A Poem for Cathy

Yesterday, we lost our dear, sweet friend, Cathy Rubin, founder of Rover Rescue.

She was a true angel, and a gift to all dogs, and humans alike. Her impact on the world was profound, the love she gave was endless.

We love you, Cathy! The dogs are waiting for you at the gates, tails wagging!

There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge, there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass. When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water, and warm Spring weather. Those old and frail animals are young again. Those who have been maimed are made whole again. They play all day with each other. But there is only one thing missing. They are not with their special person who loved them on earth. So, each day they run and play until the day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up. The nose twitches, the ears are up, the eyes are staring, and this one suddenly runs from the group. You have been seen, and when you and your special friend meet, you take him or her in your arms and embrace. Your face is kissed again and again and again and you look once more into the eyes of your trusting pet. Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated. ~Author Unknown

I imagine there is a lot of kissing going on, just about now...

Happy Holidays from Dog's Best Friend!

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Congratulations, DJ Vegas, Dog's Best Friend's Dog of the Month ~ December

We met DJ Vegas just a few months
ago, just after he arrived at his new home
with Jennifer, Joe, Joey and Olive.

DJ is the cutest, sweetest Boxer/Great
Dane mix (as you can tell by the photo).

Not only is this guy adorable, he's darn
smart. He's excellent at Going to His
Spot and picks up on new
Cues extra fast!

His smarts are especially represented in
the terrific family he chose. Jennifer and
Joe are tremendously dedicated to this
guy. Not only did Jennifer excel in their
private lessons, but Dad, Joe, was a
terrific handler in our group class last Fall.
Winning the Settle on your Spot
contest. Not bad for a guy
who never had a dog before
he met Jennifer!

DJ's new little two-legged sister and
brother, Olive and Joey, are extra sweet
with him, as well. Not only do they hug and
kiss him endlessly, but they were huge helps
in his training. They were excellent
Assistants, helping DJ learn to Go to his
Spot when they entered the room.

DJ Vegas is a happy boy now that he's
found this amazing forever home, and
we're so thankful that we had the
opportunity to get to know this
special guy, and his family.

Congratulations, DJ Vegas!

You deserve to be our Dog of the Month!

Have a Wonderful Howliday with your new family!

Giving Thanks!

Happy Thanksgiving to all my wonderful four-legged friends. You teach me so much everyday and I'm so incredibly thankful that I get to spend each and every day with such amazing animals. Have a wonderful day with your humans. They're pretty special too!

Dog's Best Friend's Turkey Tips

Dog's Best Friend's Turkey Tips ~
Thanksgiving is here, one of the happiest times of the
year, for humans and pups alike. But
Turkey Day can be stressful and even dangerous for our rascals, if
we're not careful and don't take the appropriate precautions.
With a little bit of smarts and good planning, you can help your pup make
it through the day, happy and safe!

Here are a few Turkey Tips~

Bone Up on your Pups' Obedience Skills –
Take the time to remind your pup of
his/her manners. Practice Sit, Down, Go To Your Spot, Recall and
their Boundaries. Impress your family with a well mannered dog and
keep your dog safe at the same time.

Give Them a Safe/Quiet Place To Hang-out -
Most dogs love the family and friends that visit
during the holidays, but just like children, dogs can become
overwhelmed. Pay close attention to your dogs' behavior and make
sure they have a safe, quiet place to hang-out when it just gets to
be too much. Set up their bed/crate in a comfy, quiet room, soft
music playing, a worn t-shirt of yours for them to snuggle up to and
a yummy bone (something special) for them to gnaw on. Make it
happy! This is not a punishment. This is their special place to
relax. Make sure all the kids in the house know this and ask them
to give their buddy some space for a little while. He can come out and play
later.

Don't overdue the Turkey – It's probably unrealistic to say, “Don't give your dogs turkey.” They love it and what the heck, it's just once a year. But do it in
moderation, just a little bit goes a long way. Make sure it's a lean piece and that there are no bones. Give it to them away from
the table, so they don't learn to beg. Have them sit nicely, then
give them their Thanksgiving treat. *No turkey for pups that are
allergic to poultry though and ask your guests not to feed your dog
from the table. If they really want to join in the giving, have
them ask your dog to sit and give him/her the Turkey away from the
dinner table.

No Sweets -
What is Thanksgiving without Pumpkin Pie and other luscious desserts? Us
humans love 'em, but they can be deadly to dogs. So keep those pies
up and don't feed anything with sugar to your pup. The last thing
you want to be doing is rushing to the ER with a sick pup on
Thanksgiving night.

Assign a Door Cop – One
of the greatest hazards of the holiday season is the possibility of
losing your pup, watching them dash out as the door flies open
because a guest forgets to close it properly. So
assign a responsible adult to keep an eye on the door. Ask
them to let all the guests in/out and to be in charge of
“security,” making sure your pup never has the chance to bolt
out the door. Everyone likes to feel needed, so find a
family/friend who loves to help. Have a little thank you gift ready
for them at the end of the night. People like Rewards too!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Be thankful for those Furry Tails and Fluffy Feet!

