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Sunday, November 27, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Day 320 - Cousins are over.
Excuse Me! (Bailey the pug)
Bella the french bull dog.
Umm. There's no room guys.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Clicker training
Methodology: A simple concept. The first step in clicker training is to teach the animal that the clicker sound means that they will get a primary reinforcer, usually food. To do this, some trainers "charge" or "load" the clicker. The trainer clicks the clicker and immediately thereafter gives the animal a reward, usually a tasty treat, one small enough to be consumed almost instantly. Some animals tend to learn the association much more quickly than others. Progress may be tested by waiting until the dog's attention is elsewhere and then clicking. If the dog immediately looks toward the trainer as though expecting a reward, it is likely that the dog has made the association.
- Other trainers, including Bob Bailey and the ABE Trainers, simply start training a behavior and following desired approximations with a click. ABE conducted experiments that demonstrated that for their purposes, where they may be training many animals at the same time, this method was more efficient.
- Today many clicker trainers use this method of introducing the clicker.After that, the trainer uses the clicker to mark desired behaviors as they occur. At the exact instant the animal performs the desired behavior, the trainer clicks and promptly delivers a food reward or other reinforcer.
- One key to clicker training is the trainer's timing; clicking slightly too early or too late rewards and therefore may reinforce whatever behavior is occurring at that instant. The saying goes, "you get what you click for."
- Clicker trainers often use the process of "shaping," which means gradually transforming a specific behavior into the desired behavior by rewarding successive approximations to it. A successive approximation is "a behavioral term that refers to gradually molding or training an organism to perform a specific [completed] response by [first] reinforcing responses that are similar to the desired response."Clicker trainers learn to split behavior instead of lumping it, i.e. to look for and reward small steps in the right direction rather than waiting for the whole, "perfect" behavior to appear on its own. It is important to create opportunities for the animal to earn rewards very frequently.
- A reinforcement rate of one click/treat (C/T) every two to three seconds is common among professional dog trainers. Criteria for receiving the click is tightened gradually, at the rate the animal is comfortable with and so that it will remain successful.
Short video on defining what clicker training is.
Clicker training was originated through Marian Bailey and Keller Breland, who as graduate students of psychologist and eminent behaviorist B.F. Skinner taught wild-caught pigeons to "bowl" (push a ball with their beaks) while participating in military research.
According to their work, animal training was being needlessly hindered because traditional methods of praise and reward did not inform the animal of success with enough promptness and precision to create the required cognitive connections for speedy learning. Similar methods were later used in training at least 140 species including whales, bears, lions, chickens and domestic dogs and cats, and even humans.
A clicker is just one example of a conditioned reinforcer (secondary reinforcer) or "bridge".
Technically a stimulus from any sensory mode may become a conditioned reinforcer (ex. light, smells).
Monday, November 7, 2011
Recommended Vaccine Schedule
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There are two types of vaccines currently available to veterinarians: modified-live vaccines and inactivated ("killed") vaccines.
Immunization Schedules
- There is a great deal of controversy and confusion surrounding the appropriate immunization schedule, especially with the availability of modified-live vaccines and breeders who have experienced postvaccinal problems when using some of these vaccines. It is also important to not begin a vaccination program while maternal antibodies are still active and present in the puppy from the mother's colostrum. The maternal antibodies identify the vaccines as infectious organisms and destroy them before they can stimulate an immune response.
Many breeders and owners have sought a safer immunization program.
Modified Live Vaccines (MLV)
- Modified-live vaccines contain a weakened strain of the disease causing agent. Weakening of the agent is typically accomplished by chemical means or by genetic engineering. These vaccines replicate within the host, thus increasing the amount of material available for provoking an immune response without inducing clinical illness. This provocation primes the immune system to mount a vigorous response if the disease causing agent is ever introduced to the animal. Further, the immunity provided by a modified-live vaccine develops rather swiftly and since they mimic infection with the actual disease agent, it provides the best immune response.
