Rescue, Rehabilitation & Training

[Pat Muller]

Hi

I thought I would share a special experience that began a few days
ago....

On Thursday, two of our veterans attended class. One worked Skippy
and the other held Buster and Bailey. Bailey is really in need of
socialization and Kathy did just fine with the Min Pin and the little
Doxie.

At the end of class, Kathy put both of them back into a kennel to
potty. I finished up and fed the dogs. After the cats were fed, I
started to bring the dogs in for the night.

As I said on the other thread, we had rescued Bailey over a week ago,
but she is a VERY fearful little dog and is often in a panic and is
constantly trying to bolt and run. For that reason, I always leave a
line attached to her collar. Even with that, I have to always be very
careful when moving the girl.

So Thursday night, I opened the gate, bent down to pick Bailey up and
as she came out, I realized (too late) that Kathy had taken off the
line. Before I could do anything, Bailey was GONE.

I got Y-lee and a flashlight, but that dog is so small that she zipped
right through the fence and there was no sign of her anywhere. I felt
sick but in the entire week Bailey has been here, she has not made up
to anyone except Jane.

She was more manageable but has never been friendly. She does like
Buster but that's about it. It was 10:00 pm and she is very black.
There was no hope of finding Bailey in the dark so I left the kennel
door open, hoping Bailey would come back looking to get in out of the
weather.

In the morning, there was still no sign of her and I asked the
neighbors to keep watch for her. No one had seen anything and I
figured because we have so many coyotes, there was probably a good
chance Bailey was gone.

I felt very bad, but pretty helpless as to what to do. Everytime any
of us went outside, we automatically looked hoping the little dog was
hiding somewhere and there was nothing.

By this morning, I had pretty much resigned myself to the fact that
Bailey was officially gone.

Around 11am I went down to take care of Sampson, the handsome young
Boxer here for training and still no Bailey. I finished and headed
back up to the office. I talked for a short time on the phone and I
heard a car drive in.

I was expecting a gal from the Chicago area who wanted to see some
Lakelands, and sure enough, it was her. I hung up the phone, went out
to greet Debbie, who was coming around the corner of the building.

Guess who was following right behind her? It was a short, wet,
skinny, ratty looking little black Dachshund.

It seems that Bailey finally decided that having food, attention,
comfort and safety was not such a bad thing. She had no clue there
was will be fun involved as well. That poor little dog tried hard to
make it on her own but had no idea how difficult it would be.

How sad that it took 2 1/2 days for Bailey to choose to take the risk
and trust me enough to come to me. She was cowering and worried, but
Bailey came to me on her own.

I picked her up and she snuggled right in. I fed her and she took a
good long nap. Later, I put Bailey (with line attached) and Buster
back out in the kennel.

Later when I went out to get them, I picked up Buster and let Bailey
out free. She looked at me, started to run and then just followed me
into the office building.

Today was truly the beginning of Bailey's rehabilitation and you
should see the happy look in that little dog's eyes.

....and this was not even the best thing that happened today.

That will have to come later

Pat

[LMcCain]

Hi Pat,

I am so glad that Bailey came back home, safe and sound. I know you
were worried about her!!!

Lynn

[Lisa Heath]

Pat,

How long was Bailey's line? I find it interesting that you chose to
trust her
to make the choice to go with you, the day after she returned.

Did you KNOW that she would choose to go with you? Or was the line
long enough
that if she made the wrong decision, you were assured of being able to
step on the line?

Tea, our bolter, will stick around dragging a long line when we are
out and about... that is usually
(or maybe always???) when Shay is playing and working her. He trusts
her. She doesn't leave
our training area, which is generally away from the house. Well, it
was away from the house, until
she was put on "house arrest" last weekend!

Lisa

[Sara Peterka]

----- Lisa Heath <lish...@aol.com> wrote:
>
> Pat,
>
> How long was Bailey's line? I find it interesting that you chose to
> trust her
> to make the choice to go with you, the day after she returned.
>

What a difference space makes! I teach come by sending the dog out. Here it is a privilage to be next to me.

I have a feeling Bailey learned how privilaged she is by having a human to feed her and look after her. If she really learned her lesson, Pat would not need the line....and it sounds like she did. Ever heard "If you love something set it free, if it comes back it's yours, if it doesn't it never was"?

Please don't think I get rescues here and turn them all loose, but a dog that is raised that way or learns the hard lesson Bailey did and survived likely won't make the same mistake again.

Sara

[Pat Muller]

Hi

> What a difference space makes!  I teach come by sending the dog out.  Here it is a privilage to be next to me.  

It is not only space, but lack of traffic, loose dogs and dangerous
distractions that make life in the country so much easier when it
comes to raising dogs and kids.

> I have a feeling Bailey learned how privilaged she is by having a human to feed her and look after her.  If she really learned her lesson, Pat would not need the line....and it sounds like she did.  Ever heard "If you love something set it free, if it comes back it's yours, if it doesn't it never was"?  

Up to this point, Bailey's ONLY focus had been to run away and "no
fences" is one of the problems with the hound mentality. Although the
Mini-Dachshund is a hound, it is also chock full of toy. In Bailey's
case, she is very small, gets very cold unless she is curled up in her
blanket and demands attention.

When you think about that you KNOW she does not really want to be on
her own. But bolting had become a serious game and because there are
so many people handling dogs, around here, a dog that bolts IS going
to be successful now and then.

There are a number of kids that come to class and often work my dogs,
the veterans are often here along with some wonderful volunteers.
With this in mind, my goal is to condition Bailey to become one of the
good guys without traumatizing someone that is just trying to get her
out of a kennel.