They make the Holidays extra special!

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip ~ November 22

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip

It's not just important to exercise your dog's body, it's also important to
exercise his mind.

Instead of just handing him a bone to keep him busy, consider a
"Thinking Toy." There are several companies that make wonderful toys
that challenge your dog by hiding treats/kibble in alcoves, compartments
and/or crevices. Your dog will have a great time figuring out the toy and digging
out the yummy reward! Premier and Nina Ottosson are some of our favorites
(thanks, Tami Z, for introducing us to Nina toys).

Premier Toys available at www.premier.com. Nina Ottosson available at www.poochieheaven.com.

Order now, and your pups' new toy will arrive in time to give on Hanukkah or
Christmas morning (below Toby plays with his Dog Turbo by Nina Ottosson).

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip ~ November 19

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip

Don't train the Dog out of your dog! One of my rascals, Toby, who is a dashing nine year old senior, turns into a joyful puppy whenever I say, "Let's get in the car." He dances and prances like a young stallion, full of life and spirit! Some would say, "hey, that's not very ...obedient, why do you let him do that? Train your dog." Well, I could. He knows his manners and I could have him sit nicely and be "proper," before we walk out the door, but here's the thing, why would I want to? Toby is nine years old, and he's not gonna be with me forever. These moments of "puppy" make my day...and his. He's a DOG, not a robot, not a subservient, he's got a soul, he's got LIFE. Embrace and enjoy those moments of "disobedience." When your beloved companion is gone, those are the ones that will live on forever!

Four Ways to Make your Pup's Life More Fun - One for each Paw!

If we are lucky, we have our pups, 10 maybe 15 years. The truly blessed have their rascals for as many as 16-17 years. Either way, that's not much time to enjoy our furry kids, the rascals that make our lives so much sweeter, and lots more fun.

So let's do our best to make THEIR lives more fun. Here are just a few ways to do it:

1) Make time for Silly Time. Time to wrestle, snuggle, chase, bark, jump, play bow, you name it (well, they name it). Time to just be a dog. No rules. Happy is the name of the game. Let your dog indulge in pure joy!

2) Take them on Special Adventures. For some, it's a trip to the beach, others a ride to a new neighborhood with fun smells, others some off leash time running in an empty field (must know recall first). Whatever it is, schedule some one on one time for them to just let it all out. No cell phones, laptops or work. This time is for them. Let them have a ball!

3) Have a Puppy Party! No, they don't literally have to be a puppy, any age will do. Invite your friends over and make your dog the center of attention. Plan a few games (Hide-n-Seek is fun) and teach them a new trick or two. They'll have a great time learning it, and the attention they get when they show off their new skill will make them oh-so-happy! You'll look good too. Oh, and by the way, a dog is never too old to work on socialization!

4) Schedule snuggle time. Dogs love the one on one attention they get from cuddling with you. Turn off the TV, close the door, and simply focus on them. Give them a belly rub, and relax. Be present and let them enjoy being with you, and for a moment, being the most important thing in the world.

Dogs bring so much to our lives, let's give something back to them, and help make their worlds a better place, they make ours better every single day!

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip ~ October 7th

Does your dog run away or duck their head when it's time to put on their Easy Walk (even though they don't mind wearing it)? This is very common and very Easy to handle. First, grab a yummy treat. Connect your dog's leash to their Flat Collar. Have them sit nicely. Then, as you are placing the Easy Walk over your dog's head, simultaneously feed them that yummy treat and praise them like crazy. I like to use a nice, meaty treat, so they can nibble it until the Easy Walk is over their head. Once the EW is connected, double the leash with the EW ring and you and your pup are ready for your Easy Walk together (in this photo, Bond is happy in his Easy Walk)!

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip ~ Monday, September 13

Make Training a Part of your Pups' Everyday Life!

For example, have them sit every time they get a meal or treat, when you're just hanging out and they are in another room, practice recall by calling them to you happily, rewarding them with a treat when they get to you,when you are cuddling, pet their paws, tails (gently), ears, praising them while you do it. Letting them know that petting these sensitive areas is a very good thing (treat them too, if you have one near by).

Keep up on their training, and you'll have a happy, well adjusted dog for the rest of their lives!


*In the photo above, Spencer and Rusty sit before they are served dinner.

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip

Attention Exercise

Have you ever seen how a really well-trained dog looks at his/her
human? It’s like two people in love, staring each other in the eye
like no one else exists.

This is because they have an extremely strong bond. That dog
will do anything to please their human and not because they’re
scared or intimidated, but because they want to!

Building a bond with your dog is the foundation to a well-
adjusted, well-behaved and happy dog. This simple exercise will
help start the process of building a connection with your canine
companion.

1) Hold a yummy treat up to your nose and call your dog’s name.

2) When she looks you in the eye, immediately give her the treat and
a nice soft “good” or “yes.”

Practice 5-10 Minutes two times per day everyday.

