Once upon a time, in the land of wagging tails and sloppy kisses, the Dog Owner’s Academy had a brilliant idea:
“Let’s have a doggie social!”
And with that, the Doggie Social Adventure at Canteen, Camp Northend was born!
You and your fur-ocious partner in crime are invited to the first Dog Owner’s Academy Social gathering on April 30th at Canteen, the hip and happening spot in Charlotte’s coolest kingdom, Camp Northend. With its vibrant community, fascinating history, and creative spaces, Camp Northend is the perfect place for our doggy shindig.
Here’s the 411 on this pawsome event:
📅 Date: April 30th ⏰ Time: 1-3 PM 📍 Location: Canteen, Camp Northend, Charlotte
Google Maps: 1824 Statesville Ave. #100. Charlotte, NC
Get ready to unleash the fun as you mix and mingle with fellow dog parents, sharing hilarious stories and epic training fails, all while your four-legged besties make new fur-ever friends.
Please RSVP by replying to this email or clicking the link below to let us know if you’ll be attending:
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) have gained significant attention in recent years as people increasingly recognize their potential to help individuals with mental or emotional disabilities. Among these ESAs, emotional service dogs are particularly popular for their empathetic nature, loyalty, and ability to provide comfort. While not recognized as service animalsunder the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), emotional service dogs still enjoy some legal protections under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Let’s explore the unique role of emotional service dogs in supporting mental and emotional well-being, as well as the requirements and regulations surrounding their use.
The Role of Emotional Service Dogs in Mental and Emotional Well-being
Emotional service dogs are specifically chosen and trained to provide companionship and emotional support to their owners who may suffer from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other mental health conditions. Their mere presence can significantly reduce symptoms, alleviate stress, and improve overall well-being. These dogs can offer:
Unconditional love and companionship: Emotional service dogs can provide a constant source of affection and companionship, helping individuals feel less lonely and isolated.
A sense of routine and responsibility: Taking care of a dog can help establish a daily routine, promoting a sense of responsibility and purpose in the owner’s life.
Stress relief: The act of petting or cuddling a dog can release endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Encouragement for social interaction: Walking a dog can encourage conversations with neighbors or other dog owners, thus facilitating social connections and reducing feelings of isolation.
Requirements and Regulations for Emotional Service Dogs
Although emotional service dogs are not considered service animals under the ADA, they are still protected under the FHA and the ACAA. This means that:
Housing: Landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with emotional service dogs, even in pet-free housing.
Air travel: Airlines (always check with your airline) mayallow emotional service dogs to accompany their owners in the cabin, without additional charges, as long as the owner has the necessary documentation.
Although not legally mandated to receive specialized training, emotional support dogs must be well-behaved and able to provide their owners with the necessary emotional support, and not pose a threat to others: Emotional support dogs should not display any signs of aggression or be a danger to other people or animals.
To protect their owners’ rights and ensure effective assistance, emotional support dogs must receive proper care, attention, and training. This includes socialization, obedience training, and regular veterinary check-ups.
When emotional support dogs are well-adjusted and confident, they are better able to assist their owners in a variety of public settings. As responsible dog owners, it is our duty to provide emotional support dogs with the necessary care and training they need to perform their important role effectively.
Check out Service Dogs episode on Zen of Dog Ownership Podcast
Do you feel like you’re barking up the wrong tree when it comes to training your dog? Or maybe you’re just itching to uncover the mysteries of your dog’s quirky behavior?
Look no further, because Dog Owner’s Academy has the perfect event for you!
Our Weekly Zoom Calls are back. Every Wednesday 7:00 pm (EDT)
Where you can ask our dog experts anything—
Whether it’s about training, behavior, nutrition, or even your dog’s latest shenanigans. This vibrant virtual event is designed to be as entertaining and engaging as your favorite late-night show, but focused entirely on our dogs.
Imagine a lively virtual gathering where dog owners tune in to share their experiences, learn from one another, and laugh together. Your dog’s humorous escapades or headstrong ways could steal the spotlight, while our experts help you decipher the logic behind it all. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with fellow dog owners academy community members who share your enthusiasm.
