<![CDATA[PAMPERED PAWS - Blog]]>Sat, 11 May 2024 04:24:21 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[TRAINING AT PPDD]]>Sat, 10 Feb 2024 00:05:21 GMThttp://pamperedpawsdd.com/blog/training-at-ppddAt PPDD, we believe every dog can benefit from training- even the best behaved pups! Whether it’s to work on proper manners, correct unwanted behaviors, or to improve confidence- Training can be a wonderful way to bond with your dog. Here are different training routes you can take!

Group Classes
We offer a variety of classes at the daycare after hours. Classes we currently offer are Beginning Manners, AKC Tricks, and Therapy Dog Prep- All taught by certified trainer Nancy Wright. The benefit of group classes is your dog gets to learn and practice their skills in an on-leash setting with distractions with other dogs and people present. All students follow the same curriculum, and follow up lessons are available to expand on your dog’s new skills! See information regarding our group classes here.


Private Lessons
One-on-one lessons with one of our trainers is a great route to take if your dog has training needs for specific behaviors. Our trainers can help your dog’s work through the basics such as proper greetings, leash walking, reactivity, and more! Private lessons provide a one-on-one experience tailored to your dog’s specific needs. See information regarding private lessons here.


Play and Train
Our Play and Train program is for dogs who attend daycare at PPDD. A trainer will come in while your dog is already checked in for daycare to practice desired behaviors customized to each dog. A report is sent home at the end of the day with what training was done during their session, and how to follow through at home for the best results! The cost is $150 and includes three sessions. Follow up lessons are available upon request.

Q&A

Who are the trainers?
Nancy Wright and Bre Lavender are both trainers that are highly recommended by PPDD. Nancy has been training for many years and is certified via Animal Behavior College. She teaches group classes and offers private lessons. Bre has been working with dogs since 2019 and is PPDD’s operation manager while also studying training and behavior via Animal Behavior Institute. Bre runs our Play and Train program and offers private lessons via her own training company- Bea Pawsitive. 


What methods do your trainers use?

Our trainers use positive-reinforcement methods. This means they use praise and rewards for desired behavior, and avoid any aversive tools such as e-collars, prong collars, punishment, etc. Our trainers get great results while also helping you and your dog bond and gain confidence together!

Should I consider board-and-train for my dog?
We recommend being as involved in the training process as possible. It not only helps you understand your dog on a deeper level, but it also helps you and your dog bond and learn together. If you choose to leave your dog somewhere for week-long training stays, we highly suggest ensuring they adhere to ethical science-based training and avoid the use of any “quick fix” tools or aversion training methods to prevent your dog from becoming reactive or fearful.


How do I sign up for training?
All of our training options are listed on our website. 


]]><![CDATA[a day in the life at ppdd]]>Mon, 04 Dec 2023 16:02:15 GMThttp://pamperedpawsdd.com/blog/december-04th-2023Throughout the last year, we have been modeling our playgroup management style after our new employee training program called Pack Pro. Each staff member completes modules, quizzes, and hands-on learning with a senior employee before receiving their certification.

This new program has improved our training and handling skills, and aligns with our positive-based training methods. Employees are continuously engaged with the dogs in their group, and they all gain confidence as they learn new skills.

Some of the behaviors we practice throughout the day include waiting at doorways, group sits, and basic manners such as recalls, "down", hand-touch, "off", leash-walking, and "place". Find out more about how your dog spends their day at PPDD below!

How often do the dogs get treats?
We use small bits of kibble or plain cheerios as a reward for positive behaviors. We take note of any dogs with food allergies listed on the application, and those dogs get extra pets and cuddles instead!

What does this program mean for me as a client and dog pawrent?
Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. We recommend practicing the behaviors listed above at home to reinforce your dog's new skills. If you'd like assistance with training, we have options available! Our Play and Train program is tailored to the goals you set for your dog. Our trainers, Bre and Nancy, work with your dog individually for 30 minutes, and send home a written report including suggestions on how to follow through at home. The cost is $120 for 3 sessions.

What are the benefits of Pack Pro training?
Not only are our staff members consistently engaged in a positive way, your dog is learning manners in a stimulating, active environment. Impulse control is a crucial component in dog training. We work on waiting near gates and doorways, sitting patiently with their friends, "4 on the floor", and relaxing between romping with friends.

