March 2010-"Doggie Talk" Newsletter

http://community.intellicontact.com/p/doggiestepsdogtraining/newsletters/dogs/posts/doggie-steps-dog-training-march-2010-doggie-talk

Valley Fever

BEST DOG ON THE BLOCK Dog Tips

Valley Fever
by Mark Siebel – Owner - DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training

The one thing I've learned in my 40 years of living, is that effective problem solving, whether it be personal or business, will ultimately come from YOU. The more you are prepared from YOUR OWN RESEARCH and detective work the better off you will be to diagnose or determine where your paths in life will lead you. I say this based on the unfortunate diagnosis of Valley Fever (VF) of my 4yr old male Aussie Shepherd, Kugel, last year. He is doing great now and I am very fortunate that we caught it when we did.

VF (a.k.a. Coccidioidomycosis) is a systematic fungal infection that is endemic to the states of CA, AZ, UT, NV, NM, and TX. These fungal organisms live in the desert soil and are easily disrupted. VF is generally transmitted through inhalation and is NOT contagious. A common way to detect the strength of your dog's immune system is with a TITER LEVELS TEST, which checks the levels of a dog's immune defense. This test will show any unbalance of your dog's immune system to any given viral disease (see: http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/titer_test.htm for more info.).

1. VF symptoms. Some VF symptoms include coughing, lameness, joint swelling, lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, and fever. Initially, Kugel's symptoms did not appear too major to me, so I didn't consider VF to be present. I had his hips x-rayed and it came back negative and his weight loss I concluded was from him being an overactive work dog. With no real directives from my vets to GET A TITER TEST, I learned that it's better to error on the side of caution, even with a VF Titer test costing around $135.00. However, I'm glad I did. The test came back positive with a Titer of 1:256 (the highest it goes.)

2. VF treatments. The most common remedy for treating VF is Fluconazole (Diflucan). Most dogs will require 2 pills per day (based on body weight), ranging anywhere from 50mg -200mg . The usual dose for dogs is 5 to 6 mg per pound (10 to 12 mg/kg) per day orally.
Average treatment time is 8-12 months with some dogs needing longer treatments times or even lifetime treatment. Vet visits every 3 months will be required to monitor Titer levels. Fluconazole belongs to a general class of drugs known as antifungals. Other related drugs in this class include: Voriconazole, Posiconazole, Miconazole, Itraconazole (Sporanox) and Ketoconazole (Nizoral ).

It's been almost a year since Kugel's VF diagnosis and his Titer is now down to 1:36 from his original 1:256. I am VERY FORTUNATE that the VF was detected at his young age and while he was still in strong health. I learned from this experience to NEVER underestimate any minor symptoms that your dog displays and to ALWAYS insist on reasonable tests to determine any infections/diseases that your dog may have.

Mark Siebel has trained over 700+ Arizona Valley dogs, has dog training tips published monthly in various AZ magazines, appears on NBC Arizona Midday, ABC Sonoran Living, Channel 3-AZ FAMILY, FOX 10 News, speaks regularly with local schools youth groups about the importance of dog safety and ownership, and donates time to kids who want to learn more about dogs. He is a member of APPSA (Arizona Professional Pet Sitters Association) and ASC of Arizona (Australian Shepherd Club of Arizona). Mark owns (2) Australian Shepherds named Leinie and Kugel.

Voted 2008 runner-up, and 2009 WINNER “Best Dog Trainer in Phoenix” by SonoranTails Pet Magazine. DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training has services in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. For more information or general dog questions, go to: http://www.doggiestepsdogtraining.com/index.html or call Mark @602.318.0122.

** Sources**
http://www.desertdefense.com
http://www.nsvet.com/
http://www.vfce.arizona.edu/Content/Documents/Valley%20Fever%20in%20Dogs%20for%20PDF.pdf
http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/titer_test.htm
http://www.petplace.com/drug-library/fluconazole-diflucan/page1.aspx

People food vs. dog food? What can I feed my dog?