Dog's Best Friend - Voted one of South Bay's Favorites!

Dog's Best Friend has been named one of the South Bay's Favorite Dog Trainers in this year's Daily Breeze Readers' poll.

Thank you so much for voting for us!!! You're our favorite too!

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip

Dog's Best Friend's Daily Training Tip:

Dogs are always changing and
no matter how sweet your rascals are, there is always potential for new
issues like Resource Guarding to crop up. To ensure that your pups are
always okay with people approaching their food bowls, make a habit of
regularly walking by your dogs' food bowl, while they are eating (just
about a foot way), and throwing in a delicious treat. This will teach
your pups that a person coming close to their bowl is a wonderful thing
and nothing to worry about or guard against (*caveat - never allow
children to approach their dogs' bowl. Do not do this if your dog is already
resource guarding. Consult a professional if that is the case).

My dogs are 6, 7 and 8 and I do this every single day!

What it means to be a Dog Parent?

A colleague of mine, Gerald Ingram, from Oregon, recently wrote what it means to be a Dog Parent/Guardian. He put it so beautifully, that I just had to share.

Seemed appropriate on National Dog Day.

"I don't like to think of a dog as no more than a couch, car or
pencil. Property is disposable, an animal life is not. ...We have a
greater responsibility to an animal in our care of responsibility
than just ownership. I can reupholster a couch, I can scrap a car or
trade it in, I can break a pencil out of frustration and no one cares
or even should care. I can shoot an old car with guns and set it on
fire, just because I am pissed or just for the fun of it.

Some do treat dogs like human children, bad spoiled brat human
children. If you take the knowledge that we posses in teaching and
caring for dogs and properly apply it to humans, we would have a lot
less trouble in our youth and hence a lot less trouble in our society
as adults. If we provided the the right nutrition, the right
reinforcement and didn't focus on punishing our children, they would
be better off. If we did not appease them with food or freedom just
to get them off our backs, but instead spent quality time and gave
positive feedback, our children would be much better off. Too many
people refer to those who spoil their dogs as treating them like
children. Spoiling is a relative term. I spoil my dogs with proper
care and emotional support. I spoil them with medical attention and
proper training. I only wish I could go back and do better for my
children as I am now doing for my dogs. I didn't do my children
wrong, but if only I had known how to make them believe in themselves
just a little bit more. If I had reinforced them in even better ways,
just how much farther might they have gone."

Well said. Thank you, Gerald.

Thursday's Training Tip!

One of the biggest mistakes dog guardians make is that they often bark off (pun intended) commands to their dogs, thinking that their dogs know what they are saying. For instance, I often hear people saying, "Buddy Come, Come. Buddy, Come." But Buddy doesn't Come. Why is this? Is he ignoring them? Is he stubborn? Is he just being a plain old jerk? The answer is NO. Buddy is probably not coming because they never took the time to TEACH Buddy the word. We must SHAPE the command. We must show the dog what COME means, mark it with a treat/praise and practice it over and over again, until he learns what the word means. Remember, dogs don't speak English (as stated by the amazing Ian Dunbar), we've got to teach them our language...and in return, we should learn theirs as well! I think that's only fair, don't you?

Announcing Dog's Best Friend's August Dog of the Month ~ JUSTIN!!!

Justin is an extremely bright and spirited Entlebucher Mix.  He recently adopted Lora, John and Elizabeth and is bringing tons of joy and excitement to their lovely family.

Cathy from Rover Rescue spottedJustin at a local shelter and couldn't resist his soulful glance.  Could you?

Justin loves playing in his back yard with his little sister, Elizabeth, and practicing his training with Mom and Dad. This guy is very ambitious, so is currently working towards his Canine Good Citizen Certificate with his Dad, John.  We don't want to jinx it, but the likelihood of this smart boy passing, is very high!

Justin is especially grateful to his Mom and Dad, who have dedicated their time and energy to helping him become a nice, well adjusted pup.

Congratulations, Justin.You have worked hard and deserve to be our August Dog of the Month.

"Who can believe that there is no soul behind those luminous eyes!"
~ Theophile Gautier

Happy Birthday to Dog's Best Friend's August Birthday Dogs!

Happy Birthday to our August Birthday Pups, Charlie Bonvie, Abby Stamp, Kira Clay, Marley May Salazar, Max Schauer and Chase Mendoza! Check out their photos in their very own Facebook Photo Album. Birthday kisses to the sweet pups.

Facebook/Dog's Best Friend

Puppies! Puppies! Puppies! From July's DBF News

Puppies! Puppies! Puppies!
What's not to love?
By Rebecca Mandell

Everyone loves puppies! They are absolutely adorable, as sweet as can be and they do the funniest things. They chase their tails, slide across our floors and bounce around joyously! Puppies brighten our day and make us smile!

Puppies are also a lot of work and a huge responsibility. A lot of thought and planning should be done before taking the leap into Puppy Parenthood.

Here are just a few things to consider before adding a furry baby to your family~

Breed. What is the best breed for your family? How do you decide?