Inactivated Vaccines (Killed)
- Inactivated vaccines contain killed disease causing agents. Since the agent is killed, it is much more stable and has a longer shelf life, there is no possibility that they will revert to a virulent form, and they never spread from the vaccinated host to other animals. They are also safe for use in pregnant animals (a developing fetus may be susceptible to damage by some of the disease agents, even though attenuated, present in modified-live vaccines). Although more than a single dose of vaccine is always required and the duration of immunity is generally shorter, inactivated vaccines are regaining importance in this age of retrovirus and herpesvirus infections and concern about the safety of genetically modified microorganisms. Inactivated vaccines available for use in dogs include rabies, canine parvovirus, canine coronavirus, etc.
W. Jean Dodds, DVM
HEMOPET
938 Stanford Street
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310/ 828-4804
fax: 310/ 828-8251Note: This schedule is the one I recommend and should not be interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It's a matter of professional judgment and choice. For breeds or families of dogs susceptible to or affected with immune dysfunction, immune-mediated disease, immune-reactions associated with vaccinations, or autoimmune endocrine disease (e.g., thyroiditis, Addison's or Cushing's disease, diabetes, etc.) the above protocol is recommended.After 1 year, annually measure serum antibody titers against specific canine infectious agents such as distemper and parvovirus. This is especially recommended for animals previously experiencing adverse vaccine reactions or breeds at higher risk for such reactions (e.g., Weimaraner, Akita, American Eskimo, Great Dane).Another alternative to booster vaccinations is homeopathic nosodes. This option is considered an unconventional treatment that has not been scientifically proven to be efficacious. One controlled parvovirus nosode study did not adequately protect puppies under challenged conditions. However, data from Europe and clinical experience in North America support its use. If veterinarians choose to use homeopathic nosodes, their clients should be provided with an appropriate disclaimer and written informed consent should be obtained.I use only killed 3 year rabies vaccine for adults and give it separated from other vaccines by 3-4 weeks. In some states, they may be able to give titer test result in lieu of booster.I do NOT use Bordetella, corona virus, leptospirosis or Lyme vaccines unless these diseases are endemic in the local area pr specific kennel. Furthermore, the currently licensed leptospira bacterins do not contain the serovars causing the majority of clinical leptospirosis today.I do NOT recommend vaccinating bitches during estrus, pregnancy or lactation.W. Jean Dodds, DVM
HEMOPET
http://www.weim.net/emberweims/Vaccine.html
BBC - Vets issue animal vaccine warning
Vets issue animal vaccine warning
Veterinary surgeons are warning that cat and dog owners are spending tens of millions of pounds on unnecessary and sometimes dangerous vaccines.More than 30 vets have signed an open letter warning many vaccines for pets given in yearly doses last much longer. They have accused the pharmaceutical industry of "fraud by misrepresentation, fraud by silence and theft by deception". But drugs companies say they are bound by rules from licensing authorities. Because of a lack of research it can only give a minimum period of immunity - usually 12 months.
Yearly vaccines
The vets are warning the pharmaceutical industry and their own profession about the issue.
Yearly vaccines
The vets are warning the pharmaceutical industry and their own profession about the issue.
“ The present practice of marketing vaccinations for companion animals may constitute fraud by misrepresentation, fraud by silence and theft by deception ”
Vets' group
Vets' group
In their letter they say that vaccinations for many conditions including distemper, cat flu and parva virus, last a lot longer than a year and sometimes for life.The letter said: "The present practice of marketing vaccinations for companion animals may constitute fraud by misrepresentation, fraud by silence and theft by deception."
BBC correspondent Angus Stickler said that vets send out computer-generated letters telling people to take their pets in for vaccinations "every year, year in, year out".
He said: "With £20 to £40 to pay and about 13m dogs and cats in the country it's an industry worth tens of millions of pounds."
The letter also talks about an increase in the risk of "adverse post-vaccination events" including a list of problems such as auto-immune disorders, transient infections and a risk of cancer in cats.
Animal testing
Vaccination manufacturers say that, although they can test animals for one or two years so they can give a minimum cover or immunity, it is difficult to perform lifelong tests.
They say that to prove immunity lasts for three or four years, or for life, would mean keeping and testing a large number of cats and dogs for years on end.
BBC correspondent Angus Stickler said that vets send out computer-generated letters telling people to take their pets in for vaccinations "every year, year in, year out".
He said: "With £20 to £40 to pay and about 13m dogs and cats in the country it's an industry worth tens of millions of pounds."
The letter also talks about an increase in the risk of "adverse post-vaccination events" including a list of problems such as auto-immune disorders, transient infections and a risk of cancer in cats.
