THE ROYAL CANINE

DOG PLAY-IDEAS TO KEEP IT FUN AND SAFE!

2011-07-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I have spent much of the last 4 years observing dog play through HRCC's dog park excursion offering and dog behavior course work. While I recently decided to no longer offer this service it was an amazing chapter in my life. Each day was a BLAST as well as an educational experience. Through this service I took up to 10 dogs daily from the west side of the pond and headed to Marymoor. All dogs were fully off leash while at the park but carefully screened prior to becoming a client and therefore, under great control (most of the time;-0)! I am very proud to report that with all of those dogs, all of those hours at the park, and all of the fun there was never one dogfight or injury. Just great fun!!

During my time out at the park I witnessed more conflict, which was shocking to me!! "We were at the Disneyland of all dog parks how could people not be having the time of their lives?" Well it became clear in very short order that, while most people love to watch dogs play, they have NO IDEA what they should be looking for to keep their dogs safe, under control, and having fun. Many do not understand their own dog's limitations nor do they respect what limitations other dogs might have. So here are some tips to get you started!

What You Should You Look For In Dog Play:

Loose body posture
Relaxed ears, mouth, and tail
Frequent role reversals (in most cases)
Play Bows (this is an easy to see clear signal-"just playing")
You know your dog better than anyone-really watch your dog and look for signs they are comfortable and having fun:)

Signs of Stress or Wanting to End Play (cutoff signals)

Ears back
Tail tucked
Trying to get away or hide under you
Yawning
Lip Licking
Out of context sniffing the ground or scratching
Heavy blinking
and more

Signs That There Could Be An Issue

Tense body posture
Forward Stance
Closed Mouth
Growling

How to Avoid 'Issues'

Be an advocate for your dog (never be afraid to ask someone to call there dog or walk away from play). Humping is one of my pet peeves. Many will say let them work it out but to me it is a clear sign of over arousal and I saw it as the biggest instigator of fights between dog and people for that matter. Easy to call your dog apart and give them another shot. If it continues find another playmate!
Have trained behaviors in place such as a solid recall, sit, conditioned positive association to a collar grab in case you need to grab your dog quickly, etc.
Frequently call your dog out of play to ensure the arousal level never get too high. Simply recall reward with praise and release them back into play.
Avoid dog walker groups. Indeed these dogs are having great fun and you want your dog to have fun too but...these dogs are very savvy at playing with one another and tend to be a bit rougher than your dog may be interested in. Also, while you would hope, not all dog walkers are educated in dog behavior so don't assume they know what to look for either!
Watch and listen to your dogs at all times and react appropriately.
Always carry a leash with you.
Have fun and remain calm.

This is just a brief overview. If you are interested in learning more about how to keep your dog safe at the dog park, a great book is "Visiting the Dog Park" by Cheryl S. Smith.

High Paw,

Jaycee, Poncho, and Norton

2011-07-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

The Royal Canine is back after quite a hiatus that brought many life changes to our family! Here at Henry's Royal Canine Care we provide Private In-Home Training, Group Training Classes at the Seattle Canine Club, have a team of dog walkers (see our website for service areas), and love to bring you up to date dog centric training tips and other fun ideas! Thrilled to be back and we look forward staying in touch. So let's catch up!!

We Welcomed a Baby Boy & Diapers and Dogs is Launched! Early September 2009 we were blessed with the most amazing gift of a little boy. This now makes for 1 human child and 2 four-legged:) People that say your dogs take a back seat when you have kids aren't to the depth of their soul dog lovers. True dog lovers realize they just now have added siblings:) A new baby of course brought many changes and learning opportunities as a new Mom and dog trainer. This has resulted in a new program offering through HRCC called Diapers and Dogs. This curriculum is geared for expected families wanting to prepare their dog before and after baby, families looking to welcome a new dog into the home, grandparents that are looking to ensure that their dogs are kid friendly and/or they have management tools in place to keep everyone safe, and really anyone seeking information on how to best integrate kids and dogs! I am thrilled to say that our dogs adjusted beautifully and it is really a joy to watch our little guy grow up with a true love for all animals!!

Nolan's First Halloween!

I Lost My Soul Dog Sir Henry the Beagle

People that know me absolutely know of my soul dog Henry. He was a beautiful English Beagle that came to me in my early 20’s at 8 months of age. My life changed the moment I met him never to be the same. His unconditional love, incredible listening skills, and uncanny ability to maneuver through the complexity of human emotion saw me through many ups and downs. He was with me in the dark times of loss and struggle to the most joyous occasion of bringing me my wedding ring as the ring bearer when I married the love of my life. He was with me for late nights in the office as a young Vice President in the financial services industry to inspiring me to leave the corporate world and become a positive reinforcement dog trainer. Henry played a truly human role in my life. I was lucky to spend almost every day with him as a dog service provider for 2 years straight. This was a blessing that was highlighted when he was diagnosed with Lymphoma at 8 short years of age. It was devastating and on October 29, 2009 he lost his battle and I forever lost a piece of my heart. His legacy lives on through Henry’s Royal Canine Care and all that I do to enhance the relationship between people and their beloved pets.