Can my dogs receive personal enrichment and training, or only in groups?
Playtime Plus sessions include one-on-one play with a staff member doing activities such as tricks practice, puzzles, fetch, and more! This add-on is only $8 for 20 minutes of fun and is tailored to what your dog enjoys!

What other training certifications do employees have to complete?
All staff members are required to complete Pet CPR and First Aid training, as well as comprehensive studying of canine body language via Pack Pro. Employees also shadow a senior employee as they learn the ropes of PPDD and all the personalities of our four legged friends!


Thank you to our caring and motivated staff for implementing more structure and training into our daycare days. Our mission is to provide a safe, fun, and enriching experience every day!
]]><![CDATA[Mystery illness]]>Mon, 27 Nov 2023 04:59:59 GMThttp://pamperedpawsdd.com/blog/mystery-illnessWe want to assure our customers that we are closely monitoring the mystery illness that is making its way through the US. Below is information regarding what we know about the illness so far, new requirements, and our precautions. 

What we know:
  • Early symptoms are coughing, sneezing, and runny eyes. 
  • Symptoms can quickly develop into fatigue and shortness of breath and can be life threatening 
  • Veterinarians do not yet recognize the cause or whether it is bacterial or viral, but have identified an unknown pathogen 
  • There are no reported cases in Michigan. It has been identified in the following states:
    • Oregon
    • Colorado
    • New Hampshire
    • California
    • Indiana
    • Illinois
    • Washington
    • Idaho
    • Georgia
    • Florida

Here are some of our new protocols in place effective immediately:
  • We will not be accepting new dogs until we have more information about this virus and how it’s effectively treated. This includes any dog that has not attended in the last 30 days. We look forward to meeting new friends when it is safe to do so!
  • We strongly recommend the Canine Influenza (flu) vaccine. Although it may not prevent the illness, it may lesson the severity of symptoms. This may be required in the near future. We require the Bordetella vaccine annually, but recommend every 6 months. 
  • If any dog has boarded or played at other facilities, they will be required to quarantine from PPDD for 14 days to prevent any possible illnesses from being brought to our facility. We recommend avoiding dog parks. 

We will continue to:
  • Clean and sanitize common areas with vet-grade disinfectant daily
  • Soak dishes in disinfectant solution 
  • Monitor dogs for any symptoms related to URI/flu like illnesses
  • Require dogs with any contagious diagnosis to quarantine 10 days after symptoms reside 
  • Maintain air purifiers and UV filtration systems
  • Communication with local vets for more information to share with you all

Thank you for trusting us to care for your pups! We are thankful to have clients who are considerate and cautious of all of our daycare visitors. 

The health and safety of those we care for will continue to be our top priority. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our precautions! 🐾]]><![CDATA[Welcome to Canine Adventure! FAQ]]>Wed, 11 Oct 2023 19:08:37 GMThttp://pamperedpawsdd.com/blog/welcome-to-canine-adventure-faqYou may be wondering what the construction is all about at PPDD... After over two years of planning and preparation, we are finally expanding our services! Find out more about this new adventure below!

What is the purpose of the expansion? The new facility will be used for a structured, smaller-scale daycare as well as training and full-service grooming. Although many dogs enjoy playing all day in groups, some dogs prefer a more low-key and routine based environment with less stimulation. This program was designed with the following in mind:
  • Dog selective dogs- Dogs who like to play sometimes, but not in groups
  • Dogs who prefer to spend time with humans instead of other dogs
  • Dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries
  • Dogs who won’t be neutered/spayed until after they are 6 months old
  • Working breeds who need mental stimulation and routine
  • Puppies who would benefit from training and confidence building and exposure to new activities and enrichment
  • Senior dogs who benefit from low-impact activities

What will the dogs do while they’re in the new building? This isn't your typical daycare. The dogs will rotate between a variety of activities based on your preference. Activities include scent games, puzzles, fetch, treadmill practice, tricks training, manners training, bubble time, kiddie pools, and more! Between activities, dogs will rest in their assigned spacious kennels with comfortable beds for downtime.

How many dogs will be in the new building each day? The new building will accommodate up to 10 dogs per day. We will have two staff members at all times, so each dog will receive an ample amount of individual attention, with a customized routine based on their needs and preferences. Due to the amount of mental stimulation involved and the need to rotate dogs individually, there will also be adequate rest breaks in between activity sessions. Only 2-3 dogs will be out for activities at one time for rotations.