Animal testing
Vaccination manufacturers say that, although they can test animals for one or two years so they can give a minimum cover or immunity, it is difficult to perform lifelong tests.
They say that to prove immunity lasts for three or four years, or for life, would mean keeping and testing a large number of cats and dogs for years on end.
“ We base our recommendations on the science and the science we have tells us that we don't know how long immunity lasts in any individual animal ”
Intervet
Intervet
David Sutton, a spokesman for Intervet, one of the world's largest veterinary drug manufacturers, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "We base our recommendations on the science and the science we have tells us that we don't know how long immunity lasts in any individual animal."What we do know is there are some animals that need more frequent vaccination than others and our vaccine recommendations have to be based on taking account of those animals."
The vets' warning comes as more than 6,000 vets from all over Europe gather in Birmingham for the world's largest congress devoted to domestic pet welfare.
One of the techniques up for discussion at the four-day event is pheromonotherapy, used to help cats and dogs overcome fears and phobias.
The treatment is based on a study of chemicals, called pheromones, secreted by canines and felines through glands on their body.
These convey messages to members of the same species about ownership of territory, gender and mating availability.
The vets' warning comes as more than 6,000 vets from all over Europe gather in Birmingham for the world's largest congress devoted to domestic pet welfare.
One of the techniques up for discussion at the four-day event is pheromonotherapy, used to help cats and dogs overcome fears and phobias.
The treatment is based on a study of chemicals, called pheromones, secreted by canines and felines through glands on their body.
These convey messages to members of the same species about ownership of territory, gender and mating availability.
No to Mixing Raw with Dry Kibble
For some people, it may be a little cheaper to feed kibble at one meal and raw at one meal.
If you choose to make your own raw diet, then I would suggest a lot of research to make sure you give your dog the right balance of nutrients. Some people feed a total meat and organs diet whereas others feed meat along with fruit and veggies. It's up to you but you need to do the research.
Do not recommend mixing raw meat with kibble. Dogs are not physiologically designed to eat cooked or processed foods therefore it takes much longer to digest them than whole, raw foods. Raw meat will be digested quickly.
The food mixing together in the gut can lead to fermentation and a potential build-up of bacteria.
Dog Training Tips Universal
1. Establish Dominance. Learn 'alpha dog' theory.
All dogs need structure and order. Become the calm consistent 'alpha dog', and put yourself in command. Otherwise, your pet may try and become alpha, and will expect you to let them do as they wish. Establishing dominance and making your pet realize that you are the alpha will go a long way in making your dog training more successful.
2. Practice Patience. Socialize First. Tricks Second.
The one thing you will need the most of when training your dog is patience. It takes time, effort, passion, and a calm outlook over time. First priority is to ensure your dog is socialized to other people and animals in the first year for growth. Seek environments where there are other dogs and people (ie. walking through a PetSmart store, open leash parks, etc.) Tricks, such as sit and beg, can come later in life.
With patience, comes perseverance. Some dogs can learn tricks and behaviors in a few days. Others can take weeks. Things learned may soon be forgotten. You must continually work at training your dog to ensure that the behavior sticks.
4. Play before Learn.
Make training fun and enjoyable.
5. Exercise Your Dog.
Training does not really equate to healthy exercise. Make sure to exercise your dog routinely to not only help burn off excess energy, but to also help keep them at optimal health. Also with that burned off energy they will be able to focus on the training with less distractions.
6. Be Realistic In Your Expectations.
7. Avoid Bribery.
Avoid using excessive treats and rewards to get your pet to do what you want. Dog treats are great for teaching your dog a command but ween them off constant treats to verbal and physical praise.
8. Be Consistent.
Once you establish a training routine and schedule, stick with it. Believe it or not, dogs relish consistency and need a schedule. Keeping to your schedule will help keep your dog happy and help make training successful.
9. Do Not Use Punishment. Use Discipline.
Yes, you will need to discipline your dog if they are bad. But discipline in a firm, not a hateful manner. Do not yell or scream at your dog, rather use a firm tone and you will get a better reaction. Likewise use a positive tone when he does good.
