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Features
Dave the Dog Walker
posted May 20, 2004 from the August 2003 newsletter
When We Met Dave
On a hot Wednesday we met Dave Monette in the park, walking two dogs: Sally and Chomsky. Many park users would recognize Sally: she's the rangy-looking dog who is always running up and rolling down the snow hills beside the rink in the winter, because she loves snow so much. We asked Dave whether he walks other dogs too. He said, lots, and he told us he belongs to a group called the Professional Dog Walkers Association (PDWA). He said that to belong to this organization he has to have a pet first aid certificate, and he showed us the contents of his knapsack: balls, homemade dog toys, a water dish and a water jug, grocery bags for picking up after the dogs, and a brush. Apparently each dog gets brushed once during each walk. On top of that, Dave says he's just about to get his certification as a dog trainer, and indeed, Sally and Chomsky both looked perfectly well-behaved, waiting in the shade beside Dave as he answered our questions. Lucky dogs! Dave said he's in the neighbourhood parks so much he sees lots of what's going, and sometimes steps in to help with tricky situations. Sounds like a good man to have in our neighbourhood. His phone number, in case you want to talk to him about your dog, is 416 788-3319. His web site is http://www.davesdogworld.ca and his e-mail address is info@davesdogworld.ca
See The Animal Human Bond by Dave Monette
posted May 20, 2004
Developing the Animal-Human Bond
By Dave Monette
Experiencing the feeling of an animal's transition from being a "family pet" to a "part of the family" is one of the greatest joys one can experience.
This bond can actually begin before your pet comes home. Selecting a cute puppy to be part of the family is a really exciting time. However, don't forget that the care of your dog is a long-term commitment. Always remember to ask a lot of questions before selecting your pet. Also, a visit to your local veterinary office before bringing your pet home for the first time is highly recommended.
So, how do we develop this long-term bond where both you and your pet are on the same wavelength? Well, from a pet care perspective, let's take a look at preventative medicine.
Preventative medicine is essential for a long-term healthy life of your pet. There is no doubt that a happy, emotionally-centered pet means a strong animal-human bond. Preventative medicine includes the following: veterinary care, vaccinations, neutering & spaying, good skin care, caring for your pet's teeth and gums, providing a clean, safe environment, and a well-balanced diet. Last, but certainly not least, exercise.
Exercise is an essential part of your pet's preventative care measures. Regular exercise is extremely important for your dog to maintain good health, prevent obesity and reduce the likelihood of heart disease.
The amount of exercise your dog requires is based on its size and breed. This is a major consideration when selecting your pet. All dogs must be exercised at least twice a day. Your breeder, veterinary and professional dog walker can design the right exercise program for your dog. A well-exercised dog equals a happy, love-filled "family member" and a deep animal-human bond!
Dave Monette, a professional dog walker, can be reached at: info@davesdogworld.ca or 416-788-3319, website http://www.davesdogworld.ca.