Henry as an Angel for Halloween now surely a real one!

Karen Pryor Academy

As a continued effort to ensure I provide the best positive reinforcement techniques available I take continuing education very seriously! As part of this effort I am proud to say that as of September 2010 I am certified through the Karen Pryor Academy, a national dog training program that is rooted in force-free training methods (commonly known as clicker training). Course work includes extensive online curricula, hands on training with dog guided by curricula, as well as in person workshops attended by student/dog for assessment of skills by certified Karen Pryor representatives. Graduation is contingent upon successful completion of all on-line course work and assessments, written assignments, training journals, workshop training assessments, a final on-line exam, a final 10 part chain performed by student and dog, and a final training assessment of a group class. This work is completed over the course of the six month program.

Karen Pryor (center) and Me (right)

I am sure there is more but these are the biggies!

High Paw,

Jaycee, Poncho, and Norton

DOUBLE BLUFF OFF LEASH PARK-WOW!!!

2008-07-31T20:29:00.000-07:00

If you are ever looking for a fabulous day trip with your dog...DOUBLE BLUFF should be #1 on your list. Just 20 minutes north to the Mukilteo ferry dock, a gorgeous 20 minute ride to the Clinton ferry dock, and a short 10 minute drive to the park and you are in heaven! You arrive and walk a few yards down the beach passed the windsock with the sign designating the off-leash area and let em' run! Poncho our lab was beside himself playing in the surf and our beagles found some amazing sniffs. It was a blast running and playing with them. While we all love our beautiful parks here in the city there is nothing more relaxing than busting out of here for a little beach serenity! Truly a joyful day for all of us. I have attached a link with more information as well as some photos from our trip. We are actually headed back for a weekend in August for Poncho's birthday! We have rented a cabin as what more could a lab want than to play in the surf all weekend. More to come on our family's adventures on Whidbey Island!

http://www.visitwhidbey.com/camp-grounds/Double-Bluff-Beach.html

Did Someone Say DOG PARK?!?!

2008-03-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Every Tues, Wed, Thur me and the gang (Jaycee, Henry, Norton, Poncho & Friends) head out to Marymoor park!! Here are some photos from recent trips! We hope that you can join us soon!

Spring is FINALLY Here!!!

2008-03-18T23:16:00.001-07:00

The first official day of spring for 2008 is March 20th!! I am sure that we are all ready for some sun. Happy spring to all:)

Calling All Water Dogs!!

2008-03-18T22:45:00.001-07:00

Puget Sound Dock Dogs is getting ready to kick off their 2008 season! They generally have 2-3 events here in the Seattle area and then others across the state! Great time for all dogs who love water...with the caveat that they have no fear of jumping off the dock. Each event generally starts with a trial for those just wanting to see if their pup will enjoy the event. We started Poncho in this when he was about 9 months old and he has a blast at each event. Here are some photos from last year:)

Check out their website for upcoming events!!

http://web.mac.com/pugetsounddockdogs/Test_site/Welcome.html

Tuxes & Tails 2008!!

2008-03-18T22:27:00.000-07:00

Come out and support the Humane Society for Seattle/King County. The H/S's annual Tuxes & Tails auction is beautiful night spent with fellow animal lovers. Stories told throughout the evening will bring tears as well as unspeakable joy as we explore the world of pets in need! The human animal bond is amazing and through your support the Humane Society for Seattle King county is able to help thousands of homeless pets each year!! Daniel and I will be there along with close friends/family!! Please visit their website for further detail on the event! Hope to see you there:)

http://www.seattlehumane.org/tuxes2008/

Jaycee & Daniel

Happy St. Patty's Day

2008-03-18T22:01:00.000-07:00

Zsa Zsa the French Bully was not about to get pinched this St. Patty's Day:) She even brought a frothy beer (okay it is a cookie:) for all to share (thanks mom & dad)! Happy St. Patty's Day to all!!

Henry The Beagle Turns 7!!!

2008-03-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

Henry my precious beagle turned 7 on March 3rd! As many of you know he is the inspiration behind Henry's Royal Canine Care and all of my work that I do with animals. The party was huge success as always. In true beagle form Henry broke into his birthday cake as well as all of his gifts! We would expect nothing less of a hound! Thank you to all of those who attended! A special thanks to June Chang (a dear friend of ours and owner of Buddy's Doggy Care) for saving the broken cake and ensuring that all of the furry kids got a piece:)

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-06T16:17:00.000-08:00

Over 10 million pet owners are likely to give their pets Valentine’s Day gifts… Are you one of them? If you are make sure to check out PJ's Paws & Claws in Magnolia! Right as you walk in the door they have a fabulous selection of heart shaped treats as well as furry squeeky hearts! I am sure there is something to please even the pickiest furry valentine!

