#- bigger dog they risk getting bitten. if they go after a person they risk getting kicked or hit and they're also still a bite risk and -

[fabulouslygaybean]

okay apparently im not done ranting about quarantine puppies. for the love of god to NOT get a puppy if you won't bother with training and proper socialization. i don't care if you say it'll help your mental health, i don't care if you just reeeaaaally want one, i don't care if you're only gonna get a teeny tiny toy breed, do not get a damn puppy if you won't put in the necessary work for the sake of their own and other's safety

[tsrookie]

Always In My Heart

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Alyssa Brooks)

A/N: On today’s episode of ‘I have no idea wtf I’m doing’, we have something that I cooked up because I had terrible WiFi and no other app but Google docs would open up.

Trope: Fluff, but a tiny bit of angst?

Rating: General

Word Count: 2.3K

Warning(s): Mentions of character death

Summary: Their son has a very important question to ask.

——————————

The delicious aroma of chicken and rice wafted through the Brooks-Ramsey household. The couple worked side by side in the kitchen as they had all those years ago, the only difference being that it was now a dinner for five and not just two.

Allison Dolores Brooks-Ramsey came into their lives nine years ago, and while it was earlier than they would have wanted, they didn’t regret a second of their lives ever since they first heard her voice.

The twins on the other hand, were planned, but nothing had prepared them for the chaos that Nathan and Natalie would bring. A new broken object every week, a dozen fights for the TV every day, and yet were nothing short of tiny tornadoes when they joined forces.

It couldn’t be more perfect.

“What time did Jackie and Emilia say that they would bring the girls back?”

“6:30, I think.”

“Ah. So we have time till 7:00.” They shared a knowing smile. Two aunts taking their nine and six year old nieces to the mall meant a complete raid of the toy store, and a new guitar.

“You need to stop letting everyone spoil the girls just because you have a soft spot for them, Ethan. Ally’s grown old enough to understand that she has her daddy wrapped around her finger, and we don’t need Nat coming to that realisation as well.”

“I don’t- I can’t believe you would accuse me of not loving all my children equally!”, he exclaimed in mock offense.

“Mhmm. So why did I have to come up with an explanation to tell Nathan why his dad wasn’t on board with ordering dessert when he asked for it, but relented once his sisters kept bugging him for another five minutes?”

He opened his mouth in protest, but decided against saying anything for his own good. “Well what can I say? They’ve inherited their mother’s persuasiveness. And I can’t really say no to you, can I?”

Alyssa’s lips curved upwards at that. The playful look in her husband’s eyes caused her to finally break into a grin. “At least you’re self-aware.” Stuffing the rice into the bird she added, “But I can’t exactly tell our son that his dad is too in-love with his mom that he sees her in his daughters and hence can’t say no to them. He’d gag in disgust.”

He chuckled and wrapped his arms around her, resting his head in the crook of her neck. “That he would. Alright I’ll try a little harder to resist their charms. Wouldn’t want my only son to end up hating me.” He said it without a hint of worry over it becoming true someday. Over the years, he’d learned to put aside his fears of not being a good father, and with the help of some therapy, and Alyssa’s unwavering love and support, he’d locked up his insecurities in a box and let it sink to the bottom of the ocean.

They took the stuffed chicken and put it in the oven, washed their hands and plopped down on the couch for some rare downtime.

“Crap.”

“Everything okay?”

“Fred’s mom got called in, so she’s dropping Nate off on her way to work.”

Ethan sighed. “There goes the hour I planned to spend with my wife, who I barely get to spend enough time with these days.”

“I swear, you were never this busy when you were chief. I have no idea why my workload’s ten times bigger.”

“I do.” Ethan smiled with pride. “One usually does have a lot of work when they’re at the front lines of the battle for making free healthcare accessible for every single person in the country. My brilliant wife, though she could choose to leave most of the work to her very competent team, opts to take it all upon herself. So that’s probably the cause behind all the extra workload she complains about.”

She smirked and perched herself onto his lap. “Well your very brilliant wife also knows that you called my team very competent just to avoid hurting my feelings, and that you and I both know that they’ll be running around like headless chickens without me taking care of things.”

“I know, love. But you can still make them do a little more instead of working yourself to the bone while still making sure that you have at least one meal with the kids every day.”

She sighed. “Yeah, to make sure that they don’t forget what I look like.” She leaned in closer. “Besides, are we really going to spend our last few minutes of peace talking about work?”

Just as she uttered the words, the door burst open, and Nathan kicked off his shoes and jumped onto the couch as Alyssa slid down from Ethan’s lap. She shot him a look that very clearly meant What did I just say?

Ethan gave her an apologetic look and ruffled his son’s hair. “Hey buddy. How was your day at Fred’s? I know you wanted to spend more time with him.”

“I did, and we were just about to open his new LEGO set when Mrs. Watson told us that she had to run up to her office for some emergency meeting.”, he pouted. “But it was a nice day. We watched Thor: Ragnarok and Luca, and we would’ve watched another movie if his dad didn’t tell us that two movies were enough for a day.”

Alyssa shot him a mildly stern look. “Well he was right. You’re too young to have movie marathons just yet. Two are more than enough, unless you want to have a headache.”

“But mom, I’m not too young! I’m a big boy! I can swing along the monkey bars at the park faster than Natalie, and soon I’ll swing across buildings just like Spider-Man!”

“Well Spider-Man got bitten by a yucky spider before he swung across buildings. Do you want to be bitten by a gross and poisonous spider?”

“Mommy, not all spiders are gross and poisonous. Dad told me that when I was four and got scared of them at the zoo.”

She rolled her eyes. Leave it to her husband to convince her kids that insects were anything short of creepy and disgusting. In reality, they were, but as someone who ran a mile away at the sight of a butterfly, she wasn’t going to accept that.

“That’s right, Nate. Some of them are certainly very poisonous and dangerous, but that doesn’t mean that you should be scared of them. If you maintain your distance and admire them from afar, there should be no problem at all.”, he said with a pointed look at Alyssa, who just huffed in annoyance.

Nathan giggled, his brown eyes lighting up with amusement. He loved watching his parents playfully bicker. It was way better than seeing them- ugh, kiss.

“We were pretending to be superheroes and Fred used his full name for his pretend name cause it sounded cool, and it is. Fredrick Anthony Watson sounds like something from that show you and mom watch with the guys in the stuffy suits.”

“When did you see us watching the show with the guys in the stuffy suits?”, asked Ethan with a slight hint of concern. Whatever he and Alyssa watched on their free nights was definitely not kid-friendly.

“I don’t remember. Maybe a few months ago.”

Their year old puppy, Ivy, woke up from her nap and bounced into the living room to jump onto her favourite person. Nathan squealed with joy as the fluffy hair of the dog tickled his nose.

Ethan and Alyssa smiled at each other. Getting another dog after Jenner was a decision that took a lot of convincing, but their kids were responsible enough and it was impossible to say no after two years of constant pestering.

“Fred told me that he was named after his great-grandfather William, and that he was this really cool guy who saved a bunch of guys from getting mugged in a dark, dark alley.” He turned to look at his parents as Ivy snuggled into his lap. “Who was I named after mom?”

The question caught her off guard, and she glanced at Ethan for backup.

When they knew that they were having a boy, they immediately knew what to name him. They hadn't, however, anticipated Nathan Daniel Brooks-Ramsey to ask such a question this soon.

Seeing his wife at a loss for words, Ethan spoke up. “C’mere Nate.” He pulled him closer and pressed a kiss atop his head. “We once had a friend named Daniel. He worked at the hospital as a nurse, and he was close to your mom and Aunt Sienna when they were interns.”

Having found her voice, Alyssa joined in. “He was an amazing friend. He was the only nurse in the hospital who helped me out when things got messy, and cheered up Aunt Sienna when no one else could. He’d join us for picnics and movie nights, and you could always count on him if you needed something at the hospital.” She took a deep breath, and Ethan nodded. “Things were going well, but then in my second year, something really bad happened.”

“Oh no.”

“There was this bad guy, who wanted his revenge on another bad guy, and he was ready to risk his own life, and the lives of everyone around him to do so.”

“That’s horrible! Who would want to do something like that?”

Ethan smiled wistfully. “A lot of people in this world actually do. You’re a good person, so you know that it’s wrong. But some people aren’t, and they don’t care about other people getting hurt because of their actions. That night at the hospital, Danny tried to tell the bad guy that it was wrong, and to think things through. But he didn’t listen, and did something that hurt both himself, Danny, Uncle Raf, another friend of ours, and your mom.”

His little eyebrows creased with worry, Nathan asked, “What happened then?”

“He… he died. Along with our other friend, Bobby. Do you remember what we once told you about an autopsy?” Nathan nodded his head. “Well Danny asked for his body to be autopsied, and thanks to him, we were able to find out what was wrong with mom and Uncle Raf.”

He fell silent for a moment, remembering the horrors of the day, and how eternally grateful he was to Danny for being the reason he didn’t lose everything. He couldn’t imagine a life without the love of his life and his children, and he wouldn’t have either if not for the sacrifices that were made.

He looked up at Alyssa, and she squeezed his hand in support. “We’ll tell you more when you’re older, but to make it short, you’re named after a hero too. If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t have you, your sisters, or mom here with me.”

Nathan wriggled out of his dad’s arms, and set Ivy down so he could hug his mom as tightly as he could.

“Well… if you can hear me Mr. Daniel, I just wanna thank you. Thanks for saving my mom. I love her so much and I’m so thankful that I got to meet her because of what you did. I wish I could’ve met you, you sound like a really cool person, and I’m sure you were. So yeah, thanks. A lot.”

Alyssa’s eyes glimmered with unshed tears, and she held her son as she expressed her silent thanks along with Ethan.

What they had was precious.

Fifteen years had passed since they first met, and yet each day they fell in love a little more like they did when they held hands for the first time in the dim light of the NICU watching over little Ethan, or when she finally got to see the real him the first time she visited his place; the first time in years he let someone know a little of the worries residing deep in his heart.

With all the odds against them, it was a miracle that they survived, even more so that they managed to raise three perfect children who had more love to share than they could ever comprehend.

And they’d never forget all the reasons that made it possible for them to survive.

Ding!

The timer on the oven went off, and they got to their feet to get the chicken.

“Was he a good cook dad?”

“I… don’t really know, Nate. Your mom knew him better than I did.”

“Well there was this one time where he helped Aunt Sienna bake an amazing cake, so I guess he knew his way around the kitchen.”, Alyssa recollected fondly. It was for Jackie’s birthday, one of the few nights where the competition was completely forgotten about.

Nathan’s face melted into a glowing smile. “I love cake. So I guess I really would’ve loved him.”

She mirrored his radiant expression. “You definitely would’ve.”

“Why don’t you go play with Ivy while mom and I get the food ready? You can help us with the dessert later.”

“We’re having dessert?!”

Ethan grinned at his son’s excitement. “You bet we are.”

“Yay!” They watched as Nathan ran off to go play fetch with Ivy in their enormous backyard.

Ethan pulled Alyssa in for a sweet, lingering kiss as soon as he was out of sight.

“You’ve been wanting to do that for a while now hmm?”

“Something like that.”, he murmured as they broke apart.

She could see the ever-increasing strands of silver in his brown hair, and the faint wrinkles along the sides of his forehead, but his clear blue eyes were just as loving and devoted as she remembered from over a decade ago.

“We have a pretty good life, don’t we?”

Ethan kissed her again. “No, we have the perfect life.”

——————————

A/N 2: Aaaand I’m going MIA again. Honestly though, to everyone who’s read so far, thank you so much for sticking around. Means the world💙

P.S: I finally chose Chyler Leigh as my face claim!

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[dose-of-jellybean]

“ Hello dear! could I possibly ask for any of the boys with an s/o with an 18ft reticulated python?”

@unluckyamulet

Sorry! I messed up when I first posted this;;

I had to do some research before writing, I hope I wasn’t too inaccurate. Though that means that I had the time to write for more than one jerk

( + Jb cuz I can’t help myself ).

———

The way everyone would find out at first would be during a group meeting where the topic of pets would come up. Everett would casually bring up his two dogs back home during the conversation. Oh, that’s awesome! Shiloh would add up to it by mentioning his three cats. Who else has a pet? Oh, Jb has both cats and dogs. That’s terrific!

Jb would look at the rest of the guys expectantly, but there would be no response from them. What? don’t tell her they’ve suddenly become too timid to admit the existence of their pet companion.

Ah, no, it seems they don’t have any pets after all. Not that it’s too surprising that these goons don’t have a creature to care for, ahah.

Shiloh, noticing your exclusion of the conversation

(as well as ignoring Pran’s ) gives you a smile and asks if you have any pets.

You tell them that you have an 18ft reticulated python. Their eyes widen, that’s so freakin’ cool! Jb, Shiloh and Nate would be ones to pester you with questions while the others, pretending to be disinterested, would listen closely.

Shiloh would ask you questions such as, what does it look like? What’s their name? For how long did you have it? Who takes care of your python while you’re in boarding school?

Nate would ask you questions surrounding on how to care for a reticulated python. What type of housing should it have? At what size is appropriate for a reticulated python to be placed in a gallon tank/vivarium before they need a bigger enclosure? How do you maintain the heat, humidity and bedding? What’s the proper way to handle their behavior and temperament to build trust?

Honestly, Nate would ask so many questions that at least one of them would ask if he considers having one himself. Well of course not! He doesn’t have enough of an open schedule to care for one, but is it wrong for him to ask? No, he didn’t think so.

Jb, well, she wouldn’t exaaactly ask any real questions. It’ll mostly be her throwing flirty remarks at you while making everyone else groan.

“ Did ever tell you that people with large snakes are super hot? So it’s pretty gosh darn amazing that a certain cutie happens to have one in this room, wink wink”.

Overall Lynn would be pleased with the shared bonding without his direct influence.

At some point during your relationship with any of the jerks, they’ll come to your home to finally meet the reptile. Here’s how I think that would go:

Jb, Everett, Nate and Jeremy with an S/O that owns a reticulated python

Jb: She was very excited when giving you a visit! Maybe a bit too excited in fact, you decide to remind her on what to keep in mind. Yeah yeah, she gives you her ‘ I’m not actually paying attention’ grin.

You give her a affectionate sigh.

Wow, what a stunner! At first glance Jb begins to compliment your baby, you made a risk there y/n, she could easily run away with a looker like that.

Haha, very funny. You’d enjoy the rest of the day listening to her having a one sided conversation with your python as well as making jokes at Shiloh’s expense over the fact that this reticulated python baby would be a much better group mate than that freckled boy.

Of course you can’t help but feel a bit bad over the mean spirited attitude so quickly change your mind and say that it would be nice to have both of those snake cuties in a meeting. Aww yeah! definitely, you two should totally try to sneak her/him in sometime. Lynn wouldn’t approve but maybe they can get the chance of a one on one interaction with the snakes one day.

Everett: When stepping inside he’d lean against the wall. You’d give him a friendly tease and say ” What? You aren’t afraid of him/her now are you?” Pft, yeah right as if.

He’d say that he could definitely handle a large snake like that. But he’d still keep his distance, so that big talk could easily be seen through.

Ahah, alright then. Sure, you believe him. He’s a tough guy. Since you happen to be an owner of multiple snakes you’ll suggest for him to interact with the baby ones at first.

That’ll be a relief for Everett. You’ll have to tell him how to hold them and the amount of pressure to put on his hand but once he gets the hang of it he’ll actually be pretty giddy about it.