BEST DOG ON THE BLOCK Dog Tips

People food vs. dog food? What can I feed my dog?
by Mark Siebel – Owner - DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training

When I was growing up, our family had a miniature Schnauzer named "PJ." Like most kids, my least favorite dinner delicacy was vegetables. So, when my serving of green beans was dished to me, PJ knew EXACTLY where to go. With this said, our goal with our dogs is to direct them to one food source... their DOG BOWLS. We want our dogs to learn that the dog bowl is their only food source, NOT the kitchen table or the kitchen counter. To be sure you don't create a begging dog, follow the below simple tips:

1. Location, location, location. The biggest misconception I hear when working with customers is, "If I feed my dog people food, he will beg from the table." As I mentioned above, dogs connect with a food source, NOT an individual food item. So, if you feed your dog any food from the kitchen table or the kitchen counter, the dog will most likely go BACK to that area for more food! I recommend that if you have left over dinner scraps, feed them to Fido in his dog bowl OR outside from your flat hand after he has done a command to earn the treat.

2. What "people foods" can I feed my dog? Now that we have established that dogs connect with a food source and not the individual food item, what people foods are ok to feed your dog? The main nutrients for a dog are generally meat, fish, and natural fillers (i.e., oatmeal, brown rice, potatoes). If you happen to have a small left over amount of unseasoned meats, rice, potatoes, or vegetables, these all would be appropriate to give your dog either in his dog bowl OR outside from your flat hand after he has done a command to earn the treat. For more dog nutrition tips, see: http://www.doggiestepsdogtraining.com/page13.html

My childhood dog, PJ, never complained at dinner time. She knew that sitting next to me usually guaranteed a tasty vegetable treat. Dogs often times can get bored with the SAME dry kibble day in and day out. So, go ahead and give your dog a scrumptious piece of left over steak! Just be sure it's done in the right place.



Mark Siebel has trained over 700+ Arizona Valley dogs, has dog training tips published monthly in various AZ magazines, appears on NBC Arizona Midday, ABC Sonoran Living, Channel 3-AZ FAMILY, FOX 10 News, speaks regularly with local schools youth groups about the importance of dog safety and ownership, and donates time to kids who want to learn more about dogs. He is a member of APPSA (Arizona Professional Pet Sitters Association) and ASC of Arizona (Australian Shepherd Club of Arizona). Mark owns (2) Australian Shepherds named Leinie and Kugel.

Voted 2008 runner-up, and 2009 WINNER “Best Dog Trainer in Phoenix” by SonoranTails Pet Magazine. DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training has services in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. For more information or general dog questions, go to: http://www.doggiestepsdogtraining.com/index.html or call Mark @602.318.0122.

Dog Temperament Testing

BEST DOG ON THE BLOCK Dog Tips

Dog Temperament Testing
by Mark Siebel – Owner - DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training

How can you tell if a dog is well-balanced? When you go to pick out your first puppy, how can you be sure that your not bringing home Cujo? From an early age, there are signs that will indicate what a dog's temperament may be, including its energy and instinctual drives. I often hear "He seemed really calm when I picked him up, and now he's growling and biting my 4year old!" Aggression tendencies can also be assessed from an early age. To ensure you don't come home with OR are faced with Cujo, follow the below simple tips:

1. Food/toy possessiveness. To get a general gauge of a dog's overall prey/food drive, I like to take a piece of fresh meat when I first meet a dog. I observe if the dog can even determine that I have the meat BEFORE I give it to them. If they don't even detect it, I can assume a fairly low prey/food drive. If their nose is connected to my pocket instantly, I assume a high prey/food drive. I will then drop the food on the ground and practice a "leave it" command. If the dog shows some hesitation to eating the food good. If they rip off my arm lunging to consume the food, beware. You also can complete this test with a squeak toy, soft toy, or bone.