Don’t let your dog conundrums go unsolved! Whether you’re wrangling with a mischievous pup or a skittish senior, we’re here to help you navigate the sometimes tricky, but always gratifying, world of dog ownership.
By attending these weekly Zoom calls, you’ll uncover tips, tricks, and advice from seasoned professionals in a fun and engaging environment.
To Join the Dog Owner’s Academy’s Weekly Zoom Call Use Meeting ID: 856 7633 3581
Are you expecting a baby and not sure about how your dog will react?
Well, you’re not alone! Many dog owners experience stress and uncertainty when it comes to introducing a new baby to their home where their dog was the baby of the family.
It’s important to take a few simple proactive steps to prepare your dog for the changes that are to come.
Let’s start by talking about how pregnancy can affect your dog.
Just like “some” humans, most dogs can sense changes in their environment, including changes in their owner’s emotions, behavior and routine. During pregnancy, your hormonal changes in your body can impact your dog’s behavior and emotions.
For example, dogs have a highly sensitive sense of smell, and they can detect a pregnancy a few weeks before their humans even know they are pregnant. Changes in your mood or behavior can also affect your dog’s response, especially if you become more irritable or anxious. Natural changes during pregnancy.
In addition to these hormonal changes, a change in your routine due to pregnancy can also impact your dog’s behavior.
As you progress through your pregnancy, you may be less able to participate in activities like going for walks or playing with your dog. This may lead to boredom and frustration in your dog, which can manifest in behavior changes like destructive chewing or excessive barking.
To reduce stress for your dog during pregnancy and prepare them for the changes that are to come
First and foremost, dogs love consistency. So to help them develop their self-soothing skills it’s important to gradually introduce small changes to your dog’s routine.
This can include changes in feeding or exercise schedule, and it’s important to do this slowly to help your dog adjust to the new routine and reduce the stress that comes with sudden changes.
Another way to prepare your dog for the arrival of your baby is to involve them in the pregnancy process. Dogs are social creatures, and they crave attention and interaction from their owners. By allowing your dog to sniff you while you flow some love to them allowing them to explore the baby’s room, introducing them to baby sounds and smells by taking some trips to where they will meet babies and toddlers can help reduce their stress levels and make the transition smoother when the baby arrives.
It’s also important to ensure that your dog is well-trained and understands basic commands like sit, stay, and come. This can help you manage your dog’s behavior during pregnancy and after the baby arrives.
It’s a good idea to have a plan of acceptable rules in place for managing your dog’s behavior when the baby arrives, such as how your dog should meet the baby, will the dog be allowed in the nursery. Asking your dog trainer how to gradually introducing your dog to the baby and supervising their interactions will help you prepared for it with ease.
As you prepare your dog for the arrival of your baby, it’s important to be aware of potential behavior changes in your dog. Some dogs may become more anxious or nervous, while others may become more protective or even aggressive. It’s important to address any behavior changes early on and seek professional help if needed.
Remember, with a little preparation and patience during your pregnancy can reduce stress for both you and your dog, and it can be an amazing bonding experience even before your baby arrives.
As always if you need any help with your dog we are here to serve you.
Do you think your dog gets tired of the same old walk around the block? Yes!
Are you looking for a way to bond with your dog and let your dog truly experience the freedom of being a dog?
If so, keep reading.
Full disclosure, I’ve never been a nature guy. I would much prefer watching nature on TV, listening to river stream on MP3 to actually hiking in the woods.
That is until I begun taking my dog for some off leash fun.
I want to share with you the 4 benefits of taking your dog off-leash hiking in the woods, and how it will improve your dog’s quality of life in immeasurable ways. So, grab your hiking boots and your dog, and let’s dive in!
The Benefits of Off-Leash Hiking
Unleashing Their Natural Instincts
There’s something truly magical about watching your dog run free in the great outdoors. Off-leash hiking allows your dog to get in touch with their instincts and truly embrace their inner “dogness.” With the freedom to explore, sniff, and frolic, your dog experiences the world without restrictions. This not only boosts their overall happiness but also helps them gain confidence in their abilities.