On a safety note...watch the flower, chocolate, and various other sweets! For a full list of items that could be of hazard this Valentine's day check out the ASPCA website attached!

http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pets_valentine

Smooches to all of the pooches!

Jaycee, Henry, Poncho, & Norton!

Favorite New Products!

2008-02-04T21:49:00.000-08:00

(Testers: Henry (beagle), Poncho (labrador), Norton (beagle)

The pet industry is amazing and people are contantly adding new products to entertain our furry family members. Having three dogs in the family (as well as many wonderful clients) I have the luxury of fully testing for likeability, durrability, and functionability:) Given that, we love to keep you posted on our new favorites! Here they are:

The Tell Bell!

Tell Bell™ is a specialized dog training device that permits a dog to “tell” his owner when he needs to go outside to use the restroom (potty)! Most of us have seen the Poochie Bells which are wonderful but can cause unwanted riniging each time you open the door. This device allows your dog to tap a bell that sits next to the door! The package comes with 2 bells, written instructions, and a DVD to ensure you know how to properly introduce the tool to your dog:)

http://www.tellbell.com/

The Kong Wubba!

The KONG Wubba was recently recognized as one of the best new dog products at Global Pet Expo, America’s largest international pet industry trade show. KONG Wubba is a fun, interactive toss and tug squeaker toy. The Wubba is made with durable reinforced nylon and comes in five different colors and 3 sizes to accommodate most breeds. The durable rubber squeaker and long tail will keep your dog entertained for hours. Poncho and Norton are in LOVE with this toy and I love its durrability!

They even have them for puppies! KONG Puppy Wubba Same quality construction and features as above. Puppy Wubba comes in one size (small) and in two puppy colors (light blue and pink).

http://www.kongcompany.com/newsletter0407.html

The Chase-It with Squirrel Attachment

Remember when we wrote to you about playing with the cat toy indoors? Well this is better!! Similar concept but a toy made with dogs in mind. On cold days you can have your dog running and jumping while you sip coffee out of one hand and lob the toy around in the other:)

http://www.chaseitpettoys.com/products.htm

Seminars at Petapoluza in January!

2007-12-22T10:20:00.000-08:00

Don't miss Petapoluza's Winter Customer Appreciation Party with fun for the whole family! The event will be held over the weekend of January 11-13th. They have a full line-up of events scheduled with educational opportunities as well as many events benefiting local rescue organizations! Visit their website for more detail! http://www.petapoluza.com/

Join HRCC on Sunday January 13th for two presentations:

11:30-12:30~Recall: Ever had the joy of calling your dog and having to stand there forever until he decides to come? I will give you some tips on how to get that reliable recall!

1:00-2:00~Manners: Do you love taking your dog with you but refrain due to their 'bad manners' and over excitement in public (or in your own home:)? I can give you some tips for installing some simple manners in your furry one. These tools will allow for more enjoyable outings (for both of you) and help others to appreciate your dog for the great companion he is!

You can sign up by stopping by or emailing Petapoluza! Hope to see you there:)

Holiday Photos!

2007-12-22T08:44:00.001-08:00

Henry Poncho Charlie Molly

Alex Tiger & Nelson Elliott Peloton

Holiday Tips To Keep Your Pet Safe:)

2007-12-22T08:29:00.000-08:00

Some little things to keep in mind as we are decorating and celebrating the holidays! Gosh knows for a loving pet owner...nothing brings on stress like an ill pet and/or a trip to the vet!

1) Lovely lilies are commonly used in holiday floral arrangements, but many varieties—including Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Stargazer and the Casablanca—can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.

2) Holly (used in various holiday decor) can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy if eaten by your pet. He could suffer gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems.

3) Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria—and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he decide to take a sip!

Happy Holidays to you and all those you love! Jaycee, Henry, & Poncho

Entertaining Your Dog On Those Crazy Rainy Days!!

