How to Choose a Breeder
By Leah Morse
I am a big fan of people that adopt from the shelters and rescues. There are a lot of great dogs just waiting for their forever home. Why did they end up there in the first place? Why didn’t they get the training or direction that they should have to prevent shelter admission? I spent 2 years working at a shelter and saw everything you could imagine! I saw purebred, mixes, adults and puppies. I saw many dogs euthanized including countless purebred puppies and dogs. So why a blog on finding a great breeder? Simple, there are many of us that love our purebreds. Yes there are rescues that should be considered first. However, if a specific dog is in mind and has not been found in a shelter, a breeder is the next step. If all breeders really and truly cared about what they were producing, it would directly affect the number of shelter animals. A breeder’s responsibility goes beyond the health of the dogs they help to produce.
On the low end, countless unscrupulous backyard and puppy mill breeders pump out puppies by the thousands. Pedigree, conformation, temperament and health are secondary to the money they collect. They produce mass quantities of puppies at bargain prices, many of which end up in pet stores designated to be someone’s impulse buy. These puppies, at their bargain prices, become many of the throw away shelter admissions. When the vet or training bills surpass the price of the puppy it is just easier, in some people’s minds to just relinquish the problem puppy to the pound (generally between 6 and 18months which is the most challenging age for most dogs) and go back to the pet shop or bargain breeder for a new one.
What if all breeders had the integrity to do all they could possibly do to keep their puppies in a forever home? This would definitely take more than just putting 2 dogs of the opposite sex together. First off the breeding animals should cared for to be at optimal health, after all they are going to be building healthy puppies. Feeding the best food, for optimal health is key for healthy puppies. Next health testing should be done as there are many hereditary diseases that should be considered. Breeders that go the extra mile to health test for their breeds specific troubling diseases such as hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, cardiomyopathy to name a few. Breeders that follow their specific breed recommendations for health testing, provided by many breed specific clubs, should be considered over those that don’t. Once nutrition is optimal and health testing has been completed, the next step is the choice of dam and sire. They should be true to the breed standard and improve on each other’s faults. Parent dogs should be great examples of their breeds traits, working ability, and conformation.
After the health of the breeding animal has been established and the breeding has taken place, optimum care should be taken of the mother. Once the puppies arrive the work does not stop. Puppies should be handled and socialized and prepared for their stressful departure. More and more breeders are adopting best practices of socialization, training, handling, crate training introduction and puppy nutrition. Introduction to crate training, the rule of sevens (http://www.rmclassiccanine.com/www.RMclassiccanine.com/Rule_of_7s.html )
and basic handling should be consistently practiced to help give the puppies the best confidence levels as possible. It is stressful enough for them to leave the only home they have ever known in their short 8week life to go to a completely unfamiliar new home. Add the stress of having to learn what a crate is on top of missing your siblings and mother. Having been introduced to a crate prior to leaving for their new home greatly reduces the stress they go through. If you are lucky enough to have received the puppy’s crate from the breeder it will lessen the frustration on the part of the new owner listening to the crying puppy and the anxiety of the puppy as a crate will be a familiar object. New owners will be more likely to continue the crate training which will aid in house training.
How much would you pay? Being wise about a puppy purchase goes without saying. However, a bargain puppy will most likely cost you considerably more in its lifetime. Spending more on a puppy that has come from a breeder that practices preventative measures as that which has been mentioned above, will be easier to train with the foundation that the breeder worked for by early handling, socialization and training. Purchasing a puppy that has come from healthy stock also is a wise financial consideration.
Finally, be prepared to be questioned by an ideal breeder. They have put a lot of heart and soul into the production of their puppies. An ideal breeder will have a puppy application and certain requirements of the potential new owner. An ideal breeder will be knowledgeable and preferably only breed one or two types of dogs. They will be able to instruct you on the breeds traits and potential health problems. An ideal breeder will not mind being 20 questioned either. An Ideal Breeder will also make themselves available for questions and support throughout the dog’s life and in the very least offer at least a one year health guarantee. You should be able to visit the puppy and see at least the mother on the property. Obtain referrals from the breeder if possible including the breeders vet if possible. The breeder should be able to easily produce health records, registration papers and pedigrees. Last but not least, be prepared to wait for the right puppy, hasty decisions or impulse buys are more likely to not turn out well.
We would love to hear your comments and concerns about choosing a breeder. You can reach us by email at live@dogdoctoradio.com
Tags: Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah also writes weekly for Denver Dog Works. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Friday, April 30, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Aggression by Michele Forto
Aggression
By Michele Forto
Aggression is defined as follows:
1 : a forceful action or procedure (as an unprovoked attack) especially when intended to dominate or master 2 : the practice of making attacks or encroachments; especially : unprovoked violation by one country of the territorial integrity of another 3 : hostile, injurious, or destructive behavior or outlook especially when caused by frustration
citation: Merriam-Webster
Aggression is defined as behavior aimed at causing harm or pain, psychological harm, or personal injury or physical distraction. An important aspect of aggressive behavior is the intention underlying the actor's behavior. Not all behaviors resulting in harm are considered aggression. For example, a doctor who makes an injection that harms people, but who did so with the intent of preventing the further spread of illness, is not considered to have committed an aggressive act.