First of all, pick up a Breed book from your local bookstore (below are a few book recommendations). Go through the book and pick out your top five breeds, based on whatever you want. Looks, personality, etc. Have fun. There are no limits.

Then make a list of your families' characteristics. For instance, are you active or mellow? Social or quiet? What are your favorite hobbies?

Once you've done that, make a list of the qualities you'd want in your dream dog. A running companion? A cuddle bug? A shopping buddy for the gals?

Now the hard part. Be honest with yourself. Compare the three lists.

If you enjoy spending your weekends lounging quietly in front of the tube, then cross Border Collies off the list. If you love to hike and camp, maybe a Maltese wouldn't work for you (the grooming alone would be a full time job). All dogs are unique, but there are certain qualities that can be universal within the breed, so study the characteristics and choose accordingly.

Please don't forget Mixed Breed dogs. They often have an amazing combination of the characteristics you want and make the most loyal pets ever. There are many wonderful Rescue Groups out there and so many dogs that need homes (Yes, they often have puppies available, you just have to be patient).

It may sound like a lot of work, but it's well worth it. Your dream puppy is out there somewhere just waiting to choose his new family (have no illusions, THEY ultimately do the choosing)!

Financial Commitment. Whether you choose to adopt a puppy from a Rescue Group/Shelter or go to a Reputable Breeder, Puppies are not cheap. Make sure you are ready for the financial obligation of taking care of a little friend. Below are just a few of the expenses you'll incur in the first few weeks/months after you adopt your pup.

Vet Expenses - The second you bring your puppy home, I recommend scheduling your pup's first vet visit. Your pup will need a check-up, shots, a microchip and eventually to be Spayed or Neutered.

Plan on surprise visits to the vet. Puppies often have tummy trouble or ingest things they're not supposed to, so expect the unexpected.

Toys, Beds, Crates - That first trip to the pet store is so much fun, but can be quite expensive. Your pup will need a crate, food bowls, leashes, toys, etc. (see the shopping list below). Your local pet store will become your second home for your pup's first six months, so make sure you're financially prepared.

Dog Care - Young pups cannot be left alone. So if you work out of the home or have an active social life, you'll need a dog sitter/walker to stop in and take your pup out for a safe potty break in their own back yard and give them some fun play time. Prices vary, but the visits can add up, so don't forget this expense.

Training - It is extremely important to get your puppies into training as soon as possible. Teaching them good manners and socialization is imperative to their development and will help build the bond between you and your pup. Most group classes do not allow pups younger than sixteen weeks, so be prepared for In Home Private Lessons, in order to keep your rascal happy and safe while she/he learns.

Before you take that trip to the Adoption Event, go over your budget and make sure you're prepared. Adding a puppy to your family is a financial commitment that should be taken seriously.


Lifestyle Change. If I had to pick the one thing new Pet Parents say to me more than anything when they first adopt a puppy, I would say it is, "I didn't realize a puppy was so much work."

It's true, puppies are A LOT of work. Your life will drastically change for the first six months to a year, depending on your puppy, that you have your pooch.

Here are just a few ways a puppy can affect your lifestyle~

~Puppies need constant attention and monitoring
~For the first few weeks, you will lose sleep. Your puppy will need late night and/or early morning Potty Breaks
~You will not be able to leave the house for more than a few hours at a time (depending on your pup's crate training schedule/age)
~Travel plans should be delayed. Kennels will not take puppies under the age of sixteen weeks. Besides, it can be traumatic for a puppy if his family leaves him in the care of someone else when he is too young and not yet adjusted to his new world
~No matter how hard you work on training, your puppy will have accidents and there will be mistakes. Carpets will need cleaning (another expense)

Those are just a few.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Being a Puppy Parent is one of the most rewarding experiences we can ever experience. There is nothing like the amazing bond that we create with our furry kids when we make the commitment to love and care for them.

But first, take the time to make sure you're ready to be the best Parent you can be. The puppies deserve nothing less than the very, very best we can give.

I can't tell you how many times new Puppy Parents have said to me, "I didn't realize I could love anything so much."

Now THAT is a good reason to bring a puppy into your home!


The Tail End

*To Read More of Dog's Best Friend News, Click on Dog's Best Friend News under our Favorite Links/Blogs

Making the Fourth of July Safe for our Furry Friends

The Fourth of July is here, a holiday filled with fun, friends and exciting (but scary) fireworks celebrations.

When night falls and the lights in the sky start to fly, be sure to take these precautions to help your pup make it through the night, safe and sound.

Leave Your Pups at Home - The crowds and noises of the fireworks shows can be overwhelming and scary for your rascals. The loud explosions can send them into a panic. Even though you may like the thought of having your pups with you to enjoy the show, play it safe and leave them at home.

Close/Lock all Windows and Doors - Dogs have been known to jump out windows and bolt out doors when the boom of fireworks blasts through the sky. Not only will closing windows reduce the noise, it will also keep your dogs contained in the safety of their own home.