I would hate it if anything happed to Bailey but I would rather have
it happen to me than one of the people helping me. Again, Bailey does
not want to run away, but up until now, I am sure (sadly) this is the
way Bailey has gotten much of her attention.

Besides, even if Bailey never totally gets over the nonsense, as a
program dog dealing with such a dog is great "training" for the
veterans, volunteers and kids who will be doing the training.

Because Bailey is a Dachshund, she may never be totally over the
bolting nonsense. BUT if her bolting does not result in Bailey
actually running away, it can be used as a valuable training tool for
teaching.

AND if she bolts, but it is simply across the yard but in 3 minutes,
comes back....what difference would that really make?

You see, this is much like Karma's behavior. Some person allowed
these dogs to focus and intensify a natural priority to a high enough
level that it became dangerous. ANY behavior that you cannot easily
control should be considered AGGRESSION.

To fix aggression, that behavior must have some dependable switches:
On, Off and Dimmer. In Karma's case, because she was SO intense, to
the point of being dangerous, I deliberately installed a very serious
OFF switch. Karma would have caused big problems because of it.

In Bailey's case, I lessened her gratification and incentive. Now
because it is not so much fun to run, the desire will diminish as
well. So far, I like the results I am seeing.

I believe in Bailey's case the dimmer switch will do just fine.

Pat

I have lots more work to do with Bailey because we have hit a bit of a
snag. HRH has now begun to chew through any line that I attach to her
collar. It is a lovely habit and I thank Bailey each and every time
it happens.

[Pat Muller]

Hi

We have reached a milestone so I thought I would give you another
Bailey update.

The little woman continues to be Bailey (you know Toy-Hound with
baggage) but the fear is gradually disappearing and her desire for
comfort and attention is taking over.

Although Bailey continues to "bolt" out of her kennel, it is with much
less conviction and speed. In fact, last night she bolted so slowly
that I could have easily "caught" her. But that is not the game I am
willing to play.

The rules of my game are that Bailey chooses to come into the building
on her own, no nonsense. So last night, Bailey chose to "bolt and
hide." I waved to her as she ran across the wet grass, then sat and
watched me carry Buster in to his warm, cozy crate.

I invited her to come in but Bailey chose instead to spend the night
outside. Now before you start feeling too sorry for her, remember,
there is a barn full of hay and the kennel where she spends the day.
Bailey is still choosing not to come in but now, she stays in the
yard, just out of sight....this is a huge improvement in one week.

Anyway, Bailey continues to be a bit worried about other dogs so when
she does not come in and Y-lee goes out, she hides and that is HER
choice. So last night about midnight, Bailey chose not to come and
when Y went out, I lost sight of her.

Guess who was howling and crying to get in at 5 am? Yes, it was a
wet, cold little black Dachshund. It is sad because when she finally
does come in, Bailey is worried. I am pretty sure she believes that
she will be punished once she comes in.

In fact, this morning when I went to pick her up, Bailey cowered. I
snagged up all 6 pounds and gave her a hug instead, Bailey gave me a
kiss. I put her in her crate and boy, did she snuggle in!

Just think, in about one short month, this little Dachshund will go
from a biting bolter to a trusting, loving companion. And THAT is the
power and importance of rehabilitation.

One of these days I will give her a bath, but not until she decides
she wants to be here permanently. Once that happens, the transfer of
authority will begin. It will be at that point, that Bailey will
begin to learn what she has to do to become a great little dog for
someone to adopt.

Once we finally muddle our way through the rehabiliatation process,
training Bailey will be easy.

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Hi

Well, it has been three weeks today since a frightened, nasty little
Dachshund arrived and began living in the beige crate. The first
week, she waited and the second week she most certainly gave
aggression and freedom her best shot.

Bailey tried growling, biting and some serious bolting. She has
chewed a couple of lines and tried to be as independent and tough as
possible. It's a good thing all of the was done here. Any one of
those behaviors would have quite possibly cost her to lose a home or
worse to stay in a home living up to a reputation.

So lucky for Bailey, we called each of her bluffs and guess what, she
did not want to be a big tough hound after all. It is as I said, a
Toy Hound.

After the last night spent outside, Bailey decided to rethink her
assessment of her options and since the first time I sent her outside
loose and free with Zee, Fargo, Diamond, Londyn and Minnie, Miss
Bailey has not even considered bolting or even going more than about
20' from the door.

Yesterday, when I headed down to the veterans' meeting, all the dogs
were happily running loose and beat me to the training building.
Right there by my side was short little Bailey, just trotting along
like one of the big dogs. There was not one sign of fear or even a
threat of running away.

Bailey has done a complete flip flop and now wants to see everyone.
(The next thing after rehabilitation, comes the training and
conditioning.)

So now in that class we have a couple of issues: Skippy wants to boss
Bailey and Karma seriously disapproves of both Skippy and Bailey.
Diamond doesn't really care but even she gave dominance a shot.

It was a great session, with one ugly but important lesson and that
was, do not take the dogs for granted.

After everyone was beginning to leave Karen w/ Britton and Jane, went
out back to talk. There were a number of dogs that went with them,
including Bailey. For some reason, Karen took Britton's lead off and
because of the freedom, Britton made the decision that Bailey looked
like a slick black rat. He grabbed Bailey, I heard the noise and it
was done.

Both Britton and Karen got a good correction.

I then turned my attention to Bailey, who was huddled under a picnic
table. She still has about 8" of line attached to her collar, so
there was little danger even with some growling. I picked Bailey up
and determined that she was not actually hurt, put her back down and
headed inside.

Poor Karen, the entire experience was pretty rough on her, but I think
she's gonna be ok.

Bailey was no worse for wear and last night she was more than ready to
follow me back down for class. For her safety, Bailey was in a crate,
which she was not all that happy about but she was fine. That class
was big and lots of fun.