Aggression can be direct or indirect, active or passive, and physical or verbal. Using these categories, human aggression can be grouped into eight classes of behavior:
Punching the victim (direct, active, physical)
Insulting the victim (direct, active, verbal)
Performing a practical joke, setting a booby trap (direct, passive, physical)
Spreading malicious gossip (direct, passive, verbal)
Obstructing passage, participating in a sit-in (indirect, active, physical)
Refusing to speak (indirect, active, verbal)
Refusing to perform a necessary task (indirect, passive, physical)
Direct aggression, especially physically active aggression, is more common among animals. Actors who express indirect aggression usually feel less satisfaction, but they are also less concerned about retaliation. Passive and indirect aggression is the least noxious form. Subordinates rebelling against authority figures often use it. In the family relation it is often used by children against their parents. http://social.jrank.org
The above refer to aggression as defined by humans and in human behavior. We are consulting with more and more clients who describe their dogs as being aggressive solely based on the definitions listed above. This is dangerous ground to be on. Working with your veterinarian as well as a behaviorist can reduce the labeling effects humans place onto their animals. Aggressiveness in dogs is a multi-faceted complex diagnosis.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual behavior problems in dogs and aggressive behaviors lists thirteen types of aggression as well as explanations and treatments. Simply identifying your dog with a behavioral problem such as the most common we hear of; fear aggression gives the owner and society the impression that the dog has had something terrible occur in its lifetime and therefore should be protected. When other factors play into the fear that cannot be recognized by the owner. For instance, a general lack of proper socialization at key periods in the dogs life can severely affect how that dog will react to new situations, people, and other dogs/animals. This does not automatically mean that the dog is fear aggressive.
This article is being written today to give you a bit of insight into the world of canine behavior. Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. is the canine behaviorist for Denver Dog Works and oversees all of our behavioral modification clients. He has written more in-depth articles regarding this subject.
Again, this article is being written to peak your interest and help you in researching proper routes of action for your dog. Always consult with a canine behaviorist and your veterinarian if you experience any signs of aggressive behavior.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Animal law | Dog Law
__________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele also co-hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
Aggression is defined as follows:
1 : a forceful action or procedure (as an unprovoked attack) especially when intended to dominate or master 2 : the practice of making attacks or encroachments; especially : unprovoked violation by one country of the territorial integrity of another 3 : hostile, injurious, or destructive behavior or outlook especially when caused by frustration
citation: Merriam-Webster
Aggression is defined as behavior aimed at causing harm or pain, psychological harm, or personal injury or physical distraction. An important aspect of aggressive behavior is the intention underlying the actor's behavior. Not all behaviors resulting in harm are considered aggression. For example, a doctor who makes an injection that harms people, but who did so with the intent of preventing the further spread of illness, is not considered to have committed an aggressive act.
Aggression can be direct or indirect, active or passive, and physical or verbal. Using these categories, human aggression can be grouped into eight classes of behavior:
Punching the victim (direct, active, physical)
Insulting the victim (direct, active, verbal)
Performing a practical joke, setting a booby trap (direct, passive, physical)
Spreading malicious gossip (direct, passive, verbal)
Obstructing passage, participating in a sit-in (indirect, active, physical)
Refusing to speak (indirect, active, verbal)
Refusing to perform a necessary task (indirect, passive, physical)
Direct aggression, especially physically active aggression, is more common among animals. Actors who express indirect aggression usually feel less satisfaction, but they are also less concerned about retaliation. Passive and indirect aggression is the least noxious form. Subordinates rebelling against authority figures often use it. In the family relation it is often used by children against their parents. http://social.jrank.org
The above refer to aggression as defined by humans and in human behavior. We are consulting with more and more clients who describe their dogs as being aggressive solely based on the definitions listed above. This is dangerous ground to be on. Working with your veterinarian as well as a behaviorist can reduce the labeling effects humans place onto their animals. Aggressiveness in dogs is a multi-faceted complex diagnosis.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual behavior problems in dogs and aggressive behaviors lists thirteen types of aggression as well as explanations and treatments. Simply identifying your dog with a behavioral problem such as the most common we hear of; fear aggression gives the owner and society the impression that the dog has had something terrible occur in its lifetime and therefore should be protected. When other factors play into the fear that cannot be recognized by the owner. For instance, a general lack of proper socialization at key periods in the dogs life can severely affect how that dog will react to new situations, people, and other dogs/animals. This does not automatically mean that the dog is fear aggressive.
This article is being written today to give you a bit of insight into the world of canine behavior. Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. is the canine behaviorist for Denver Dog Works and oversees all of our behavioral modification clients. He has written more in-depth articles regarding this subject.