Mental Stimulation
Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and taking them off-leash in the woods gives them the opportunity to engage with a whole new world of smells, sights, and sounds. This mental stimulation is essential for their well-being and can help prevent boredom and the development of behavioral issues.
Physical Exercise
Off-leash hiking provides an excellent source of physical exercise for your dog. The varying terrain and the excitement of exploring new areas will keep them active and engaged, helping to maintain their overall health and fitness.
Strengthening the Human-Dog Bond
When you take your dog on an off-leash hike, you’re creating a unique bonding experience that can’t be replicated in your backyard or local park. By honoring your dog and allowing them to fully experience their natural instincts, you’re showing them that you trust and respect them as an individual. This mutual trust and understanding can lead to a stronger bond and a happier, more well-adjusted dog.
Please Be a Responsible Dog Owner and Obey Leash Laws : Many cities and parks have enforced leash laws. Protecting wild life that maybe living in those parks, other people who maybe afraid of dogs, and countless other factors go into regulations. I am not suggesting disregarding these rules. But with a quick search on the internet you can find many trails, and parks that welcome you and your dog.
Can’t Take Your Dog Off-Leash? We’re Here to Help!
If you’re unsure about taking your dog off-leash, or if your dog needs some extra guidance before they can safely enjoy the freedom of the great outdoors, don’t worry – we’re here to help!
Our expert trainers will work with you to develop a plan that ensures your dog can experience the joys of off-leash hiking in a safe and controlled manner.
Off-leash hiking is an incredible opportunity for you and your dog to bond, explore, and experience the joys of nature together.
By honoring your dog and allowing them to indulge in their natural instincts, you’ll be providing them with a higher quality of life and a stronger bond with you.
So, what are you waiting for?
Get out there and enjoy the great outdoors with your dog!
And remember, if you need any help or guidance, Dog Owner’s Academy is here for you with a free consultation.
The saying “necessity is the mother of invention” rings true in our work with dogs.
Rather than simply teaching a list of commands, we believe in training dog owners on how to integrate their dogs into their daily lives. In fact, in 2012, I developed a groundbreaking approach to dog training that I called “Train as you live.”
We take our dog training services directly to our customers’ homes and even local establishments such as breweries, cafes, and restaurants, where they can practice training with their dogs in real-world scenarios. It was during these outings that we noticed a common issue: many dog-friendly establishments were unprepared to meet the needs of dog owners, specifically when it came to providing fresh water for their dogs.
To address this problem, we began distributing free, water buckets to local businesses, starting with Smelly Cat Coffeehouse in NoDa. The rest as they say was history…. You can still see some of the old buckets around town.
Over the past decade, Charlotte has become increasingly dog-friendly, with hundreds of new businesses now allowing pets. To ensure that our beloved dogs always have access to clean, fresh water, we’re now providing brand-new, blue water buckets to any business that welcomes our four-legged friends.
If you own or frequent a dog-friendly establishment and want to make sure that dogs there always have access to fresh water, please reach out to us. (Click here)
We believe that every dog deserves to be happy, healthy, and well-hydrated, and we’ll personally deliver one (or more!) of our blue water buckets to you at no cost.
Today’s episode is all about spaying/neutering dogs. Without taking a position on whether to, or not to spay/neuter. Our goal is always to educate dog owners.
We’ll go over everything you need to know about this critical procedure, including the advantages and what to expect.
We cover everything you wanted know from what exactly is spaying to myths and misconceptions about spaying. The Process, potential complications, and best practices for easy recovery for your dog.
So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s get started!
Your dog’s health and happiness are your top priorities as a dog owner.
Spaying your dog is one of the most recommended method for supporting their health. Spaying is a simple surgical procedure that can reduce the risk of certain cancers and certain other health issues as well as prevent unwanted litters.
Spaying is a surgical procedure that removes a female dog’s ovaries and uterus, rendering her infertile. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts about 30 minutes. Spaying female dogs can help prevent certain health problems, such as mammary tumors and uterine infections. Furthermore, spaying your dog helps to control the pet population and reduces the number of dogs in shelters.