Bailey ended up parked in Karen's and Rick's lap for most of the sit
down part of the meeting and she was very pleased about that. After
class the little short woman was very proud to strut along back to the
office to have some dinner.

Bailey goes into her crate about 11 and begins crying to get out about
7:45. She is clean in her crate, she is more than ready to bond, she
is cute and healthy. With one afternoon of training, Bailey will be
ready to place. Someone is going to be VERY lucky.

So I have decided that this is bath day for Bailey.

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Hi

Remember this?

> Well, it has been three weeks today since a frightened, nasty little
> Dachshund arrived and began living in the beige crate.  The first
> week, she waited and the second week she most certainly gave
> aggression and freedom her best shot.

We moved on to this.....

> Bailey ended up parked in Karen's and Rick's  lap for most of the sit
> down part of the meeting and she was very pleased about that.  After
> class the little short woman was very proud to strut along back to the
> office to have some dinner.

...and now we have progressed to; the little woman thinks someone
should sit and hold her all the time.

Now, instead of being hopeful, Bailey is becoming demanding. She does
not think she should spend any amount of time in a crate if there is
anyone with an empty lap in the area. Last night in class, Bailey got
so demanding, she began to chew up first the blanket and then the rug
I had placed in the crate she was in.

I took both out of the crate. Next she tried barking, I hung a chain
on her collar, ran it out the door and let it hang. When she barked,
I pulled it and Bailey decided she first could and then would be quiet
the rest of the class.

Last night there was a storm and Bailey was anxious, I moved her to a
crate closer to me and she was quiet all night. She willingly went
out with all the rest of the dogs this morning and what a picture that
is! Smudge, Londyn, Minnie, Kate, Bailey, Diamond, Fargo and Zee.

Right after I turned everyone out, my mother arrived with Harry.
Harry joined the dogs, did his business and began scratching at the
door. When Harry came in, so did the others. Harry headed for HIS
chair and jumped on it. At that point, the rule is my mom sits on the
edge by Harry and we get a chance to talk a bit.

This morning Bailey also went to the chair and asked to be picked up.
You can bet my mother had that dog in her arms in a second. We talked
about how far Bailey has come and what a sweet little dog she has
become. I told her that Bailey is almost done with the rehabilitation
and is ready for training once we find the right home.

I told my mom that our job now was to train Bailey to fit into a new
home. I shared how dogs need a job to feel valued and the only way
they have real security is if they have a way to contribute....and how
it is so important that a dog be polite, predictable and respectful.

My mom said "That's really a good idea, but does she like to play with
toys?"

I just shook my head while I watched my mom, tickle Bailey in the neck
and get her all wiggly and silly.

I'll tell you, I absolutely KNOW I was adopted!

Pat

I just shook my head

[hydrangea8]

> My mom said "That's really a good idea, but does she like to play with
> toys?"

Ha ha ha - that really cracked me up for some reason this morning.
Brooke

[LMcCain]

Sounds like your mom is hinting about taking her home to replace her
old dachshund...

Her job would be to eat lots and sleep on the bed...

Lynn

[shel]

Switched at birth. LOL!

shel

[Pat Muller]

The ad COULD read.....

6 year old spayed female Dachshund available soon. Great with kids,
other dogs, cats and adult people as well. Does not run away even if
off lead. She is not a picky eater and does well in her crate.

Very soon Bailey will be "looking for someone with a lap."

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Bailey Update

She now spends her days looking for laps and believe me, just about
any lap will do.

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Just a note.....

Bailey found a lap attached to a person who fits the ad perfectly.
Yup you guessed it, my mother. Bailey has now joined Harry and the
two will work together keeping my mom company.

Believe me, this is a match made in Heaven.

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Hi

I guess it is time for an update on a whole bunch of the guys.

Annie continues to improve. When she came, Annie was extremely shy.
I know she had begun to relax at Lynn's house but once here, life was
way different and overwhelming.

I have her in one of my outside kennels, facing the office so she sees
plenty of people and dogs coming and going. She is next to Smudge &
Raisin (who is not good in the big kennel when Jim is gone) and
Piper. Piper is next to Britton and the two rescue girls are able to
watch and learn.

She has gone to class a number of times but she has had no pressure to
work, she has been mainly observing. Often instead of tying her, I
will have someone just hold her lead. In that way, Annie is beginning
to seek attention from different people.

After watching the other dogs, she is now beginning to alert when
someone comes. The good thing about that is that I can now hollar at
her to quit and Annie is no longer worried. In the beginning, any
loud voice would send her to the back of the kennel, now she just
stops barking. Annie now has a way to earn praise.

She still backs away until I put her food bowl down and close the gate
but that is actually a nice habit.

Piper is doing very well. She has always been a bit messy in the
kennel but I am proud to say, is 90% clean in her crate. Piper is
often allowed to run free with the other dogs in the yard and she is
almost ready for placement.

Karma just keeps getting better about leaving the cats alone but
placement for her is still complicated. She is happy and looks so
cute. Karma would be a great little dog for someone But; they have to
be as sharp as she is.

Bailey has turned professional and is lap sitting full time. Harry
always stays with me if my mom is gone for a weekend. Every 4th of
July, my mom spends at least two days with my sister. Now that she
has adopted Bailey, it will be interesting to see if Bailey is staying
here or going along.

I would not be surprised if I just have Harry. Did I mention that my
mom is thrilled to have another Doxie in her home?

Kimmie is doing great. During the day, she is in a free standing,
mostly shaded kennel. She is so relaxed. There is a small dog house
to take a nap, her food and water. She is quiet and just as content
as can be.