Again, this article is being written to peak your interest and help you in researching proper routes of action for your dog. Always consult with a canine behaviorist and your veterinarian if you experience any signs of aggressive behavior.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Animal law | Dog Law
__________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Denver Dog Works. Michele also co-hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Sunday, April 25, 2010
K-9 Communication by Al Magaw
K-9 Communication
by Al Magaw
I think every dog owner has experienced incidents when their dog seems to know, without being told, when the owner is going to be doing something that the pet will be involved in. Much of this recognition can be put down to clues like a break in routine, body language, verbalization, etc. There are times, though, when none of the above apply. Times like a Saturday morning when the owner gets up at the same hour as normal, puts on the same clothes as normal, goes through the same routine as they do the rest of the week, yet the dog is filled with excitement because they "know" they are going too. There has been no verbalization, no change in routine, yet the dog knows. How is this possible? I've always wondered about this phenomena. I didn't pursue this line of thought though, even when I was demonstrating how my dog would do tricks as I silently read a list of tricks scribbled on a scrap of paper. I did my best to not move my body, nor give any clue, even avoiding eye contact, but "Cylus" would reliably roll over, sit up, speak, etc., as I read what ever trick was written on the list. It made a great parlour trick to show off to friends and family, but it wasn't until I got my little border collie, "Quick" that it dawned on me that this phenomenon of silent communication went much further than a parlour trick.
Many mushers have experienced having leaders that would go down the wrong trail, perhaps a dangerous one, no matter what command was being given. The common advice given is to keep your thoughts on the trail you want to be on, rather than the one you don't. I've heard mushers claim that all they have to do is to picture in their mind what trail they want to travel without giving a command, and that's where their "in tune" leader will go. Many obedience trainers will advise "picturing" the behavior you want from your dog, rather than fearing the behavior you don't want.
To get back to "Quick". Quick was a rescue from the pound. I've always admired the intelligence of the border collie, the dedication to the job they have, their alertness and awareness of what's going on, but I had no expectations of what was going to happen with Quick. Quick assumed the job as caretaker of the kennel, a self imposed job that she has dutifully fulfilled for the past 13-years. She treats the kennel dogs as her charges, much as a dog like her would be expected to treat a herd of sheep. Not only does Quick do her best to keep order in the kennel, and does her best to help bring dogs from the kennel to the hook-up area, she has brought loose dogs back to the truck when we were traveling. Quick never leaves the kennel to follow a team when we're training at home. When we return from a run, she goes up the side of the team with me as I give each dog a pet and a "good dog" for a job well done. Quick will nuzzle an ear as I give each dog a pet, as if she too was saying "good dog". That is until we come to a dog that screwed up on the run. To me, once we are home, every dog is a "good dog" and they all get their pet, yet Quick will start to scold and nag that dog with a series of sharp yips and barks. How she knows what a dog did on the trail, I could only surmise. It took a friend of mine to point out the most remarkable thing about Quick and the sled dogs though. Occasionally, Quick will scold a dog on it's way from the kennel to the hook-up area, and sure enough THAT dog will screw up during the run! That's when I realized that dogs have a way of communicating well beyond mere words. Not only are they able to silently communicate complex things, they have an awareness of the future, and can make plans and follow through with those plans.
Some humans have admirable intuitions about people or events. Watching my dogs for all these years has made me wonder if what is commonly called "intuition" is a vestige of what animals do all the time, much as our tail bone is a vestige of a tail.
We would love to hear your comments regarding this article. Please let us know at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Al Magaw | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
____________________
Al Magaw is a musher from Salmo BC. Al keeps a medium sized kennel of 20 - 45 alaskan huskies as well as several pet dogs of various breeds. Al has been training and racing for the last 33 years. Before becoming involved with sled dogs, Al, along with his family, kept and competed with horses for many years. Al can be reached through his website at http://www.spiritofthenorthkennels.com Al is a guest blogger for Denver Dog Works and can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
by Al Magaw
I think every dog owner has experienced incidents when their dog seems to know, without being told, when the owner is going to be doing something that the pet will be involved in. Much of this recognition can be put down to clues like a break in routine, body language, verbalization, etc. There are times, though, when none of the above apply. Times like a Saturday morning when the owner gets up at the same hour as normal, puts on the same clothes as normal, goes through the same routine as they do the rest of the week, yet the dog is filled with excitement because they "know" they are going too. There has been no verbalization, no change in routine, yet the dog knows. How is this possible? I've always wondered about this phenomena. I didn't pursue this line of thought though, even when I was demonstrating how my dog would do tricks as I silently read a list of tricks scribbled on a scrap of paper. I did my best to not move my body, nor give any clue, even avoiding eye contact, but "Cylus" would reliably roll over, sit up, speak, etc., as I read what ever trick was written on the list. It made a great parlour trick to show off to friends and family, but it wasn't until I got my little border collie, "Quick" that it dawned on me that this phenomenon of silent communication went much further than a parlour trick.
Many mushers have experienced having leaders that would go down the wrong trail, perhaps a dangerous one, no matter what command was being given. The common advice given is to keep your thoughts on the trail you want to be on, rather than the one you don't. I've heard mushers claim that all they have to do is to picture in their mind what trail they want to travel without giving a command, and that's where their "in tune" leader will go. Many obedience trainers will advise "picturing" the behavior you want from your dog, rather than fearing the behavior you don't want.
