A challenge for me...

D

dogmom

Well-Known Member
Joined
Feb 1, 2009
Messages
8,594
Reaction score
237
I have issues with written or oral multi-step sequences. I tend to think in pictures.
I volunteer in the behavior modification department at a local shelter and we have a number of certain, set procedures for handling dogs, dogs going home and so on. One of them is the guide for dogs going home who have been in our specific program at the shelter, which is the behavior mod. - different from the other dogs available for adoption. "Our" dogs have behavioral needs that make harder to adopt out or they have failed initial intake eval's and therefore are not ready for adoption currently. So the guide takes into account all that and the work we do with them. The procedure for putting that together to go home with the new family is written on our bulletin board in the room where we work and have our closet and other supplies. So one day one of the dogs was listed out front at the entry desk for going home and I went to our room to review the written guide. Now, I've seen this process and assisted with it, which is a great help - but looking at the words written - like a math story problem or a chem problem - made no sense. I had no mind-picture and was therefore lost!

we also use chest/body harnesses on the dogs for walking as opposed to collars. Depending on size and body shape of dog, there are 3 potential ways to fit the harness and each way has a corresponding number. I've seen these used multiple times and have one for my own youngest dog. It's taken me about a year and 1/2 to figure out how to kind of see how it works and to physically manipulate a harness to put one on - and I have no idea about which number refers to what type of wearing style it is.
If the harness is already fitted for the dog and ready to be put on, I can now actually put it ON the dog - if she's relatively patient because it still takes me longer. If it needs to be adjusted or fitted or is in a jumble on the floor because it fell down, then we're in trouble-
 
Two things... One, you can make your own Picture process based on someone walking you through the process. You might be surprised how a simplified process can make following the process easier for everyone.

The second thing. I have never liked the harness for dogs. A harness encourages a dog to pull and basically do whatever he/she wants to do (They were invented for use with sled dogs and tracking dogs). Better is a collar, even better is a choke chain (with training), or best with a gentle leader (with training). My favorite is a simple nylon rope with a loop in it. Push it right up behind the ears and use a gentle but firm side motion to correct.

(ok maybe three things) Third, check out Cesar Millan for how to deal with dogs that need behavior modification. I'm amazed what that guy can do.
 
:wave: Cheetah,

I appreciate your thoughts:D
I like your idea about making the pictures, maybe sometime I'll have someone help me do that!

I'm a reward-based trainer <that doesn't equal "permissive"> with clicker/+re and the behavior mod. program we use at the shelter is based on current awareness principles of learning theory and dog behavior. Which is opposite of CM. I've seen his shows and he's using fear and punishment to get what he wants. He does what he does due to very good timing and physical ability but at cost to the dogs and based on very inaccurate and outdated information. With clients I recommend Victoria Stillwell if they want to watch a dog training program on tv.

There are several types of harness for dogs and the D-ring clip placement determines whether the dog pulls - or pulls as much. These harnesses I mentioned initially are required by the shelter unless the dog has a medical or behavioral contra-indication and tend to clip on chest front as opposed to the draft harnesses for pulling. These are meant to prevent tracheal damage and reduce or prevent pulling. I just suck at putting them on.
Chokers and prongs are not allowed at the shelter and I wouldn't use them on a dog anyway. I gave up physical corrections many years ago.
 
Very interesting, I wish I could stop by to see how you do your training. I am always looking and willing to learn new ideas.
 
Back
Top