Did I mention that when she came, Kimmie was in heat and we bred her
to Smudge? Kimmie is very happy, Smudge is trying to talk Raisin into
being in heat. Sorry Smudge...........

Lily is doing great. She will still spin when in a crate or kennel
BUT she is spending her time tied to a 25# weight. When Lily begins
to spin I say "STOP IT," she does. Lily is having a great time and
you should see how beautiful she is growing up to be!

The big news is Kate. I have not written much about her because she
has done NOTHING wrong. She is just a love. I often turn her loose
to run with any and all of the dogs. She is happy and plays so nicely
with everyone. Kate is clean, not guardy with her food and there is
no problem with barking. She is content no matter where I put her and
she is absolutely trusting of people.

Kate is not fond of Y-lee but keeps her head when he comes around.
She loves car rides. Kate is polite, respectful and beautiful
besides. Sara gave this wonderful and most perfect dog. Kate has
never had a problem from day one and all I can say is, if all breeders
raised their dogs like this one has been raised, Lakelands would be
THE most popular breed on the face of the earth.

So yesterday, I loaded Kate, some leads, a weight, food and a Manners
In Minutes training program. I drove to a beautiful home in
Rockford. You see Kate is spending this weekend with her buddy,
Mark. This is the first time Mark will have Kate to himself.

Mark gave me a tour of his home and it is lovely. Kate will not be
allowed in the formal living room, the bedrooms or dining room. Don't
feel too bad for the girl, it is a really spacious, comfortable home
and she has plenty of space.

There is no fence but I put a take n stake in the ground, fastened a
long line to it. Kate now has lots of places to keep track of in the
yard and Mark can't wait for the rabbits and ground squirrels to meet
her! The girl has it made, she can keep track of a wonderful,
interesting big back yard or spend time with Mark in the lawn chairs.

When they tire of that, they can go up two steps, through the patio
door, right into the living room and play with 10 of the many toys the
girl now has to choose from.

At this point, Kate is a companion dog. Next week when Mark
reluctantly brings her back, we will talk about any glitches and
training that is necessary for Kate to become a Therapy Dog. Once
Mark becomes comfortable with that level of training, we will move
Kate on to become an Emotional Support Dog.

Sara, I only wish you could have been there to see it.

Pat

[Sara Peterka]

That is great news (about all the dogs, but especially Kate!). I don't feel one bit sorry for Kate, that she won't have "the run" of the place. I would be very worried for her if she did. For as sweet as she is, she is still most definitely a Lakeland... There is no reason to try wreck her at this point.

I hope Mark is able to make good use of her. She deserves the most important job in the world!

Please let Mark know it would be fun to get a picture of her now & then.

Thanks,
Sara

[Jon & Andrea Garrison]

Pat,

So is Mark taking Kate permenantly or is he still wanting/waiting for Piper as his dog?

 

Andrea

 

[Pat Muller]

Hi Andrea

> So is Mark taking Kate permenantly or is he still wanting/waiting for Piper as his dog?

One of the hardest things about placing dogs is that when you are
dealing with a person who desparately wants a dog. That person often
is unable to make objective decisions when making choices and is too
willing to settle. It is for that reason, I try very hard to be
uncommitted and hard to pin point when it comes to choices concerning
the placement of dogs.

When I first began guiding Mark, I let him work with Britton. Mark
immediately "loved" Britton. Britton was too big for his lap and I
could see that the relationship (from both sides) was guarded; in the
greeting, handling, affection and praise. Britton had just lost Traci
so emotionally, he was in the same boat as Mark and neither were
capable of making good choices.

The two spent some time, had some fun and learned some lessons. One
of the most important lessons was that Britton taught Mark the
mechanics of handling a dog with no emotional connection. Loss is so
difficult for both humans and dogs. Both of these "guys" have known
great loss and neither were willing or could afford to risk any
emotions at that point.

So the relationship with Britton was kept safely, at arm's length and
it was simply an important learning/growth experience.

Next I focused and moved Mark on to Piper.

Piper brings a smile to everyone's face. She is happy, trusting and
learns quickly. Piper would have eventually been a great dog for Mark
but because of her history, Piper has some baggage that needs to be
dealt with first. That baggage is in the form of an attachment
disorder and that means that because she has never felt valued or
special by anyone, Piper views all humans equally.

Because of that, Piper has a problem with bonding, she sees no need.
Now to the rest of us, this might be considered a perfect dog; no
separation anxiety, neediness or dependancy. Piper is just fine
staying alone. Sounds good doesn't it?

However, when matching a veteran who has problems and also needs
practice forming bonds, this is not such a good thing. This is not to
say that Piper will never bond, it only says that in order for Piper
to change, the person she is placed with must not have the same issue.

Mark needs a dog that looks at him and makes him feel special and
before Kate arrived, I had already begun to reconsider my thoughts
about Mark and Piper. The problem was, outside of Londyn, I did not
have a dog that fit that job application.

So when Sara asked me if I was interested in Kate, before she even
arrived I KNEW (unless there was a big surprise) there would be a
change.

You should have heard Mark the first time I DARED suggest that there
was a dog coming that may be a better choice than his Piper! Oh, he
was angry and it got ugly! Mark told me that he wanted Piper and she
was his. I smiled and agreed to let it go and then the day she
arrived I introduced him to Kate.

It was so cute. Kate was groomed beautifully, she is smaller, calmer,
very respectful and polite; both on lead and off. Piper is a fun dog,
Kate is calm, focused and well mannered.

All during Sat BTTR, Mark enjoyed sharing Piper with everyone. Piper
was great and I know it will not be long until she is ready for
placement with some lucky person. But Piper makes one work to get
results so that makes her a lot of dog for a person who needs to feel
special.