Give Them a Safe/Quiet Place To Hang-Out while you Celebrate the Night's Festivities – The crackles and pops of fireworks can be terrifying to some dogs. If your pup is one of these dogs (or if you don't know whether he is or not), make him a comfortable spot in a quiet room of your home. Play some music or turn on the television (something relaxing), and give him a special/high-value bone or treat to chew on. The bone will keep him busy and give him a place to release his stress, if he should get upset.

With a little thought and care, you can keep your pups safe, calm and happy on this potentially stressful day. Take the time for them, they'll thank you for it with wags and wiggles!

Happy Fourth of July to you and your pups!


*We want your pups to be as relaxed on the 4th as Toby is in the photo above.

Dog's Best Friend's Classes Start July 8th

Dear Dog-Lovers,

Dog's Best Friend's Group Classes start Thursday, July 8th.

Check out www.rebeccadogsbestfriend.com for registration information.

Rusty Walks

Dog's Best Friend's Training Tip of the Day

Dog's Best Friend's Training Tip of the Day:

Does your dog bark at the doorbell, loud noises outside, babies crying? If so, desensitize them to those sounds by playing a Noise CD, that will get them used to those pesky sounds. Remember, it's not enough to just play the CD, you must treat your dog when the sound plays, giving them a positive association with that sound. Just make sure you don't treat them when they bark, we don't want to confuse them and teach them the bark is what we're looking for. Treat them when they're being quiet.

Purchase the Noise CD's at Living with Dogs.

Have fun! Training should be enjoyable for both the dog and the human.

Purchase CD's at Living With Dogs.

A Sad Day! Jake Crosses the Rainbow Bridge!

A very sad day for our dear client, Michael, who said goodbye to his amazing boy, Jake. Jake died in Michael's arms after suffering a massive seizure. Our heart goes out to Michael and Jake's four-legged brother, Max. We'll miss you, Buddy. We love you dearly!

Jake, the handsome big guy, shown here with his brother, Max.

Amazing Dog Video! Dogs Travel By Subway! http://ping.fm/HurUs

Introducing Ben and Roxy - Dog's Best Friend's Dogs of the Month - May and June

Ben and Roxy are two of our dearest Friends.
They are quite a duo with personalities that couldn't
be more different from one another.

Roxy, ever the sweet gal, loves to lounge and cuddle in her Mom's
nice, warm bed. Her lovely white fur, blending in with the white down
comforter, camouflaging her from the rest of the world.
When we arrive to visit, she gracefully greets us,
waiting for soft pets and kisses.
Her tenderness melts our hearts.

Playful Ben, wiggles his way down the stairs, happy to
share his plush toy with us as we leash him up for his
outdoor adventure. The whole world is magnificent to Ben.
He relishes every smell he can take in and lets the world know,
"Ben was here."

These two rascals are such great gifts to us. We've enjoyed the years
that we've spent with them and look forward to many, many more.

Congratulations, Ben and Roxy,
you're our Dogs of the Month for May and June.

We love you, Friends!

Dogs Need Seatbelts Too

Jazzy Sits Nicely In Her Seatbelt

Automobile accidents are one of the leading causes of death of our canine companions. It is extremely dangerous for dogs to run free in cars. If you slam on the brakes, the dog can go through the windshield, or become a fast moving torpedo and slam right into you, injuring both of you.

Thankfully, there are several styles of Seatbelt on the market today that
will help keep your dog safe, while enjoying a fun ride in his movable den.

Here are a few tips to help acclimate your dog to her new Seatbelt:

• Use treats and praise. We want them to associate the seatbelts with something very positive. As you’re strapping them into the seatbelt, feed them treats with your free hand and tell them how great they are being. Praise, praise, praise!
  

• Start young. Pups are less likely to object if they're belted from the get-go.

• Take short trips. Start out small with short trips to fun places. Slowly build up to longer and longer trips as they become more adjusted to their seatbelt.

• Have fun. Dogs will learn to dislike restraints if every trip ends at the vet, so take him to a park or other places they love to go. If you are going for a vet trip or another place your dog may not enjoy, stop at a fun pet store or park on your way home to give your dog that positive association with riding in the car (in his seatbelt).
  

We Recommend:

Four Paws makes a nice, sturdy, padded harness/seatbelt that
keeps your dog safe, secure and comfy.

*The Premier Sure-Fit Harness and Control Strap is comfortable and secure.
Will ensure your dog ultimate safety.

Enjoy your car trips with your pups, but always be safe. If you
have to wear a seatbelt, why shouldn't they?

*Available at Dog's Best Friend ~ The Store

Introducing Steamboat - Dog's Best Friend's Dog of the Month - April

Introducing Steamboat...

Steamboat entered our lives six years ago when we had the pleasure of fostering him for the Golden Retriever Club of Greater LA Rescue.

Toby and Steamy were the best of friends, but Steamboat was looking for a special family of his own.

