Monday, December 6, 2010

Can't Get Them Out of My Head

Had the chance to go to France and Italy. Look what grab my attention . . .

DOGS . . . and a cat!

I do enjoy some time-off from the little critters, but I surely do miss my pets when I travel.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

How About Clicker Training?

Nothing. Yup, I know nothing about this clicker training thingy, but it sounds interesting if you and your dog have the patience and the discipline. I've heard, read and saw clips about it.

Why not I learn more? It is also used for birds, horses and sea animals. And even if I don't use a clicker, the things on positive reinforcement for training behavior could be of importance to a pet owner like me. " No knowledge is useless," says Jennifer Lawler.

Clicker training is an operant conditioning (also called respondent conditioning) method for training an animal using a clicker (or small mechanical noisemaker) as a marker for a behavior. The method uses positive reinforcement - it is reward-based.

For training purposes once the behavior is sufficiently reliable on the use of the clicker, a cue (e.g. a verbal command such as "sit," or "down") is added to the click, and as the response transfers to the new cue, the clicker is no longer needed (e.g. stimulus control is attained).

A clicker is just one example of a conditioned reinforcer (secondary reinforcer) or "bridge". Technically a stimulus from any sensory mode may become a conditioned reinforcer (ex. light, smell).


The marker can be any signal that the animal can perceive, so long as the signal is brief (to prevent the problem of imprecise timing) and consistent (to prevent the problem of variations that may confuse the animal).

For large sea animals the marker is usually a whistle rather than a clicker. However, not all conditioned reinforcers are sounds. Goldfish and birds such as falcons and hawks can be trained using a quick flash of a flashlight as their "clicker". Deaf dogs can be trained with a vibrating collar.


Misconception: "Dogs become fat with clicker training because they get too many treats."

Part 1 of the solution to this problem is either to use a portion of the dog's regular diet as the training treats or to use reinforcers other than food.

Part 2 is to remember that a training treat for a Labrador should be about the size of a pea or an M&M. Smaller dogs get even smaller treats. Larger dogs get only slightly larger treats.

Food is not the only reinforcer that can be used in training. A "reinforcer" is anything the animal is willing to work for in the current situation.

Common non-food reinforcers include toys, attention, and the opportunity to do something the dog wants. For example, for a dog who wants to go for a walk, putting on the leash can reinforce sitting. Going through the door can reinforce the dog who wants to go outside. Being greeted by someone is the BEST reinforcer for a dog who wants to meet and greet.


Source: Wikipedia

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Morning Has Broken

My favorite photo . . .

This was one of those times when I tackle the dogs very early in the morning. I bathe the spunky critters and spend the rest of the morning in the garden. I groom them on top of the grooming table for hours, enjoying the cool fresh air of the morning, saying a little thanksgiving prayer while taking a glimpse on one of the bonsai trees.

I am left with the dogs for the children go to school to earn a degree and the hubby to the office to earn a living for us and the additional members of the family, the hairy critters.

Friday, November 19, 2010

This or That in Pet Care

Have you ever been caught with a decision on how to care for your pet but choosing between what's the "supposed to, but poor pet" and the "let it be and give the pet the fun and comfort"? Well, I do.

Look at this water feeder. It's a great way to keep the dog's beard dry when drinking. Wet beard means stained beard, that's it.

However, I really "feel" for the dog. At a younger age, it's okay, but as he grows, he drinks more quantity of water. Using this paraphernalia seems like giving him trickles of water when he is thirsty. Oh wow!

What to do?

Out with the feeder. Let him drink all he can and just deal with the stained beard separately. Note however, that other pet owners are successful using this.

Just sharing that as pet owners, we do face these predicaments. What's important is that when we do come to a decision, we know the consequence and how to deal with it.

In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn't merely try to train him to be semi human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog.
Edward Hoagland

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Dog and I

Joaqui and I were alone at home today. I decided to let him play after his bath. I wanted him to have fun with something new. I found this red neck pillow, free from a local food chain store for a single purchase of a certain amount.

True to my expectation, Joaqui had a festivity of his own with his new-found toy. He tosses it and catches it with his mouth.

Guess who was the other one in the house having fun, just watching the dog having fun?

