lombard drove Siberians when he won the World Championships at The Pas in 1957, and took second at the North American Championship in 1958. His dogs, especially one named Igloo Pak’s Tok, showed excellent Siberian conformation and would have provided tough competition in the show ring. In Alaska in the fifties, Champion Tyndrum’s Oslo, C.D.X. led the team of Charles and Kit MacInnes to dozens of victories. Champion Bonzo of Anadyr, C.D., led Earl and Natalie Norris team in sixteen championship races and was never out of the money.
The suffix of C.D.X. and C.D. are titles given to dogs at an American Kennel Club obedience trial. C.D.X. stands for Companion Dog Excellent and C.D. stands for Companion dog. These are advanced titles for a sled dog to obtain. Most of the time these titles are given to dogs that show promise for service dog work such as guide dogs for the blind or assistance dogs. For a sled dog to obtain these titles shows an excellent temperament and the ability to adapt to training. This in turn shows a strong correlation of the human-canine commination conundrum. Many times pure sled dogs do not do well in the obedience ring due to their innate nature to pull and their desire to roam. In an obedience trial one of the commands that must be mastered is a long down where the handler leaves the sight of the dog for up to five minutes. Typically a sled dog is too anxious to stay in one place for an extended period of time. Therein a sled dog with an advanced title shows the correlation to the sport of dog sledding and the training procedures used to train them.
Purebred Siberian teams abound wherever there is racing, and although they are often eclipsed in speed by the mixed-breed Alaskan Husky, their racing records are solid. Today’s racing Siberian can be a credit to good breeders, for behind the breed statistics (average 22 inches at the shoulders and 45 to 50 pounds), and beneath it’s glossy coat, still stands much of the graceful, intelligent, light footed, speedy husky from Siberia. It seems harder to tell what a blue-eyed dog is thinking than a brown-eyed dog, but when the sporty Siberian is harnessed to a sled, his thoughts are transparent. “He is all go! ( Note: endnotes have been removed for blog posting. If you would like to read article in its entirety please contact me through email at train@denverdogworks.com )
Next Week: The Alaskan Malamute
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is training for his first Iditarod under the Team Ineka banner. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com
Monday, March 22, 2010
Treat Me Like a Dog
Treat Me Like A Dog
by Robert Forto, PhD
On one of the most historic days in American history, Congress and the Senate agreed what is best for the American people concerning health care, I sit here and wonder. I am thinking first: Is my mom in charge of the Government because it feels like they are telling me what to do regarding my health care just like my mom used to do when I was a kid. And second, how does the Government know what is best for me anyway? Heck, they just sent out a Census form asking who lives in my house. So if they don't know that how do they know that I even want healthcare (tongue in cheek)?
I am perfectly healthy, so are my wife and kids. Yes we have to go to the emergency room from time to time to fix broken bones from a football game or some other “kid” accident. We are also self-employed. I have been my entire working life and I have never had health insurance. I do what is right and pay cash or utilize a health savings account. As a matter of fact, I went to the doctor a couple weeks ago with the complaint of asthma-like symptoms, the remnants of a bout with a nasty bronchitis two years ago. The doctor gave me a 40% discount because I paid cash!
Rarely does a President have so much power with the stroke of his (many) pens than he does when he signs this healthcare reform bill into law in a few days. I don’t know if this is political suicide for “P-BO” or the beginning of socialism in this country but I do think that they should look at what the people of this country really want before taking away our free-market system of healthcare and change the way that we conduct our lives from this day forward.
I, for one, think that they should follow the model used by veterinarians. It seems to be very effective and according to a conference on animal law that I attended a while back, a lot less litigious than our human doctors’ practices.
Think about it; the veterinary practice works. We just took our old guy, Ineka, a 12-year old Siberian, to the vet last week and we were given all kinds of choices.
First, the veterinarians welcome a free market choice. There are vet clinics on every corner. We can pick and chose the one we want to go to, anyway we choose. There is a veterinarian right next door to our training center but we chose not to go there because we liked how the folks at Aurora Animal Hospital treated us the last time we where there.