Will there be new employees? All employees will be cross-trained to work at both facilities. You will see familiar faces if you have used other services such as the current daycare, weekend enrichment, traditional daycare, or training classes.

Will the dogs be able to mingle and play together? A dog’s ability to socialize while in our care depends on their prior history with other dogs. If you’d like your dog to play with others, we will evaluate them to determine if they are a good fit for one-on-one playtime. If your dog has a history of aggression, they will need to complete a behavioral assessment with a certified behavior consultant before we allow them to intermingle with other dogs.

Can dogs from the current daycare visit dogs who are checked in at Canine Adventure? Once dogs are checked in, that is the facility they stay in for the day. The new facility will have limited space and time for rotations. The only dogs that will be walked between facilities will be those who are checked in for daycare and also scheduled for grooming in the same day. 

When will this new building be completed? We hope to have the project completed and ready for intake by February 1st, 2024! We are currently accepting applications online (see below).

Will we be able to see the new building when it’s ready? Yes! We will have an open house (date is TBD) to give everyone a chance to see where your pup will spend their days with us. We will also offer tours after hours for those who can’t make the event. 

Can my dog attend both the current daycare and the new one? A mixture of group play and structured activities is encouraged. Your dog may rotate between attending regular daycare and Canine Adventure in the same week, although once they are checked into one building, that is where they will be assigned for the day. Please note that payments and credits will be kept separate for each program/facility.

How much will the new program cost? Canine Adventure during the week will be $45 per day. Breakfast and snacks will be included, so please take note of any allergies or dietary preferences on the application! Weekend enrichment sessions will still be $30. Prices are subject to change and current rates will always be on our website.

We look forward to this new adventure, and will keep you all updated as the project progresses! Thank you all for your ongoing support as PPDD expands our services.


Application
]]><![CDATA[Dog Parks vs. Doggie Daycare]]>Sat, 13 May 2023 21:08:01 GMThttp://pamperedpawsdd.com/blog/dog-parks-vs-doggie-daycareWhy do some dogs enjoy the dog park but not daycare?

Just like with people, all dogs are unique in regards to their social preferences and how they interact with others. At PPDD, we are selective with our visitors and invest in staff training to ensure a safe and stress-free environment. Daycares are not always a good match for every dog, even if your dog seems to socialize well in other places. Here’s why you may not see the same behavior at dog parks that has been observed by our daycare staff:  

1. Family Presence: Having family nearby helps dogs feel more secure. Your dog’s comfort plays a big part in how they interact with others. This is why we slowly introduce new dogs and give them time to adjust at their own pace. However, some dogs do not acclimate well to being in a group without the security of their family. 

2. Human-to-Dog Ratio: At dog parks,  everyone is monitoring their own dog(s). PPDD matches the industry standard of one staff member for every 10-15 dogs. Our team trained to evaluate dog behavior, read canine body language, and ensure interactions are safe and appropriate. However, some dogs require more one-on-one management, which is attainable at a park where every dog has a human present. 

3. Space: Although our facility is spacious to allow dogs to run and play inside and out, dog parks typically are in rural, open areas. This allows for more room to maneuver and disengage from the other dogs. Some dogs prefer a wide open space, versus an enclosed facility. 

4. Comfort level: When a dog consistently comes to daycare, they form relationships with the other dogs and staff leading to an increase in confidence. Being comfortable is important, but sometimes dogs can become possessive and show signs of resource guarding or develop a more forward/inappropriate play-style due to being overly confident. When dogs visit dog parks, there’s a different mix of dogs each time, so they may be more reserved. 

5. Time: Some dogs may do well socializing for an hour or two, but may not be able to handle ongoing activity for long periods of time. Many dogs require more rest and decompression between play sessions. Although we do give rest breaks, some dogs have separation anxiety when they are remove from the group. 
--
Although dog parks are a common outlet for playful dogs, there are some risks all pet owners should be aware of, such as communicable diseases and lack of temperament evaluations and trained handlers.  If you choose to use a dog park, we recommend researching the health and safety requirements and making sure you are well versed on reading canine body language. 