Alright then! Then it’s time to for him to meet your big baby. He’ll carefully place himself where he’s either behind you or right beside. When unlocking the enclosure the python jumps at him slightly which makes him squeal and jump back. His reaction when he notices that he didn’t get bitten or launched at makes you laugh, but you try to contain it, so it’s more of a snort.

Hey, fuck you! Stop being a bitch. But can he really complain when he’s being a little bitch himself?

Yeah, no, that’s not even funny. Don’t joke with him like that. Jokes aside you decide to finally get serious.

You let Everett watch closely as you care for the python on your own so he can get used to the process. He wouldn’t be much of help besides that but he’ll try to make progress on how to interact. Once he finally has the courage to try it takes a few tries but when he finally has a decent grip on it. You’re proud and happy to see you two babies get along.

Nate: You were honestly not sure if you wanted him to hold the snake. When interacting with snakes you want to make sure that it’s a pleasant and not a stressful interaction for the person. Since a reticulated python is more reactive than other more calmer snakes you were a bit more concerned for his reaction.

But you were pleasantly surprised when he gently placed his hand on him/her and gave gently stroked the python front to back. What? You didn’t expect him, Nate Lawson, to not make research beforehand? He asks you, with a self satisfied grin. But this means that he now needs to know that you make sure you have all necessities ready.

You better be prepared to have him nag on you to bring him with you on pet-shopping days.

Sigh, okay Nate.

When you don’t feel like complaining over this arrangement you like to joke with him and say that it’s your “quality time” together. It makes him defensive and flustered but he brought it on himself.

Jeremy: Wait… PFFt AHAHAHHAHA! What is he wearing?! When Jeremy rang the doorbell you saw him being covered in a thick woolen sweatshirt and two pillows wrapped in front of him and back tied with a big elastic band. Omg, no , ahahaha! It’s already too good but he’s wearing boxing gloves too my god!

Sigh, he has all day. Get that laughter out. He was expecting this reaction. After your fit of laughter finally calms down you ask him what all of that was for.

Uhh, he told his parents about it. They were fine at first but when he mentioned the species and the size they got concerned and decided to put him in this humiliating ’armor’.

Oh, haha, that’s… sweet? You told him that reticulated pythons could indeed be a bit more hyper considering their aggressive feeding response. But you were going to be there beside him to guide him through everything.

Alright, then that sounds better.. he guesses. Though you’ll have to cut the elastic band off him, he’s stuck like this.

When you walk him to the enclosure Jeremy gazes at the pattern of the scales. You nudge his shoulder, “ That’s real beaut, right? “ and smile at his silent nod of agreement. While you let the python slither around your arms you casually ask him if he wants to try holding the python too.

err, that’s probably not the smartest idea. He reminds you of his scrawny arms and says that he’ll probably drop her/him. That liar! He carries a toolbox around the hobby shop all the time! But okay, you suggest that you both hold him/her to see how much of the weight he can handle. Yeah that could work. Jeremy takes a hold. Whoah, that’s heavy, maybe it’s for the best if you wrap your baby around his back. Alright there we go! Isn’t that nice?

a smile forms on his face. Should you be worried? Instantly he frowns at that joke. Oh well, his smile was enjoyed for the short while it lasted, ahah.

[randomoranges]

Paint Job

 mid-ish november 2020

Edward finally gets home late, towards the end of the day. Had he known he’d been out this long, he would have asked Étienne to get a start on dinner, but now, they’ll have to figure something out on the fly. He had errands to run which took longer than expected and he’s honestly just glad to be home. He shucks his boots in time to Mercury’s greeting and doesn’t catch from where she came from. The house is quiet, he can tell that much, but it can mean a myriad of things. He’d left Étienne still curled up under layers of blankets in bed and had it not been for the classes Étienne was giving, he would have dragged his boyfriend along, if nothing but for the change of scenery. That, or he would have stayed in bed longer and indulged in a late morning with his boyfriend.

 Mercury wags her tail excitedly and keeps watch as Edward removes his coat and scarf and then follows him to the kitchen table where he puts down his bags loaded with goodies of all sorts. Edward takes the few minutes he needs to unload the groceries and when Mercury doesn’t vie for his attention, he figures it means Étienne is in no need of his immediate attention.

 When he’s done, he gives her a treat for no particular reason, but she doesn’t seem to mind, nor does she complain. He watches her for a moment, amused and fond of her antics and then decides it’s about time he find the owner of the dog. Mercury looks up and as if reading his mind, takes the lead and heads towards the guestroom. Edward follows behind and he’s about to throw a greeting in his boyfriend’s direction, but then lets the words stumble to a halt at his lips.

 The scene before him requires no interruption, if only for its rare occurrence. Étienne is at the wooden easel he’d made him, sat in front of it, and deep in concentration as he paints. He has earphones on, which would explain why he hasn’t looked away and he seems to be submerged in the painting he’s working on. Edward can’t say that Étienne looks as peaceful and happy as he’s already seen him while he painted, but it’s a better look than what’s been playing on Étienne’s features ever since his return.

 Edward has always enjoyed watching Étienne paint, even if he hadn’t always been privy to the spectacle. There’d been something exalting in the way Étienne painted, from the deep concentration etched on his face, to the peaceful smile dangling from his lips and the way he seemed to involve his entire body in the motion. Watching Étienne paint was an experience and Edward could get lost watching him as much as he did appreciating the final work.

 Étienne’s paintings were always bold and loud as if calling for attention and catching someone’s gaze – holding it there, screaming look at me! It was impossible to look away from the movement in the brushstrokes and the thick, bold lines that danced across the canvas in a multitude of colours. Étienne’s paintings were never quiet or subtle – they seized you from the inside and Edward loved the way he felt experiencing the work – the way he was left slightly out of breath as if submerged in deep water for a long while and finally coming back up for air.

 Edward liked watching the evolution of Étienne’s paintings – the assurance he’s gotten in his brushstrokes and lines- the risks he takes in his choice of colours and the movement he creates with them on the canvas. It’s been a fascinating journey and he’s only sorry he’s missed part of it. Still, he consoles himself with the few paintings he’s managed to save over the years – from the ones he quietly brought back that Étienne was ready to throw out, to the ones Étienne had told him he could take, since he didn’t care for them anymore. Edward has lovingly looked after them over all these years and likes putting them side by side with the newer works Étienne has gifted him; from the triptych a few years back to a more recent piece just last year.

 Perhaps, with time, he’ll be able to host his own retrospective of Étienne’s works. (And it doesn’t matter what it is Étienne thinks of his own body of work. Edward might not be as well versed in art as Étienne, but he can tell that Étienne is good at it. He needs to stop selling himself so short.)

 Étienne is still tense around the shoulders and there’s still an edge to the set of his brow and the intensity of his gaze, but even if his movements across the canvas are harsh and jerky, it’s a step forward from whatever state he’d been in a few weeks back. It’s a reprieve from the sleepless nights and the catatonic days; the mornings when Edward hadn’t been able to get Étienne out of bed and the times when he’d barely eaten a thing – the classes Étienne cancelled and the walks he never took Mercury on. Edward hadn’t dealt with this side of his boyfriend in ages and the setback had stunned him. Still, it had been better than the anger that had come afterwards.

 That, had been new.

 Étienne’s anger at the state of things, at his perceived helplessness and feelings of uselessness had culminated in some rather harsh words that had been exchanged which had honestly made Edward question what he had embarked himself in. Had made him wonder if – this was even – if maybe it hadn’t been rushed. If he hadn’t bitten off more than he could chew.

 “I don’t need your fucking pity, Edward. I’m not a charity project.” Étienne had shouted at him one night, after Edward had asked if he needed anything.

 It had been the final straw. Edward had been sick and tired of being treated like garbage and he lashed out just as good. He wasn’t here to fall back on old ways. He wasn’t here to get used and abused by Étienne’s moods. He wasn’t going to accept this anymore. “You know, it’s a good thing I know this isn’t really you talking. That it’s whatever’s going on in that head of yours that’s making you act this way, but that doesn’t fucking excuse you. I’ve never pitied you and just because I give a fuck about you doesn’t mean that you get to treat me like shit.”

 Étienne had come after him, trying to get a bigger rise out of him, but Edward knew better and had walked away. They’d been making good progress, it would be a shame to throw it all away after losing so many years. It wasn’t worth it to get tangled up in the ugly bits again. Once had been enough.

 Still.

 It turned into a tense few days and the only saving grace was the video appointment Étienne had with his therapist. Amends had been made, better coping strategies had been found. Edward was only glad that whatever violent turn Étienne’s mood had taken was slowly ebbing back into a quiet simmer.

 There’d been an apology, naturally. Quiet words shared between them in the dark of night.

 “I’m sorry,” Étienne had started, reaching between the space of their bodies and hesitating for a moment, unsure whether or not it would be okay to take hold of Edward’s hands.

 “What for?” He’d asked, leaving his hand palm up, open and inviting for Étienne to take. His boyfriend had seized it like a lifeline, clutching at it as if his life depended on it. He didn’t want empty apologies; he deserved that much.

 “For being a right old jerk.”

 Edward had cracked a small smile at that, “Yeah, you have been. What of it?”

 “For lashing out at you. You’ve been – really good to me. Tolerant and helpful and patient. You didn’t deserve all of that. I am trying to keep it under control.”

 Edward knew all of that. It was why he had walked away. It was why he hadn’t decided to call it quits. He knew Étienne was really trying. Was getting the help he needed. He couldn’t fault him for what plagued him. He knew Étienne would rather function like a regular person instead of the assault his moods put him through.

 “Apology accepted.” To show that he meant it and that they were good, he’d opened his arms and let Étienne snuggle up to him. He’d held him close, rubbed his back, and wished that this storm would pass.

 The storm is passing, even if there are still a few lingering rain clouds left. This whole pandemic has taken its toll on Étienne, has left him ragged and raw and frayed at the edges, and Edward gets to see the damages left on his boyfriend day in and day out. Still, he thinks, he’d rather have a row with Étienne than let him slowly wither away back home alone.

 Mercury gives him away when she barks, perhaps bored that her master has not noticed the guest at the door and so Étienne finally looks away from his work and turns towards him. A smile, soft and gentle, blossoms on his face when he sees him and Edward consoles himself with the knowledge that there’s still this – that Étienne looks at him with such open fondness and care – that every day he lets his guard down just a smidgen more.

 “Hi Eddy.” Étienne removes the ear buds and Edward gets a whiff of jazz music coming from them. It’s a little different from what Étienne’s known to listen – grittier and angrier – fast paced and a mixture of notes fighting to be heard, but he supposes it fits with Étienne’s latest mood.

 Edward walks over to the easel and Étienne stands from the chair he’d been using. He’s wearing the rattiest most stained sweater Edward’s ever seen and a pair of sweat pants that may have once been black, but are now mostly multicoloured and still Edward thinks Étienne looks as lovely as always. He tugs him close, pulls him gently by the sleeve, until Étienne comes willingly in his embrace.

 “Careful, I might be full of paint,” Étienne warns, but Edward doesn’t care. He’s just happy Étienne looks a little bit better – that he seems to be on the mend – that he’s participating in life again.

 “I don’t know how you do it – but you have paint on your eyebrow,” He chuckles and Étienne looks up, as if he could see the paint and Edward wants more of this for his boyfriend. More of these innocent, silly moments when his guard is down and he doesn’t look haunted with the ghosts of his loneliness.

 “Errands go okay?” Étienne let’s Edward hold him, checks to make sure there isn’t any wet paint on his clothes and then molds himself to Edward’s body, making himself comfortable.

 “Not too bad. Good to be home though.”

 Étienne makes a humming noise at the back of his throat that could be agreement to Edward’s statement, but for all Edward knows, it could simply be Étienne letting him know that he’s comfortable and cozy.

 “Missed you today,” He finally says and looks up to catch Edward’s hazel gaze. The green of Étienne’s eyes is easier to see without his glasses in the way and Edward’s heart beats just a little faster. These are the moments that matter, he thinks – these quiet little exchanges that warm him up despite the cold outside.

 “Home now,” He reiterates, his voice a little thick with the moment and the emotions swimming inside his head. Étienne offers him another smile for his trouble and wiggles out of his embrace to sit back on the chair. He pulls Edward along with him and so Edward finds himself sitting on his boyfriend’s lap. Étienne holds him close, head on his chest, content little smile playing on his lips, and Edward leans in and let’s himself be held.

 He finally gets a good look at the painting and marvels at the intensity of it, as well as the dizzying display of figures and lines. It’s very loud, he thinks, and raw. It’s a little different from what Étienne usually does, but Edward believes he knows why.

 “It’s not much – but, it helps.” Étienne offers as an explanation.

 “I like it.” He does. He always means it, when he says he likes one of Étienne’s paintings. He likes the way they make him feel. From the raw emotions to the dizzying movement and everything in between. Étienne communicates in brushstrokes and white canvases he fills with his own essence and being and Edward is only glad he gets to read and interpret the messages once more.

 He wonders, and not for the first time, if all of Étienne’s paintings hadn’t always been a little bit autobiographical. That if he were to put them all side by side they would tell the great story of Étienne Maisonneuve. Of his triumphs and downfalls. Of misery and victory.

 “You always say that,” Étienne admonishes softly, but he still looks a little pink in the cheeks and slightly pleased by the compliment. “Thank you,” He ads and furrows his face back into Edward’s chest, where it’s perfectly ensconced in the folds of his clothing; where he’s safe and loved.

 FIN

[dastardlydutchvanderlinde]

Hosea. Dutch. Gayness. Angst. Pls ❤️

I love you for sending this. This is based on a video I saw @vandermatthews reblogged https://vandermatthews.tumblr.com/post/180245422063

“Next time I’ll slit your throat myself.”

The venom in Hosea’s voice wasn’t something that was heard often insidecamp. Everyone forgot sometimes that this was the man who had first ran withDutch, the only man with the backbone to reign him in. It made sense there wasdarkness to Hosea, but Arthur had never really gotten used to seeing it. 

Sean stuttered. He was the one holding the rifle but there was noquestion over who would wind up bleeding out if it came to it. 

Hosea snarled as he released Sean, pushing the man almost off his feet.He starts to march away, only to spot Arthur, “He’s useless that big sack ofturd.”

“Mhm, I know that.” Arthur responds, mostly because if he didn’t agreewith Hosea that anger would be taken out on him. 

Sean staggers, finding his footing. “I’m- I’m- I’m sorry!” He callsafter Hosea, but the man has already stormed away. 

“Wouldn’t waste your breath.” Arthur says, adjusting in his saddle. “Youand him ain’t ever gonna be friends.”

“What I ever do to him eh?” Sean says, straightening out his shirt sleeves. 

Arthur chuckled. “It ain’t what you did to him.” 

Sean look at him, exasperated. “Now what the fuck’s that supposed tomean?”

Hosea liked everyone in camp well enough, but Sean? There was asignificant frostiness there. There was also one detail about Sean thateveryone else in the camp lacked. 

“You tried to kill Dutch, idiot.” Arthur says, like it’s the mostobvious thing in the world. 

Sean throws his hands up in the air. “Aye, and the bloody bastardforgave me not ten seconds later! Come on Arthur, I’m not the only person herewho’s had a go am I?”

Arthur shrugs. “Guess you could count Kieran as an O’Driscoll, but thenthat still ain’t Dutch specifically. They want to kill us all.” 

“God damn it. Why’s Hosea all up in arms about it still anyway, that wasages ago! All in the past!” Sean says, kicking at the dust. 

There was a perfectly reasonable explanation as to why Hosea still heldthat particular grudge, but if Sean was too dense to see it Arthur wasn’t goingto open his eyes. “Clearly Hosea don’t see it like that.” 