You guessed right . . . ME . . . or should we say "I".

Thursday, November 4, 2010

To The Batcave? No, To The Dog Show

"Come on, let's go. Hurry, hurry." These are but the famous last words, as we prepare to leave for the dog show.

Dog shows are challenging (and a bit tiring too), for both the pets and the owners. Packing, grooming, nagging . . .

At the end of the day, it's cool to have participated. If you lose, you gain learnings and if you win, you learn how to gain from your hard work. Yo!

Dog Show Information

Dog Show Awards

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Puppy Show

"Come here Jasper, come."

You have to tie up the command with a simple action and tone of voice for better recall. That's what I got from one of my readings.

Jasper is a fine dog, though a bit aggressive for my standard.

While still a puppy, we knew he would do well in the dog shows. So how old should a pup be for him to enter an official dog show?

In our case, the dog should have the necessary vaccines, at least the "anti-rabies". This is a requirement.

Then, the dog should have the courage and the ability to walk inside the ring. This can be done with some training and practice. It should also be able to mingle with other dogs and people.

It must allow the judge to open his mouth without the threat of biting. If possible the dog should also be able not to pee or otherwise inside the ring while he is on show.

Seems like grooming is not so much a factor at a young age, aside from the basic of having a clean dog.

Usually, to get the above skills, the dog is about 4 to 5 months old.



The puppy category is for puppies up to 6 months old. Beyond that age, the dog enters the adult dog category.

Dog Show Information

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Wet Feet

The rainy season is here.

The grounds are wet. The doggies feet are wet. What to do?

Got those tiny dog shoes for the hairy footsies. Problem solved for the moment for those "watery" days.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Fun . . . Funny

Teemee is supposed to be "dracula". What an adorable vampire!

Well, that's what pets are for, to care and have fun with. They may keep you young, with the right pet-owner formula.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Greetings


Happy Halloween to all !!!

BFF - Best Friends Forever

My response to the question "What is women's best friend?" was . . .

. . . DOGS?

Heheh, of course the answer was wrong. Should be "Diamonds".

photos taken in a diamond store in Israel where we stopped for a while (excluding the dog pic) . . .

Sorry, too much dogs in my mind, good for my hubby, right?

You put your treasure where your heart is and fortunately my heart is full of precious dog memories.

Friday, October 29, 2010

A Heart of a Mother

Can't help it. Just had to go to the studio to have Joaqui for some photo shoots.












Had to have him ready. Bathe, towel dry, blow dry, coat trimming, tooth brushing, nail cutting and seems like a never-ending coat brushing and grooming.

Like a true child of mine, I took him to the studio as a proud mother. The difference was, I took him in a crate instead of a stroller.

He proved to be a good boy. He behaved well in front of the camera, working with the photographer. Yoohoo!















I did some of my own photo capture at home as well, for some Hallmark moments or just so I can keep a souvenir of those hard work on grooming, my style (the mother's style).

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

The Faithful Listener

Goodbye for now.

Had to leave the little hairy critters for some travel. Created a blog on my trip, click and read on:
Trip to Jerusalem

Got a shot of the above painting when Martha had a discussion with the Lord Jesus about her sister, Mary.

The Lord answered her, " Martha, Martha! You are worried and troubled over so many things, but just one is needed. Mary has chosen the right thing, and it will not be taken away from her."

However, I noticed that at the feet of Jesus, listening faithfully was a dog. This is why I took a closer look at the painting and kept a photo file. Remembered my doggies whom I left for a while.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Time Away From The Dogs

Hahahah, the critters have been looking like this after being away from dog shows. It's okay, my love for them do not diminish.

In addition, I went through my scheduled travel as well. Just want to share my blog about my get-away:

My Trip, Leaving The Dogs Behind

It was a meaningful trip indeed.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Pet Blessing

The feast of St. Francis of Assisi is celebrated on October 4. This is when pet owners have their beloved pets blessed in the spirit of this patron saint of animals and ecology. We are no exception, since we had Joaqui blessed at the St. Joseph's church in Alabang on the Feast of St. Francis, together with other pet owners.

It has been two years now since that memorable day. I remember being happy and proud. Amen!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Ask and You'll Probably Find the Right Response



Hmmm . . .