Some Myths and Misconceptions
There are numerous myths and misconceptions about spaying dogs. One common misconception is that spaying will alter your dog’s personality. This is not correct! Spaying your dog will not change their personality or make them less protective. In fact, after being spayed, many dogs become more relaxed and affectionate. Another common misconception is that spaying is prohibitively expensive. While the procedure has a cost, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial cost.
The Procedure
If you’re thinking about spaying your dog, you might be curious about the procedure. The first step is to discuss the details with your veterinarian. They will examine your dog to ensure that he or she is healthy enough for surgery and will provide you with instructions on how to prepare. Your dog will be sedated and the surgery will be performed on the day of the procedure. After the surgery, you’ll need to keep your dog from hard play/exercise during the recovery period, which usually lasts a few weeks.
Spaying your dog is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. But it is something each dog owner should decide for themselves and their dogs.
Don’t let misconceptions and myths about spaying keep you from doing what’s best for your dog. Consult your veterinarian about spaying your dog, and make sure to follow their instructions for a smooth recovery. By taking this step, you will be assisting in keeping your dog healthy and happy for many years to come.
Leash Aggression is a common issue that can be challenging to manage.
On this episode we offer insights and tips for managing leash aggression.
What is Leash Aggression
Leash aggression, also known as leash reactivity, is a behavior in which a dog displays aggressive or fearful behavior when on a leash. This can include lunging, barking, growling, and snapping. It can be triggered by various factors, such as fear, anxiety, territoriality, and frustration.
Causes of Leash Aggression
There are several reasons why a dog may develop leash aggression. Some common causes include lack of socialization, past traumatic experiences, fear of other dogs or people, and frustration from being restrained on a leash. We’ll discuss each of these factors in more detail and provide examples of how they can lead to leash aggression.
Managing Leash Aggression
Leash aggression can be challenging to manage, but it’s not impossible. We’ll provide tips and strategies for managing leash aggression, such as avoiding trigger situations, desensitization and counterconditioning techniques, using positive reinforcement training, and seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
Preventing Leash Aggression
Preventing leash aggression is always better than trying to manage it after it has developed. We’ll discuss how to prevent leash aggression by socializing your dog at a young age, exposing them to new experiences and environments, and using positive reinforcement to reinforce good behavior.
Dogs can make great companions for children, but it’s important to consider a few things before bringing one into the family.
In this episode we are talking about Dogs and Children.
The Benefits of Having a Dog for Children
Companionship: Dogs can provide children with a loyal and loving friend who is always there to listen and play. Increased physical activity: Taking care of a dog can help children get more exercise and stay active. Improved social skills: Dogs can help children learn to communicate and interact with others. Enhanced empathy and responsibility: Taking care of a dog can teach children to be more caring, responsible, and empathetic.
Choosing the Right Dog for Families with Children
Factors to consider, such as breed, size, and energy level: Some breeds are better suited for families with children, and it’s important to consider the dog’s size and energy level as well. Importance of early socialization: Socializing the dog early on can help them feel comfortable and safe around children. Preparing the dog for the arrival of a new baby: It’s important to help the dog adjust to changes in the family and establish new boundaries.
The Dog’s Perspective
A dog’s perception of children: Dogs may see children as smaller and less predictable, which can cause stress and anxiety. Common behaviors and body language displayed by dogs around children: Understanding how dogs communicate can help prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts. Understanding and managing a dog’s stress and fear around children: It’s important to recognize signs of stress and fear in dogs and take steps to manage it.
Safety Measures for Children and Dogs
Importance of supervising interactions: Children and dogs should always be supervised when together. Teaching children appropriate behavior around dogs: Children should learn how to approach and interact with dogs in a safe and respectful way. Training dogs to understand boundaries and commands: Dogs should be trained to understand and respond to commands that help establish boundaries and prevent potential conflicts.
Incorporating Dogs into Family Activities
Ideas for fun, dog-friendly outings: There are many activities that families can enjoy with their dogs, such as hiking, swimming, and playing in the park. Encouraging bonding between children and dogs: Spending quality time together can help strengthen the bond between children and dogs. Balancing the needs of both dogs and children: It’s important to consider the needs of both dogs and children when planning activities and setting boundaries.