Sean snorts. “Clearly.”

Arthur sighs, gently pushing his horse to move. He had actually been onhis way out. “Look, if I were you I’d give him a wide berth. Just don’t speakto him if you can help it. In fact, just don’t speak.”

“Very funny Arthur, you’re a funny guy!” Sean grumbled. “Where you offto anyway?”

“No business of yours.” Arthur shouts over his shoulder, disappearinginto the night. 

Sean sits himself back down on the tree, vowing to stay awake this time.The camp is fairly quiet, especially now everyone had heard Hosea’s outburst.He’d headed off towards the partially hidden scout campfire and by the soundsof it the rest of the camp had gone in the opposite direction. 

 Lenny had been sat in the quiet of the scout campfire, but one quicklook at Hosea approaching had him standing within seconds. 

“You okay?” Lenny asks the older man, shoving his pack of cards backinto his pocket. 

Hosea waved a hand. “Sure. I just, need a minute.” 

Lenny hesitated, but he’d been within earshot of the little incidentwith Sean. “You… you sounded pretty pissed back there.” 

Hosea sighs heavily, taking a seat by the fire on one of the logs.“Well, I can’t say I was happy to find that shit stain asleep on watch.”

“Went off on him like he’d killed the dog.” Lenny says, and he doesn’trealise how close his made up scenario was to the real reason behind Hosea’shatred. 

It takes every ounce of his self control not to react with violence tothe simple conversation. Lenny didn’t know, he was just trying to be nice toHosea. 

Visibly biting his tongue, Hosea tilts his head down to stare at theflames. “If you don’t mind, Lenny. I’d rather be alone.”

Lenny is backing up before the request has even finished leaving hislips. He knew you didn’t poke an angry snake with a stick if you didn’t want toget bitten. “Of course, Mr Matthews. I’ll keep everyone away for you.” 

“Thanks Lenny. You’re a good kid.” Hosea said, the tiredness he feltseeping into his voice.

Lenny disappeared, heading for the safety of camp.

Hosea had half an hour before his peace was disturbed, and half an hourwas not long enough to cool off.

 The footsteps are ones he knows well, which was the only reason Hosea didn’tthrow anything at the approaching man. 

“Lenny said you were out here.” Dutch breaks the silence, standingacross the other side of the fire. 

Hosea always liked looking at Dutch in orange light, but he can’t lookat him now. If he looked at him now he’d be marching back to where Sean was nodoubt asleep again and shooting the kid without hesitation. 

When Hosea doesn’t respond or look at him, Dutch starts to move,circling around the fire until he was behind his oldest friend.

“Will you ever forgive that poor boy?” Dutch teases, standing too closebehind him. 

Hosea sighs heavily, not in the mood for taking that particularsituation in any lighthearted manner. Dutch never took his dislike for Seanseriously. He wasn’t sure if it was to try and diffuse Hosea’s hatred or if hegenuinely didn’t think it was a big deal but it did nothing to sooth the venomin Hosea’s veins. He considered humouring the question and answering, but itwasn’t something that came easily to him. Forgiveness sure, he could forgive alot, but forgetting? Hosea would never forget how damn close he had been tolosing Dutch forever. 

There’s a weight on his shoulder, and Hosea shifts until his back ispressed against Dutch. Dutch kneads his fingers along tense muscles, his thumbtracing a line up Hosea’s neck. He starts on both shoulders, and Hosea suddenlyfinds himself relaxing, all the tension being eased away. 

“He was just a kid, Hosea. No harm, no foul.” Dutch mutters, nevertaking his eyes off the man in front of him. He should be keeping a look outfor any nosey camp members, but after the chewing out Sean got and with Lennyacting as a warning, he doubts anyone would try to get within sight ofHosea. 

“Not the point, Dutch.” Hosea says, and he tilts his head back, restingagainst the solid warmth Dutch’s body provided. He didn’t need the reminderthat Dutch was alive and well, but… well. Maybe he did. 

Every time he looked at Sean all Hosea could see was the barrel of arifle pressed against Dutch’s temple. He’ll never be able to wipe the coldfeeling that had exploded into his chest, the way time had stood still as Dutchmet his eyes and Hosea had known he was saying goodbye. That he had wanted hislast moments to be with Hosea. 

He’d never not see that when he looked at Sean. 

“He nearly killed you.” Hosea whispered to the fire burning in front ofhim, unsure if Dutch would even hear him. 

The hands rubbing at his shoulders disappear, and then Dutch is in frontof him, kneeling in the dirt so they were eye to eye. 

“Look at me.” Dutch demanded, and even on his knees he was always theone to be obeyed. Hosea lifts his head, meeting Dutch’s gaze.

He moves a hand, grasping Hosea’s jaw to make sure he wouldn’t lookaway. “He didn’t kill me. I’m still here. We’re okay. We are all gonna beokay.”

“I can’t just forget it, Dutch. When you-“ Hosea cuts himself off,clenching his jaw in Dutch’s grip. 

Dutch sighs, and his hand slips around to the back of Hosea’s neck,pulling them in close. “I know. It’s just, folk notice things now. The biggerthe gang gets the more observant they become. Please, please make an effort tobe civil with Sean. I ain’t asking for you to like him, or pretend to.”

Easier said than done. Hosea can’t control the rage that burns up insidehim when he comes into contact with the idiot. “I’ll do my best to avoid him.That’s all I can promise.”

Dutch just smiles and stares at him. It’s the kind of look that isusually reserved for when they’re totally alone, the open affection the man haswritten across his expression is something that could easily get them bothkilled. 

“That’s all I ask.” Dutch says, stroking at the soft hair at the back ofHosea’s neck. 

Usually he’d jump through hoops trying to do what Dutch asked, but thistime, this time Hosea wasn’t sure if it was a request he could abide by.

Dutch nods, and starts to let go of Hosea to back up out of his space.

Hosea snaps a hand out, his fingers closing around Dutch’s wrist andstopping him from pulling away. 

There’s silence for a moment, the pair of them unwilling to pullapart. 

“I can’t-“ Hosea breaks off, taking a deep shuddering breath. It kept replayingthrough his head. He could picture it like it was happening now. The smell ofsawdust and freshly cut wood, money bags heavy on his shoulder, Dutch’s handsfrozen halfway up and his rings glinting in the sunlight. The barrel of the gunleft an indent against his skin, red and angry. Hosea can still see the fear inDutch’s eyes, and he can still imagine what it would have been like if Sean hadpulled the trigger. 

Dutch is waiting for him to finish, patiently rubbing gentle circlesagainst his thigh with the hand that wasn’t threaded through Hosea’s hair.

“I can’t stop seeing it. You, and the gun, and I knew Dutch. I knew youthought you were never gonna see me again.” Hosea whispers to the dark. 

“Stay with me tonight.” Dutch says softly.

Hosea realises they’re so close now that he can feel Dutch’s breath, andhe can’t bring himself to pull away. 

“We can’t.” Hosea hates it, but they can’t. The camp was too quiet, tooclose. They couldn’t risk it. 

Dutch doesn’t see it that way. “To hell with everyone. Stay withme.” 

Hosea knows he should refuse, but even as the words start to form in hismind, the second Dutch’s lips touch his he knows it’s a lost argument. 

Dutch kisses like his life depends on it, intense and needy, and he cannever keep his hands to himself. Before Hosea knows it they’re pressed chest tochest, with Dutch still kneeling between Hosea’s legs. If anyone saw them therewould be no way to explain it. But, with that empty look of fear on Dutch’sface still present in Hosea’s mind, he can’t stop. 

“You’d best never leave me.” Hosea growls as they break apart, clingingto Dutch’s waistcoat in a bid to make sure they didn’t topple off the log. 

Dutch smiles, and he trails kisses along Hosea’s jaw, down his throat.“I’ll try make sure you go first, old man.” 

Hosea chuckles, and he lets Dutch nip at his skin. “It’s a deal.” 

Dutch laughs, pulling back. “Glad that’s settled. Now, come with me so Ican show you how alive we both are.” 

That was a request Hosea had no intentions of refusing. 

[fuck-customers]

i've posted a few times about working in a vet clinic (the one who got yelled at when a receptionist fucked up) and believe me when i say, i understand. i know that dropping your anxious and scared pets off for several days can be nerve-wracking for both animal and owner. but some people get waaaay too anal about how their animals are treated. like this one woman we had who dropped off two huskies, lucy and penny (fake names, just in case).

so it's spring break, and this woman leaves her two huskies with us. she gets them a suite, which is just a slightly bigger room away from the other dogs, and whoever brought the dogs in got a sheet of paper with the actual word "demands!" written on it. i cannot make this shit up. a good portion of what she said wasn't a problem and was completely feasible. then she gets weird. these were her "demands," in the order they were written:

"keep them together! ALWAYS" as long as they didn't start fighting, no problem. (we're required to separate fighting dogs, for obvious reasons.)

"NO DAYCARE. keep them away from other dogs" you didn't pay for it in the first place?

"take them to the bathroom four times a day!! exactly at 6 AM, 10 AM, 2 AM, and 7 PM! do NOT force them to go in the kennel!" we have scheduled walks at 6, 1, and 5. unless your dogs have special instructions from the doctor, they walk with everyone else. we literally don't have time to do four walks a day with two hundred other dogs we have to feed and take care of, as well as general maintenance & cleaning to keep the kennel running. your dogs aren't gonna die if we don't get that extra walk in.

also, we don't "force" them to go in the kennels at night. some of them just do. it's a common thing to return after being away overnight to find some of them pooped in their runs. it's no different than waking up to find the dog pooped on the carpet while you were alseep. we just clean them off and disinfect their space so they don't sit in it all day. 

"mix wet & dry food for them. if the bowls are still full, leave it! they graze. give them treats if they aren't eating." no problem! we can do special feeding instructions!

"penny has never been away from home and is going to be scared! please hug her if you see her shaking!" ABSOLUTELY NOT. a scared dog can turn into a biting dog. i'm not risking injury by putting my face and neck near a dog who thinks of me as an enemy and then wrapping my arms around her. she's not going to be comforted, she's going to think i'm trying to hurt her and lash out. i've been bitten by scared dogs before, and even though it's going to inevitably happen more, i want to keep the number of potential bites to a minimum. 

"please bring abc and xyz into their suite for visits! these are the only two dogs they can be around!" we are literally not allowed to do this. we can't mingle dogs in the kennel because they could either get mixed up, or a fight could break out. and again, no time for this. someone would have to unload their mandatory work onto someone else to babysit four dogs in a confined space. 

"if they get cold, we have sweaters in the bag!" our kennel is heated, and again, i'm NOT risking a bite for this. your dog is not going to freeze to death in a warm room, i promise.

oh, and before anyone tries to defend this customer: she got mad when we had to separate them because, of course, the one she wanted us to hug lashed out at the other one and bit it. she demanded to know who took care of them over the weekend (me and a coworker) and told our manager that we needed to be fired for "insubordination."

because we separated her dogs from each other. 

because one of them got violent.

and drew blood.

i love my animals as much as the next person (hence, why i'm working here in the first place), but jesus christ. some pet owners need to leave the house and socialize with another human being for twenty minutes. stop helicoptering your damn dogs.

[bloojayoolie]