The next time Mark met Kate, she stood there politely and looked up at
him in a calm, trusting way. That was all it took.

Both Piper and Britton, as well as all the other dogs he has worked,
have taught Mark a lot about relationships. Britton did not care and
Piper and the others did not see him as special. Kate on the other
hand, understands and desires to bond and she is teaching Mark how
that is done and exactly what is required. An appropriate bond is
based on mutual respect, trust, admiration and nurturing a promising
relationship; Kate will not settle for anything less.

Because of these dogs, Mark is learning that having a good
relationship is worth waiting for. It is much more than simply
latching on to an individual. Instead, it is much better to be
patient, walk away if it is not right and make objective decisions.
In the long run you WILL have to deal with the results of your
decisions.

I called Mark yesterday. He sounds like a kid in the middle of
Christmas. It sounds like Kate is just about as perfect a house guest
as is caninely possible. I asked if she had made any mistakes and it
seems she had pooped on the cement patio instead of the grass.

We talked about why that is not all that bad if one is at the airport
meeting a plane or at a meeting in a large city. Mark laughed and
agreed when I told him that it was easier find on the cement anyway.

Mark was talking a mile a minute and then stopped and said, "This is
one of the best days of my life. You just can't possibly know how
much having this wonderful dog, means to me. She is just so perfect."

After that it was "Bye, I'll see you Tuesday."

Believe me, Kate is home and Piper is happy for her. Her time will
come, just not now.

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Hi

Tuesday morning came and with it, class. About 10:30, in walks a man
with a very big smile on his face and a cute little black and tan
Lakeland walking right by his side. Mark told everyone that he and
Kate had such a wonderful, perfect weekend.

That was the big news and then we had class. I smiled as I watched
how easily and willingly everyone just worked the dogs. This is
somewhat of a therapy dog class so the challenges are getting much
bigger. It won't be long before I will make arrangements for an
evaluator to come to test these guys.

There is nothing like seeing a dog be able to handle a being crowded
against a wall by 15 clapping, stomping people who are all talking
loudly. The handler stands opposite the people and keeps telling the
dog to be easy, all the time making his/her way to the dog.

I wish you could have seen that one! It was great.

Anyway, Mark and Kate could not have done any better and at the end of
class, (as agreed) Mark was preparing to leave Kate for further
training. I asked him for an honest assessment of the situation.
There were no problems that he had not been able to figure out and
believe me, it was all pretty glowing.

I asked him what he thought should be the next step and his answer was
right on. So at that point, I asked Mark if he thought he would
practice the things we had learned that day if he had Kate at his
home. After all, it really didn't matter if Kate got her training,
conditioning and practice with me or him. ....and Mark started to
smile one of the biggest smiles I have ever seen.

Out the door they went!

This morning, bright and early, Mark and Kate were at my door. There
is a big event at the race track just south of us and it will be a
noisy day. Mark had asked if Kate could spend the day with me because
it was going to be too busy and loud for his dog.

By the time I had gotten my shoes on, Mark had already gotten Kate
fresh water and was putting it in one of the outside kennels. Next he
got her crate out of his car. As he was putting that in the kennel,
Kate came out the open gate.

No problem, we stood and talked while Kate wandered around saying hi
to all the other dogs. Mark told me he felt he really understood how
much a good dog influences people's lives and why I am so demanding.
We talked about how anyone can own a dog but not until people learn to
treat dogs like respectful "employees" can they possibly understand
what having a perfect relationship is really like.

Then Mark said, "You are so lucky to see dogs influence and change
people's lives every day." I told him because I have done this for
25+ years, that was why I would/could not ever allow my training or
the veterans' program to be compromised.

Mark gave me a big hug and told me "Thank you, this is just the best
thing I can ever imagine." He waved good bye to Kate and told her he
would be back about 3:00. Mark was smiling as he drove out of the
driveway.

....and that was how my day began.

The sun is shining, I have a dog to clip, then I head to Wanda's home
to do a demo for some interested Basenji people.

I am pretty sure it can't help but be a great day, hope you have the
same.

Pat

[Lisa Heath]

Pat,

Your post just makes me smile.

I hope that Mark will do some outreach for the Circle of Change
program- in the
newsletter, perhaps some writing on the website.

I have thought more of the idea of sponsoring a Veteran (in addition
to the dogs) and I think
that is a fabulous idea.

Let me not forget to say that I am glad Mark has found and helped
create his perfect
canine companion!

Lisa

[Sara Peterka]

Hello Pat,

Thanks for the update.

I am so glad Kate has found her match, he sounds like the perfect companion for her. She deserves it!

Sara

[shel]

Pat,

What a wonderful story. I do hope that Mark continues to update us on
his journeys with Kate.

shel

[Pat Muller]

Hi

I have been so busy and have not had much extra time. Today is a big
day, Kenny is officially semi-retired. I am sure that some of you
remember Sue who used to groom here. That was probably about 8 years
ago and she left because she wanted more hours and has been working at
a vet's office.

A few weeks ago Sue called and asked if I needed help. It was funny
because that same week, Kenny told me that he was getting tired. BTW:
for any of you who don't know, Kenny is my husband and he will be 86
in April. Talk about timing!

Anyway, Sue and I talked more and yesterday she arrived for the first
time. Kenny showed her how he has been doing the kennel and today Sue
is on her own. Poor Kenny is a bit lost this morning and actually
wanted to go down and help her. I said no.

It seems that it is too wet to mow so he is at a little bit of a loss
about what to do with the extra time. I can tell that there will be
no staying up late. Kenny goes to bed by about 8:30 and I often don't
come back up from the training building until after 9:00. Then I feed
the dogs and cats up here, wait for a bit, let them out and THEN go to
bed.