Just looking back over the years from the time I got my puppies. What have been my toughest questions?

Maybe some of the readers out there have the proper answers. Seems like some things work for most of the dogs but not all. Basically, you have to get to know your dog very well so you will be able to do what is appropriate and right for your dog.

Some of the questions I encountered for my dogs and for those of my friends.

1. How to control barking
2. How to stop excessive marking habit
3. How to start socializing your dog
4. What are the basic shots needed by your dog, as a puppy and as it grows older
5. How to have your dog behave with other dogs and with children
6. What are the symptoms of a sick dog
7. What tools do you need for grooming
8. What's the best shampoo, soap and toothpaste for my dog
9. Cure for itches
10. Problem on chewing of the paws
11. Dealing with excessive shedding of coat
12. Things to remember when leaving your dog for a period of time
due to travel or some other reason
13. Addressing stained coat
14, Fast remedy for allergies
15. First aid for wounds

Sources of answers : doctors / vets, friends who are great dog owners, reading materials from books and from the internet

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Home Sweet Home

This little mom went to market, this little son had roast beef, this little dog stayed at home . . .

Yup, yup, yup . . . this doggie stayed at home.

He loves the fun of just hanging around the house, though prefers not to be "home alone". He prefers to be with a "live somebody" especially when at play. He loves his favorite toys, his tennis ball and a shabby towel.

After his bath, he anticipates play time, where he is left just doing his thing. Enjoy!

Monday, August 30, 2010

Cross Breed

The Miniature Schnauzer is a breed of small dog of the Schnauzer type that originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century. Miniature Schnauzers developed from crosses between the Standard Schnauzer and one or more smaller breeds such as the Poodle or Affenpinscher.

The affenpinscher is a terrier-like toy breed of dog. It has harsh rough coat and a monkey-like expression (Affe means monkey in German). Its coat is shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with shorter coat over the back and hind quarters. It is harsh and wiry in texture. The FCI and UK breed standards specifies that the coat must be black, but the AKC also allows gray, silver, red,and tan, and belge (not beige; belge is a mixture of red, black and white hairs); other clubs have their own lists of acceptable colours, with black being the preference. The affenpinscher is a dog with a shaggy, wiry-type coat.

Affenpinschers have a distinct appearance that some associate with terriers. They are different from terriers, however, in that they are actually part of the pinscher-schnauzer of group 2 in the FCI classification and so often get along with other dogs and pets. They are active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members and is also very protective of them. This loyal little dog enjoys being with its family. It needs consistent, firm training because some can be quite difficult to housebreak. The training should be varied because the dog can easily become bored. The affenpinscher has a terrier like personality.

Affenpinschers are somewhat territorial when it comes to their toys and food, so they are not recommended for very small children. This dog is mostly quiet but can become very excited if attacked or threatened and shows no fear toward any aggressor. It is best suited for a family who likes a show and has a sense of humor.

Source: Wikipedia

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Pets

"You become, forever, responsible for what you have tamed."

"It is the time you have wasted for your rose that makes your rose so important."

"You must observe the proper rites."

All of the above quotes are taken from Antoine de Saint-Exupery's "The Little Prince", one of my favorite books.

These just show why we are so hooked up with our pets, whether dogs, cats, mice or roses. We have come to tame them and care for them. The time, effort and attention we have given our pets make them unique from the rest of the dogs, cats, mice and roses. They are OUR very own pets whom we have squeezed in to our lives.

We observed certain daily routines with our pets. In our case, we get up early so we can walk the dogs and feed them. The same things are done before retiring to bed. Of course there is bath time, grooming chores, buying dog food and supplies, taking them out to socialize and check-ups with the vet.

At times, when my schedule is so tight and faced with life's challenges, I ask, "why do I have dogs to take care of in the middle of all the things I have to do and fix?"

Well, it all boils down to being in love with these creatures and back to the quotes . . .

"You become, forever, responsible for what you have tamed."

"It is the time you have wasted for your rose that makes your rose so important."

"You must observe the proper rites."

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

PCCI Features Jasper's Win at the Show

One of those joyous, memorable days . . . qualifying for the challenging competition among other beautiful dog breeds and winning . . .

