We started using a dogwalker, Heather, through RuffCity Dogwalking. We wanted Havi to get a walk once a week for an hour when we have a long day. Also, if we're ever in a bind this way Havi would know the person coming to walk her.
She also works with Havi on training and play manners. We had a really bad experience with Havi at a dog park, and won't go back. But Heather takes Havi and watches the situation carefully.
We thought we would share the emails she writes us after every walk along with the pictures she sends. She usually identifies problems, and maybe you guys can help! This is Havi's fourth walk.
Her happiness brighten my day :)
She did much better sitting today while I put the harness on her, and she was so so well behaved the whole walk to the park, even after she noticed that Bill and his big pack were in front of us! She sat at every corner and even stayed after I opened the gate on demand before I let her go in (that one took a few tries).
She was soo happy to have some playmates today, and was running around the place like a total alas, with no direction. It was pretty cute, until she became a bit of a bully with Bill's dogs. One was barking at her so she started doing circles around him. He eventually snapped and they lunged at each other. Both backed off and it wasn't a big deal but I put her in 'time-out', which is on the leash laying next to me for a few minutes. It's purpose is to calm her down and refocus her. She finally did and after about a minute I let her free again. I'll obviously continue to watch her habits and behaviors while we're there but I don't see today as a problem.
After that she was back to being a happy spaz and had a great time chasing the ball (but not returning it of course!).
She peed on the way there, pooped there and pooped again don the way back.
I allotted a few extra minutes for the walk home but she was almost perfect! Just a few slowdowns, but no stops and we even got to say hi to Jax and Sophie. So we had a few minutes back inside to hang out. I refilled her water, although it was pretty full and so was her food. Both are usually empty.
Sounds like you found a winner-keep her!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great walker! As far as dogparks go, I have to say that I'm not a fan. I stick to off-leash playtime with dogs and owners that I know and trust. That way I've never had a problem.
ReplyDeletehttp://bwpaws.blogspot.com
its so nice to have that option
ReplyDeleteKari
http://dogisgodinreverse.com
We have a doggy daycare provider we love. She is great with both dogs and has provided us lots of great feedback and training advice. She has been amazingly helpful when we've had emergencies and needed overnight care on short notice.
ReplyDeleteIt is so wonderful when you find someone you can trust and fits your needs.
I wish I could find and afford a dog walker for my boys. I'm about to start up school again next week, plus I'll be working so I have no one to let them out on a regular basis. I feel so bad for them.
ReplyDeleteThat's so great that you guys have someone you trust to come take care of Havi. That's really hard to find. I love that she emails you about how their meetings go :)
ReplyDeleteHey Havi!
ReplyDeleteWow, you had a pawesome walk and romp at the dogbark! I'm so glad for you and your peeps. Sounds like everything is working itself out perfectly!!
Grr and Woof,
Sarge, COP
What a lucky pup! Having a neutral party build a relationship with Havi that is based on training and exercise is great! It sounds like she did exactly what I would do with a training client when Havi got a little feisty at the park. Most dogs just need to cool down for a minute, then go back to playing. I'm sure she'll continue to improve!
ReplyDeleteIt's so important to find that good walker, and I think it's also great to have someone else to reinforce training and behavior. Good for Havi!
ReplyDeleteaw, Maisie misses her walker now that I'm working from home. she sure is loving her new runner though! ;)
ReplyDeletehttp://maisieme.blogspot.com/
We love our dogwalker too, but she is more of a dogsitter for when we go out of town. It's such a relief to have someone you completely trust to take care of Havi. The updates are a nice touch too!
ReplyDeleteJax & Havi sittin' in a tree...K I S S I N G
ReplyDelete