by Marcie Davis | Jan 20, 2010 | Training, Dog Food & Nutrition, Doggie Healthcare
I have to say that I was so strict with my first dog, Ramona, regarding treats. The agency that trained her really frowned upon treats and instructed me that she needed to work for me based on praise rather than treats. It made sense because they argued that if her...
by Marcie Davis | Jan 18, 2010 | Service Dogs, Equipment & Supplies, Training
We really enjoy watching professional dog trainers work their dogs. I am amazed at how they can command their dog’s attention and maintain a level of control over their dog’s head through the use of a leash and collar. As a wheelchair user, handling a dog can be...
by Marcie Davis | Jan 1, 2010 | Service Dogs, Training, People, Public Interaction
As the holidays draw to a close, I am concerned about changes I have recently witnessed in Whistle. My sister and her family visited during the Christmas holidays. Whistle was thrilled to spend some time with my niece and nephew and my nephew’s girlfriend. They are...
by Marcie Davis | Oct 18, 2009 | Service Dogs, Training, Public Interaction
I had the opportunity to visit with Joan Esnayra, Ph.D., President and Founder of the Psychiatric Service Dog Society (http://www.psychdog.org). I have to admit, Dr. Esnayra enlightened me to the fact that all service dogs are not alike. Theoretically, I was aware of...
by Marcie Davis | Jun 25, 2009 | Service Dogs, Training, Puppy Raisers
Over the years, I have never ceased to be amazed by the self-less dedication I have witnessed from volunteer puppyraisers. These individuals open their homes and hearts to a bundle of furry joy and puppy breath. They work tirelessly to mold, train, and potty-train the...