To get back to "Quick". Quick was a rescue from the pound. I've always admired the intelligence of the border collie, the dedication to the job they have, their alertness and awareness of what's going on, but I had no expectations of what was going to happen with Quick. Quick assumed the job as caretaker of the kennel, a self imposed job that she has dutifully fulfilled for the past 13-years. She treats the kennel dogs as her charges, much as a dog like her would be expected to treat a herd of sheep. Not only does Quick do her best to keep order in the kennel, and does her best to help bring dogs from the kennel to the hook-up area, she has brought loose dogs back to the truck when we were traveling. Quick never leaves the kennel to follow a team when we're training at home. When we return from a run, she goes up the side of the team with me as I give each dog a pet and a "good dog" for a job well done. Quick will nuzzle an ear as I give each dog a pet, as if she too was saying "good dog". That is until we come to a dog that screwed up on the run. To me, once we are home, every dog is a "good dog" and they all get their pet, yet Quick will start to scold and nag that dog with a series of sharp yips and barks. How she knows what a dog did on the trail, I could only surmise. It took a friend of mine to point out the most remarkable thing about Quick and the sled dogs though. Occasionally, Quick will scold a dog on it's way from the kennel to the hook-up area, and sure enough THAT dog will screw up during the run! That's when I realized that dogs have a way of communicating well beyond mere words. Not only are they able to silently communicate complex things, they have an awareness of the future, and can make plans and follow through with those plans.
Some humans have admirable intuitions about people or events. Watching my dogs for all these years has made me wonder if what is commonly called "intuition" is a vestige of what animals do all the time, much as our tail bone is a vestige of a tail.
We would love to hear your comments regarding this article. Please let us know at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Al Magaw | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works
____________________
Al Magaw is a musher from Salmo BC. Al keeps a medium sized kennel of 20 - 45 alaskan huskies as well as several pet dogs of various breeds. Al has been training and racing for the last 33 years. Before becoming involved with sled dogs, Al, along with his family, kept and competed with horses for many years. Al can be reached through his website at http://www.spiritofthenorthkennels.com Al is a guest blogger for Denver Dog Works and can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Friday, April 23, 2010
Domestic Violence Protection Orders and Pets
Domestic Violence Protection Orders and Pets
By Robert Forto, PhD
On April 12, 2010, Colorado Governor, Bill Ritter (D) signed into law a measure that will provide animals and pets protection from predators of domestic violence.
The measure will allow Colorado judges to order suspected domestic abusers in the state to stay away from family pets and livestock. Many states allow judges the discretion of including the family pet in a protection order but with the signing of this law it will require the judge to do so.
Ritter says domestic abuse can harm or threaten to harm pets to intimate their victims. Advocates say some victims of domestic abuse or domestic violence are afraid to leave abusive homes out of fear fore the animals that they may have to leave behind.
One way to further traumatize the human target of domestic violence is to injure or kill that person’s beloved pet. When domestic violence erupts, family pets are often the first target because abusers understand and exploit the deep bond between pets and family members. Threatening a pet often causes the victim to stay out of fear of what might happen to them if they leave. Studies have shown that almost half of battered women delay their escape for this reason. In some cities they have created Animal Safe houses in which foster owners and/or shelters take care of the pets empowering the victim of domestic violence to leave. In Denver, The Denver Dumb Friends League offers temporary assistance for victims of domestic violence and housing of their pets.
According to Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States, “The bond between people and their pets is so powerful that people would rather stay in an abusive situation if it means protecting their animal. A pet is sometimes the only positive and unconditional relationship that a victim might have and that means they will do absolutely anything to keep them safe. We want the law to recognize the deep significance of that relationship and acknowledge that for most people, a pet is part of the family and therefore a victim--and a pawn--in the horrendous cycle of domestic violence.”
Up until the signing of the measure by Governor Ritter in Colorado only four states--Maine, Minnesota, New York and Vermont--have enacted laws permitting family pets to be included in protective orders involving cases of domestic violence and abuse. An additional 11 states: California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and the District of Columbia have considered “pet protection” legislation.
Such measures will provide much needed protection for victims of domestic violence and abuse and protect their pets as well. Pet protection orders will offer victims of abuse an alternative to staying in abusive relationships for fear of what may happen to their pets if they leave.
Facts:
Seven of every 10 families with minor children include a pet -- more than 64 million households in total.
Research shows that pet abuse is a predictor of domestic violence. Paying attention to pet abuse can save human lives.
Studies show that up to 71% of battered women report their pet was threatened, harmed, or killed by their partners.
A national survey found that 85% of women's shelters indicated that women seeking safety described incidents of pet abuse in their families.
Batterers threaten, abuse, or kill animals to demonstrate and confirm power and control over the family, to isolate the victim and children, and to prevent the victim from leaving or coerce her/him to return.
Domestic violence shelters and animal protection organizations have begun partnering to develop "safe havens" for pets of domestic violence victims because many victims delay leaving out of fear for their pets' safety. All too often, batterers punish victims for leaving by killing their pet. Yet, with the help of over 100 safe haven programs currently operating today in the U.S., many victims no longer have to choose between their safety and their pets.
If you have a comment to share on this subject we would love to hear from you. We will be talking about this subject on an upcoming episode of the Dog Doctor Radio Show. Send all comments to: live@dogdoctorradio.com
Citation: HSUS website
http://www.coloradoconnection.com
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Animal law | Dog Law
_________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of the Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
On April 12, 2010, Colorado Governor, Bill Ritter (D) signed into law a measure that will provide animals and pets protection from predators of domestic violence.
The measure will allow Colorado judges to order suspected domestic abusers in the state to stay away from family pets and livestock. Many states allow judges the discretion of including the family pet in a protection order but with the signing of this law it will require the judge to do so.
