Step 2: Shaping the Behavior If he does not willingly step onto the mat, you may also position yourself on the opposite side of the mat from your dog and mark as he steps on it to come to you. At first it may only be one paw, but you will then begin shaping for two, then three, then four feet by increasing the value of the treat. Kibble is the lowest and chicken, or hot dogs or cheese being the highest. Look at mat. Mark then treat on the mat. Touch mat with a paw. Mark then give higher

Uses Teaching your pet to go to a mat (stationing) can be used to: give him space (a portable safe haven) from visitors and create his own “go to” spot. keep him out of the kitchen during mealtimes or from counter surfing. take the mat to the veterinarian and station him for exams and weighing. station him for medicating at home. station him for grooming.     Setting the environment up for success. Before you even start doing mat work with your pet, make sure the surrounding area is set up for success. Minimize any potential distractions for both of you:

Aggression between familiar dogs in the same household is a common occurrence and is one of the most common reasons that dogs are surrendered, rehomed, or euthanized. This aggression can be secondary to high arousal or excitement levels. When a fight occurs, damage to the relationship between the dogs can be difficult to repair. There are a variety of factors that need to be considered when determining the future relationship between these dogs. For instance, aggression between female dogs is reported to be the most common and is the most difficult to treat due to the severity of injuries and

Towel wraps, also known as kitty burritos, help cats feel comfortable and safe, but not confined or scared.

Did you know that behavior problems are the number one reason dogs and cats are surrendered to shelters every year? Many shelter animals are younger than three years old and few receive veterinary care prior to their surrender. Some are sick or injured while others are strays that were dumped, lost, or escaped from their yard or house. Many of these animals are untrained and have not been previously spayed or neutered. In dogs, the most common behavior reasons for surrender are house soiling, destructive behavior, barking, and unruly behaviors, followed by fearfulness and past bite history. Cats are frequently

If you have ever had your cat snuggle up to you on the couch then nip at your hand when you try to pet them, you are not alone. This is just one scenario in which some cats have shown aggression to their owners. Many other situations can lead to cats swatting, scratching, or trying to bite their human partners. While these are unwanted behaviors from our feline friends, there are often logical explanations for their actions. Trying to stop the aggression starts with understanding when and why it might be happening. Then, you can determine how to approach the