Being Alone, Cats, and Children: Petty's Charms will light every room in your heart! #39193 1 year old 53 lbs of FUN Waiting for his hero @Manhattan ACC TO BE KILLED 9/1/2018 “The most significant and important thing about Petty is all the love he has to give.” Volunteer Misha Barbour writes - There's nothing petty about Petty. And there's also nothing small. Personality? In the same way a star can light up the evening sky, Petty's charms will light every room in your heart, a presence truly bigger than life. His smile? It's nothing short of critical to set eyes on it once in your life. And good luck holding back a grin of your own at the sight of something so bright. But the most significant and important thing about Petty is all the love he has to give. Just moments into meeting a fellow volunteer and I found ourselves happily covered in kisses, fur, and Petty himself most of all. An every ounce of adoration was returned. Petty is a young, active boy who's said to have a tendency to guard his food so might do best with an experienced and active family without any tiny fingers or toes. He has most enjoyed the company of female dogs at the shelter. Petty will also need plenty of laps, plenty of love, and plenty of people to charm. And for everyone to know there's nothing petty about Petty. Just like there's nothing petty about love. Petty can be reserved below until 12pm ET tomorrow (9/1) Petty #39193 Male white dog @ Manhattan Animal Care Center About 1 years old Weight 53.2 lbs Owner surrender on 23-Aug-2018, with the surrender reason stated as person circumstance- moving. Volunteer Misha Barbour writes - There's nothing petty about Petty. And there's also nothing small. Personality? In the same way a star can light up the evening sky, Petty's charms will light every room in your heart, a presence truly bigger than life. His smile? It's nothing short of critical to set eyes on it once in your life. And good luck holding back a grin of your own at the sight of something so bright. But the most significant and important thing about Petty is all the love he has to give. Just moments into meeting a fellow volunteer and I found ourselves happily covered in kisses, fur, and Petty himself most of all. An every ounce of adoration was returned. Petty is a young, active boy who's said to have a tendency to guard his food so might do best with an experienced and active family without any tiny fingers or toes. He has most enjoyed the company of female dogs at the shelter. Petty will also need plenty of laps, plenty of love, and plenty of people to charm. And for everyone to know there's nothing petty about Petty. Just like there's nothing petty about love. Petty can be reserved below until 12pm ET tomorrow (9/1) Petty is at risk due to being diagnosed with Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex which is contagious to other dogs. Petty will likely require in home care with a course of antibiotics. We recommend Petty go to an adult only home. You may know me from such films as... https://youtu.be/_sdazm7J3hM My medical notes are... Weight: 53.2 lbs Vet Notes 27/08/2018 [DVM Intake] DVM Intake Exam Estimated age:1y Microchip noted on Intake?n Microchip Number (If Applicable): History :o surrender Subjective: Observed Behavior -wags tail, easily distracted by smells. o said food aggressive--not seen Evidence of Cruelty seen -n Evidence of Trauma seen -n Objective T = P =60 R =wnl BCS 5/9 EENT: Eyes clear, ears clean, no nasal or ocular discharge noted Oral Exam:clean teeth PLN: No enlargements noted H/L: NSR, NMA, CRT < 2, Lungs clear, eupnic ABD: Non painful, no masses palpated U/G: 2 testes MSI: Ambulatory x 4, skin free of parasites, fews crusts on face but seems like dirt CNS: Mentation appropriate - no signs of neurologic abnormalities Assessment: healthy Prognosis:good Plan:neuter SURGERY: Okay for surgery 31/08/2018 SO epistaxis noted on board and during kennel side exam. BAR in kennel. EN -- slight epistaxis, not actively bleeding. sneezing and serous nasal discharge. A CIRDC epistaxis P move to ISO doxycycline 100mg tablet -- give 2.5 tablets PO q24h x 14 days enrofloxacin 136mg tablet -- give 2 tablets PO q24h x 14 days cerenia 60mg tablet -- give 0.5 tablet PO q24h x 4 days Added enro due to high risk of pneumonia in shelter at this time. epinephrine 1 drop per nostril q12h x 1 day Details on my behavior are... Behavior Condition: 1. Green Behavior History Behavior Assessment Petty was stiff bodied during intake he allowed us to collar him and take his picture. He did not want to go into the kennel. He was barking and lunging at other dogs when they passed by him. Date of Intake: 8/23/2018 Basic Information:: Petty is a male white and brindle dog that is estimated to be 1 year old. His previous owner got him from a breeder and kept him at her auto shop for the past year until she had to move and was unable to take him with her. Previously lived with:: Multiple people, 1 Dog How is this dog around strangers?: Petty is friendly with strangers but was kept away from them when they arrived at the shop. How is this dog around children?: Petty was around multiple children ranging from 7-16 years of age. He usually left them alone. How is this dog around other dogs?: Petty lived with another dog and was friendly and affectionate with her. How is this dog around cats?: Petty was not around cats but would often chase them away. Resource guarding:: Petty guards his food and will try to bite anyone that tries to remove his bowl. Bite history:: Petty has no history of having bitten another person or animal. Housetrained:: Yes Energy level/descriptors:: High Energy, Confident, Pushy Other Notes:: Petty enjoys loud noises and will bark along with them. He enjoys baths and playing in water. He likes to be brushed for shot periods of time. Has this dog ever had any medical issues?: No Medical Notes: Petty has no known medical concerns. For a New Family to Know: Petty is a confident dog that enjoys playing with dogs. He had free choice of being inside or outside. He eats ate both wet and dry food. He is very house trained and is crate trained as well. He pulls lightly on the leash when being walked. Behavior Assessment Date of intake:: 8/23/2018 Spay/Neuter status:: No Means of surrender (length of time in previous home):: Owner Surrender (In home for 1 year) Previously lived with:: Adults, children (ages 7-16), and a dog Behavior toward strangers:: Friendly with some, may lunge at others Behavior toward children:: Friendly and affectionate Behavior toward dogs:: Friendly and affectionate with the dog in the home Behavior toward cats:: Chases them Resource guarding:: Yes, Petty guards food, escalating to snapping when someone touches his bowl Bite history:: None reported Housetrained:: Yes Energy level/descriptors:: Petty is described as confident and pushy with a high level of activity. Date of assessment:: 8/26/2018 Look:: 2. Dog pulls out of Assessor's hands each time without settling during three repetitions. Sensitivity:: 1. Dog leans into the Assessor, eyes soft or squinty, soft and loose body, open mouth. Tag:: 2. Dog is not fearful, but is unresponsive when touched. Approaches the Assessor when the game ends (may need coaxing to approach). Dog is focused on stimuli other than the Assessor. Paw squeeze 1:: 1. Dog gently pulls back his/her paw. Paw squeeze 2:: 1. Dog gently pulls back his/her paw. Flank squeeze 1:: Item not conducted Flank squeeze 2:: Item not conducted Toy:: 1. Minimal interest in toy, dog may smell or lick, then turns away. Summary:: Petty approached the assessor with a soft body. He was distracted during the assessment, sniffing around the room. He allowed all handling and displayed no concerning behaviors. Summary:: In the care center, Petty has succeeded best with female dogs who are respectful and gently playful. When attempt was made to introduce to the male helper dog, Petty hard barked and growled. Due to arriving as a stray, history around dogs is unknown. Summary (1):: 8/25: When introduced off leash to a female dog, Petty is soft and social, greeting nicely and staying engaged. Summary (2):: 8/26-27: Petty is soft and polite when greeting female dogs. He is tense and hard barks greeting male dogs through the fence, Summary (3):: 8/28: Petty engages in running play with female dogs. Date of intake:: 8/23/2018 Summary:: Tense, barked and lunged at other dogs ENERGY LEVEL:: Petty is described as having a high level of activity. We recommend long-lasting chews, food puzzles, and hide-and-seek games, in additional to physical exercise, to positively direct his energy and enthusiasm. BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION:: ADULT ONLY HOME Behavior Asilomar: TM - Treatable-Manageable Recommendations:: No children (under 13) Recommendations comments:: No children: Due to his previous owner reporting that Petty will snap over his food bowl, we recommend an adult only home. Potential challenges: : Resource guarding,Fearful/potential for defensive aggression Potential challenges comments:: Resource guarding: Petty is reported to snap when his food bowl is touched. For this reason, we advise against ever removing items from Petty's possession without safely trading for an item or greater or equal value. Guidance from a professional trainer/behaviorist is highly recommended to aid in safely managing/modifying this behavior in a new home environment. Fearful/potential for defensive aggression: Petty is reported to lunge at some new people. Guidance from a professional trainer/behaviorist is recommended to assess behavior after decompression in a new home environment. Force-free, reward based training is advised when introducing or exposing Petty to new and unfamiliar situations. * TO FOSTER OR ADOPT * If you would like to adopt a dog on our “To Be Killed” list, and you CAN get to the shelter in person to complete the adoption process *within 48 hours of reserve*, you can reserve the dog online until noon on the day they are scheduled to die. We have provided the Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan information below. Adoption hours at these facilities is Noon – 8:00 p.m. (6:30 on weekends) HOW TO RESERVE A “TO BE KILLED” DOG ONLINE (only for those who can get to the shelter IN PERSON to complete the adoption process, and only for the dogs on the list NOT marked New Hope Rescue Only). Follow our Step by Step directions below! *PLEASE NOTE – YOU MUST USE A PC OR TABLET – PHONE RESERVES WILL NOT WORK! ** STEP 1: CLICK ON THIS RESERVE LINK: https://newhope.shelterbuddy.com/Animal/List Step 2: Go to the red menu button on the top right corner, click register and fill in your info. Step 3: Go to your email and verify account Step 4: Go back to the website, click the menu button and view available dogs Step 5: Scroll to the animal you are interested and click reserve STEP 6 ( MOST IMPORTANT STEP ): GO TO THE MENU AGAIN AND VIEW YOUR CART. THE ANIMAL SHOULD NOW BE IN YOUR CART! Step 7: Fill in your credit card info and complete transaction Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) nycacc.org HOW TO FOSTER OR ADOPT IF YOU *CANNOT* GET TO THE SHELTER IN PERSON, OR IF THE DOG IS NEW HOPE RESCUE ONLY! You must live within 3 – 4 hours of NY, NJ, PA, CT, RI, DE, MD, MA, NH, VT, ME or Norther VA. Please PM our page for assistance. You will need to fill out applications with a New Hope Rescue Partner to foster or adopt a dog on the To Be Killed list, including those labelled Rescue Only. Hurry please, time is short, and the Rescues need time to process the applications.

[newstfionline]

Snake bites are on the rise—here’s what parents should know

Elise Solé, Yahoo Lifestyle, July 16, 2018

It’s the summer of the snake--the reptiles are slithering in droves and biting in increasing numbers.

A 17-year-old boy from Jacksonville, Fla., was hospitalized for seven hours last week after getting bitten by two snakes while mowing a lawn. “They suspect it’s some sort of rattlesnake because of how high it bit me up on my leg,” victim Connor Stoll told local news station News4Jax about the two bites on his calf. “I fell to the ground, and I went over and moved to our truck, just sat there and tried to stop the bleeding from my leg.” Stroll was fortunate that venom did not enter his body.

However, a 2-year-old girl from Oklahoma wasn’t as lucky--earlier this month while playing under a tree at her grandparents’ home in the early evening, Finley Roth was bitten by a copperhead snake. Mom Jillian told Fox 23 that her daughter made a “small cry,” and her foot “just kept getting bigger by the second” while turning purple.

The girl was hospitalized at Children’s Hospital at St. Francis in Tulsa, according to a Facebook update from Jillian, who vowed to go “snake hunting” and kill whatever lurked on the property. Since the bite, Finley’s grandfather has killed 17 snakes near his home.

In August 2017, Meg Trammell, an 11-year-old girl from Birmingham, Ala., left her house to walk her dog when she heard a rustle in the bushes and felt something zap her toe, a sensation comparable to a bee sting. “I immediately started crying,” Meg told CNN. “I thought: ‘A snake bit me and I’m gonna die!’” After spotting fang marks, Meg’s parents called 911, and later police identified the snake as a copperhead.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, every year 7,000 to 8,000 people in the United States are bitten by venomous snakes (mostly rattlesnakes, copperheads, water moccasins, and coral snakes), and five of those people die. A 2016 study published in the journal Pediatrics also found that more than 1,300 children are bitten each year across the United States (often by copperhead snakes), with the majority of victims boys and the average age of the child 10.7 years old. While bites occur every month, they’re more common in the summer.

Though snakes don’t seek to bite humans, when they’re startled or feel threatened (typically from being stepped on or poked, or by hearing loud noises), they strike quickly, due in part to skin color that often blends with their wooded, grassy environments. Some are brightly colored, but others are nearly impossible to spot.

“Bites increase during the summer when snakes come out to essentially sunbathe and people spend more time outdoors,” Julie Weber, director of the Missouri Poison Control Center, tells Yahoo Lifestyle, adding that in warmer states, they’re present year-round. Snakes don’t bite children more often than adults; however, kids might be less aware of their surroundings and more hands-on with their environments.

“You’ll know a snake is poisonous if the head is shaped like an arrow--these are called pit vipers--and if they have fangs,” she says. Although snakes usually strike and leave before a person realizes what has occurred, bites can also be “dry,” due to a lack of venom at that particular moment, as in the case of Connor Stoll.

Weber says the best way to treat a bite is to stay calm, then wash the area with soap and water, hand sanitizer, or baby wipes. “We don’t recommend icing the area or you’ll risk blood constriction, which can concentrate the venom.” Also, do not suck out venom, which can transfer bacteria from the mouth to the bite, or use suction kits, which aren’t proven effective, or apply tourniquets, which can cut blood supply.

“The best thing to do is call the poison helpline, which connects people to local control centers,” says Weber. “That’s important because, for example, a bite from a copperhead snake in Missouri is treated differently than one in Alabama.” Specialists will ask questions to provide the best treatment or contact 911.

“Also, never try to kill the snake,” says Weber. “Their reflexes are active even when dead, and a snake that is chopped in half can bite again.”

[authoratmidnight]

When I say I’ve grown up with cats and never known a house without them, I mean that 100% seriously. Our first cat Kyra was brought into the house ~November 1990, I wasn’t born till October 1991.

And there’s always been a cat in this house since. So I have literally grown up with them, which is why I just, don’t understand why people insist that all cats are unloving, vicious little things.

Because 26 years of experience and 4 cats tells me otherwise.

They’ve all had different personalities-

Kyra was a one person cat, and didn’t like being held(you can imagine, this made nail trimming absolute hell) but still liked to snuggle and be petted. Chairs were her favourite place to sleep. She was definitely my dad’s cat.

Whisper was the biggest suck up and cuddle bug in the world. Probably due to us getting him at ~5 weeks old and babying him(you could scoop him up and hold him like you were cradling a baby and he would just, lie there). He was silent as a shadow but loved to be held and carried and loved laps. He also taught himself to play fetch and would remind you that it was feeding time(I think he thought himself a panther rather than a house cat as he would stalk me). We have photos of him napping on the floor with my sister when they were both babies(or young anyways).

Bella is somewhere in between them, she likes attention and doesn’t mind being held, but for a time then she’ll complain till you put her down. She’s also a suck who weaves around feet at dinner time and sprawls on legs to get you to brush her and will curl on on the back of the couch beside your head and snore all night long.

Tora is petite and skittish, startled by every noise from the doorbell to the phone, and everything has to be on her time. Picking up? Her time. Petting? Her time. Snuggles? Her time. Play? Her time. Her affection is very much one-on-one in that she comes to you when she wants(and generally once you’re alone), but when she does, she purrs and settles into your lap and kneads gently. For maybe a minute before hopping off and leaving b/c she is fickle and flighty(and will repeat this multiple times in succession, sometimes she’ll hop up long enough to be petted and then trot off). When she wants your attention, she lets you know. Even if it means playing with your bedroom door at 2am and starting up a game of running away everytime you open it(and then coming back when you close it). And if you get on eye level with her she will groom you by licking your face. When if you’ve just come out of a shower.

But they’ve never been vicious heartless little monsters. I honestly can’t think of any bad experiences I’ve had with cats(that weren’t my fault, like when I got scratched in the face by a friend’s cat after being warned about not playing with her paws. I didn’t listen so the cat made me listen. I don’t actually remember this though since I was like, idk maybe 2?). And I’ve never seen them as ‘unloving’. Even friend’s cats that they claim are antisocial or don’t like people. I’ve gotten them to like them, to allow me to pet them, to make them purr!

Also this is probably why I have such a good read on their body language and understand them.

A bad experience shouldn’t define the entire species.

If it did, then I should be saying dogs are vicious and mean and awful, awful animals.

I’ve been growled at by dogs that I’ve had nothing but pleasant interactions with-an elderly golden retriever and my friend’s shepherd mix, one growled at small child me while I was petting it(it never growled at before that or since and I was just sitting on the ground quietly petting him), the other when we shut the lights off during a sleep over(we did eventually settle her down and let her sleep at the foot of the bed but, it was weird af). Let me tell you, it is terrifying being growled at by an animal bigger and heavier than you. Especially one that can move faster and can get to your face(and in the case of the latter, they could see me I couldn’t see them).

I could say all dogs are greedy b/c a rottie-lab mix belonging to a family I was baby sitting for kept trying to knock me over and steal the hotdogs I had made for lunch(not to mention getting her back into the house was, difficult)

The “purebred” sheltie belonging my sister’s best friend who barked up a storm when anyone went past the house, would tear through the house at top speed, bouncing over the couch and shit every time he got excited and got away with everything. He even lunged at a girl once when we took him on a walk(granted, she had been teasing him through the backyard fence earlier that day, but the fact remains, this rather large dog LUNGED at a considerably smaller girl. He didn’t bite her but he tried and it gave her a fright. That dog was a terror.

I say purebred in quotation marks because he was HUGE, if he was a purebred then I’m the queen of England. I’m convinced he was part collie or something.

Or how about the dog that bit my dad in the face when he was kid, when he did nothing more than fall in front of its house? He has no tearduct in one eye now because of that, has a glass tube instead so it can drain properly(is it any wonder he prefers cats to dogs?).

On the other hand, my best friend’s shepherd mix was a doll and a sweetheart once she knew you and a suck up and that one incident(which baffled even my friend) was the only time she growled at me. So too was the rottie mix. Said best friend also had a toy poodle who was a darling little thing.

Step-grandfather used to have a (slightly larger than normal) Bichon Frise who I don’t think ever growled.

I’ve met dogs whose biggest danger was they might lick you to death or bruise you because they were wagging their tails so furiously. My cousin has a dog and she’s more likely to sit on your feet than anything. The biggest worry with her is that she might steal unattended chips.

But cats aren’t dogs. Cats are more aloof than dogs yes, but they aren’t any less unloving because of this, they just decide when and where affection is shared.

Cats still play as much as dogs will, especially once you get them toys they like(not every cat likes every toy). Hell, one of our cats taught himself to play fetch with his stuffed lion. He’d drop it at our feet, wait for use to fling it down stairs before running after it, grabbing it and bringing it back. And repeating this till he got bored.

Cats love to climb and be up high, that’s why they climb your Christmas tree or get onto shelves, which often leads to destroyed trees and things knocked off shelves. On the other hand, some do love to be on the ground. We’ve never had Christmas tree issues(ok, Kyra knocked the tree over once, as a kitten, I’d say thta’s a pretty decent track record for 4 cats over 27 years).

While dogs seem to be down for anything, anytime, cats are, ‘when they feel like it’ animals. Dogs like vigorous activity and roughhousing, cats do not and you will get bit and clawed at if you try to roughhouse with a cat the way you do with a dog(i.e quick, vigorous full body pets, cats loath that and it overstimulates them). I’m sure there’s some cats that won’t mind that stuff, remember they all have different personalities, but more often than not, they won’t.

