Monthly Archives: September 2011

Diagnostics vs. Behavior Modification Plans

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

There is tension between veterinarians and dog trainers all over the world. The tension stems from the annoyance vets have with dog trainers over seeming to ‘diagnose’ clients and arrange ‘treatment plans’ for them. And with trainers to vets who … Continue reading →

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Looking For Small Dogs

Posted on September 25, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

So, I just got a rather hard to understand email from someone looking to find a “pekingnese or smooth coat chuiachuias” for her mom. Now, setting aside the spelling issue and that you should never, ever give someone a pet as a … Continue reading →

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Teaching Fetch: A Matter of Instinct?

Posted on September 20, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

Many people assume that if their dog isn’t interested in bringing back toys instinctually then they will never learn to fetch. My dog Cooper, the Lancashire Heeler,  didn’t get the memo. When Cooper was a wee little heeler he liked … Continue reading →

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Pumba and Tane!- Dogs of the Week!

Posted on September 18, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

Pumba and Tane have both been residents of the SPCA for months. Pumba at Newtown and Tane at Waikanane.  Both have fantastic personalities!  Pumba is a quick learner and is easily motivated, she is a happy go lucky sort of … Continue reading →

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Distance Increasing Behaviours

Posted on September 13, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

DIB’s are a technical term for “Get the F- away from me!” These behaviours are typically seen in dogs who are fearful and are trying to send the message that they want you to leave, sooner rather than later. DIB’s … Continue reading →

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Porirua Mayoral Showcase Business Expo

Posted on September 11, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

Yesterday’s Business Expo in Porirua was a resounding success. It showed off many businesses that the local community might not have realized were based in Porirua and allowed everyone to chat together in a very neighbourly fashion. I brought Cooper … Continue reading →

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Book Review: “Inside of a Dog” by Alexandra Horowitz

Posted on September 9, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

“While we can stand in one place and take in the world, dogs must do much more moving themselves in order to absorb it all.” “objects only continue to exist as long as an 0door is emitted and he inhales.” … Continue reading →

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Fenris Wolf 1999-2011

Posted on September 6, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

What can I say about a cat who was perfect. He was never aggressive, though sometimes mildly annoyed. He never destroyed a piece of furniture, never sprayed, although once or twice pooped in a basket. When Fenri was a kitten … Continue reading →

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Cindy! Dog of the Week!

Posted on September 4, 2011 by Marika S. Bell

Believe it or not, I saw Cindy for the first time on a paper flyer outside a dairy. There was a picture of her and 7 other puppies for sale. The flyer said “Great Dane /German Shepherd Puppies for sale”! … Continue reading →

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