Every morning, Kenny gets up at 5:30 - 6:00. By 7 am he is outside
scooping and taking care of his ponies. By 7:40, he would normally
wake me up and be headed down to the kennel. I would eventually get
up, get the dogs out and have some quiet time before the official
start of the day.

Not so this morning, at 7:30 Kenny was already sitting here talking
and I did not even have my eyes open yet. I can see that I most
probably will become even more of a morning person whether I want to
or not.

It is 8:45, he is waiting for me to come out and help him with
something. It seems I have five more minutes to sit here and then he
needs my help. In the meantime, he has gone to get Kate so I can get
started grooming her once I finish helping him. It seems I can get
her done before my class at 10:30. Sounds like a "restful" day?

I have a sneaking suspicion that Kenny's official semi-retirement will
most certainly make a great big difference in both our lives.

Later

Pat

[Holly Tulin]

Gee, Pat. Can't tell you how many wives I know who have the same lament
when their fellas retire--"My husband is driving me CRAZY..." I'd be in
exactly the same boat if Eric wasn't a more-than-full-time volunteer.

Kenny needs a hobby to fill up that time he doesn't know what to do with.
Something that's a solo pursuit which has to be done in a place that's out
of your way. Fishing? Whittling? He sure doesn't seem like a golf guy.
Does Beloit have a senior center? Maybe a pottery class.

You're so lucky that Sue's re-appeared!

Keep us posted.

Holly

[Rubyanna Skrede]

Kenny needs a hobby to fill up that time he doesn't know what to do with.
Something that's a solo pursuit which has to be done in a place that's out
of your way.  Fishing?  Whittling?  He sure doesn't seem like a golf guy.
Does Beloit have a senior center?  Maybe a pottery class.

************************************************

 

BOY HAVE YOU GOT THE WRONG GUY...

 

randcrew

[LMcCain]

Time to come up with some "projects" for Kenny...things that need to
be done and haven't gotten done because he didn't have the time.
There is no way Kenny is going to just sit - whether that be fishing
or pottery! ;-)

Maybe you could get him to build you some nice rat tunnels out of
weather-proof materials and bury them so that you have in-ground
tunnels...complete with guillatine doors to change the configuration
of the tunnels. That should keep him busy for a while. :-)

Lynn

[Holly Tulin]

I guess you could start by asking Kenny to fix up those rat cages that
aren't "girl proof."

Seems like you'll be needing more accommodations soon, no?

Or maybe he can make some little travel boxes for the upcoming BTTR door
prizes...

Holly

[Ken Korn]

If there is any guy who deserves "retirement" it's Kenny. He's a great
example of how people used to be. I hope that I'll be truckin' along
like him at 86 :-)

It may take a while for him to get into a new routine but he will.

Congrats to Kenny!!!

Ken

[Bonnie]

>> It may take a while for him to get into a new routine but he will.
>
> Congrats to Kenny!!!>>

Kenny is one SWELL guy. Just ask my Rick!
Congrats to Kenny. He's a gem. Bonnie

[Janis]

I can remember in May thinking how do they do it? The farm is
beautiful the dogs were great. The training area, etc. etc. Kenny took
the time to talk to Maggie, it is was the first time Maggie
volunterred to sit next to a man. It was by the bonfire and Maggie
jumped up next to Kennny. It may seem like a small incident to others,
but to Maggie it was a major leap of trust.

What a special man, Thanks Kenny for all that you have done and I am
sure will continue to accomplish.

Janis

[jo]

Pat

I'm just catching up on my readings and found this one.

Congrats to Kenny! Like someone else on here said, if anybody deserved
retirement, it was Kenny.

As I'm married to a guy who retired last year, it does take getting
used to. I found that when I was getting ready for work, Jerry was
underfoot trying to "help". All it did was make me late for work!

So, good luck to you and congrats to Kenny!

Jo

[Pat Muller]

Hi

I think just coming for a visit three or four times each year is
probably best all the way around. None of you would want all my dogs
and I would have to bring them along if I were to relocate.

So short of changing addresses, I will share another special moment.
All of you who have been around here for more than a year knew and
loved Traci, she was the nice one. Along with that, there was no
mistaking how much she loved Brittan and Minnie.

Minnie was raised here so when Traci died, she was sad but life
continued with Minnie as the Queen. The change has not been quite as
easy for Brittan. He was Traci's baby boy and Traci was his only
person. I had warned her about making him that "special" but who
could have ever predicted that Traci would not continue to be there
his entire life?

Anyway, when Traci died Brittan went in to a very deep depression. He
was so used to sitting on her lap during "computer time," being loved
and petted, taking walks down the lane and going to classes. Few
people ever worked with Brittan besides Traci and that was Her
choice.

Smudge and Brittan are the same age and I raised my puppy my way.
Sadly, even with all the training Traci wittnessed, she still chose to
raise her baby boy her way, protected from the world. That was
Traci's choice but as usual, the dog pays the price.

Since her death, as I said, Brittan has been in a funk. At first he
would not eat, play or even take a walk. Luckily there were people
who spent time with him and one friend who for months, came out twice
each week and forced Brittan to go for a walk. It took almost two
months before Brittan even looked like he cared.

I was really worried about the boy and I knew he would have bonded
with me but because he has never learned to fit into a pack, keeping
him would have been a complication. So my goal was to place him but
because of his flat attitude and lack of interest, no one who looked
at Brittan was ever interested. The people who were looking wanted a
dog that was happy to see them and "loved" them after the first or
second visit.

In all fairness to the people, a dog that acts like Brittan did does
not appear to be a great pet prospect but Brittan is no different than
us, he had suffered a huge loss. His entire world was turned up side
down and he was simply unwilling to risk another relationship unless
he was absolutely sure it was worth the effort.