Not to mention, dogs are (mostly) diurnal (active during the day) while cats are (mainly) crepuscular (most active at dusk at dawn), so times when they can active and interacted with are different. An animal that often sleeps when you’re awake is going to be a turn off for some people.

They are not the same animal and can’t be treated as such, but people seem to think ‘it’s small, furry, has four legs, so clearly I can treat it like a dog’ and then get upset when the cat doesn’t like them or they get bitten or clawed.

Also, despite being aloof, cats do in fact need to be socialized with people just like dogs do, especially when they’re young, or you run the risk of ending up with a cat who seemingly hates everyone. You can’t just, get a cat and ignore it and then wonder why you have an animal that hates to be touched. You do in fact, have to actively play with them and interact with them. And socialized with other animals(i.e cats and dogs).

Cats aren’t dogs, and dogs aren’t cats. They have different needs and wants.

And the sooner people realize and understand this, the better.

[sunaddicted]

One Of A Kind 1/2 (00q, Omega!Bond)

One Of A Kind 1/2 Q wasn't a morning person, no matter that he was woken up at the weirdest hours more often than not because of the job, but still his mind seemed to have tuned his biological watch to naturally restart his body around 6:00 am if a preset alarm hadn't done that already. Though, he had to admit that waking up surrounded by James' scent and warmth was nicer and did a lot to tone down his grumpiness. Sleepily, Q rubbed his cheek over the omega's chest, covering himself in his scent: it had grown slightly sweeter in the past few days and, with only a month left to James' heat, it wasn't the only subtle change Q had noticed happening to the other man's body: if he let his hand wander to caress the underside of James' abs, he could feel a softness that usually wasn't there and that made his protective streak ramp up almost absurdly; his chest had grown more sensitive to caresses and kisses, something Q unashamedly exploited in the bedroom to bring his lover to a higher plane of pleasure; James' body produced slick almost without any stimulation and Q knew that it happened also when he wasn't aroused, which made James grumble about having to go around with spare pants to quickly change. Q too had gone off of his suppressants, since they had decided to bond after a year of dating and finally moving in together, but he didn't dare to even mention the itchy feeling that came from the hormones finally rushing freely through his bloodstream - he didn't fancy having his head bitten off by his cranky omega. And he honestly acknowledged that his symptoms weren't that bad, if compared to what James was going through as his body slowly prepared for the heat. Warm fingers slipped in his messy curls, carefully petting them away from his face and Q let his lips curl in a soft smile even as he kept his eyes closed and didn't utter a word, enjoying the quiet and sweet moment. James too wasn't a morning person and he was not-so-secretly glad that he and Q were compatible in that way: in fact, even if Q's mind wouldn't let him rest as much as he would have liked, he understood how deeply he disliked waking up early and let him sleep the mornings away if he had no work to do - which was almost every day during downtime in between missions. That morning, Q had accidentally woken him up with rubbing his stubbly cheek against his chest which was growing annoyingly sensitive; he wasn't particularly upset about that, since Q wasn't the kind of person who started chattering as soon as his brain turned on and that meant he'd be able to fall back asleep. Though, the cats that had been slumbering at the bottom of the mattress, immediately perked up at the barest hint of conscious movement and purred loudly as they climbed up to butt their heads against them in a clear plea for breakfast. To be honest, James had never particularly been fond of cats - what with having spent his childhood in Skyfall around hunting dogs and their puppies - especially since their inborn evil streak led them to shed their hair on his suits; but Q and the cats came together as a package deal and James had welcomed them all in his flat, which no more was depressingly bare. Q sleepily pushed the cats away, hand awkwardly flying through the air, and the little beasts relented - for the moment. James had had enough time to study their behavioural patterns to know that they'd come back soon, louder and more indignant than before - Turing, a ginger beast that weighted far more than it should have, in particular. James gently brushed the pad of his thumb over Q's forehead, as if trying to smoothen a crease that wasn't there "They're like the plague, they always come back" he murmured, voice twisted with light humour. Q swatted James' stomach half-heartedly, too tired to gather the strength to hit him properly "Don't compare my babies to the plague" he mumbled, voice rough with sleep and an endearing pout blossoming on his lips. James couldn't help chuckling a little at the sight, his thumb swiping down Q's cheek before going to absentmindedly rub over his lower lip that, sometime during the previous day, Q had gnawed upon almost to the bleeding point; it didn't happen often, but it was a sign that a stressful day had taken its toll on the usually cool Quartermaster - it also explained the.. vigour Q had displayed the night before. Not that James minded, not at all: the closer he got to his heat, the more appreciated fast and hard sex was - his patience for long teasing momentarily cut really short. Q puckered his lips, sleepily kissing the pad of James' thumb before giving it a little nip - just like his cats would do to get rid of the cuddles once they had enough of them. He just wanted to trick his brain into sleeping some more, since he was expected at work only in the early afternoon - even lightly dozing half-curled over James' warm body would be enough. Then, both of their mobiles went off. *** "For how long has he been screeching like that?" Bill inquired, a wince on his face: not even the heavy wooden door of M's office was enough to completely muffle the shouting coming from inside the room "He's got a pair of lungs on him that I wasn't aware about" Bill added, shrugging at his own useless observation. James just offered a grimace in answer: Q had been in a foul mood since they had received a text about an upcoming mission for which they had been both required. Normally, Q was more collected than that; in fact, even if he didn't like the idea of sending his lover in the most dangerous situations often armed with just a gun, he didn't act like an alpha might when his omega risked being harmed - that was what James loved about Q the most: he didn't coddle him, nor was he annoyingly overprotective and possessive. "I'm close to my heat" the agent added in the end, leaning against the wall. Bill frowned: it certainly wasn't the first time that James was off of his suppressants to give his body a rest from the chemicals before being called for a mission "You can take suppressants" he pointed out, not really seeing the problem. "Q requested bonding leave for the next month" "Oh" Bill's mind took a couple of seconds to realise what the words meant "You were going to bond, I see. Well, that and Q being off of suppressants too explains a lot about... That" he waved towards M's door. James hummed in agreement, not particularly keen on discussing his private life so out in the open. Plus, he was feeling a little guilty: he wasn't as enraged as Q was about the possibility of skipping the heat and having to wait for his body to stabilise again before bonding; he liked the idea of having more time to be completely sure that he was ready for bonding - even if he definitely wanted to bond with Q, James wouldn't mind having a couple of months more to let the idea fully settle in his brain. "I'm sorry" James frowned at his colleague "What for?" "For your bonding" Bill was sorry that, once again, the agent had to give up on a little piece of normal life because of the job. Q's rage was completely understandable and Bill would have tried to find another solution, if only the mission didn't require the experience of a seasoned agent such as James. "We can do it when I come back" James answered, dismissing the unnecessary apology: that was the nature of his work, unpredictable - and Q knew it as much as he did "He's making this into a bigger deal only because he's a little high on hormones" As soon as the words left James' throat, the door opened with a loud bang and Q stormed out of the office, body wired with nervous energy and his scent so strong and menacing that, had James been a typical omega, it would have reduced him to whiny mess on the floor. "007, come and pick up your equipment" Q snarled, barely even looking at his lover and Tanner as he angrily strode to his branch. Shame and anger were curdling in his veins: he wasn't used to his alpha nature taking the wheel and Q knew that he had probably offended James too with his little scene - it wasn't as if Q had any say in whether James wanted to accept a mission or not and, certainly, an approaching heat wouldn't have been a reason for the omega to turn down a job. Sighing and breathing deeply in an attempt at calming himself down, Q entered his branch and valiantly tried to ignore the minions who stared at him because of the rumors already circulating and the aggressive scent hanging around him like a poisonous mist. He could smell James following closely behind so, Q ducked in his office in order to have a little privacy. While Q darkened the glass walls of his office, James closed the door behind his back and sat down on the battered couch the Quartermaster slept on quite often. Q sighed, going behind his desk to rifle in his drawers and cabinets to find everything he needed to put together the agent's kit "I'm sorry" James was honestly getting tired already to hear those words; his stomach twisted a little when they came from Q, though: what if it wasn't an apology but only the start for a break up? Maybe the alpha, usually so understanding and patient, had gotten fed up with his being so.. atypical "It's okay" "No, it's not" Q slipped a radio and a earwig in the usual case, gently putting it in the foam "I know that this is the nature of our jobs - I shouldn't have lost it like that" he apologised, looking down at his fingers fiddling nervously with the equipment before he slipped a hand in his pocket and put on his desk a bottle of suppressants that he had grabbed from home when they had been called into MI6; he had known that James was going to accept the mission and, for no reason in the world, Q would let his omega go to Medical when there was no real necessity. James walked up to the alpha, arms going around Q to hold him close to his chest "I know it's frustrating" he murmured against his temple, lips brushing the soft skin. Q smiled "Not worse than having me falling asleep on any available surface, I suppose" he turned his head slightly to the side, tilting it up to kiss James' cheek "Let's get to work"

[kathydsalters31]

My Dog Would Never Bite… And Other Lies.

I have been a dog trainer for over twenty-five years now…

Yikes, I feel old saying that!   But it’s true…

And I mention this because I have to admit: what I believed was true about dog aggression at 20 versus 45 years of age has changed… a LOT!

I have trained police dogs… worked in a bite suit… and seen the purest forms of dog aggression.  With so much experience that I now see the very subtle changes in a dog’s countenance and behavior right before he bites.

So much that the hairs on the back of my neck stand up when I see certain changes in a dog’s behavior…

… Changes that my coworkers in veterinary medicine never notice.

I remember about a year ago, a two-year-old Cane Corso came to our clinic.  I was the “room tech” so I greeted him and his mom, put them in a room, and discussed what he was due for that year.  The dog was admittedly nervous, sitting in his mom’s lap, but he seemed alright.

He was due for a heartworm test.  A heartworm test requires a tiny blood sample and most owners don’t want to watch you poke their dog in the jugular with a needle.

So I took the dog, on leash, to the back treatment area to meet one of my coworkers.

As I put him into a “sit” and my coworker got on her knees to draw his blood, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up.

There was a slight change in his behavior, he stiffened.

Doesn’t sound like much, but it can be a telling warning sign.

I suggested a muzzle, to which a few of my coworkers scoffed.  But I was always a better safe than sorry tech.

He did okay, he survived; I took him back to the room and his “mom”.

But when the vet entered the room he lunged and tried to bite her face. 

Thankfully, I was her technician and already didn’t trust the dog and was prepared for aggression.

Point of the story?  Signs of aggression aren’t always easily spotted until the aggressive behavior turns into a dangerous dog bite.

Even after the lunging episode at the vet and the near bite, the owner was in denial.  She didn’t want her dogs muzzled (which I completely don’t understand since a muzzle is better than a reported dog bite and a mauling) and she was praising and cooing to her dog as he growled and snarled when he got his vaccines.

Listen To What Your Dog Is Telling You… Before He BITES!

At this stage in my career, I rarely pull punches.  At 20 years of age, I would have sugar-coated to this dog’s owner that perhaps they could use some training with this dog and perhaps she shouldn’t reward him while he is growling.

At 45 years of age, I will tell you that this dog is going to bite someone, badly, and likely need euthanasia if the owner doesn’t get the aggression and the fear under control.

People often start a conversation off with:

“Don’t worry… He would never actually bite…”

“He is sweet at home.”

“He has never acted like that…”

“He was a rescue…”

… These are some of my first indicators that the dog has AGGRESSION ISSUES!

Let us be honest.

If you find yourself making excuses that sound like these… you’re in denial… lying to yourself.

Nobody Wants To Admit Their Dog Is AGGRESSIVE…

Nobody wants to have the “bad dog” …

… Or the dog that needs a muzzle … or the dog with aggression issues.

But just because your dog has “never bitten” doesn’t mean he never will.  And if you’re already making excuses for borderline behaviors that are making you NERVOUS around your dog… Or, you’re brushing off or soothing other people’s concerns about your dog…

… I must warn you:

You’re risking the safety and lives of other people and kids.

You’re risking the safety and lives of other dogs.

And you’re the life of YOUR DOG!

(Who may be euthanized if he bites, attacks, or mauls someone.)

It is always better to err on the side of caution than to have a dog bite or maul a human or another dog.

It’s Always Better To Be SAFE Than SORRY…

At one clinic I worked at; one of our technicians almost got bit in the face.  She was young and new as a veterinary technician and she was down on her knees in front of an aggressive dog (something I rarely if ever do without a muzzle).  Thankfully, as the dog lunged for her face, the owner intervened and blocked the attack with his arm.  The dog had never bitten before, but left the owner with huge gashes.

Even though the dog bit his OWNER… the bite had to be reported… the dog quarantined… and the dog was added to the “dangerous dogs” list.

It would have been so much easier to just have the owner muzzle the dog.

People get so wrapped up in what other people may think of them, or their dog.  They don’t want us to judge them or to blame them, or to hate their dog.

The truth is that what other people think literally doesn’t matter at all.  People tend to be a judgmental and will judge you for the shoes that you wear or the car that you drive, so why would you care about how they feel about your dog?

Stop Caring What Others Think And Protect Your Dog

We need to stop caring what others think and protect ourselves and our dogs.

If your dog is fearful… skittish… anxious…. or aggressive… teach your dog to HAPPILY wear a muzzle.

Keep your dog from putting his life on the line.  Keep him from having a true aggressive experience.

I don’t care if he has never bitten anyone before. I understand that you love him and 90% of the time he is a great companion.  No dog is aggressive 100% of the time.  Most dogs are only sporadically aggressive.  Most often, he is your best friend.

But believe him when he warns you.

The Warning Signs:  Your Dog Is Getting Ready To Bite

Staring/Hard Eyes: Dogs don’t usually stare unless they are stimulated or overstimulated.  When your dog sees a squirrel, he likely stares because of prey drive.  His eyes lock on and he stares at his prey.  Equally, when a dog stares at another dog or a human, his pupils will often grow and harden.  Instead of sweet squishy face, his countenance changes.

Freezing/Stiffening: His countenance changes and then his body freezes or stiffens waiting for impending attack.  Both of these warning signs are often ignored by owners and even those in the field.  But, these are usually the first signs that make most of us on a primary and instinctual level take note or feel uneasy.  I remember reading a book called “The Gift of Fear” in which the author begs you to listen to that prehistoric part of your brain that is telling you something is wrong.  Don’t get on the elevator with a person if your amygdala is telling you not to.  Who cares what people think.  Listen to your instincts, don’t push that aside and wait for a serious injury.

Wide eyes (a.k.a. “whale eyes”):  The “whale eye” is a real thing.  I first heard the term maybe 20 years ago from a trainer and expert in the dog bite field named Sue Sternberg.  She studied dogs in shelters and performed temperament tests in order to adopt out adoptable dogs while euthanizing those with aggression. As she explained; right before a dog bites he often looks to the side so that you can see the whites of his eyes (whale eye).  Nothing showed me this phenomenon quite as clearly as being in a dog bite suit.  Over and over, I could see the dogs look to the side and then bite.  It is an interesting phenomenon for sure.  So, when I see the whites of a dog’s eyes, I know I am moments away from an actual bite.  But how many people know that?

Hackles up/Growling/Barking/Lunging/Hiding/Snarling: These are all indicators that your dog is uncomfortable!  He is trying to communicate this to you with his body language. By ignoring or rationalizing these behaviors … or worse, making excuses… you are setting him up for a BIGGER SHOW of aggression — potentially a bite!  These signs tell us your dog is uncomfortable and emotionally triggered.

Don’t Let It Get This Far!

