The Compassionate Handler
THE WORKSHOP
Our dog is always “there”; it has no ability to be anywhere else. But are WE “there” or are we home getting ready to run the kid to soccer practice? Are we happy with what the dog achieves “at that moment” or are we wishing Pup was a year older and we didn’t have to come to class anymore?
We handlers need to be honest, focused, patient, and compassionate to our charges. Next, we need to gain his happy attention. After that, we can begin to train.
Who is “the dog in front of us?” For example: Does the dog get enough exercise (enough exercise for THAT particular dog); are his nutritional requirements met properly? (not fat, not too thin, good hair coat, etc.); do we, the handler/owner/trainer/etc, have a really good vet and a good relationship with same? Do we have our dog's attention when we want it, and does he offer attention and eye contact freely and joyfully? Does our dog respect the boundaries we have set for him? Have we elicited his cooperation?
When we are able to see what (a dog) and who (our companion animal) is in front of us, we can begin to focus on building the bond with the dog; we learn how to understand and appreciate the dog we have, in its current state (age,breed,condition,etc.); we learn how to relax and be calm around dogs. Via this approach, we build cooperation in the dog, and teamwork between dog and handler.
In class, we will start with our own body-mind, beginning with relaxation (extremely simple yoga poses and breathing). Next, we approach the dog. We start with very basic leash work, and move from there to eye contact. We discuss food and rewards, use of and extinguishing. As a group, we learn to observe The Dog by assisting one another and playing dog games.
The meat of the workshop will develop organically, according to the needs of the group. However, the basics above as well as proper dog walking with proper equipment, touch-and-the-dog, reliable recall, and the basis of Sit-Down-Wait, along with eye contact and the Invisible Door will all be addressed and performed hands-on.
After working out with the dog, whatever exercise we perform, we will return to calmness and touch, developing trust, and more.
Then back to breathing and a quick relaxation with a visual exercise (see you and your dog succeeding, now and in future).
STUDENTS WILL BRING
Application filled-out or mailed in including Proof of innoculation and name of vet
Small notebook & writing implement
6-foot lead, preferably 1/4-1/2” leather; web is okay. show type lead OK
wide flat collar, adjustable type is excellent for pups
soft hair brush (10)
yoga mat and dog mat (towels are okay)
(crate or restraint)
DATES: 6 Saturdays - May 7-14-21 (28) June 4-11-18
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
WHERE: Hwy. 46, Paso Robles CA
Contact me: packdawgy101@yahoo.com
PRIVATE TUTORIALS
Private Visits/Classes (contact me: packdawgy101@yahoo.com)
Energy Readings - you and your dog (contact me: packdawgy101@yahoo.com)
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