An added accomplishment is that "hubby" decided to take on the role of being Jasper's handler for that event. This is why he has this opportunity to be the one in the photo.

However, we have the official photographer of the PCCI (Philippine Cannine Club Incorporated) to capture the precious moment. A plus is the posting of these photos on the PCCI site.

As for me, I work behind the camera, grooming table and bath faucet. Cool!

PHILIPPINE CANINE CLUB, INC.

The Philippine Canine Club, Inc. was founded on March 21, 1963, as a non-stock, non-profit service-oriented corporation organized for the purpose of promoting and encouraging the love for pure-bred dogs. The Club's charter extends until year 2038 and authorizes PCCI to maintain a registry of pure-bred dogs or stud books and to conduct dog shows and competitions.

In addition to the studbooks, PCCI maintains a registry of regular and associate members, and of litters and kennel names. PCCI issues registration certificates and certified pedigree certificates of dogs, and confers championship titles, obedience and field trial titles to qualified dogs. PCCI issues dog show judging licenses to qualified members for individual breeds, groups of breeds and all breeds of pure-bred dogs.

As a federal member of the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI), an international organization of registering bodies based in Brussels, Belgium, PCCI is the only accredited registering body in the Philippines for purebred dogs. PCCI documents are recognized by the national registry organizations in all FCI-member countries and in the United States, by the American Kennel Club and Canada by the Canadian Kennel Club. PCCI is also one of the original members of the Asian Kennel Union (AKU) based in Tokyo, Japan.


Source: PCCI Official Website

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Walkin' The Dog

Joaqui is always hopeful and looks forward enthusiastically to his daily walk in the morning before his breakfast.

It serves as an exercise for him and for me as well. In addition, the activity becomes a bonding moment and an opportunity to have him exposed to the environment, to people especially kids and to animals like other dogs, cats, birds and insects.


I read some interesting notes on dog walking:

Dog walking is both a pastime and a profession involving the act of a person walking with a dog, typically from the dog's residence and then returning. This constitutes part of the daily exercise regime needed to keep a dog healthy. It also provides exercise and companionship for the walker.

Dogs are walked with a collar around their neck, or a harness around their waist, which is less common, or by following their owner by familiarity and verbal control (where safe). Commonly the dog is walked by the owner, or another family member, but there are also professional dog walkers.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Grooming Time

Yup, yup, yup! Grooming time!

Clip, clip, clip! Cut, cut, cut! Brush, brush, brush!

Clean those ears, brush the teeth, clip the toe nails, take out sleepers from those beautiful eyes . . . and trim that coat and keep it shiny and healthy.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Joy to the World

By now, the doggies are accustomed to taking long rides in the car inside their crates. Going to the province is okay with them. They get to have a break too from the hustles and bustles of the city. Actually, they add to the noise of the city, heheh.

Here's Jasper (left) and Joaqui (right) looking curiously at cows. They love running around in the area but for now they're grounded here at the nipa hut for some rest (rest for me).

Taking care of these dogs are like looking after energetic little kids, but just like little children, they too are a bunch of joy. They do bring joy to my world.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Pet Site

Surfing the blog world, I found this wonderful
"pet dog and cat" site . . .

"Dog Answers Center"



Above is my dog Joaqui, hiding his face . . .
must have done something naughty or just plain sleepy.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Dog Check

Let's see how your paw is today. Seems you've been chewing at it again last night? Don't you give me that "what-ya-talkin-'bout" look.

Need to check on the pooch regularly, daily if possible and more so if I notice some concerns. It's good to have a checklist of things to scrutinize with the time lines.

To make it easier, I tie it with wake-up time or bed time or bath time or meal time if daily, or birthday if yearly, or I just scan the doggie visually during our play time.

Ears, nails, teeth, eyes, coat, etc.

Is my dog as active as usual? Is he eating well, drinking okay? Well, no harm in checking for a "well" dog.

Monday, April 26, 2010

Who Let The Dogs Out

Cool! Super cool!

The schnauzers went to the province for that cool, fresh air and lovely early sunshine.

Seemingly like active ponies, Jasper and Joaqui loved running around free, though within the boundaries of the bamboo fence.

The furry dogs also tried it up there at the tree house, overlooking the place with trees and a view of the mountain ranges.