Ritter says domestic abuse can harm or threaten to harm pets to intimate their victims. Advocates say some victims of domestic abuse or domestic violence are afraid to leave abusive homes out of fear fore the animals that they may have to leave behind.
One way to further traumatize the human target of domestic violence is to injure or kill that person’s beloved pet. When domestic violence erupts, family pets are often the first target because abusers understand and exploit the deep bond between pets and family members. Threatening a pet often causes the victim to stay out of fear of what might happen to them if they leave. Studies have shown that almost half of battered women delay their escape for this reason. In some cities they have created Animal Safe houses in which foster owners and/or shelters take care of the pets empowering the victim of domestic violence to leave. In Denver, The Denver Dumb Friends League offers temporary assistance for victims of domestic violence and housing of their pets.
According to Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States, “The bond between people and their pets is so powerful that people would rather stay in an abusive situation if it means protecting their animal. A pet is sometimes the only positive and unconditional relationship that a victim might have and that means they will do absolutely anything to keep them safe. We want the law to recognize the deep significance of that relationship and acknowledge that for most people, a pet is part of the family and therefore a victim--and a pawn--in the horrendous cycle of domestic violence.”
Up until the signing of the measure by Governor Ritter in Colorado only four states--Maine, Minnesota, New York and Vermont--have enacted laws permitting family pets to be included in protective orders involving cases of domestic violence and abuse. An additional 11 states: California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and the District of Columbia have considered “pet protection” legislation.
Such measures will provide much needed protection for victims of domestic violence and abuse and protect their pets as well. Pet protection orders will offer victims of abuse an alternative to staying in abusive relationships for fear of what may happen to their pets if they leave.
Facts:
Seven of every 10 families with minor children include a pet -- more than 64 million households in total.
Research shows that pet abuse is a predictor of domestic violence. Paying attention to pet abuse can save human lives.
Studies show that up to 71% of battered women report their pet was threatened, harmed, or killed by their partners.
A national survey found that 85% of women's shelters indicated that women seeking safety described incidents of pet abuse in their families.
Batterers threaten, abuse, or kill animals to demonstrate and confirm power and control over the family, to isolate the victim and children, and to prevent the victim from leaving or coerce her/him to return.
Domestic violence shelters and animal protection organizations have begun partnering to develop "safe havens" for pets of domestic violence victims because many victims delay leaving out of fear for their pets' safety. All too often, batterers punish victims for leaving by killing their pet. Yet, with the help of over 100 safe haven programs currently operating today in the U.S., many victims no longer have to choose between their safety and their pets.
If you have a comment to share on this subject we would love to hear from you. We will be talking about this subject on an upcoming episode of the Dog Doctor Radio Show. Send all comments to: live@dogdoctorradio.com
Citation: HSUS website
http://www.coloradoconnection.com
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Animal law | Dog Law
_________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of the Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, April 22, 2010
The Science Behind Raw Diets for Dogs
The Science Behind a Raw Diet for Dogs
By Leah Morse
This is a part of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
So why should I feed raw diet? I want to dig a little deeper and look past the fact that my dogs look like they were dipped in clear coat, they aren’t getting sick, my puppy has really never gotten diarrhea, it costs less for the nutrition it provides and my dogs truly enjoy eating it. I want to know about the science of why this is working. I have read several books, watched a DVD and have spent hours upon hours on the internet. Here are some interesting things that I have found.
The enzymes that exist in the raw food are a huge part of why this has been so good for my dogs. In “Living Enzymes, The World’s Best Kept Pet Food Secret” by Robert Mueller, BSc, Pharm. It is explained that the enzymes are the key to everything. Robert Mueller has had plenty of experience with feeding raw food as he worked with racing greyhounds that were fed raw diet to enhance their performance. He also was involved with providing correct raw food for exotic animals. Robert Mueller states “Enzymes are the life forces that activate and then participate in all the body’s digestive and metabolic processes. “
There are enzymes that are produced inside a dog’s body by various organs but when supplemented by naturally occurring enzymes from raw food, it takes away the strain of production on the body. According to Robert Mueller a pets enzyme reserve is exhausted in several years of feeding foods that do not supply enzymes. All enzymes are completely cooked out of kibble by the high temperatures, as well as all the nutrients that are later added back in.
In Whole Health for Happy Dogs, by Jill Elliot D.V.M and Kim Bloomer, they state that meat that has been cooked beyond 180 degrees F, no longer contains the beneficial fats and enzymes which are the most valuable ingredients that your dog needs for optimal health. You can bet that dog food has been cooked beyond this. Another interesting fact that this book points out is that there are storage mites that are in the grains used in dog food. These mites apparently secrete deadly mycotoxins (mycotoxins are chemical secreted by toxic mold) and when the grain is processed these toxins end up in the kibble. The food and Drug Administration allows certain levels of mycotoxins in the food so pet food manufacturers get around this my mixing grains with higher levels of mycotoxins with grains of lesser levels; hopefully to reduce the higher levels. (page 100-107)
In Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Dr. Richard H. Pitcairn, DVM, PhD) goes to great lengths to discuss the good of raw diet and the bad and ugly of processed kibble. He breaks the ingredients down to preservatives and color. Dr. Pitcairn meticulously breaks down the additives such as fillers and color and flavors.