In this case, Brittan was the one that needed the therapy and this is
exactly the reason I chose not to place him with a veteran. Brittan
could not have recovered from a second loss or big disappointment.

So it has been almost 15 months since that horrible day and I was
beginning to worry about Brittan's future. Then one day.......

A long time ago there was a very nice guy, Dennis whose wife had
died. They had shown/finished their first Lakeland, Quigley and later
got a cute little black & tan girl, Mickey just before Jean died. Her
wish was that Dennis show Mickey and continue to enjoy life and that
included fun with the dogs.

So because Mickey and Minnie were about the same age, they were also
showing at the same time. So Dennis, Traci and I had lots of fun
going to shows. It was a great time and it was special to all of us.
Anyway, just before Mickey finished her championship, Dennis
introduced us to Mary and because Dennis was like our younger brother,
we were very protective of him. In the beginning there was a BIG
question about allowing him to get involved with her!

But Mickey finished, Quigley died a couple of years ago, Mary became a
big part of his life, Traci is gone, the dogs are now old and the
three of us remain friends. Anyway, Mary was out the other day and we
were talking about how Mickey and Minnie are really getting old. We
discussed how hard losing Mickey would be on Dennis and how sad Mickey
has been since losing Quig. I asked Mary if they had talked about
getting another dog. She said they had but really did not want a
puppy.

We were standing right in front of the kennels and I pointed to
Brittan. I told her about how sad Brittan was over his loss and Mary
asked if I thought he might be a possibility. It took me by surprise
but when I thought about it, I realized it was the perfect situation.
She would talk it over with Dennis.

Dennis called me later that week and it was arranged that I would take
Brittan for a visit that next Friday. When we arrived, we sat a
visited for a bit. I wanted to make sure that little princess Mickey
was going to be a good hostess. Once all was calm, I left them alone
for a couple of hours.

They were to get aquainted and walk Brittan around the house to
establish limits, his settle spot, rules about whatever and give him a
chance to watch Mickey and see what was normal. I got back a couple
of hours later and everyone was smiling. It seems that Mickey tried
to boss Brittan and although he took quite a bit, he finally gave her
one big and VERY appropriate correction (just like Quigley used to
do). After that, all was just fine.

It was agreed that I would take Brittan home, get him groomed and they
would attend Monday's class. IF things went well, Brittan would go
home with them that night. Dennis works 10 minutes from home and
although Mary is busy, she does not have an official job. This
situation would be perfect for any dog and the fact that Mickey is
there was just icing on the cake.

At class, Brittan was actually happy to see his three new friends and
especially Mickey was clearly excited and happy to see him as well.
That night I used Brittan as the demo dog and it was just as if he was
showing off. Brittan could not have been one measure better. It was
so good to see the old Brittan coming back.

Once I finished the demo, I handed the line to Mary who likes to pet
dogs A LOT. That is perfect for Brittan because that was exactly what
Traci trained him to do. When it was time to go, Brittan did not even
look back. He was more than ready to bond and he finally found
someone x2 who allowed him to take his time, with no pressure to LOVE
them.

On Wed. night, Brittan brought Mary back to class for another night of
education. Brittan did great but Mary has some learning to do before
she is up to his level. We talked and Mary told me that Brittan has
been perfect but she and Dennis would like to bring Mickey out for a
private session. It seems that they only thought Mickey was a well
behaved dog.

I sit here smiling as I write this........what a perfect solution for
a once, very sad baby boy.

Later

Pat

[Andrea Mitzen]

Pat,
That is a really great ending for a sad event for Brittan.  I'm so glad he is finding happiness again. 

Andrea

[Pat Muller]

Hi Andrea

When something sad, unfortunate or unpleasant happens in our lives, it
is important that we not let the experience or event put our lives on
hold. In reality, Brittan could have been placed a while ago if he
had just been willing to take the risk and allowed a new relationship
to begin.

Sadly, this is all too common in not only rescue dogs.

PS Andrea, I will write to you privately very soon.

Pat

[Holly Tulin]

Traci is surely beaming about her boy and his new people.  What a great outcome for everyone, including Mickey.  Please let us know about the little princess’s progress.

 

Holly

 

---

[D & S Atkins]

Pat,

What wonderful news about Brittan! I'm so glad you found just the right
place for him. It sounds like a great fit.

I always remember Traci being so proud of him. She'd always say to me,
"Doesn't he look like A-Lick?" I'm sure she's smiling from heaven on this
turn of events!

Shani

-----Original Message-----
From: mim-dog-training-...@googlegroups.com
[mailto:mim-dog-training-...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of
Pat Muller
Sent: Saturday, August 29, 2009 11:20 AM
To: Manners In Minutes Dog Training: Using the Q-collar
Subject: Re: Rescue, Rehabilitation & Training

[Lisa Heath]

Pat,

What a fortuitous event and a happy chapter in Brittan's life.
Everytime I talked to Traci, I always asked her about Minnie and
Brittan, and
her nephews. I know how much she adored them, and she would get to
chatting about them, so proud, so pleased.

Lisa

[Bonnie]

What a satisfying and deserving ending for Traci's 'baby boy."
Sometimes, things really do work out for the best. Bonnie

[jo]

Pat

What a wonderful ending/beginning to the story of Brittan. Traci is
proud..

Jo

[Pat Muller]

Hi

Yes, it was well worth the wait, Brittan now has a safe and secure
future. What else could any living being ever hope for?

In the case of Tucker:

Tucker is a year old Lab that was delivered about 1 1/2 months ago for
some training. He was the dog that was so focused on bullying the 6
(?) year old child. Tucker is very well trained but the last time
they came to see him, Tucker "lost his mind" and tried hard to revert
back to his original very bad behaviors.

