The Exam Room:
Find out what the doctor looks for when examining your
dog. From Great Danes to Yorkshire Terriers, we can accommodate any
size dog!
Vaccinations: Find out what
vaccines are available and which are recommended for your dog.
Choosing A Dog: There are hundreds
of breeds of dog. Selecting the right one can be difficult, so we've
put together some ideas on how to select the right breed for your
personality and lifestyle. Also, there is a link to the AKC with info on every
breed they register.
Not sure where to begin
with dogs and want to know how to interact with them? Here are some
helpful tips
for newbies and familiar 'dog-people' alike. . .
HOW
TO MAKE FRIENDS WITH MY DOG©
1. Allow my dog to approach you rather than you approaching
my dog. By not invading my dog's personal space, my dog is much less likely
to react defensively.
2. Position yourself so the side of your body is turned toward my
dog. If you face my dog, you appear much more threatening.
3. Look straight ahead, off to the side or down. Don't stare at my
dog. My dog might interpret eye contact from you as a threat.
4. Stand up straight (for larger dogs), bend at the knees (for smaller
dogs, and if your knees are young enough!) or sit down. Avoid bending
at the waist and leaning over my dog, which is another threatening
posture.
5. Keep your hands at your side and allow my dog to come up and sniff.
Don't hold your hand out for my dog to sniff. My dog could take exception
to your hands reaching toward him and over his head.
6. I'll give you a treat to offer my dog from your open palm, or you
may toss one on the ground. Avoid trying to feed my dog a treat from
your fingers.
7. If I tell you it's OK to pet my dog, scratch him under the chin.
Avoid reaching over his head.
8. We'll let my dog
decide if he wants further contact with you. Don't insist on trying
to "make friends" with
him. If he walks away, leave him alone.
As a dog owner, you must take any growling, showing of teeth, lunging
or snapping seriously. Don't try to rationalize these behaviors away
as something your dog will never do again. Chances are he will unless
you help him learn how to respond differently.
© Copyright 2003
Animal Behavior Associates, Inc. All rights reserved.