He found his forever home in the Puglisi pack. With little brother, Joe, to wrestle with and love, Steamboat was in heaven. Then, just a little while later he got a another two-legged brother, Johnm giving him one more playmate. He thought that was cool!

Steamy is full of life and incredibly sweet. It’s impossible to look at
him without smiling.

This guy exudes Happy!

We love you, Steamboat and are thankful to have you in our lives!

Dog's Best Friend's Book of the Month - April

Dog's Best Friend's Book of the Month ~ April...

Animals Make Us Human by Temple Grandin and Catherine Johnson,
authors of the New York Times Bestseller (and DBF favorite), Animals
in Translation.

Available on Amazon. Enjoy...

Introducing Frosty Jones - Dog's Best Friend's Dog of the Month - March

Frosty is a wonderful, happy Lab
we absolutely adore! .

Lately, we have been very lucky to
have the opportunity to spend
lots of time with this loving boy, who
epitomizes everything you would
want/expect in a Lab…

He loves everyone and everything,
lives for his tennis ball and
can never pass up a tasty treat.

We especially like his HAPPY
GRUNT that he makes when we
arrive at his home, and begin
our fun adventures together.

It’s no accident that Frosty is
especially loving, he has two amazing
parents, Scott and Cathy, and an
extra sweet brother, Cooper.

His family gives him tons of love
and affection and it shows in this
boy’s spirited personality!

We love you, Mr. Frosty.
Congratulations!

The Dangers of Keeping Your Dog Outside by Rebecca Mandell

Clients often ask me if they should keep their dog in the backyard or give her free access to the backyard through a doggy door. My answer to this is always the same. No! It's simply too dangerous out there and can cause or exacerbate behavioral issues such as barking and/or aggression.

Below are just a few reasons why I feel this way:

1) It's dangerous! All it takes is one mistake or unkind act and you've lost your dog....Forever.

-Escape. No matter how secure you feel your backyard is, dogs often find a way out. They're smart and find places that you didn't even know existed, places to escape into that exciting world outside.

-People are unpredictable. I have seen/heard of strangers simply walking up to gates, opening them and letting the dogs out. Why? We don't really know. Often just because they felt like it.

-Not everyone likes dogs. As hard as this is to believe, it's true. There are many heart breaking stories of dog-haters poisoning dogs by throwing toxic meats, etc. over the fence. The poor pup excitedly engulfs the treat, thinking he has a friend, but ends up sick or worse, betrayed by an unkind human being (well, if you can call them that).

-Theft. There are syndicates all over the country that steal pet dogs and sell them to dog fighters or unethical research labs. Small dogs are the easiest target, but don't be fooled into thinking your Golden Retriever cannot fall victim to this. If the dog is easily accessible, they'll take him, no matter the size.

2) Behavior Issues.

-Backyards have tons of stimulus. Squirrels, birds, cars, sirens, construction. All of these noises can cause stress in your dog and lead him to bark, cry or both. If you are not there to monitor what's going on, you can find yourself with an incessant barker, which the neighbors will not appreciate (nuisance fines can be very steep in the Beach Cities).

-Destruction. It can be very boring laying out there all alone all day long. So what's a dog to do? Digging seems fun. Or maybe tearing up that rose bush, or eating the wooden table. Most backyard destruction is done simply because the dog is bored, lonely and/or stressed. Prevent this by keeping your dog inside with lots of fun bones, toys and, most importantly, interaction with his human family.

-Becoming Territorial. What is a dog to do when other dogs are constantly walking by his home? Of course he has to bark and let them know this is his turf. Can you blame him? The more he's allowed to do this, the better he gets at it. It's also darn fun (taking care of that boredom we were talking about). He barks and the other dog/human goes away. Whoohoo! Success! But this success can lead your dog to becoming territorial/aggressive when he's out in the rest of the world, not just your yard.

3) It's Inhumane. This one is simply my opinion. However, it's based on years of living with dogs and interactions with hundreds of dogs (maybe even thousands now). I have yet to see a dog that would rather be outside than inside with his family, if given the choice. Never!!! That look on their face when their human closes the door and turns off the light, leaving the dog standing at the door, staring into the house, is the most heartbreaking look I've ever seen. It doesn't lie.

Dogs that are kept in the house are simply better adjusted, have better manners and are all around happier dogs. Oh, and did I mention cleaner too?!

So if you're keeping your pup outside, please reconsider. Dogs are social animals and they need to be with you. Be flattered that they love you and want to be close to you, more than anything else in the whole wide world.

*Photo of Toby Mandell, happy and safe, inside his home!

Finding Your Best Friend - A Choice that will last a Lifetime - by Rebecca Mandell

Choosing your Best Friend is one of the
most important decisions you’ll ever make.
How you make this decision will have a
great impact on your life, and an even
bigger affect on the dog’s. It will
determine the success your Friend will
have in your home, and, like choosing
your life’s partner, it’s not a decision to be
taken lightly and takes careful
thought and consideration.

Whether dreaming of a pure breed
puppy or rescuing a dog from a shelter,
there are many factors to consider. It is
not enough to have an attraction to a
specific breed based on their looks or
perceived personality. They must have
the qualities that fit into your lifestyle.