I highly recommend this book as a complete guide to anyone just starting to feed raw diet. I am currently following his recommendation for feeding a pregnant dog as we have followed through with a planned breeding. He even provides exact recipes of supplementation and meals that you can make. It has been an awesome resource for me with having both a growing boxer puppy and a pregnant boxer in my house.
For more information on our upcoming litters please visit: My Watch Boxers
In conclusion, all of my sources of information all agree on the fact that the nutrition and enzymes provided by the raw food is invaluable. They all agree that a dog’s digestive system is designed to handle raw food. They all agree that raw food is digested so much quicker than cooked and therefore prevents bacteria to thrive.
It is my hope that sharing my experiences of converting to and feeding raw diet is beneficial. I will never go back to kibble.
We would love to hear your comments and concerns about feeding a raw diet to dogs. You can reach us by email at live@dogdoctoradio.com
Tags: Raw Diet for Dogs | Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
__________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine in Colorado. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Leah Morse
This is a part of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
So why should I feed raw diet? I want to dig a little deeper and look past the fact that my dogs look like they were dipped in clear coat, they aren’t getting sick, my puppy has really never gotten diarrhea, it costs less for the nutrition it provides and my dogs truly enjoy eating it. I want to know about the science of why this is working. I have read several books, watched a DVD and have spent hours upon hours on the internet. Here are some interesting things that I have found.
The enzymes that exist in the raw food are a huge part of why this has been so good for my dogs. In “Living Enzymes, The World’s Best Kept Pet Food Secret” by Robert Mueller, BSc, Pharm. It is explained that the enzymes are the key to everything. Robert Mueller has had plenty of experience with feeding raw food as he worked with racing greyhounds that were fed raw diet to enhance their performance. He also was involved with providing correct raw food for exotic animals. Robert Mueller states “Enzymes are the life forces that activate and then participate in all the body’s digestive and metabolic processes. “
There are enzymes that are produced inside a dog’s body by various organs but when supplemented by naturally occurring enzymes from raw food, it takes away the strain of production on the body. According to Robert Mueller a pets enzyme reserve is exhausted in several years of feeding foods that do not supply enzymes. All enzymes are completely cooked out of kibble by the high temperatures, as well as all the nutrients that are later added back in.
In Whole Health for Happy Dogs, by Jill Elliot D.V.M and Kim Bloomer, they state that meat that has been cooked beyond 180 degrees F, no longer contains the beneficial fats and enzymes which are the most valuable ingredients that your dog needs for optimal health. You can bet that dog food has been cooked beyond this. Another interesting fact that this book points out is that there are storage mites that are in the grains used in dog food. These mites apparently secrete deadly mycotoxins (mycotoxins are chemical secreted by toxic mold) and when the grain is processed these toxins end up in the kibble. The food and Drug Administration allows certain levels of mycotoxins in the food so pet food manufacturers get around this my mixing grains with higher levels of mycotoxins with grains of lesser levels; hopefully to reduce the higher levels. (page 100-107)
In Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Dr. Richard H. Pitcairn, DVM, PhD) goes to great lengths to discuss the good of raw diet and the bad and ugly of processed kibble. He breaks the ingredients down to preservatives and color. Dr. Pitcairn meticulously breaks down the additives such as fillers and color and flavors.
I highly recommend this book as a complete guide to anyone just starting to feed raw diet. I am currently following his recommendation for feeding a pregnant dog as we have followed through with a planned breeding. He even provides exact recipes of supplementation and meals that you can make. It has been an awesome resource for me with having both a growing boxer puppy and a pregnant boxer in my house.
For more information on our upcoming litters please visit: My Watch Boxers
In conclusion, all of my sources of information all agree on the fact that the nutrition and enzymes provided by the raw food is invaluable. They all agree that a dog’s digestive system is designed to handle raw food. They all agree that raw food is digested so much quicker than cooked and therefore prevents bacteria to thrive.
It is my hope that sharing my experiences of converting to and feeding raw diet is beneficial. I will never go back to kibble.
We would love to hear your comments and concerns about feeding a raw diet to dogs. You can reach us by email at live@dogdoctoradio.com
Tags: Raw Diet for Dogs | Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
__________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine in Colorado. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Freedom of Expression?
Freedom of Expression?
By Michele Forto
On Tuesday April 20, 2010, The United States Supreme Court rules animal cruelty video law unconstitutional. United States v. Stevens, 559 U.S. 08-769 (2010) was a decision by the Supreme Court of the United States, which ruled that 18 U.S.C. § 48, a federal statute criminalizing the commercial production, sale, or possession of depictions of cruelty to animals, was an unconstitutional abridgment of the First Amendment right to freedom of speech. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_v._Stevens )
In 2004, Mr. Stevens was indicted for creating and selling three video tapes showing pit bulls engaged in dog fighting. Stevens filed a motion to dismiss the indictment, arguing that the federal statute abridged his right to freedom of speech under the First Amendment. The District Court denied his motion in November 2004. In January 2005, Stevens was convicted by a jury after a deliberation of 45 minutes.
