Walkin' the Dog

Posted Monday, August 20, 2012, at 10:40 PM

Salsa has her Gentle Leader on, ready for a walk. It fits around her nose and behind her ears. Instead of clipping the leash to the collar you attach it to the GL. This is NOT a muzzle. It does not restrict the dog from breathing, drinking, barking, panting, or eating.

I walk my dogs...a lot! I enjoy walking, and having dogs that are eager to go helps me keep to the routine. Dogs love exercise and need it just as humans do. Not just to keep them physically fit, but it's good mental stimulation as well. They are focusing on where they are going, what's around them, and all of the smells send those brains into overdrive. It's also great for learning acceptable social skills they need. No jumping up on people, no lifting your leg on every pole and tree you see, or no barking and causing a ruckus when you see another animal. It all takes practice and patience on your behalf.

Many times my dogs will be wearing their Gentle Leaders when we are out for a stroll. It acts similar to a horse halter and really helps to teach your dog not to pull. If they do attempt to tug while wearing it, their nose and head will turn towards you. Your dog will not walk forward if his head is not going in the same direction. I strongly urge anyone who has a dog that is hard to walk due to his pulling, to get one. I have seen them available at Bomgaars here in Spencer, or at any Petco or Pet Smart. You could also order them online for around $20-25. Well worth every penny!

After awhile, you can start removing the Gentle Leader and your dog will not pull because they have learned that pulling does not get them where they want to go.

Walking your dog should be enjoyable not only for the dog, but for you as well.

"A tired dog makes for a happy dog owner!"

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It always cracks me up how often people comment on Stan's muzzle, while his mouth is wide open panting...

-- Posted by AimeeClark on Sun, Sep 2, 2012, at 10:42 AM

Good advice about gentle leaders!! People always think they're muzzles!

-- Posted by rockinangel on Fri, Aug 24, 2012, at 10:51 PM

Nice work on your blog! As an animal lover I look forward to hearing more of your sensible advice.

-- Posted by JTennant on Tue, Aug 21, 2012, at 12:55 AM

It's a Dog's Life

Stephanie "Foster Mom" O'Brien

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My name is Stephanie O'Brien. I'm an animal lover and enjoy volunteering. I have combined those passions into providing a temporary home to animals that would otherwise be sitting in a shelter or worse, euthanized due to lack of room in a shelter. For the past two years I've fostered pit bull type dogs for a rescue in South Dakota. I've also had the opportunity to do some presentations on responsible pet ownership and have been involved in fighting breed specific legislation in SD and IA. I'm looking forward to providing the readers with animal related topics and possibly answer any questions you may have. Enjoy! Stephanie Sioux Empire Pit Rescue Volunteer

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