Your dog doesn’t have the ability to understand the repercussions of his aggressive behavior.

He is simply reacting, trying to stop behavior he finds stressful or triggering.  And maybe, he’s already received positive reinforcement for these aggressive behaviors.  He’s learned, for example, if he growls when someone tries to pet him, the person backs away.  Or if he barks, people jump back.

He sees these “smaller” acts of aggression getting results.

So it’s only a matter of time before he escalates to a BIGGER SHOW of aggression… when people or dogs don’t respond as he expects to the smaller acts of aggression.

Lunging… biting… mauling.  That’s what’s next.

Will you let it get that far?  Or will you act to prevent aggressive behaviors now?

The 8 Types Of Dog Aggression

When we talk about aggression or aggressive behavior we often talk about Fight or Flight.  When challenged will you stand and fight or will you give up or run?  What happens if you run but can’t get away or your aggressor continues the aggressive behavior?  Will you resort to violence and fighting then?

Aggression training has a few vital components that are important to understand!

#1 – Forward Aggression

Forward aggression is outright aggression or confident aggression.  This has no components of fear aggression.

When the dog is aggressive it is making a conscious and bold choice toward the behavior.   When I think about this kind of aggression I picture the perfect police or protection dog (Belgian Malinois or German Shepherd).  They assess the situation and are confident in their aggression.  And, although this is a dangerous dog, this kind of aggression is fairly rare without extreme training or having something wrong physically (think seizure disorder) and genetic conditions.

Occasionally I hear from dog owners or young puppy owners whose puppies are showing extreme and confident aggression at a very young age.  This is not normal, and usually means there is something wrong genetically or mentally.  This is when I often recommend the help or assistance of a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.  Why?  Because a veterinary behaviorist can help not only with behavior modification training but they can also prescribe medications.

Be aware, anyone can call themselves a “behaviorist”, only seek those with a veterinary degree and who went to school for several more years to attain.  Often, veterinary behaviorists then utilize good positive professional dog trainer to help with that behavior modification schedule.

#2 – Prey Aggression

Prey aggression is exactly as it sounds.  This is the desire to chase and hunt.  Again, this is a very forward behavior.

Most dogs will exhibit SOME form of predatory behavior… but some dogs have MORE prey drive than others.

(Especially some working breeds.)

Extreme predatory behavior and prey drive can be hard to control.  There’s an old saying:  “Once a dog tastes blood, you will never break him from killing.”  True or not, the challenge is that chasing and killing other animals is FUN for many dogs, due to their predatory instincts.

When we train police dogs and protection dogs, we train them mostly by building their prey drive, letting them chase and bite and then building their confidence.  We often begin this training at anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks of age.  We allow them to win and conquer and build that confidence so that they believe they can win any war against human aggression even when conflict arises, they are taught how to battle.   We also work with their feelings of “possession” or possession aggression.  Once they have bitten the assailant, we want them to hang on and possess that person.  We teach them to possess and defend what they win.

Essentially these dogs are taught and molded toward this forward aggression.  These are ALL of the things you want to avoid with pet dog training!

#3 – Possession Aggression

Possession aggression is often a more forward type of aggression.  It can be genetic, as I have seen 6-week-old puppies with severe aggressive possessive behaviors that can only be explained by genetics.

But often this dog behavior arises from some conflict with the dog owner.   The dog or puppy, steals something that he should not have and the owner chases him down and snatches it out of his mouth.  The behavior also often comes with a reprimand verbally and sometimes often physically.  These encounters fill the dominant dog or puppy with hostility and anger.

Imagine going to school every day and having the school bully hit you in the face and take your dessert.  If you were submissive, you would give it up.  But if you were confident and a little bit dominant you might decide to fight.  Day after day you are filled with rage until one day you stand up for yourself and prepare to fight.

This is how your puppy or dog feels when you snatch “his things or the things that he wants.”  And, then if he snarls or growls, most dog owners will stop their forward behavior.  This teaches the dog that their aggressive behavior keeps that conflict away and they win!

Winning brings confidence, and confidence backed by aggression in dogs often brings more severe aggression the next time.

Keep the dog on leash and teach him appropriately how to give up things and exchange.

#4 – Territorial Aggression

Dogs who are more dominant in nature will often exhibit guarding behaviors… and be territorial about their property, their people, and objects/items they perceive as belonging to them.

This form of aggression can be both FORWARD and DEFENSIVE.

But most often it is blatant with no component of fear.  This dog will bite you for coming on his property or coming in his home.  He may even bite you for touching or coming near his owner.  He sees these things as HIS THINGS, to be defended.

Plus, it’s important to be aware that guarding behaviors can be FUN for dogs.  It breaks boredom and gives them something “fun” to do–which can make it DANGEROUS as it becomes a habit or even an addiction in some cases.

#5 – Defensive Aggression

Defensive aggression comes from that feeling of “flight” or getting away.  Your dog is feeling afraid and often his inability to get away from the situation brings out aggression.   This, in my opinion, is the most dangerous form of aggression because it is hard to know where the dog’s confidence lies and where his breaking point lies.

#6 – Fear Aggression

Fear aggression is very difficult for dog owners.  Most want to deny it is happening at all, some want to make excuses (like he was abused), or you have the dog owners who ignorantly praise and making “comforting” noises at dogs who are exhibiting fear aggression.

This inadvertent praise raises the dog’s confidence with his fear and his aggression.

Instead of teaching true confidence or working on problems, the dog becomes complacent and contented by his own aggression and aggressive displays.

We often see this in veterinary medicine!  The dog is crawled up in the owner’s lap, trying to get away, growling and snarling, sometimes lunging then retreating; all while the owner pets the dog and tells him “It’s okay, it’s okay” and describing what a tough life he is lead.

And if a muzzle is recommended to keep everyone safe this dog owner is horrified.

Yes, aggression, especially fear aggression, can be rewarded by an ignorant or even calculated dog owner.

Some dog owners, intentionally reward defensive dog aggression whenever the dog hears a sound outside or someone comes to the door.  They want a “protective” dog, but don’t realize the dog is barking because he is fearful and unsure; and by rewarding that they are creating an unpredictable monster.

I would much rather deal with a forwardly aggressive dog because I can clearly read his terms.  Fearful or defensive dogs are almost impossible to accurately read because they are unpredictable, even to themselves.  I have seen fearful dogs bite people and then look amazed and horrified by their actions.

This kind of aggression needs to be recognized and dealt with as soon as possible so that owners can encourage confidence instead of fear.

#7 – Reactivity Aggression

Reactivity is a learned behavior that stems from fear and discomfort.

Often, ignorant dog owners teach their dogs these behaviors by both ignoring or trying to correct these fearful behaviors.

Let us first talk about ignoring the behavior.  When your dog sees another dog and becomes slightly aggressive or reactive and you do nothing, this defensive behavior grows as a form of displaced confidence.  The next time he sees a dog or a person and you do nothing this displaced confidence that came from a place of fear, well, it grows.

Eventually, it is out of hand and can no longer be controlled.

At the point that most dog owners seek help for dog aggressive behaviors their behavior have spiraled out of control and are just then being addressed by the dog owner who has allowed these behaviors to flourish.

On the other hand, some owners try to correct this behavior…   The dog sees another dog and doesn’t know what to do, so maybe he barks or growls.  The dog owner swiftly reels in the dog with a tight leash, possibly yells or physically disciplines the dog to stop the behavior.  What happens is the nervous dog, unsure of himself around this other dog, feels the physical and emotional pain of discipline.  He is confused.  He associates the correction with the other dog… and this further reinforces his fears and uncertainty about other dogs.

The next time the dog encounters another dog, he’s once again unsure of himself… the dog owner confirms these fears again with a physical correction… and the downhill spiral continues, with the dog owner unwittingly making the aggression worse.

So What’s A Concerned Dog Owner Supposed To Do?

Now let’s have an honest conversation …

… If your dog shows any degree of aggression, what can you do about it?

Even if you suspect that you’ve inadvertently made the problem WORSE?

The MOST IMPORTANT thing I can tell you is this:

Don’t make excuses.  Don’t ignore the problem.

Your dog doesn’t get a free pass to behave aggressively because he’s a rescue… he was abused… he had a bad experience…

Whatever happened, wherever he came from, there are to be no more excuses.

His present behavior, today, matters.  His future with you matters.

Live in the present, deal with the aggression issues he’s exhibiting TODAY.

STEP #1 – Be the person in your dog’s world who deals with all things scary.

Stop allowing him to feel in charge of everything in his environment.  Never make your dog feel like it’s his duty to defend or protect your family or property.  Let your dog see that he can rely on YOU to deal with everything scary.   People ask me: aren’t I afraid something may happen to me or someone may break into my house?  NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!  If something were to happen and I was scared, truly scared, I know that my dogs would step up and deal…. But those are the contingencies.

STEP #2 – Teach your dog CONFIDENCE!

Teach CONFIDENCE!!!!  We want confident and independent children, don’t we?  So why then are we fostering fear in our dogs?

Confident dogs are crucial.  If you see a fear don’t ignore it or keep him from it.  I can’t believe how many owners come to me saying their dog fears the clicker.  And, let me tell you, that was me in the beginning of my career.  I was training service dogs taken from shelters, I got a dog and she was terrified of the clicker…

I went to the “powers that be” of the organization and they basically told me “if she couldn’t get over the sound of the clicker, then she couldn’t be a service dog”  I was horrified at first!  How could they be so uncaring, then I realized they were right… imagine the sounds you hear in public… waaaaaay worse than a click.

So, I clicked until she could care less.  In the beginning, it sent her running…. But after I did it nearly constantly while I watched TV etc.  she got over it.  She learned to be successful and she was placed!  It taught me to reevaluate a dog’s fears.

STEP #3 – Make & Teach Eye Contact

Know what else gives dogs confidence?  EYE CONTACT!!!!   Eye contact and focus gives an under-confident dog a coping mechanism.

I currently own an under-confident dog, my Malinois.  He is also not necessarily friendly.  So  I have taught him to give me eye contact and focus when he is nervous.  If he does so, I will reward him heavily and valiantly for making a good choice.

He was honored a few years ago for being one of the fastest swimming dogs in North America.  If you look at him you can’t see his under confidence because he gets his confidence from me.  He gives me eye contact and his own focus in trials such as this, and it has become his coping mechanism.

I have told this story before, but I’m a runner … And while running with me, my dogs can’t pull but they don’t have to be in perfect heel position; it isn’t rational.

So we were running in the neighborhood when I saw a dad out walking with his double stroller.  I knew it was a guy with 2 kids… my dog didn’t.

Apparently, he was scared or at least feeling unsure, because he immediately put himself in the heel position and gave me eye contact and focus!

I instantly knew:  my dog didn’t know what the strange-looking contraption was.  But I had given him the confidence and coping mechanisms to deal with his insecurity in an appropriate way!  Teach your dog good coping mechanisms.

#4 – Be Willing To Admit You Need Help

Working with dogs exhibiting aggression isn’t something you should tackle alone.

If you don’t feel SAFE handling your dog… if you’re AFRAID of your dog… then get a professional involved:  a board-certified behavioral specialist.  Speak with your local vet, see who they recommend.  Ask around before investing any money in training to be certain you’re dealing with a professional who is prepared to help YOU train your dog safely, not a snake oil salesman who will use fear and punishment to dominate your dog FOR YOU — and ultimately make your dog’s fear and aggression issues worse.

If you’re still comfortable handling your dog, and you feel like you’re dealing with more minor aggression and fear issues, then consider checking out our 8-Week “Emotional Recalibration Training (ERT) Program, delivered 100% online, that teaches you to control your dog’s reactive and fear-driven behaviors… so he’s less likely to have an aggressive outburst.

And he’s finally predictably calm and trustworthy around other people and dogs.

Click here to learn more about ERT Training For Aggressive & Fearful Dogs

However, keep in mind this isn’t a quick fix either.  You need to be willing to watch the videos we’ll send you, and do the assigned training exercises with your dog.

It comes with a money-back guarantee, and you can try the first 4 weeks for free, but still — you need to do the work if you want to see the results.

But honestly… wouldn’t it be NICE to stop feeling afraid… that your dog is going to bite someone (a child?) or attack another dog?  And relax when you’re out in public with your dog?  Or having guests over to your house?

Aggressive dogs need to be handled like loaded guns.  With care, concern, and the right training and information.  The wrong move can have deadly consequences.

source http://www.luckydogsolutions.com/my-dog-would-never-bite-and-other-lies/ from Lucky Dog Solutions https://luckydogsolutions.blogspot.com/2020/07/my-dog-would-never-bite-and-other-lies.html

[barryswamsleyaz]

My Dog Would Never Bite… And Other Lies.

I have been a dog trainer for over twenty-five years now…

Yikes, I feel old saying that!   But it’s true…

And I mention this because I have to admit: what I believed was true about dog aggression at 20 versus 45 years of age has changed… a LOT!

I have trained police dogs… worked in a bite suit… and seen the purest forms of dog aggression.  With so much experience that I now see the very subtle changes in a dog’s countenance and behavior right before he bites.

So much that the hairs on the back of my neck stand up when I see certain changes in a dog’s behavior…

… Changes that my coworkers in veterinary medicine never notice.

I remember about a year ago, a two-year-old Cane Corso came to our clinic.  I was the “room tech” so I greeted him and his mom, put them in a room, and discussed what he was due for that year.  The dog was admittedly nervous, sitting in his mom’s lap, but he seemed alright.

He was due for a heartworm test.  A heartworm test requires a tiny blood sample and most owners don’t want to watch you poke their dog in the jugular with a needle.

So I took the dog, on leash, to the back treatment area to meet one of my coworkers.

As I put him into a “sit” and my coworker got on her knees to draw his blood, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up.

There was a slight change in his behavior, he stiffened.

Doesn’t sound like much, but it can be a telling warning sign.

I suggested a muzzle, to which a few of my coworkers scoffed.  But I was always a better safe than sorry tech.

He did okay, he survived; I took him back to the room and his “mom”.

But when the vet entered the room he lunged and tried to bite her face. 

Thankfully, I was her technician and already didn’t trust the dog and was prepared for aggression.

Point of the story?  Signs of aggression aren’t always easily spotted until the aggressive behavior turns into a dangerous dog bite.

Even after the lunging episode at the vet and the near bite, the owner was in denial.  She didn’t want her dogs muzzled (which I completely don’t understand since a muzzle is better than a reported dog bite and a mauling) and she was praising and cooing to her dog as he growled and snarled when he got his vaccines.

Listen To What Your Dog Is Telling You… Before He BITES!

At this stage in my career, I rarely pull punches.  At 20 years of age, I would have sugar-coated to this dog’s owner that perhaps they could use some training with this dog and perhaps she shouldn’t reward him while he is growling.

At 45 years of age, I will tell you that this dog is going to bite someone, badly, and likely need euthanasia if the owner doesn’t get the aggression and the fear under control.

People often start a conversation off with:

“Don’t worry… He would never actually bite…”

“He is sweet at home.”

“He has never acted like that…”

“He was a rescue…”

… These are some of my first indicators that the dog has AGGRESSION ISSUES!

Let us be honest.

If you find yourself making excuses that sound like these… you’re in denial… lying to yourself.

Nobody Wants To Admit Their Dog Is AGGRESSIVE…

Nobody wants to have the “bad dog” …

… Or the dog that needs a muzzle … or the dog with aggression issues.

But just because your dog has “never bitten” doesn’t mean he never will.  And if you’re already making excuses for borderline behaviors that are making you NERVOUS around your dog… Or, you’re brushing off or soothing other people’s concerns about your dog…

… I must warn you:

You’re risking the safety and lives of other people and kids.

