It’s A Dog’s Life—

Tips On Training

By Mary Jane Anderson

Q: A friend of mine lets his shepherd, Ralph, ride in the back of his old pickup truck. He tells me not to worry that Ralph knows enough not to jump out. But, I do not think it is safe. What do you think?

A: Throughout the year, I see many dog owners having their dogs riding in the back of their pickup trucks. I do realize that there is not much room in the cab, but the danger to the dog riding in the back of the truck can be a very serious mistake. A few years ago, a friend had a dog that rode in the back of his truck. I always protested; he would not listen. Then one day Toby was not with him and sure enough Toby had jumped out when the truck was moving and he broke his neck. Needless to say, his new dog is in the cab as a passenger. Why learn a lesson the hard way?

Q: I have a pool in my backyard and Josh, my dog, is interested in trying it out. Is that a good idea?

A: A dip in your pool can be refreshing but hazardousness if Josh is unattended while he is swimming. Dog owners are warned that if you have dogs and swimming pools make sure the pool is adequately fenced so that the dogs cannot get into it unattended. A small dog wiggled under the pool cover and drowned. Another owner left her small dog in the pool to answer the telephone and she returned to find that the dog drowned in the pool since he did not know how to get out. Dogs as well as children must be watched. The dog should be taught how to get out of the pool whether though a ladder, stairs, or at the shallow part.

Q: Molly will not go in the water to swim at the beach. Should I throw her in?

A: No! If you do that, she will never go in or go near the water. Rather, make the water interesting so she will forget about being afraid. If she likes to retrieve sticks or a ball, why not have a game out of it by throwing sticks or a ball into the water, close to shore in the beginning so she can get it. If she will do that then gradually increase the distance. Be patient and soon Molly will swim and enjoy the water.

Q: With the hot weather, I see many dogs heads sticking out of the car windows. Jasper, my retriever, loves to do this. Is there any harm in that?

A: Yes, indeed there is. Don’t let your pet hang out of the window. Many health problems can result from this bad habit: inflamed and infected ears and eyes caused by dust, grit, insects, or too much wind.

Q: A friend of mine is trying to find a home for her 4-year-old dog because she is moving to a place that will not allow pets. What do you think about adopting an older animal for a pet?

A: The transitional period from one home to another can be done without too many problems. The first thing to do is to learn as much about the dog and his habits. Second, spend as much time with the dog as you can. Gentle obedience, with a great deal of praise when he obeys correctly will teach him how to behave in your home. This way the dog will quickly learn to know what you expect of him. In a lot of ways, acquiring an adult dog can be a happy experience.