It turned out to be an enjoyable weekend with the doggies . . . with family.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Successful Dog Handling Endeavor

Yup, that's right, after accepting some defeats (more so by Jasper upon being handled by his owner, yuk, yuk, yuk), my husband finally proved that with determination and persistence (and daily practice with the super-active dog, Jasper, they can actually win in the dog show. And what do you know, the coveted win was being Third Best in Group, rising over other beautiful dogs, a doberman, a boxer, a pincher, to mention some.

Wow, this is truly a great achievement! Am so so so over the top on this one, heheh.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Trying Out Dog Handling

We went to take part of what we call a "fun match" where we brought our dogs for a friendly competition. We knew most of the guys who brought their MS since most of them are members of the MS Club and we see each other in the different dog shows.

This dog show was exclusive for miniature schnauzers for it is a project of the MS Club. Above, in ablue shirt, is my hubby with our dog, lining-up with the competitors.

Hey that's me stocking my dog, second handler from the left please. I think I was perspiring in spite of the cool air.

Whew! I am treading on unknown grounds . . . dog handling. But why not give it a try for fun, of course my dog should help out and behave.

My hubby also participated. Good thing we have two schnauzers, so we have a dog each to handle. It was a unique experience, like having to perform on stage, with a dog as your partner (and a partner knows better what to do than you, heheh).

Exchanging Notes

So how's your pet dog doing?














 

It is good to do pet comparison with other owners, especially if you have observed something is kinda different with your dog lately or when you are encountering a specific problem, whether it be on food, on bathing, on behavior, concern on your pet's coat, skin, ears, nails, teeth, etc.

Keep mental notes, but always consult your vet as you make a significant move on any treatment you are to do with your pet. Especially for pet meds, do call your veterinarian first before you let your precious pet swallow that pill, please.

Different strokes for different folks, or shall we say different dogs. Still, it's good to hear what the other pet owners do. First-hand personal experience is valuable information, be it a
success or a failure. What doesn't work should also be taken in, so you would be able to avoid such.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Winning Tips

Jot down some things I got from dog-show experiences, my own and that of others.

o Know the breed standards of your dog and "know thy dog" as well, faults and strengths.

o Familiarize yourself with your competitors, are they champion dogs? Surely they too have faults and strengths.

o Get your dog ready, grooming and as well as walking practices.

o Socialize your dog
with humans and other animals. Have him for long walks. That will be good exercise as well. Lots of benefits on this.

o Have the dog trained by the handler himself before the date of the show for bonding and familiarization (if possible).


Don't forget to have fun in these dog shows.
Even if your dog does not win this time, it's still good exposure for the little critter.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

My Friend's Pet

This is Teemee, my friend's miniature schnauzer. This MS is a "she". She lives in California, USA.

She is so comfy with the cam. She is adorable.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Small Toy Animals

Went to visit our breeder, from whom we got our miniature schnauzers. In his home, at the veranda, are three schnauzer figurines. They are so cute, capturing the significant features of the breed plus they seem to be in motion.


My schnauzer, on the other hand, is crazy over his toy, a "supposed-to-be" zebra rubber toy which he fights with full energy. He is so out-of-his head with this one.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Caring for Pets, Dogs of Mischief are Back

The guys are up and about after their sick leave.

Probably, the holidays were too much for them. What with all those crackling New Year fireworks. After some rest, a lot of food and some vet med, they're okay and back to their normal mischievous selves. Thanks, better to see them running around turning the place in chaos, than just lying down and not feeling well.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Pet Advise, A New View at my Pet for the New Year

Oh my, Jasper was down during the holidays. He was not able to join us during the New Year. He was confined in the hospital for fever during New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. He got us super worried.

However, we had him back after two days. He had a speedy recovery at home. I was there at his side especially the night I got him back. I monitored how he was doing and kept on giving him water and making him pee. That was the only thing I decided to contribute so he can recover fast. Of course we made sure he does not miss his medications.

Thank God, he is okay now. Not just okay, he's back to his mischievous self. I guess I can deal with that more than having him so behaved but so weak.

This experience has changed my attitude towards taking care of him. I was really starting to complain of his naughty behavior. For the new year, I have a new view of this super energetic dog.