Stevens appealed, and the Third Circuit vacated his conviction, holding that 18 U.S.C. 48 violated the First Amendment. The court stated that dog fighting, or the use of dogs to hunt hogs, may be made illegal to protect animals from cruelty. However the court ruled that the law in question, prohibiting the depiction of animal cruelty, violates the First Amendment, as it would create a new category of speech not protected by the free speech provision of the Amendment.
We, at Denver Dog Works, are utterly against any harmful cruel acts made upon any animal.
I am writing this opinion because animals’ are considered property; livestock. I believe the laws need to change and be applied to the 21st century. As a society we no longer view our pets as livestock or property. We view them as being members of our family.
Until our pets identities are redefined a person wanting to film a “crush video” has every right to do so under the First Amendment of the Constitution.
With all of the laws and governmental restrictions being placed onto us know do we really need to be told how to treat animals? Can’t we figure out on our own that if someone harms a defenseless animal that they should face criminal charges? Obviously, “crush videos” bring out the sickest of our society. Crushing kittens and puppies with stilettos’ is not a form of expression nor is it freedom of speech! It’s outright appalling.
I applaud the Justices for seeing the issues with the law presented to them and I am hopeful it will be challenged again in a way that will be upheld.
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 Denver Dog Works. Michele is also the co-host of the weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
On Tuesday April 20, 2010, The United States Supreme Court rules animal cruelty video law unconstitutional. United States v. Stevens, 559 U.S. 08-769 (2010) was a decision by the Supreme Court of the United States, which ruled that 18 U.S.C. § 48, a federal statute criminalizing the commercial production, sale, or possession of depictions of cruelty to animals, was an unconstitutional abridgment of the First Amendment right to freedom of speech. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_v._Stevens )
In 2004, Mr. Stevens was indicted for creating and selling three video tapes showing pit bulls engaged in dog fighting. Stevens filed a motion to dismiss the indictment, arguing that the federal statute abridged his right to freedom of speech under the First Amendment. The District Court denied his motion in November 2004. In January 2005, Stevens was convicted by a jury after a deliberation of 45 minutes.
Stevens appealed, and the Third Circuit vacated his conviction, holding that 18 U.S.C. 48 violated the First Amendment. The court stated that dog fighting, or the use of dogs to hunt hogs, may be made illegal to protect animals from cruelty. However the court ruled that the law in question, prohibiting the depiction of animal cruelty, violates the First Amendment, as it would create a new category of speech not protected by the free speech provision of the Amendment.
We, at Denver Dog Works, are utterly against any harmful cruel acts made upon any animal.
I am writing this opinion because animals’ are considered property; livestock. I believe the laws need to change and be applied to the 21st century. As a society we no longer view our pets as livestock or property. We view them as being members of our family.
Until our pets identities are redefined a person wanting to film a “crush video” has every right to do so under the First Amendment of the Constitution.
With all of the laws and governmental restrictions being placed onto us know do we really need to be told how to treat animals? Can’t we figure out on our own that if someone harms a defenseless animal that they should face criminal charges? Obviously, “crush videos” bring out the sickest of our society. Crushing kittens and puppies with stilettos’ is not a form of expression nor is it freedom of speech! It’s outright appalling.
I applaud the Justices for seeing the issues with the law presented to them and I am hopeful it will be challenged again in a way that will be upheld.
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 Denver Dog Works. Michele is also the co-host of the weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Michele can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Who Are These Dogs That Pull Sleds? The Alaskan Husky
Who Are These Dogs That Pull Sleds? The Alaskan Husky and Village Dog
By Robert Forto, PhD
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.
Alaskan Husky and Village Dog
Mixed breeds ran the first sled dog races in Nome, Alaska, and today’s best teams are still made up of mixed breeds, although of a vastly different genetic composition. The first racing sled dogs were “working animals first and racers second.” The Eskimos and Indians of Alaska had their natural breeds of sled dogs when the gold “stampeders” arrived in the last years of the 1800’s, but there were not enough dogs to support the thousands of men and women traveling around the territory. As a result, large, strong dogs were brought from the lower 48 states, mixed in with the northern dogs, and the result was mongrel sled dogs like those of Scotty Allan. These were the dogs that won the early All-Alaska Sweepstakes races, but were rapidly replaced by the fast, more intelligent and more eager to please Siberian Huskies on the racing trails. Then as sled dog racing became popular and profitable in Alaska, drivers bred their working stock with the fastest native dogs they could find. These tough hybrids provided a speedy tenacity, and when interbred with the bigger Alaskan Malamute or the Mackenzie River Husky (the biggest of the natural sled dog breeds from Canada) produced a racing sled dog to suit most early competitors.
The most frequent canine winners of sled dog races today are Alaskan Huskies and another indigenous Alaskan marvel called the Village Dog. Neither of these types are purebreds but they are recognized as distinct nevertheless. The Alaskan Husky is essentially a mixture of northern dogs, and would be called simply “husky” in Alaska. The Village or Indian Dog is the chief racing dog in Alaska and has been for many years. Basically a northern dog, but in his background is anything from domestic stock, to wolf, to whatever the interior villages of Alaska had around.