You’re risking the safety and lives of other dogs.

And you’re the life of YOUR DOG!

(Who may be euthanized if he bites, attacks, or mauls someone.)

It is always better to err on the side of caution than to have a dog bite or maul a human or another dog.

It’s Always Better To Be SAFE Than SORRY…

At one clinic I worked at; one of our technicians almost got bit in the face.  She was young and new as a veterinary technician and she was down on her knees in front of an aggressive dog (something I rarely if ever do without a muzzle).  Thankfully, as the dog lunged for her face, the owner intervened and blocked the attack with his arm.  The dog had never bitten before, but left the owner with huge gashes.

Even though the dog bit his OWNER… the bite had to be reported… the dog quarantined… and the dog was added to the “dangerous dogs” list.

It would have been so much easier to just have the owner muzzle the dog.

People get so wrapped up in what other people may think of them, or their dog.  They don’t want us to judge them or to blame them, or to hate their dog.

The truth is that what other people think literally doesn’t matter at all.  People tend to be a judgmental and will judge you for the shoes that you wear or the car that you drive, so why would you care about how they feel about your dog?

Stop Caring What Others Think And Protect Your Dog

We need to stop caring what others think and protect ourselves and our dogs.

If your dog is fearful… skittish… anxious…. or aggressive… teach your dog to HAPPILY wear a muzzle.

Keep your dog from putting his life on the line.  Keep him from having a true aggressive experience.

I don’t care if he has never bitten anyone before. I understand that you love him and 90% of the time he is a great companion.  No dog is aggressive 100% of the time.  Most dogs are only sporadically aggressive.  Most often, he is your best friend.

But believe him when he warns you.

The Warning Signs:  Your Dog Is Getting Ready To Bite

Staring/Hard Eyes: Dogs don’t usually stare unless they are stimulated or overstimulated.  When your dog sees a squirrel, he likely stares because of prey drive.  His eyes lock on and he stares at his prey.  Equally, when a dog stares at another dog or a human, his pupils will often grow and harden.  Instead of sweet squishy face, his countenance changes.

Freezing/Stiffening: His countenance changes and then his body freezes or stiffens waiting for impending attack.  Both of these warning signs are often ignored by owners and even those in the field.  But, these are usually the first signs that make most of us on a primary and instinctual level take note or feel uneasy.  I remember reading a book called “The Gift of Fear” in which the author begs you to listen to that prehistoric part of your brain that is telling you something is wrong.  Don’t get on the elevator with a person if your amygdala is telling you not to.  Who cares what people think.  Listen to your instincts, don’t push that aside and wait for a serious injury.

Wide eyes (a.k.a. “whale eyes”):  The “whale eye” is a real thing.  I first heard the term maybe 20 years ago from a trainer and expert in the dog bite field named Sue Sternberg.  She studied dogs in shelters and performed temperament tests in order to adopt out adoptable dogs while euthanizing those with aggression. As she explained; right before a dog bites he often looks to the side so that you can see the whites of his eyes (whale eye).  Nothing showed me this phenomenon quite as clearly as being in a dog bite suit.  Over and over, I could see the dogs look to the side and then bite.  It is an interesting phenomenon for sure.  So, when I see the whites of a dog’s eyes, I know I am moments away from an actual bite.  But how many people know that?

Hackles up/Growling/Barking/Lunging/Hiding/Snarling: These are all indicators that your dog is uncomfortable!  He is trying to communicate this to you with his body language. By ignoring or rationalizing these behaviors … or worse, making excuses… you are setting him up for a BIGGER SHOW of aggression — potentially a bite!  These signs tell us your dog is uncomfortable and emotionally triggered.

Don’t Let It Get This Far!

Your dog doesn’t have the ability to understand the repercussions of his aggressive behavior.

He is simply reacting, trying to stop behavior he finds stressful or triggering.  And maybe, he’s already received positive reinforcement for these aggressive behaviors.  He’s learned, for example, if he growls when someone tries to pet him, the person backs away.  Or if he barks, people jump back.

He sees these “smaller” acts of aggression getting results.

So it’s only a matter of time before he escalates to a BIGGER SHOW of aggression… when people or dogs don’t respond as he expects to the smaller acts of aggression.

Lunging… biting… mauling.  That’s what’s next.

Will you let it get that far?  Or will you act to prevent aggressive behaviors now?

The 8 Types Of Dog Aggression

When we talk about aggression or aggressive behavior we often talk about Fight or Flight.  When challenged will you stand and fight or will you give up or run?  What happens if you run but can’t get away or your aggressor continues the aggressive behavior?  Will you resort to violence and fighting then?

Aggression training has a few vital components that are important to understand!

#1 – Forward Aggression

Forward aggression is outright aggression or confident aggression.  This has no components of fear aggression.

When the dog is aggressive it is making a conscious and bold choice toward the behavior.   When I think about this kind of aggression I picture the perfect police or protection dog (Belgian Malinois or German Shepherd).  They assess the situation and are confident in their aggression.  And, although this is a dangerous dog, this kind of aggression is fairly rare without extreme training or having something wrong physically (think seizure disorder) and genetic conditions.

Occasionally I hear from dog owners or young puppy owners whose puppies are showing extreme and confident aggression at a very young age.  This is not normal, and usually means there is something wrong genetically or mentally.  This is when I often recommend the help or assistance of a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.  Why?  Because a veterinary behaviorist can help not only with behavior modification training but they can also prescribe medications.

Be aware, anyone can call themselves a “behaviorist”, only seek those with a veterinary degree and who went to school for several more years to attain.  Often, veterinary behaviorists then utilize good positive professional dog trainer to help with that behavior modification schedule.

#2 – Prey Aggression

Prey aggression is exactly as it sounds.  This is the desire to chase and hunt.  Again, this is a very forward behavior.

Most dogs will exhibit SOME form of predatory behavior… but some dogs have MORE prey drive than others.

(Especially some working breeds.)

Extreme predatory behavior and prey drive can be hard to control.  There’s an old saying:  “Once a dog tastes blood, you will never break him from killing.”  True or not, the challenge is that chasing and killing other animals is FUN for many dogs, due to their predatory instincts.

When we train police dogs and protection dogs, we train them mostly by building their prey drive, letting them chase and bite and then building their confidence.  We often begin this training at anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks of age.  We allow them to win and conquer and build that confidence so that they believe they can win any war against human aggression even when conflict arises, they are taught how to battle.   We also work with their feelings of “possession” or possession aggression.  Once they have bitten the assailant, we want them to hang on and possess that person.  We teach them to possess and defend what they win.

Essentially these dogs are taught and molded toward this forward aggression.  These are ALL of the things you want to avoid with pet dog training!

#3 – Possession Aggression

Possession aggression is often a more forward type of aggression.  It can be genetic, as I have seen 6-week-old puppies with severe aggressive possessive behaviors that can only be explained by genetics.

But often this dog behavior arises from some conflict with the dog owner.   The dog or puppy, steals something that he should not have and the owner chases him down and snatches it out of his mouth.  The behavior also often comes with a reprimand verbally and sometimes often physically.  These encounters fill the dominant dog or puppy with hostility and anger.

Imagine going to school every day and having the school bully hit you in the face and take your dessert.  If you were submissive, you would give it up.  But if you were confident and a little bit dominant you might decide to fight.  Day after day you are filled with rage until one day you stand up for yourself and prepare to fight.

This is how your puppy or dog feels when you snatch “his things or the things that he wants.”  And, then if he snarls or growls, most dog owners will stop their forward behavior.  This teaches the dog that their aggressive behavior keeps that conflict away and they win!

Winning brings confidence, and confidence backed by aggression in dogs often brings more severe aggression the next time.

Keep the dog on leash and teach him appropriately how to give up things and exchange.

#4 – Territorial Aggression

Dogs who are more dominant in nature will often exhibit guarding behaviors… and be territorial about their property, their people, and objects/items they perceive as belonging to them.

This form of aggression can be both FORWARD and DEFENSIVE.

But most often it is blatant with no component of fear.  This dog will bite you for coming on his property or coming in his home.  He may even bite you for touching or coming near his owner.  He sees these things as HIS THINGS, to be defended.

Plus, it’s important to be aware that guarding behaviors can be FUN for dogs.  It breaks boredom and gives them something “fun” to do–which can make it DANGEROUS as it becomes a habit or even an addiction in some cases.

#5 – Defensive Aggression

Defensive aggression comes from that feeling of “flight” or getting away.  Your dog is feeling afraid and often his inability to get away from the situation brings out aggression.   This, in my opinion, is the most dangerous form of aggression because it is hard to know where the dog’s confidence lies and where his breaking point lies.

#6 – Fear Aggression

Fear aggression is very difficult for dog owners.  Most want to deny it is happening at all, some want to make excuses (like he was abused), or you have the dog owners who ignorantly praise and making “comforting” noises at dogs who are exhibiting fear aggression.

This inadvertent praise raises the dog’s confidence with his fear and his aggression.

Instead of teaching true confidence or working on problems, the dog becomes complacent and contented by his own aggression and aggressive displays.

We often see this in veterinary medicine!  The dog is crawled up in the owner’s lap, trying to get away, growling and snarling, sometimes lunging then retreating; all while the owner pets the dog and tells him “It’s okay, it’s okay” and describing what a tough life he is lead.

And if a muzzle is recommended to keep everyone safe this dog owner is horrified.

Yes, aggression, especially fear aggression, can be rewarded by an ignorant or even calculated dog owner.

Some dog owners, intentionally reward defensive dog aggression whenever the dog hears a sound outside or someone comes to the door.  They want a “protective” dog, but don’t realize the dog is barking because he is fearful and unsure; and by rewarding that they are creating an unpredictable monster.

I would much rather deal with a forwardly aggressive dog because I can clearly read his terms.  Fearful or defensive dogs are almost impossible to accurately read because they are unpredictable, even to themselves.  I have seen fearful dogs bite people and then look amazed and horrified by their actions.

This kind of aggression needs to be recognized and dealt with as soon as possible so that owners can encourage confidence instead of fear.

#7 – Reactivity Aggression

Reactivity is a learned behavior that stems from fear and discomfort.

Often, ignorant dog owners teach their dogs these behaviors by both ignoring or trying to correct these fearful behaviors.

Let us first talk about ignoring the behavior.  When your dog sees another dog and becomes slightly aggressive or reactive and you do nothing, this defensive behavior grows as a form of displaced confidence.  The next time he sees a dog or a person and you do nothing this displaced confidence that came from a place of fear, well, it grows.

Eventually, it is out of hand and can no longer be controlled.

At the point that most dog owners seek help for dog aggressive behaviors their behavior have spiraled out of control and are just then being addressed by the dog owner who has allowed these behaviors to flourish.

On the other hand, some owners try to correct this behavior…   The dog sees another dog and doesn’t know what to do, so maybe he barks or growls.  The dog owner swiftly reels in the dog with a tight leash, possibly yells or physically disciplines the dog to stop the behavior.  What happens is the nervous dog, unsure of himself around this other dog, feels the physical and emotional pain of discipline.  He is confused.  He associates the correction with the other dog… and this further reinforces his fears and uncertainty about other dogs.

The next time the dog encounters another dog, he’s once again unsure of himself… the dog owner confirms these fears again with a physical correction… and the downhill spiral continues, with the dog owner unwittingly making the aggression worse.

So What’s A Concerned Dog Owner Supposed To Do?

Now let’s have an honest conversation …

… If your dog shows any degree of aggression, what can you do about it?

Even if you suspect that you’ve inadvertently made the problem WORSE?

The MOST IMPORTANT thing I can tell you is this:

Don’t make excuses.  Don’t ignore the problem.

Your dog doesn’t get a free pass to behave aggressively because he’s a rescue… he was abused… he had a bad experience…

Whatever happened, wherever he came from, there are to be no more excuses.

His present behavior, today, matters.  His future with you matters.

Live in the present, deal with the aggression issues he’s exhibiting TODAY.

STEP #1 – Be the person in your dog’s world who deals with all things scary.

Stop allowing him to feel in charge of everything in his environment.  Never make your dog feel like it’s his duty to defend or protect your family or property.  Let your dog see that he can rely on YOU to deal with everything scary.   People ask me: aren’t I afraid something may happen to me or someone may break into my house?  NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!  If something were to happen and I was scared, truly scared, I know that my dogs would step up and deal…. But those are the contingencies.

STEP #2 – Teach your dog CONFIDENCE!

Teach CONFIDENCE!!!!  We want confident and independent children, don’t we?  So why then are we fostering fear in our dogs?

Confident dogs are crucial.  If you see a fear don’t ignore it or keep him from it.  I can’t believe how many owners come to me saying their dog fears the clicker.  And, let me tell you, that was me in the beginning of my career.  I was training service dogs taken from shelters, I got a dog and she was terrified of the clicker…

I went to the “powers that be” of the organization and they basically told me “if she couldn’t get over the sound of the clicker, then she couldn’t be a service dog”  I was horrified at first!  How could they be so uncaring, then I realized they were right… imagine the sounds you hear in public… waaaaaay worse than a click.

So, I clicked until she could care less.  In the beginning, it sent her running…. But after I did it nearly constantly while I watched TV etc.  she got over it.  She learned to be successful and she was placed!  It taught me to reevaluate a dog’s fears.

STEP #3 – Make & Teach Eye Contact

Know what else gives dogs confidence?  EYE CONTACT!!!!   Eye contact and focus gives an under-confident dog a coping mechanism.

I currently own an under-confident dog, my Malinois.  He is also not necessarily friendly.  So  I have taught him to give me eye contact and focus when he is nervous.  If he does so, I will reward him heavily and valiantly for making a good choice.

He was honored a few years ago for being one of the fastest swimming dogs in North America.  If you look at him you can’t see his under confidence because he gets his confidence from me.  He gives me eye contact and his own focus in trials such as this, and it has become his coping mechanism.

I have told this story before, but I’m a runner … And while running with me, my dogs can’t pull but they don’t have to be in perfect heel position; it isn’t rational.

So we were running in the neighborhood when I saw a dad out walking with his double stroller.  I knew it was a guy with 2 kids… my dog didn’t.

Apparently, he was scared or at least feeling unsure, because he immediately put himself in the heel position and gave me eye contact and focus!

I instantly knew:  my dog didn’t know what the strange-looking contraption was.  But I had given him the confidence and coping mechanisms to deal with his insecurity in an appropriate way!  Teach your dog good coping mechanisms.

#4 – Be Willing To Admit You Need Help

Working with dogs exhibiting aggression isn’t something you should tackle alone.

If you don’t feel SAFE handling your dog… if you’re AFRAID of your dog… then get a professional involved:  a board-certified behavioral specialist.  Speak with your local vet, see who they recommend.  Ask around before investing any money in training to be certain you’re dealing with a professional who is prepared to help YOU train your dog safely, not a snake oil salesman who will use fear and punishment to dominate your dog FOR YOU — and ultimately make your dog’s fear and aggression issues worse.

If you’re still comfortable handling your dog, and you feel like you’re dealing with more minor aggression and fear issues, then consider checking out our 8-Week “Emotional Recalibration Training (ERT) Program, delivered 100% online, that teaches you to control your dog’s reactive and fear-driven behaviors… so he’s less likely to have an aggressive outburst.

And he’s finally predictably calm and trustworthy around other people and dogs.

Click here to learn more about ERT Training For Aggressive & Fearful Dogs

However, keep in mind this isn’t a quick fix either.  You need to be willing to watch the videos we’ll send you, and do the assigned training exercises with your dog.