2. Dog on back, face to face. I also like to observe a dog I first meet with the "on the back-face to face" test. The most submissive position for a dog is on its back. To test this, I will gently follow the direction that the dog's shoulders are in, and roll them over. Most dogs should just submit and roll over for a tummy rub. If the dog growls or attempts to bite you, beware. I also will do this same exercise in an infantile "on back hold" in my arms to observe the dog's reaction.

People often ask me, "What is the calmest, low key temperament dog breed you'd recommend?" I reply, "Get a snake." Whether it's a Yorkie or a German Shepherd, dogs will have high-energy and a natural prey drive! Dogs will develop calm-submissive behaviors over time with the proper training and maturity. There are those occasional dogs that are predisposed to high-energy patterns, but with focus and exercise, they can grow to become manageable and domesticated.


Mark Siebel has trained over 700+ Arizona Valley dogs, has dog training tips published monthly in various AZ magazines, appears on NBC Arizona Midday, ABC Sonoran Living, Channel 3-AZ FAMILY, FOX 10 News, speaks regularly with local schools youth groups about the importance of dog safety and ownership, and donates time to kids who want to learn more about dogs. He is a member of APPSA (Arizona Professional Pet Sitters Association) and ASC of Arizona (Australian Shepherd Club of Arizona). Mark owns (2) Australian Shepherds named Leinie and Kugel.

Voted 2008 runner-up, and 2009 WINNER “Best Dog Trainer in Phoenix” by SonoranTails Pet Magazine. DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training has services in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. For more information or general dog questions, go to: http://www.doggiestepsdogtraining.com/index.html or call Mark @602.318.0122.

Happy Turkey Day!!

TO ALL DOGGIE STEPS Customers:

Happy Turkey Day!! Hugs to all and don't eat TO much Turkey!!!

Mark

Cross-country traveling with your dog.

BEST DOG ON THE BLOCK Dog Tips

Cross-country traveling with your dog.
by Mark Siebel – Owner - DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training

Let's face it. Dogs ARE a part of your family. No matter how you want to look at it, we are less stressed and more comfortable when our pets are with us. With this said, over 70% of pet owners now regularly travel with their pets.
I just returned home from a 4900 mile road trip with my (2) dogs. We traveled from AZ all the way to Northern WI. We experienced plenty of waysides, farmers corn fields, and hotels. It's nice to take trips alone without your pets, but to experience a new destination with your furry kids can be extremely memorable. Below are a few tips to make sure your dogs have as much fun on your next trip as you do:

1. Car Safety. Dogs belong in the back seat. Your dog must learn that they come second BEHIND you, the “pack leader.” By keeping your dog behind you in the car, you are reinforcing the pack order that human is first and dog is second. Therefore, keep Fido in the back seat. There are doggie seat belts available from your local pet store OR use a “stay” command to keep your dog from coming into the front seats. ALSO: Only lower the rear windows enough so the dogs head can stick out and then LOCK the power window controls to restrict the windows from accidently lowering or raising any further. NEVER have a dog in the rear of a pick-up truck unleashed.

2. Dog Friendly Hotels. Now a days, almost ALL hotels are pet friendly! They reserve specific rooms just for pets. With this said, there may be areas of the rooms that have been previously soiled. So, when you first enter the room, be sure your dog is LEASHED for the first few minutes to avoid the possibility of marking or pottying. If you plan on staying more than one night, I recommend that you negotiate only paying one nights pet fee. I always leave the room cleaner than I found it, so most hotels will generally work with you and only charge you for one pet fee! Also, try NOT to leave your pet alone in the room unattended.

3. Ticks and Fleas. Be aware of ticks and fleas when you are traveling to regions of the country known for these critters. ALSO, note the time of year. Fall can be the worst for ticks, especially in areas with an abundance of trees. Consider treating your dog with Frontline tick repellant - http://frontline.us.merial.com/ before leaving. Daily tick checks will also prevent a tick from bedding and bloating on your dog. Your local vet may also have some additional tick/flea treatments for your dog before your departure.