Alaskan Huskies, bred mainly by white men in the north, reveal their dominant arctic genes in their appearance; a nicely marked face, curled tail, pricked ears, and perhaps blue eyes. The larger of this type have been bred from Malamutes or Mackenzie River Huskies or even wolves. The smaller ones reflect their Siberian Husky or Samoyed background. Siberian-Malamute cross-breedings yield the most common Alaskan Huskies, but there can also be Eskimo or Greenland Husky, or any other northern breed mixed in. The average Alaskan Husky stands from 24 to 26 inches high, weighs between 50 and 70 pounds, and can be quite handsome. This breed is taller than the Siberian, lighter and rangier than the Malamute and stronger than almost any other bred on the snowy racing trail.
Ever since the mid-fifties when John Huntington surprised the racing world by winning the Dual Championship with a dog team from Huslia, Alaska, the dogs from that area have been deservedly famous for their racing abilities. Neither Huntington or George Attla can definitely pin down the origin of this village dog, but they are aware of variations from village to village. According to Attla, “the average production of good dogs in Huslia is much higher than any place I have been to. I have gone to a lot of places and gone through a lot of dogs, just buying dogs generally, but I still get my best percentage right in Huslia.” The Huslia strain shared with other Koyukuk River villages of Allakaket and Hughes, contains some hound, collie and Labrador Retriever, since that is what is in the village. They are fast, strong sled dogs and have earned the title of “Huslia Hustler” for several of the local racers.
Efforts to keep track of sled dogs in their own registry are more popular in the lower 48 states than in Alaska. The Alaskan Husky Club provides a registry for the non-pedigreed Alaskan Husky and the International Sled Dog Racing Association has developed guidelines for registering sled dogs. Qualifications for dogs on these registries are based on performance, similar to the Border Collie registries for herding, and not on appearance. A dog’s ancestry becomes significant and valuable only when it can prove itself on the trail or as a producer of other good sled dogs.
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
________________
Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and a musher racing under the banner Team Ineka. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
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.
Alaskan Husky and Village Dog
Mixed breeds ran the first sled dog races in Nome, Alaska, and today’s best teams are still made up of mixed breeds, although of a vastly different genetic composition. The first racing sled dogs were “working animals first and racers second.” The Eskimos and Indians of Alaska had their natural breeds of sled dogs when the gold “stampeders” arrived in the last years of the 1800’s, but there were not enough dogs to support the thousands of men and women traveling around the territory. As a result, large, strong dogs were brought from the lower 48 states, mixed in with the northern dogs, and the result was mongrel sled dogs like those of Scotty Allan. These were the dogs that won the early All-Alaska Sweepstakes races, but were rapidly replaced by the fast, more intelligent and more eager to please Siberian Huskies on the racing trails. Then as sled dog racing became popular and profitable in Alaska, drivers bred their working stock with the fastest native dogs they could find. These tough hybrids provided a speedy tenacity, and when interbred with the bigger Alaskan Malamute or the Mackenzie River Husky (the biggest of the natural sled dog breeds from Canada) produced a racing sled dog to suit most early competitors.
The most frequent canine winners of sled dog races today are Alaskan Huskies and another indigenous Alaskan marvel called the Village Dog. Neither of these types are purebreds but they are recognized as distinct nevertheless. The Alaskan Husky is essentially a mixture of northern dogs, and would be called simply “husky” in Alaska. The Village or Indian Dog is the chief racing dog in Alaska and has been for many years. Basically a northern dog, but in his background is anything from domestic stock, to wolf, to whatever the interior villages of Alaska had around.
Alaskan Huskies, bred mainly by white men in the north, reveal their dominant arctic genes in their appearance; a nicely marked face, curled tail, pricked ears, and perhaps blue eyes. The larger of this type have been bred from Malamutes or Mackenzie River Huskies or even wolves. The smaller ones reflect their Siberian Husky or Samoyed background. Siberian-Malamute cross-breedings yield the most common Alaskan Huskies, but there can also be Eskimo or Greenland Husky, or any other northern breed mixed in. The average Alaskan Husky stands from 24 to 26 inches high, weighs between 50 and 70 pounds, and can be quite handsome. This breed is taller than the Siberian, lighter and rangier than the Malamute and stronger than almost any other bred on the snowy racing trail.
Ever since the mid-fifties when John Huntington surprised the racing world by winning the Dual Championship with a dog team from Huslia, Alaska, the dogs from that area have been deservedly famous for their racing abilities. Neither Huntington or George Attla can definitely pin down the origin of this village dog, but they are aware of variations from village to village. According to Attla, “the average production of good dogs in Huslia is much higher than any place I have been to. I have gone to a lot of places and gone through a lot of dogs, just buying dogs generally, but I still get my best percentage right in Huslia.” The Huslia strain shared with other Koyukuk River villages of Allakaket and Hughes, contains some hound, collie and Labrador Retriever, since that is what is in the village. They are fast, strong sled dogs and have earned the title of “Huslia Hustler” for several of the local racers.
Efforts to keep track of sled dogs in their own registry are more popular in the lower 48 states than in Alaska. The Alaskan Husky Club provides a registry for the non-pedigreed Alaskan Husky and the International Sled Dog Racing Association has developed guidelines for registering sled dogs. Qualifications for dogs on these registries are based on performance, similar to the Border Collie registries for herding, and not on appearance. A dog’s ancestry becomes significant and valuable only when it can prove itself on the trail or as a producer of other good sled dogs.
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
________________
Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and a musher racing under the banner Team Ineka. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