Second, our choice to use one veterinarian over another is based on the principles of a progressive society: Word of mouth referrals, location, inspection of the offices, prices, past experiences, etc. When we make an appointment at a doctor’s office do we get to make that choice or are we forced to go somewhere based on a referral from another doctor?
Third, we have the choice of what treatments that we want and when. When we take our dogs to the veterinarian they give us a price breakdown right on the spot. We can choose to buy a vaccine now or wait till later. We can choose to have our dog’s teeth cleaned now or later. Rarely is there any pressure.
Fourth, on most occasions the vet is open evenings and weekends and has appointments to fit our timetable. There is no need to wait six weeks for a neuter for our pup. We will just call another vet clinic in the area.
Fifth, in most instances people respect their veterinarian much more than they do their family doctor. Why? Because they are approachable, they talk with us in the office and they call us in the middle of the night if “Max” is not doing well. The same goes for the techs. When was the last time a nurse in your doctor’s office called you to follow up to see if little “Johnny” was taking his medicine okay? Our vet tech did just this morning and this was the second time she called in a week to see how Ineka was responding to his medicine. According to the information at that animal law conference I attended, people trust their veterinarian higher than most other service providers that they deal with. The family doctor was down there with lawyers and car salesmen.
Sixth, we have the right to choose when enough is enough and euthanasia is an option. While I am not suggesting that we put grandma to sleep, at the veterinarian at least we have that option. True, a Living Will should work for us humans but does it really? I have one and it explicitly says that if I am brain-dead to “pull the plug” no if-ands-or-buts about it. I don't want to live as a vegetable. Do you? In our case, when we took Ineka to his appointment, our veterinarian found a lump near his thyroid. She thinks it is “most likely” cancer and she agreed that we should not put him through the pain of radiation and chemotherapy. Most likely it would kill him. We agreed and as long as his quality of life is good we will do nothing. Wouldn’t you like to have that choice in your own healthcare?
Seventh, many people form long lasting relationships with their veterinarian and they make sure they know who we are and that they are thinking of us. Many veterinarians send out appointment cards and birthday wishes for our pets. They know our pets by name. When was the last time your doctor did this for you? Or did they come into the room, spend five minutes with you and kept having to refer to your chart to remember your name?
Lastly, payment is due at the time services are rendered. No questions, no comments, no collecting two hundred dollars as you pass “Go”. Unless you work out a payment plan with your veterinarian you better have your checkbook or a credit card ready to go. This is how human medicine should be paid for as well. As I said earlier, that’s how I did it just a couple weeks ago at my doctor’s office and they gave me a discount of 40%. Sure medical care is expensive, and yes, medical bills have caused many people to go bankrupt but do we really need the government subsidizing our care because “some” people can’t pay?
Before you get all upset and think that I am crazy remember that there are 77.5 million dogs in this country and many are owned by conscientious pet owners who take their dog to the veterinarian on a regular basis. Do you ever complain about the care they receive? The overwhelming majority would say NO.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_____________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dogworks) Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
by Robert Forto, PhD
On one of the most historic days in American history, Congress and the Senate agreed what is best for the American people concerning health care, I sit here and wonder. I am thinking first: Is my mom in charge of the Government because it feels like they are telling me what to do regarding my health care just like my mom used to do when I was a kid. And second, how does the Government know what is best for me anyway? Heck, they just sent out a Census form asking who lives in my house. So if they don't know that how do they know that I even want healthcare (tongue in cheek)?
I am perfectly healthy, so are my wife and kids. Yes we have to go to the emergency room from time to time to fix broken bones from a football game or some other “kid” accident. We are also self-employed. I have been my entire working life and I have never had health insurance. I do what is right and pay cash or utilize a health savings account. As a matter of fact, I went to the doctor a couple weeks ago with the complaint of asthma-like symptoms, the remnants of a bout with a nasty bronchitis two years ago. The doctor gave me a 40% discount because I paid cash!