So, Alaska here I come!! Just be sure to have your doggie cross-country "to do" list complete. Better preparation before you embark on your journey will ensure that it will be easier to handle any emergencies with your dog on the road if they occur. The joy of new adventures is what keeps us all going and what a better way to experience them than with your dog.


Mark Siebel has trained over 700+ Arizona Valley dogs, has dog training tips published monthly in various AZ magazines, appears on NBC Arizona Midday, ABC Sonoran Living, Channel 3-AZ FAMILY, FOX 10 News, speaks regularly with local schools youth groups about the importance of dog safety and ownership, and donates time to kids who want to learn more about dogs. He is a member of APPSA (Arizona Professional Pet Sitters Association) and ASC of Arizona (Australian Shepherd Club of Arizona). Mark owns (2) Australian Shepherds named Leinie and Kugel.

Voted 2008 runner-up, and 2009 WINNER “Best Dog Trainer in Phoenix” by SonoranTails Pet Magazine. DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training has services in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. For more information or general dog questions, go to: http://www.doggiestepsdogtraining.com/index.html or call Mark @602.318.0122.

Customer Service. What does it really mean?

BEST DOG ON THE BLOCK Dog Tips

Customer service. What does it really mean?
by Mark Siebel – Owner - DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training

As a small business owner, I have sincerely grown to appreciate and value the delivery of excellent customer service. What exactly is customer service? What does it really mean? The idea for this article came to me as I was at Costco yesterday wanting to purchase one item. Knowing that Costco is a low price store (often times, low prices = low service) I was aware that getting great service is generally not the norm. To solidify my point, I approached the three checkout lines (all eight customers deep) and sighed. I politely asked the checker, "I only have one item. Can a new line open, or can I check out at the service counter?" His reply, "Sorry, you're just going to have to wait." I put down my item and left. I then went to Target and got the SAME item for less, AND was treated with an actual appreciation of them wanting my business. Below are a few customer service tips to let you know if you're working with the BEST service providers possible:

1. Exceed expectations. Most customer service delivers the "bare norm." A phone call answered, an email returned, or maybe, just maybe, a sales associate approaching you at a store when you REALLY need them. We have grown to expect the bare minimum from customer service encounters. When was the last time you got a hand written thank you card from one of your vendors? When was the last time you got a follow-up call or email to check on your product/service purchase? When was the last time you were asked a series of questions to ensure that all of your specific needs were actually met?

2. Continued Relations. Most often, I make new purchases and never hear back from the vendor. In my mind, I'd like to spend MORE money with this vendor, but I feel as though I'm getting NO love from them! It's important to me to feel as though I'm actually appreciated by those who I spend my money with. A little bit of follow up goes a long way with a customer. As my business grows, I have developed reciprocation with the majority of my vendor partners. I utilize their services, and they do their best to refer me NEW customers. I put food on their table and vice versa.

In this market downturn, it is my opinion that with whomever I spend money with, should show a true appreciation of me and my business. Of course, not ALL vendors will follow the above service tips, but for the majority who do, they can rest assured that I'll return to them for MORE business AND refer them additional customers as well.

Mark Siebel has trained over 700+ Arizona Valley dogs, has dog training tips published monthly in various AZ magazines, appears on NBC Arizona Midday, ABC Sonoran Living, Channel 3-AZ FAMILY, FOX 10 News, speaks regularly with local schools youth groups about the importance of dog safety and ownership, and donates time to kids who want to learn more about dogs. He is a member of APPSA (Arizona Professional Pet Sitters Association) and ASC of Arizona (Australian Shepherd Club of Arizona). Mark owns (2) Australian Shepherds named Leinie and Kugel.

Voted 2008 runner-up, and 2009 WINNER “Best Dog Trainer in Phoenix” by SonoranTails Pet Magazine. DOGGIE STEPS Dog Training has services in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. For more information or general dog questions, go to: http://www.doggiestepsdogtraining.com/index.html or call Mark @602.318.0122.