Too often I have seen energetic Border
Collies adopted by sedentary families,
who are shocked to find that the dog has
endless energy. Dismayed that they can’t
keep up, they are forced to
re-home the poor pup.

Or the young family who purchased a
puppy, thinking it would be great for the
kids to grow up with a pup, but are
stunned by the constant supervision the
pup requires. Poor Mom suddenly
realizing she has a another baby on her
hands. Sleepless nights, included.

With a little education and thought, these
mistakes can be prevented, so before you
adopt the newest member of your family,
consider the following:

-Lifestyle. What is your energy level?
How much time do you have to give to
exercise, grooming, training, etc? What are
your family’s limitations (be honest with
yourself).

-Research breeds. Though all dogs are
individuals, there are some characteristics
that are consistent within the breed. For
instance, Beagles love to sniff (I have yet to
meet one that doesn’t), so if you dream of
brisk walks with few stops, you may want to
consider a different breed.

-Age of the dog. Puppies are tons of fun,
but LOTS of work. Think about whether
you have the time to devote to training a
pup. For the first few months, it’s a full time
job. If you adopt a puppy, you really are
getting a baby. One that nips, chews, has
accidents and doesn’t sleep through the
night. If time is scarce or you are
inexperienced with raising a pup, a mature
dog may be a better choice.

-Budget. Buying or adopting a dog is a
financial commitment, in addition to an
emotional one. You’ll need to have funds
for medical bills, food, grooming, toys, beds
and much, much more. Emergencies
happen and we need to be prepared.

-Research breeders/rescue groups.
Make sure they are reputable and have
high standards for the families that
adopt/purchase their dogs. If they care
where their dogs go to live, that most likely
means the dogs have been in good hands
while in their care (never buy from a pet
store).

When those fireworks go off and you are
In Love, there’s nothing like it. The warm,
fuzzy feeling that you have when you’ve
found the dog of your dreams is truly one
of the greatest joys of life.

Like all Love Affairs, there comes a time
when we must come down to Earth, and
start the work of Being In Love. Your
smart choices will guide you through this
time, so you and your pup will have a
love that lasts Forever!

The Tail End

Dog's Best Friend Thanks Doritos

Thank you to the executives, decision makers and creative team of Doritos for showing the
cruelty of the use of Shock Collars.

This was the best Super Bowl Commercial of the year.

Dogs, Dog Lovers and Positive Reinforcement Trainers all over the nation Thank You!!!!

Good job!

Click on the link below to watch it again...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyyUuGYr49E

A few Fun ways to become your Dog's Best Friend

Here are a few fun ways to build your bond with your dog and become his very Best Friend...

The Attention Exercise

Have you ever seen how a really well-trained dog looks at his/her
human? It’s like two people in love, staring each other in the eye like no one else exists.

This is because they have an extremely strong bond. That dog
will do anything to please their human and not because they’re
scared or intimidated, but because they want to!

Building a bond with your dog is the foundation to a well-
adjusted, well-behaved and happy dog. This simple exercise will
help start the process of building a connection with your canine
companion.

1) Hold a yummy treat up to your nose and call your dog’s name.

2) When she looks you in the eye, immediately give her the treat and
a nice soft “good” or “yes.”

Practice 5-10 Minutes two times per day everyday.

Teaching Rover Recall

Teaching your dog to come to you, aka Recall, is the single most important command you can teach your dog. If you can get your pooch to come to you one hundred percent of the time, under all circumstances, you will have a great tool to deal with many different issues.

Here are just a few:

- Barking at outside stimulus (knocks at door, passersby) –
Allow your dog two-three barks, then call him to you. This way he gets to fulfill his doggy instinct of protecting his home, yet he's not driving you and the neighbors crazy.

- Chewing or other types of mischief – If your pup is about to get into something he's not supposed to (or already has), call him to you in a happy voice. This helps change his focus on to something more positive, YOU, rather than chewing up your favorite pair of shoes. When he gets to you, give him something else to do, a toy, game or bone.

-Safety – It can/will save his life. At least once in
your dog's lifetime, they will somehow get out of their house, off-leash. So you'll want them to respond to their name ON A DIME, in order to save them from that speeding car driving down the road. Even the best trained dogs get excited and make mistakes, so drilling Recall is supremely important.


How we teach Recall...

1). With your dog on a 6 foot leash and treats in your hand (something he/she LOVES), throw the treat roughly five feet away
from you and gesture to the dog to go get the treat (make sure he sees it before you throw it). Once his back is turned to you and he's either gotten the treat or is looking for it, call his name in a very excited, happy, upbeat way (he does not need to find the treat before you start calling him). For example, Toby, Toby, Toby, Whoohoo and at the same time jog backwards, so that the dog is forced to jog to you. When he/she gets to you, give him big treats and tons of praise, “HAVE A PARTY.” Your pup's just done the best thing in the whole wide world. Do this over and over and over again. Then over and over and over again.