Rarely does a President have so much power with the stroke of his (many) pens than he does when he signs this healthcare reform bill into law in a few days. I don’t know if this is political suicide for “P-BO” or the beginning of socialism in this country but I do think that they should look at what the people of this country really want before taking away our free-market system of healthcare and change the way that we conduct our lives from this day forward.
I, for one, think that they should follow the model used by veterinarians. It seems to be very effective and according to a conference on animal law that I attended a while back, a lot less litigious than our human doctors’ practices.
Think about it; the veterinary practice works. We just took our old guy, Ineka, a 12-year old Siberian, to the vet last week and we were given all kinds of choices.
First, the veterinarians welcome a free market choice. There are vet clinics on every corner. We can pick and chose the one we want to go to, anyway we choose. There is a veterinarian right next door to our training center but we chose not to go there because we liked how the folks at Aurora Animal Hospital treated us the last time we where there.
Second, our choice to use one veterinarian over another is based on the principles of a progressive society: Word of mouth referrals, location, inspection of the offices, prices, past experiences, etc. When we make an appointment at a doctor’s office do we get to make that choice or are we forced to go somewhere based on a referral from another doctor?
Third, we have the choice of what treatments that we want and when. When we take our dogs to the veterinarian they give us a price breakdown right on the spot. We can choose to buy a vaccine now or wait till later. We can choose to have our dog’s teeth cleaned now or later. Rarely is there any pressure.
Fourth, on most occasions the vet is open evenings and weekends and has appointments to fit our timetable. There is no need to wait six weeks for a neuter for our pup. We will just call another vet clinic in the area.
Fifth, in most instances people respect their veterinarian much more than they do their family doctor. Why? Because they are approachable, they talk with us in the office and they call us in the middle of the night if “Max” is not doing well. The same goes for the techs. When was the last time a nurse in your doctor’s office called you to follow up to see if little “Johnny” was taking his medicine okay? Our vet tech did just this morning and this was the second time she called in a week to see how Ineka was responding to his medicine. According to the information at that animal law conference I attended, people trust their veterinarian higher than most other service providers that they deal with. The family doctor was down there with lawyers and car salesmen.
Sixth, we have the right to choose when enough is enough and euthanasia is an option. While I am not suggesting that we put grandma to sleep, at the veterinarian at least we have that option. True, a Living Will should work for us humans but does it really? I have one and it explicitly says that if I am brain-dead to “pull the plug” no if-ands-or-buts about it. I don't want to live as a vegetable. Do you? In our case, when we took Ineka to his appointment, our veterinarian found a lump near his thyroid. She thinks it is “most likely” cancer and she agreed that we should not put him through the pain of radiation and chemotherapy. Most likely it would kill him. We agreed and as long as his quality of life is good we will do nothing. Wouldn’t you like to have that choice in your own healthcare?
Seventh, many people form long lasting relationships with their veterinarian and they make sure they know who we are and that they are thinking of us. Many veterinarians send out appointment cards and birthday wishes for our pets. They know our pets by name. When was the last time your doctor did this for you? Or did they come into the room, spend five minutes with you and kept having to refer to your chart to remember your name?
Lastly, payment is due at the time services are rendered. No questions, no comments, no collecting two hundred dollars as you pass “Go”. Unless you work out a payment plan with your veterinarian you better have your checkbook or a credit card ready to go. This is how human medicine should be paid for as well. As I said earlier, that’s how I did it just a couple weeks ago at my doctor’s office and they gave me a discount of 40%. Sure medical care is expensive, and yes, medical bills have caused many people to go bankrupt but do we really need the government subsidizing our care because “some” people can’t pay?
Before you get all upset and think that I am crazy remember that there are 77.5 million dogs in this country and many are owned by conscientious pet owners who take their dog to the veterinarian on a regular basis. Do you ever complain about the care they receive? The overwhelming majority would say NO.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_____________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dogworks) Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