If group play doesn’t bring out the best in your dog, PPDD has other options that may be more suitable. We welcome you to inquire about our enrichment sessions and training courses.
​
If you have any questions, please contact us any time at : 269-629-8040 or pamperedpawsdd@gmail.com]]><![CDATA[Life Beyond the Lab]]>Mon, 14 Mar 2022 17:52:11 GMThttp://pamperedpawsdd.com/blog/life-beyond-the-labAt Charles River Laboratories Inc, three wonderful and unique beagles were known only by the numbers tattooed on their ears. Now, we know them as Drax, Marianne, and Hemi.

In October 2020, Joni Detwiler saw a Channel 3 news segment featuring six beagles (from Charles River Laboratories) available for adoption through the SPCA of Southwest Michigan. 

“My heart just connected with the look in Drax’s eyes,” Detwiler recalled as one special dog called to her.

On her application, Detwiler noted that if she was approved, she would take in any of the beagles featured in the segment, as they all needed a loving home. Of the six adoptable dogs, Joni was matched with four-year-old Drax.

There are over 500 beagles placed in research facilities throughout Michigan. Adopting a dog retired from research is an extensive process and the dogs require special care, considering their unique start to life. The dogs aren’t housebroken and may have lifelong medical issues as a result of experimental testing. They have had minimal exposure to natural elements such as sunlight and grass, so acclimating to the outside world requires extra attention and patience. Detwiler and Chikanaele Onwuzurike, another adopter, both say it has been well worth the challenge.

“The benefit of adopting from a research lab is the impact we as the adopters have on the beagles,” said Onwuzurike, owner of beagles Marianne and Hemi, “We have the ability to shape their existence in a world that’s foreign to them. We can make it a positive experience.” 
Onwuzurike and her husband Brandon adopted Marianne over a year and a half ago, when she was just over one-year-old. They recently adopted two-year-old Hemi in December 2021. Both dogs had unique challenges they were able to overcome, with help and dedication from their loving family.

“Being outside and climbing the stairs were Marianne’s biggest challenges,” Onwuzurike reminisces, “It took being out every day and literally walking her paws up the stairs for her to gain confidence. After about eight months, she became comfortable in her space.”
Detwiler explained that Drax was afraid of noise, shadows, and anything unfamiliar.
“There were so many times at the end of the day as the sun went down, and the shadows would change, that Drax would run and hide,” remembers Detwiler, "Drax is a sweet, loving soul, but still has nightmares. He wakes up from a deep sleep, in attack mode, against an unknown threat. He looks back at us when he comes out of it and rejoins for reassurance and love."
Walking outside was a major challenge for Drax at first, but after months of consistent practice and training, he now gets excited for his walks at 4:30 every day. 

“He’s much more confident,” Detwiler proudly stated.
Detwiler attributes Drax’s increase in confidence to not only patience and consistency, but to his experience with other dogs and enrichment sessions where he can sniff and explore freely. Drax, Marianne, and Hemi enjoy daycare visits together once or twice a week.

“We could tell him he was loved, and show him he was loved, and have him connect with people, but he didn’t have an outlet to learn how to be a dog,” shares Detwiler, “And that’s what you all have helped him with.” 

Onwuzurike believes that spending time with her dogs, showing them affection, and socializing them has helped with Marianne and Hemi’s confidence and development.

“Considering where they came from, they weren’t aware of love or what it even meant, Onwuzurike says. "They also didn’t know their own kind,”

It was important to Onwuzuirke and her husband to allow Marianne and Hemi to interact with other dogs, once they were comfortable.

“Let’s face it, what other way to learn how to be a dog than to observe other dogs,” she said.
The SPCA of Southwest Michigan refers to research beagles as "community heroes." They’ve provided a public service in assisting in potential medical advancements, and are on to happy, fulfilled lives with their adoptive families.

“Assume nothing and be patient,” Onwuzurike says when asked for advice to those considering adopting a research beagle, “They are not the typical dog. Basically, they are puppies at heart, and they will get it eventually.”

“You’re helping them to learn that life is safe,” commented Detwiler, “The bond is so amazing. To join with Drax from terror to tender has been a life enriching experience for both of us.”

Please support Teddy’s Law to provide an opportunity for cats and dogs to be adopted when their service in a research laboratory has ended. This would require dogs and cats used as research subjects to be adopted out through state-registered animal protection shelters in Michigan.
Picture
From left to right: Luna, Marianne, Hemi, and Drax
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Luna's inner ear. Blue markings are often used to identify beagles at research labs.
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