2007-12-21T23:24:00.000-08:00

Winter can be a tough time for those of us with high energy dogs! As most of you know I have a 1.5 year old lab (Poncho) that tests my ability to be creative each indoor day:) We have discovered that those rainy days can actually be fun for the whole family! Here are some ideas:

1. Use the indoor time to stimulate their mind with training! If they are good with basic manners...teach them a fun trick to entertain your guests at the next dinner party! Remember your dog loves to learn and use his mind. Here is a fun sight to give you some ideas...http://www.loveyourdog.com/tricks.html. Remember training should always be fun for both you and your dog:)

2. Play soccer with your dog indoors with a tennis ball. This keeps the ball on the ground but makes your dog have to chase it around and gets them tired:) This is also a good way to continue working on a good sit stay. Keep in mind that the concept of stay must be installed prior to this being an effective exercise:) Get them on a sit/stay on the other side of the room. From here walk back to your starting point and then start the game once you have given your dog his release cue. These are all little exercises in patience for your dog:)

3. Cat feather toys...AMAZINGLY entertaining to the average high energy dog! Poncho goes nuts for the Go Cat Feather toys. After about 15 minutes of him chasing this around the house his tongue is hanging like we have just been to the park! http://www.go-cat.com

4. I cannot stress work to eat puzzles enough! The kong, buster cube, treat stick, etc . Measure out what you are going to feed your dog for the day. If you have a 1 dog household you can put the food in multiple toys and hide them around the house!! If you have a multiple dog household you can give them in separate areas while you are getting ready to leave for the day and keep one more for a lunch time stop and/or for when you get home for the day. This utilizes your dog's need to work for his food:) Rather than them gulping their food down in 2 seconds you have used this activity more efficiently:)

5. Bully Sticks !! Ahh dog's chewing on a bully stick is said to be the human equivalent to reading a good book or watching a good movie. It fully engages them, lowers anxiety, and can entertain them for quite some time during one session. This activity also gives you the opportunity to do some resource guarding prevention work. Please consult your pet dog trainer for ideas on how to safely and properly do this.

All resources mentioned above can be found at local retailers under Favorite Links on the Henry's Royal Canine Care website! Now you can start enjoying those wet Seattle days:)

Favorite Find For Winter...

2007-12-21T23:12:00.000-08:00

Ahh we all know how wonderful our rain boots come in handy this time of year! Well I have discovered a must have for all woman that walk their dogs that is even better...the Sperry Top-Spider slip on rain shoe! They are only $49.95! We can finally mix fashion and function! You can hit the dog park while maintaining a fashionable look. Once back in the car...you can (first turn on the heater:) and then wipe your shoes off and look like you have never been out in the weather! They are actually comfortable as well. I purchased them right before going to a 5 day dog training conference...wore them the whole time with no issues and continue to hit the dog park in them. Happy walking to all:) Hugs-Jaycee, Henry, & Poncho

Halloween is upon us! What is your dog going to be?

2007-10-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

Ahh Halloween...the holiday that all dogs DREAD and pet parents LOVE:) My poor Henry has had the pleasure of being an angel, super beagle, pumpkin...ahh the pumpkin outfit was so cute. Oh and of course, the home made "Official Squirrel Chaser' costume...that one actually won us a prize! Poncho will have his 1st Halloween this year...poor kid has no idea what lies ahead:) What our furry loved ones put up with for a few cookies huh! Below are some dog friendly events going on around the city! I have also given some Halloween safety tips for you and your 4-legged family members. With all of the chocolate swirrling you can never be too careful! Don't let the boogie man get ya!! Happy Halloween-Jaycee, Henry, & Poncho

Dog Friendly Halloween Events Around the City:

Dog-O-Ween: Genessee Park Saturday 10/27 11am-2pm. This event is a fund raising event for COLA (Citizens for Off-Leash Areas) More info at http://www.dogoween.org/

Have a Beagle? The Seattle Beagle Rescue will hold their annual Halloween Beaglefest on Saturday 10/27 12pm-4pm at Academy of Canine Behavior in Bothell. More info at

http://www.beaglerescue.org/

Want to take the whole family to the Pumpkin Patch?! The Farm in Snohomish, WA (40ish minutes N of Seattle) has all of the fun that you need...find a pumpkin, go through their corn maze, enjoy some apple cider, and bring your dog!! Dogs must be on-leash and remember to pick up after your furry one. Nelly is the family Basset Hound that loves to follow you around and help you choose the perfect pumpkin. Visiting The Farm is a Barrett family tradition. For more information

http://www.thefarm1.com/.thefarm1.com/

Safety Tips:

Remember that chocolate is very dangerous for your pets. Chocolate contains two potent substances-theobramine & caffeine. The amount of each compound will vary with each type and brand of chocolate. Should your dog ingest some call poison control to determine if a vet visit is necessary. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. Remember to watch your dogs while out on walks as well...there is bound to be candy that has been dropped.

What is Good for Your Dog?

Pumpkin!! Pumpkin has many vitamins, especially vitamin A. It also has a great deal of fiber. For this reason, pumpkin may be added to a dog’s diet to help in weight loss and weight control. Buying plain canned pumpkin – not the pie filling - is an easy way to add fiber to your dog’s diet. Keep in mind that raw pumpkin is hard on a dog's digestive system and everything in moderation:)