2). Once your pup is successful on his 6 foot lead, switch to a 15-25 foot long line (no Retractable leashes). Repeat step 1. You'll have to work on your pitching arm, so you can throw the treat farther.

3). Once your dog is coming to you one hundred percent of the time, without hesitation (with distractions), then test him off-leash in a safe, enclosed area (your backyard). Never move to open/unfenced areas until you are absolutely positive that he will come to you. If there's any doubt, do not move to this step! VERY IMPORTANT! All it takes is one mistake to lose your beloved pooch.

A few Notes...

-Why teach your dog Recall on leash? So we can keep them focused and close to us. We don't want your pup running off in the middle of the Recall exercise. Secondly, if he is not responding to your call, you can “reel” him in (not tug, or pull), but simply reel him towards you in that happy voice.

-Why a happy voice? We want your dog coming to you because he/she WANTS to, because you are the BEST thing in the whole wide world. A happy voice is exactly that...it makes them HAPPY, therefore having a positive association with YOU!

-Why do we run backwards? Because Recall should be fast. No lollygagging. When you call your dog they should turn ON A DIME and run back to you. We want them joyously bounding to you.

-Don't we use the word, “Come?” Not yet. Do not add this command until they actually Come To You. Using it before they know it is useless, it'll just be another word.

-NEVER EVER, EVER call your dog to you in frustration or anger.

Again, we want coming to you to be the best thing in the world! If they are in trouble or need something unpleasant done (nail clipping, bath, meds), go to them. Recall should always be positive.

Most importantly, HAVE FUN! Training your dog should be a fun experience, a time to learn from one another and solidify your Human/Canine bond. If they aren't listening to you, it's not because they are bad, or being dominant and are desirous of taking over the household. It's because they simply don't understand you and/or your relationship needs to be strengthened. Training gives you the opportunity to create a wonderful, lasting relationship with your pooch, based on communication, trust and compassion! Enjoy!

Playing Hide-n-Go-Seek

Did you know that playing Hide-N-Go-Seek with your dog (inside the safety of your house) is a great way to teach your dog to come to you? And it’s lots of fun for the whole family too! This is how it works…

1)Have one family member hang out with your pup in a room of your home (on leash), separated from the “hiders.”

2) Arm the “hiders” with lots of fun, healthy dog treats.

3)Have the “hiders” go find a secret place to hide (closets and showers work best).

4)When the “hiders” are good and ready, have them call your pup’s name out loud. Let your pup off leash to go find his family. If he’s having a hard time finding the “hiders,” help him out by calling his name again.

5)When the pup finds you, reward him with lots of praise and treats!

6)Repeat until you and your pooch are pooped!

Practice these three exercises and before you know it your dog will be gazing lovingly into your eyes and never wanting to leave your side.

You will truly be your Dog's Best Friend!


By Rebecca Mandell, Dog's Best Friend
www.rebeccadogsbestfriend.com

Photo of Toby, Rusty and Spencer , my Best Friends

Dog's Best Friend's Classes Start February 20

Dog's Best Friend's New Sessions of Classes start 2/20.

Check out Facebook/Dog's Best Friend or www.rebeccadogsbestfriend.com for details.


Photo of Gibbs, learning her manners in DBF's Basic Manners Class, 2009.

Dog's Best Friend's Dog of the Month, January

Introducing Rose Caughey, Dog's Best Friend's Dog of the Month - January



Rose is one of our sweetest
and dearest Friends.

This darling little girl was found wandering a park, all alone and scared until a good Samaritan
opened their heart to her. And before she knew it, she landed in the loving arms of her new
Mom, Jenn.

Jenn has given Rose the most amazing, loving, home and has created a safe
environment for this little girl to blossom into a beautiful Rose.

We love spending time with Rosie, as we often call her (she says it’s okay), and giving her nice, long walks.

Rosie loves riding in the car, playing with her plush toys until they’re
ripped to shreds and getting her post walk treat!

Thank you for giving her such a wonderful home, Jenn. We adore sweet Rose!

Teaching Your Kids to be their Dog's Best Friend

Introducing Teaching Your Kids to Be Their Dog’s Best Friend ~ A new class by Dog's Best Friend...

In this hour-long class,
kids and parents will
learn to safely approach dogs,
tips to properly care for them
and fun, compassionate and
effective ways to train
their pooch.

Bring the entire family to this
fun and informative class that will help kids
be their Dog's Best Friend. Toby, a
Certified Therapy Dog, will be on hand to
help demonstrate the above mentioned
techniques.

Human family members only.
No food or drink allowed in class.
Pleasebring chairs or blankets to sit on during
class.

*Kids with pet allergies or extreme fear of
dogs should not be in attendance

One Hour Seminar Starts February 20,
2010 from 1:00 - 2:00 pm at
Edith Rodaway Park in Hermosa Beach

Fees: $45 Hermosa Beach residents
$50 for non-residents

Contact rebecca@rebeccadogsbestfriend.com to register...