A week ago dad called me and told me that they had decided to place
Tucker with another family, no kids. I was relieved and everyone was
to come here on Sat. for a lesson and to take Tucker home. Sadly, dad
called me and the family had changed their minds about taking the dog.

Worse yet was that due to some complications, Tucker could not go back
home with them either. So guess what...I now am the proud(??????)
owner of a year old, VERY well trained, yellow Lab. I just could not
see Tucker going to rescue or the humane society after all I have done
with him.

So we find ourselves with a well trained new dog in need of
placement. Tucker will be very easy to transition into a new home and
he will be a great companion. This is the absolute best thing for
Tucker, for me....not so much.

Later

Pat

[Sara Peterka]

Pat,

What a wonderful home for Brittan.

I met Tucker shortly after he arrived. Pat you have the patience of a saint and are truly a miracle worker. I hope you have the perfect person come knocking on your door soon...(Can you tell Labs aren't my favorite?)

btw, I know at this point you have the obnoxious and silly behavior well under control.

Sara

[shel]

Pat,

At least Tucker has some chance of leading a normal life. Does he
have any potential to become a COC dog?

shel

[Bonnie]

<<  I hope you have the perfect person come knocking on your door
soon...(Can you tell Labs aren't my favorite?)>>

Oh BROTHER.......nor mine either. I think I have a prejudice against
them. Bonnie

[Pat Muller]

Hi

As far as Labs go, I just feel sorry for them. A Lab puppy is so
willing to do what ever he or she is conditioned to do. In Tucker's
case, from the day he came into that home, he was allowed plenty of
freedom, lots of treats(training???????), dog parks, hours of rough
fun with the neighbor's dogs and a boy of his own to "play: with.

I am sure when he was a puppy, Tucker was just as cute as could be,
the problem is, there was no thought given to what to do when he got
to be an adult. Unfortunately, Tucker grew out of the slot that he
originally fit. Once he got to be an adult, his behavior was no
longer innocent or cute. Instead, his conditioned and totally
unavoidable crimes became deliberate and inconvenient.

Being that out of control takes a lot of effort. Once the new
improved behaviors become habit, Tucker will be one of those laid
back, nice Labs that the owners really wanted in the first place.
This is one lucky dog and he is only here because I could not stand to
see all the training go to waste.

The best thing about a Lab is that they are so easy to train. The
worst thing about a Lab is that they are just as easy to untrain. It
is for that reason, Tucker must stay here a bit longer. Then I will
begin looking for a family whose expectations match what the new
Tucker has been conditioned to do.

The new family will be required to come three times. This will enable
me to educate them and transfer the authority. By the end of the
process, the old Tucker will be gone and the new Tucker will be ready
for adoption and a new life.

Believe me, in a breed that is so popular and very disposible, Tucker
is one lucky Lab.

Pat

[Pat Muller]

Hi

I just thought I would update you on a couple of things.

1) PLEASE quit feeling sorry for Kenny not having anything to do.

It used to be that he would wake me up and then go down to the kennel
at precisley 7:40 every morning. I would get a cup of coffee and wake
up.

Now he does not go to the kennel, now he "talks" to me. He still gets
up around 5:30 - 6 am. He eats his breakfast and waits until 7:30 to
wake me up. That is good, but the minute I come out of the bathroom
he begins to talk to me. He tells me about things, he asks me
questions, he wants to know about..... even before my eyes are open or
my coffee is in the cup.

It is Sat. and Sue is not here. Kenny is down taking care of the dogs
in the kennel. It is quiet and I am almost ready to fix my second cup
of coffee, it is 8:45 and all is quiet. This truly is going to be a
nice Holiday weekend.

Pat

[Ken Korn]

Hi,

Better enjoy that peace and quiet. BTTR IS
COMING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :-)

See you soon!

Ken

[Pat Muller]

Hi

There are so many things going on but I wanted to update you on
Tucker. The boy continues to improve by leaps and bounds. This
morning after only about 1 minute of warm up, I taught Tucker to down
stay. I work him about three to four, 15 minute sessions each week.

We begin with reminders on lead and within about 5 to 10 minutes, he
is working calmly and dependably off lead. His recalls are spot on.
THE SECOND Tucker hears "HERE," he spins around and runs to me just as
fast as his legs can get him there.

Normally I am not inclined to work him off lead when there are lots of
people around because he is a genuine attention addict but today in
the veterans' class I warmed him up. Worked him while I sat in my
wheelchair and then dropped the lead. Tucker was absolutely perfect.

In a week, I could take him to a show and I know we would qualify for
a CD leg. When I got done, I patted him and told him to be easy.
Tucker, YES, Tucker the LAB CHOSE to go to a rug, lie down and chew on
a bone.

He chose to stay on his rug even while everyone was leaving. I was
very proud of the boy and he was berry, berry happy that I was happy
with him. Life is good for Tucker. There is food, fun and attention;
so he is happy.

We will be going to the Canine Classic this weekend and I plan to take
Tucker along. He will be a great example of what can be acheived in
two months training. I know I will probably run into lots of possible
adoptors but there is a young girl in Minnesota that needs a companion/
therapy/service dog.

At this point, Tucker is doing good enough that IF the family is
willing to do their part, Tucker might just possibly be considered for
the job.

The one big advantage to a dog like Tucker is this:

Although, he could NEVER go back into his old home, those people are
the only ones who have allowed him to be stupid. They did NO training
so therefore, IF we can give Tucker more good experiences than the
number of bad ones, he will assume those were the ONLY people in the
world who allowed him to be that horrid Lab from his previous life.

Time will tell but at least he now has some better options.

Later

Pat