Mike’s Doghouse

We went a half hour early to get caught up on what we’d missed. They’d started working on LEAVE IT. I already do this with Mike due to his desire to eat anything that fits in his mouth. They’d also worked on PLACE/SPOT, which, again, Mike and I were already doing. But I liked how she suggested doing SPOT by making it an enjoyable spot to be in. So far, Mike only knows SPOT is where he is forced to go and forced to wait until his food is placed before him. We’ve got to work on that and make it more positive.

This class, we worked on the beginnings of HEEL by getting the dog to sit on the left side, facing forward like we are and walking on the left side. This is going to be difficult for me, physically. It requires twisting to the side as well as walking while twisted to that side. With Mike, though, I don’t have to do it too many times before he gets the idea. I may also sweet-talk Lorna into working with him on it.

Next week is graduation (already!) so we need to get our trick figured out. Others have really good ones going but Mike and I haven’t a clue. But the assistant trainer gave us an idea. Mike and I have worked on LEAVE IT with me putting something wonderful on my knee and him not being allowed to get it. The lady suggested I start putting it on his nose. I don’t know that we’ll get it right in just a week but we’ll give it a try!

I’ve also decided that when we do the Basics II class, I will be doing it in my wheelchair. I haven’t thus far for various reasons, the main one being it would be such a distraction to the already over stimulated dogs. But the Basics II class should be able to deal with it better. That and the spring rains have started and my body is in huge amounts of pain. Mike and I need to do some work with me in the chair. And we’ll do that as soon as it stops raining.

As a reminder, Mike and I (and Sam and Lorna) take our classes from A Good Dog’s Life here in Asheville. I highly recommend them! The Puppy Class was taught by Gail and the Basics I class is taught by Susan. Both are well rounded and wonderful women.