July '06

Cleveland's Source for Dog Training News and Information

What's New/Community Events

 
AGILITY UPDATE
Last month we announced our new Agility series of classes. We're happy to say that many people (and dogs!) have responded favorably. The series is in full swing, with classes at all levels running regularly at our Lakewood/West Cleveland location. Our first "Foundations for Agility (and More!)" class at the Mentor location will begin on Tuesday, July 25th.

The "Competition Agility" class has had a great month, with most classes held outside. This has allowed us to set up a multi-obstacle course that gives the dogs and their owners more of the feel of the competition environment.

   

   

 

BOOK CLUB!
Thanks to all of you who recently showed interest in starting a North Coast Dogs Book Club. Our first meeting will be Tuesday, July 18th from 7:45-9:00PM at our main Lakewood/West Cleveland location. Ed Dickson and Mari Towslee will lead the group, with the first meeting focusing on introductions and ideas for books to discuss.

If you would like more information or would like to suggest a book that is related to training or general dog fun, please send an e-mail to mail@northcoastdogs.com.

 

EVENTS

Saturday, July 8th - 2nd Annual Bowling for Boxers Fundraiser

Meszar's Lanes
4231 Fulton Road, Cleveland
7pm - 11pm

Tickets $20/$25 at the door.
Call (216)749-2423

July 14th, 15th, 16th - AKC Agility Trials

Soccer Sportsplex, 31515 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted

Saturday, July 15th - A Party with Dancin' Dogs & Cool Cats

A benefit for the Geauga Humane Society's Rescue Village
Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field, Moreland Hills, OH
6:30PM
$75/person ($40 tax ded.)
(440)338-4819 ext. 19

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The Studio at North Coast Dogs - Another CONTEST!

Recently, the world lost a beloved dog. Moose played Eddie for 10 years on the hit show "Frasier" and also played the older Skip in the 2000 movie "My Dog Skip". He was 16 years old.

In memory of Moose, The Studio at North Coast Dogs is giving away a free pet photography package! This prize will include a studio sitting for one, plus two free 5x7 prints. Honor one canine star by putting your own pooch in front of the camera!

To win, be the 16th entrant to answer the following question correctly:

What breed of dog was Moose?

Answers should be emailed to contest@northcoastdogs.com. One entry per person, please.

For more information about our studio or to reserve a session online, visit our website at www.northcoastdogs.com. Month-by-month studio albums are now also available on our website!

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Road Trippin' - The North Coast Dogs Crew Goes Herding

Herding? Herding WHAT?

Ducks. Sheep. Really.

On Sunday, June 11th, Ed Dickson, Mari Towslee, and Mary Edwards took Alex, Lucy, Katie, and Ellie up to Tee Creek Farm in Welland, Ontario for a fun-filled day of learning and playing.

The workshop, conducted by Tee Creek owner Kathy Warner, was set on a working farm approximately 15 miles from Niagara Falls. Upon arrival at 8AM, the "working" part of the farm became apparent as we immediately found ourselves surrounded by sheep, ducks, chickens, guinea fowl, and of course, dogs.

Much of this basic herding clinic focused on introducing humans to the fine art of using body language and teamwork to accomplish the task of moving a "flock" from one place to another.

The day began in a classroom setting, as we learned some terminology and principles that would be applied throughout the day. Much to our suprise, the class then moved outside where we were informed that we would begin herding, minus our dogs. This proved to be both challenging, fun, and highly educational (not to mention quite comical!). Our first task was to move a group of 3-6 ducks through a series of obstacles. Working first solo and then in pairs, we learned how much communication and teamwork play a part in the process. With varying degrees of success, we learned the principles of applying and releasing "pressure" with our bodies to coerce the ducks through the course.

After a delicious homemade lunch (which, much to Mari's delight, included rhubarb pie), we moved on to the sheep! Again, we began working solo at moving a group of about 15 sheep from one corner to another within an enclosed yard.

Next, we worked in a small round pen with three sheep and our dogs, one by one, on leash. The goal was to walk the perimeter with our dog on a loose lead. Each time the dog began to pull, we switched direction, gradually widening our arc. The sheep naturally moved as we did. The object was to maintain focus and composure with the distraction of the sheep. We very quickly saw how important this principle is when working with your dog as a team. It was also very amusing to see the differing levels and types of interest each dog showed as they entered the pen. Lucy, for example, simply wanted to play and seemed a bit confused when the sheep did not reciprocate! Katie and Ellie were very interested but did not seem certain as to the "purpose of the mission". Alex, on the other hand, was all about work, very excited but never taking his eyes off the "flock" of three.

We all went home that evening happy, tired, and with lots to think about, including a favorite saying that was mentioned throughout the day: "Promise to give 100% of your 50%, and expect your partner to do the same". A great way to explain teamwork!

For more information about Tee Creek, visit their website at www.teecreek.com. In addition, we are considering organizing a group trip to Tee Creek for a similar workshop. If you have interest in joining us (with or without your dog), please send an email to mail@northcoastdogs.com.

 

 

 

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Just For Fun - How Many Dogs Does It Take to Change A Lightbulb?

Golden Retriever: The sun is shining. The day is young. We've got our whole lives ahead of us. And you're inside worrying about a stupid, burned-out light bulb?

Border Collie: Just one. Not only that, but I'll replace any wiring that's not up to code.

Dachshund: I can't reach the lamp!

Toy Poodle: I'll just talk sweet to the Border collie and he'll do it. By the time he finishes rewiring the house, my nails will be dry.

Rottweiler: Go ahead! Make me!

Shih-tzu: Puh-leeze, dah-ling. What are servants for?

Lab: Oh, me, me!!! Pleeeeeeze let me change the light bulb! Can I? Can I? Huh? Huh? Can I?

Malamute: Let the Border collie do it. You can feed me while he's busy.

Doberman Pinscher: While it's dark, I'm going to sleep on the couch.

Hound Dog: ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ.....

Chihuahua: Yo quiero Taco Bulb.

Pointer: I see it, there it is, right there...

Greyhound: It isn't moving. Who cares?

Australian Shepherd: Put all the light bulbs in a little circle...

Old English Sheep Dog: Light bulb? Light bulb? That thing I just ate was a light bulb?

 

- From www.joke-archives.com

 

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A Friend in Need - Lawrence

Meet Lawrence - Waiting for a home with the Sanctuary for Senior Dogs

Lawrence, a 7-year-old Spaniel/Chow mix, came to the Sanctuary from the Cleveland Kennel when he was picked up as a stray on the streets. Lawrence is gentle and loving, and he enjoys walks in the park and rides in the car. Although he pulls with excitement on his leash, he loves to sit at your side and enjoy the scenery.

Currently housed in an area boarding kennel, Lawrence would love his very own home. He is friendly to other animals and to people. He does best with introductions to other dogs when he is not leashed, and would enjoy another dog companion (or a cat) and a fenced yard to play in.

If you can give Lawrence the wonderful home he deserves, please contact the Sanctuary for Senior Dogs via e-mail at: seniordogs@aol.com, or call the Sanctuary at 216-485-9233 (between 10 AM and 7 PM EST Monday through Saturday only, please).

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Event Calendar

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