Good Dog Training finds Rescue Dog a home

In light of todays sluggish economy, I’ve found the dog training profession to remain stable. From puppies to older dogs to dogs in need of rehabilitation, the demand is great. We have several dogs currently in our board and train programs and one that just went home today.

He was our most recent adoption dog. For the last couple years we have been making it routine to adopt dogs from the humane society, train them and find them new, permanent homes. The dogs we select are typically stable, social and healthy dogs, but those who might be more difficult placements because of their size and exuberance. So basically they are the average dog in many of the nations rescues and shelters! Those young dogs who just “grew too big” and are “too wild” or “can’t calm down” ……those of us pros in the industry know the familiar story all too well. These canines lost their homes because their owners did not realize there are options for reliable training available. With a small amount of commitment, these dogs can become fabulous pets!

So Leo, the one year old mix breed, was adopted by That’s My Dog! about one month ago. Since that time he has been learning to walk nicely on leash, come when called, stay in one place, not jump on people, chew things up or bolt out the door. All basic stuff that was easily achieved with just a little effort each day. He is a gorgeous boy who will now be living in a great home with his new owners. Sounds like he is going to be going jogging, on trips visiting family and friends and getting out on the water. A great new life, for a great dog!

We are happy we can do our small part in rehabbing these dogs and finding them new homes, but the problem remains the same. In flow at the nations humane societies is not due to a pet over population problem (don’t even get me started on the misconception that mandatory spay and neuter legislation will solve the problem!) The real problem is due to humans not being committed to the training and care of the companions they take on. When that same cute fur ball grows up and becomes a dog, those behaviors like chewing, jumping up and play biting suddenly are not cute or funny anymore and the decision to send the dog to the shelter is a relatively easy fix. Inevitably, those same folks get another pup within a years time and the cycle continues……..If I can encourage the readers to hang in there, find a talented trainer and make their dog the companion they have always really dreamed of then I’ve truly done my part for today. Keep training folks, and if the program you are following is not giving you the outcome you expect, then find another facility that can really help you get the result you want.

The years of loyal companionship you get in return make it all worth the effort.