10. Practice Family Training.
All of your training efforts will be in vain if the rest of the family is not on board. Make sure that all members of the household are using the same training techniques, and things will go much smoother.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Day 313- Blackmud creek side; Edmonton Alberta
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| Blackmud Creek: Low winter water levels, frozen over creek bed. |
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| Eating grass. |
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| Slow meandering creek side |
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| Imprint of the Bearspaw is clear and evident here. |
Thursday, November 3, 2011
The genocide of innocence
Here are some other disparaging facts:
-One unspayed female and her offspring are capable of producing 67,000 dogs in 6 years.
- Everyday in the U.S. on average 10,000 babies are born while 70,000 puppies and kittens are born. Far more than there will ever be enough homes for.
- Out of the 70,000 dogs and cats 1 in 5 will remain with their original owners, the rest will be given away or abandoned.
- Abandoned and stray animals cost an estimated $2 billion a year.
- The number one reason dogs are not altered is because of the perceived expensive cost of the operation.
- Less than 3 percent of all animal breedings are intentional. That's means at least 97 percent of dog births can be prevented by spay or neuter.
- Between 8 and 10 million animals enter animal shelters each year.
- The number of Cats and Dogs euthanized each year is between 4 and 5 million.
- The number of Cats and Dogs adopted from shelters each year is between 3 and 5 million.
-Between 600,000 and 750,000 Cats and Dogs are recovered by their owners each year. That's only about 15 to 30 percent.
-There is between 4,000 to 6,000 animal shelters in the United States.
Just to put this in perspective, at 5 million animals being killed each year that is one death every six and a half seconds.Another misconception is that there aren't any purebred dogs in a shelter so people buy from breeders. During a recent study about 25 percent of all dogs in shelters are purebreds.
Out of all the dogs being acquired each year only about 14 percent come from an animal shelter, with 48 percent coming as strays or from rescues and 38 percent from breeders or pet shops.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Pumpkin: canine constipation or diarrhea
Since the dietary fibre in canned pumpkin absorbs water, it can be a great help to a cat or dog that has diarrhea. Some pet owners report that it firms up their pet’s loose stools or diarrhea within a few hours. Again one to two teaspoonfuls is all that is needed.
"Puddle: Sit and Down"
Training of basic commands (such as sit) is not too difficult. It takes time and patience. For example, getting your puppy to sit can take less than two training sessions. Puddle used Dr. Ian Dunbar’s lure-reward method to successfully learn sit and down.
The Kong
- ground meat (any kind), browned
- carrots, potatoes, peas, etc
- yogurt
- bananas
- eggs
- oatmeal (cooked)
- rice (cooked)
- dog kibble (I use this to hold together the stuffing if it gets too wet)
- canned dog food
- leftovers from the fridge I'm not going to eat
- baby food
- liver treats or dehydrated liver
- and of course, peanut butter.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
The use of a shock collar
"The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior has produced a position statement titled "The use of punishment for behavior modification in animals", the opening paragraph of which reads "AVSAB’s position is that punishment (e.g. choke chains, pinch collars, and electronic collars) should not be used as a first-line or early-use treatment for behavior problems. This is due to the potential adverse effects which include but are not limited to: inhibition of learning, increased fear-related and aggressive behaviors, and injury to animals and people interacting with animals." http://www.cabtsg.org/electronic.htm
"The potential for shock collars to have a negative impact on behaviour has been recognised by the UK courts. In 2001 Ostarra Langridge was prosecuted after one of her dogs attacked and killed a sh(i)tzu whilst on a walk. A control order, rather than a destruction order, was imposed as the magistrates accepted the defense that Ms. Langridge's dog's aggressive behaviour was attributable to the effects of the shock collar. "Ms. Langridge sought the help of a behaviourist when her dogs started to run away from her on their walks along the beach. The dogs were given shock collars, which Miss Langridge was told to keep on for three months and activate whenever they misbehaved. But the first time the dogs got a shock was by mistake, after a small dog they were walking past made Miss Langridge jump. From then on her pets associated the shocks with small dogs and became afraid of them. When Miss Langridge described the day in July when her dogs turned on a shihtzu she had tears in her eyes.". She stated ""They connected the pain of the electric shock with little dogs because of the first time I used the collar. The day that machine came in this house I regret."
http://www.theargus.co.uk/archive/2001/10/25/The+Argus+Archive/6771352.Collars__turned_dogs_into_killers_/
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