It comes with a money-back guarantee, and you can try the first 4 weeks for free, but still — you need to do the work if you want to see the results.

But honestly… wouldn’t it be NICE to stop feeling afraid… that your dog is going to bite someone (a child?) or attack another dog?  And relax when you’re out in public with your dog?  Or having guests over to your house?

Aggressive dogs need to be handled like loaded guns.  With care, concern, and the right training and information.  The wrong move can have deadly consequences.

from Lucky Dog Solutions http://www.luckydogsolutions.com/my-dog-would-never-bite-and-other-lies/ from Lucky Dog Solutions https://luckydogsolutions.tumblr.com/post/624552061192830976

[azworkingdogs]

My Dog Would Never Bite… And Other Lies.

I have been a dog trainer for over twenty-five years now…

Yikes, I feel old saying that!   But it’s true…

And I mention this because I have to admit: what I believed was true about dog aggression at 20 versus 45 years of age has changed… a LOT!

I have trained police dogs… worked in a bite suit… and seen the purest forms of dog aggression.  With so much experience that I now see the very subtle changes in a dog’s countenance and behavior right before he bites.

So much that the hairs on the back of my neck stand up when I see certain changes in a dog’s behavior…

… Changes that my coworkers in veterinary medicine never notice.

I remember about a year ago, a two-year-old Cane Corso came to our clinic.  I was the “room tech” so I greeted him and his mom, put them in a room, and discussed what he was due for that year.  The dog was admittedly nervous, sitting in his mom’s lap, but he seemed alright.

He was due for a heartworm test.  A heartworm test requires a tiny blood sample and most owners don’t want to watch you poke their dog in the jugular with a needle.

So I took the dog, on leash, to the back treatment area to meet one of my coworkers.

As I put him into a “sit” and my coworker got on her knees to draw his blood, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up.

There was a slight change in his behavior, he stiffened.

Doesn’t sound like much, but it can be a telling warning sign.

I suggested a muzzle, to which a few of my coworkers scoffed.  But I was always a better safe than sorry tech.

He did okay, he survived; I took him back to the room and his “mom”.

But when the vet entered the room he lunged and tried to bite her face. 

Thankfully, I was her technician and already didn’t trust the dog and was prepared for aggression.

Point of the story?  Signs of aggression aren’t always easily spotted until the aggressive behavior turns into a dangerous dog bite.

Even after the lunging episode at the vet and the near bite, the owner was in denial.  She didn’t want her dogs muzzled (which I completely don’t understand since a muzzle is better than a reported dog bite and a mauling) and she was praising and cooing to her dog as he growled and snarled when he got his vaccines.

Listen To What Your Dog Is Telling You… Before He BITES!

At this stage in my career, I rarely pull punches.  At 20 years of age, I would have sugar-coated to this dog’s owner that perhaps they could use some training with this dog and perhaps she shouldn’t reward him while he is growling.

At 45 years of age, I will tell you that this dog is going to bite someone, badly, and likely need euthanasia if the owner doesn’t get the aggression and the fear under control.

People often start a conversation off with:

“Don’t worry… He would never actually bite…”

“He is sweet at home.”

“He has never acted like that…”

“He was a rescue…”

… These are some of my first indicators that the dog has AGGRESSION ISSUES!

Let us be honest.

If you find yourself making excuses that sound like these… you’re in denial… lying to yourself.

Nobody Wants To Admit Their Dog Is AGGRESSIVE…

Nobody wants to have the “bad dog” …

… Or the dog that needs a muzzle … or the dog with aggression issues.

But just because your dog has “never bitten” doesn’t mean he never will.  And if you’re already making excuses for borderline behaviors that are making you NERVOUS around your dog… Or, you’re brushing off or soothing other people’s concerns about your dog…

… I must warn you:

You’re risking the safety and lives of other people and kids.

You’re risking the safety and lives of other dogs.

And you’re the life of YOUR DOG!

(Who may be euthanized if he bites, attacks, or mauls someone.)

It is always better to err on the side of caution than to have a dog bite or maul a human or another dog.

It’s Always Better To Be SAFE Than SORRY…

At one clinic I worked at; one of our technicians almost got bit in the face.  She was young and new as a veterinary technician and she was down on her knees in front of an aggressive dog (something I rarely if ever do without a muzzle).  Thankfully, as the dog lunged for her face, the owner intervened and blocked the attack with his arm.  The dog had never bitten before, but left the owner with huge gashes.

Even though the dog bit his OWNER… the bite had to be reported… the dog quarantined… and the dog was added to the “dangerous dogs” list.

It would have been so much easier to just have the owner muzzle the dog.

People get so wrapped up in what other people may think of them, or their dog.  They don’t want us to judge them or to blame them, or to hate their dog.

The truth is that what other people think literally doesn’t matter at all.  People tend to be a judgmental and will judge you for the shoes that you wear or the car that you drive, so why would you care about how they feel about your dog?

Stop Caring What Others Think And Protect Your Dog

We need to stop caring what others think and protect ourselves and our dogs.

If your dog is fearful… skittish… anxious…. or aggressive… teach your dog to HAPPILY wear a muzzle.

Keep your dog from putting his life on the line.  Keep him from having a true aggressive experience.

I don’t care if he has never bitten anyone before. I understand that you love him and 90% of the time he is a great companion.  No dog is aggressive 100% of the time.  Most dogs are only sporadically aggressive.  Most often, he is your best friend.

But believe him when he warns you.

The Warning Signs:  Your Dog Is Getting Ready To Bite

Staring/Hard Eyes: Dogs don’t usually stare unless they are stimulated or overstimulated.  When your dog sees a squirrel, he likely stares because of prey drive.  His eyes lock on and he stares at his prey.  Equally, when a dog stares at another dog or a human, his pupils will often grow and harden.  Instead of sweet squishy face, his countenance changes.

Freezing/Stiffening: His countenance changes and then his body freezes or stiffens waiting for impending attack.  Both of these warning signs are often ignored by owners and even those in the field.  But, these are usually the first signs that make most of us on a primary and instinctual level take note or feel uneasy.  I remember reading a book called “The Gift of Fear” in which the author begs you to listen to that prehistoric part of your brain that is telling you something is wrong.  Don’t get on the elevator with a person if your amygdala is telling you not to.  Who cares what people think.  Listen to your instincts, don’t push that aside and wait for a serious injury.

Wide eyes (a.k.a. “whale eyes”):  The “whale eye” is a real thing.  I first heard the term maybe 20 years ago from a trainer and expert in the dog bite field named Sue Sternberg.  She studied dogs in shelters and performed temperament tests in order to adopt out adoptable dogs while euthanizing those with aggression. As she explained; right before a dog bites he often looks to the side so that you can see the whites of his eyes (whale eye).  Nothing showed me this phenomenon quite as clearly as being in a dog bite suit.  Over and over, I could see the dogs look to the side and then bite.  It is an interesting phenomenon for sure.  So, when I see the whites of a dog’s eyes, I know I am moments away from an actual bite.  But how many people know that?

Hackles up/Growling/Barking/Lunging/Hiding/Snarling: These are all indicators that your dog is uncomfortable!  He is trying to communicate this to you with his body language. By ignoring or rationalizing these behaviors … or worse, making excuses… you are setting him up for a BIGGER SHOW of aggression — potentially a bite!  These signs tell us your dog is uncomfortable and emotionally triggered.

Don’t Let It Get This Far!

Your dog doesn’t have the ability to understand the repercussions of his aggressive behavior.

He is simply reacting, trying to stop behavior he finds stressful or triggering.  And maybe, he’s already received positive reinforcement for these aggressive behaviors.  He’s learned, for example, if he growls when someone tries to pet him, the person backs away.  Or if he barks, people jump back.

He sees these “smaller” acts of aggression getting results.

So it’s only a matter of time before he escalates to a BIGGER SHOW of aggression… when people or dogs don’t respond as he expects to the smaller acts of aggression.

Lunging… biting… mauling.  That’s what’s next.

Will you let it get that far?  Or will you act to prevent aggressive behaviors now?

The 8 Types Of Dog Aggression

When we talk about aggression or aggressive behavior we often talk about Fight or Flight.  When challenged will you stand and fight or will you give up or run?  What happens if you run but can’t get away or your aggressor continues the aggressive behavior?  Will you resort to violence and fighting then?

Aggression training has a few vital components that are important to understand!

#1 – Forward Aggression

Forward aggression is outright aggression or confident aggression.  This has no components of fear aggression.

When the dog is aggressive it is making a conscious and bold choice toward the behavior.   When I think about this kind of aggression I picture the perfect police or protection dog (Belgian Malinois or German Shepherd).  They assess the situation and are confident in their aggression.  And, although this is a dangerous dog, this kind of aggression is fairly rare without extreme training or having something wrong physically (think seizure disorder) and genetic conditions.

Occasionally I hear from dog owners or young puppy owners whose puppies are showing extreme and confident aggression at a very young age.  This is not normal, and usually means there is something wrong genetically or mentally.  This is when I often recommend the help or assistance of a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.  Why?  Because a veterinary behaviorist can help not only with behavior modification training but they can also prescribe medications.

Be aware, anyone can call themselves a “behaviorist”, only seek those with a veterinary degree and who went to school for several more years to attain.  Often, veterinary behaviorists then utilize good positive professional dog trainer to help with that behavior modification schedule.

#2 – Prey Aggression

Prey aggression is exactly as it sounds.  This is the desire to chase and hunt.  Again, this is a very forward behavior.

Most dogs will exhibit SOME form of predatory behavior… but some dogs have MORE prey drive than others.

(Especially some working breeds.)

Extreme predatory behavior and prey drive can be hard to control.  There’s an old saying:  “Once a dog tastes blood, you will never break him from killing.”  True or not, the challenge is that chasing and killing other animals is FUN for many dogs, due to their predatory instincts.

When we train police dogs and protection dogs, we train them mostly by building their prey drive, letting them chase and bite and then building their confidence.  We often begin this training at anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks of age.  We allow them to win and conquer and build that confidence so that they believe they can win any war against human aggression even when conflict arises, they are taught how to battle.   We also work with their feelings of “possession” or possession aggression.  Once they have bitten the assailant, we want them to hang on and possess that person.  We teach them to possess and defend what they win.

Essentially these dogs are taught and molded toward this forward aggression.  These are ALL of the things you want to avoid with pet dog training!

#3 – Possession Aggression

Possession aggression is often a more forward type of aggression.  It can be genetic, as I have seen 6-week-old puppies with severe aggressive possessive behaviors that can only be explained by genetics.

But often this dog behavior arises from some conflict with the dog owner.   The dog or puppy, steals something that he should not have and the owner chases him down and snatches it out of his mouth.  The behavior also often comes with a reprimand verbally and sometimes often physically.  These encounters fill the dominant dog or puppy with hostility and anger.

Imagine going to school every day and having the school bully hit you in the face and take your dessert.  If you were submissive, you would give it up.  But if you were confident and a little bit dominant you might decide to fight.  Day after day you are filled with rage until one day you stand up for yourself and prepare to fight.

This is how your puppy or dog feels when you snatch “his things or the things that he wants.”  And, then if he snarls or growls, most dog owners will stop their forward behavior.  This teaches the dog that their aggressive behavior keeps that conflict away and they win!

Winning brings confidence, and confidence backed by aggression in dogs often brings more severe aggression the next time.

Keep the dog on leash and teach him appropriately how to give up things and exchange.

#4 – Territorial Aggression

Dogs who are more dominant in nature will often exhibit guarding behaviors… and be territorial about their property, their people, and objects/items they perceive as belonging to them.

This form of aggression can be both FORWARD and DEFENSIVE.

But most often it is blatant with no component of fear.  This dog will bite you for coming on his property or coming in his home.  He may even bite you for touching or coming near his owner.  He sees these things as HIS THINGS, to be defended.

Plus, it’s important to be aware that guarding behaviors can be FUN for dogs.  It breaks boredom and gives them something “fun” to do–which can make it DANGEROUS as it becomes a habit or even an addiction in some cases.

#5 – Defensive Aggression

Defensive aggression comes from that feeling of “flight” or getting away.  Your dog is feeling afraid and often his inability to get away from the situation brings out aggression.   This, in my opinion, is the most dangerous form of aggression because it is hard to know where the dog’s confidence lies and where his breaking point lies.

#6 – Fear Aggression

Fear aggression is very difficult for dog owners.  Most want to deny it is happening at all, some want to make excuses (like he was abused), or you have the dog owners who ignorantly praise and making “comforting” noises at dogs who are exhibiting fear aggression.

This inadvertent praise raises the dog’s confidence with his fear and his aggression.

Instead of teaching true confidence or working on problems, the dog becomes complacent and contented by his own aggression and aggressive displays.

We often see this in veterinary medicine!  The dog is crawled up in the owner’s lap, trying to get away, growling and snarling, sometimes lunging then retreating; all while the owner pets the dog and tells him “It’s okay, it’s okay” and describing what a tough life he is lead.

And if a muzzle is recommended to keep everyone safe this dog owner is horrified.

Yes, aggression, especially fear aggression, can be rewarded by an ignorant or even calculated dog owner.

Some dog owners, intentionally reward defensive dog aggression whenever the dog hears a sound outside or someone comes to the door.  They want a “protective” dog, but don’t realize the dog is barking because he is fearful and unsure; and by rewarding that they are creating an unpredictable monster.

I would much rather deal with a forwardly aggressive dog because I can clearly read his terms.  Fearful or defensive dogs are almost impossible to accurately read because they are unpredictable, even to themselves.  I have seen fearful dogs bite people and then look amazed and horrified by their actions.

This kind of aggression needs to be recognized and dealt with as soon as possible so that owners can encourage confidence instead of fear.

#7 – Reactivity Aggression

Reactivity is a learned behavior that stems from fear and discomfort.

Often, ignorant dog owners teach their dogs these behaviors by both ignoring or trying to correct these fearful behaviors.

Let us first talk about ignoring the behavior.  When your dog sees another dog and becomes slightly aggressive or reactive and you do nothing, this defensive behavior grows as a form of displaced confidence.  The next time he sees a dog or a person and you do nothing this displaced confidence that came from a place of fear, well, it grows.

Eventually, it is out of hand and can no longer be controlled.

At the point that most dog owners seek help for dog aggressive behaviors their behavior have spiraled out of control and are just then being addressed by the dog owner who has allowed these behaviors to flourish.

On the other hand, some owners try to correct this behavior…   The dog sees another dog and doesn’t know what to do, so maybe he barks or growls.  The dog owner swiftly reels in the dog with a tight leash, possibly yells or physically disciplines the dog to stop the behavior.  What happens is the nervous dog, unsure of himself around this other dog, feels the physical and emotional pain of discipline.  He is confused.  He associates the correction with the other dog… and this further reinforces his fears and uncertainty about other dogs.

The next time the dog encounters another dog, he’s once again unsure of himself… the dog owner confirms these fears again with a physical correction… and the downhill spiral continues, with the dog owner unwittingly making the aggression worse.

So What’s A Concerned Dog Owner Supposed To Do?

Now let’s have an honest conversation …

… If your dog shows any degree of aggression, what can you do about it?

Even if you suspect that you’ve inadvertently made the problem WORSE?

The MOST IMPORTANT thing I can tell you is this:

Don’t make excuses.  Don’t ignore the problem.

Your dog doesn’t get a free pass to behave aggressively because he’s a rescue… he was abused… he had a bad experience…

Whatever happened, wherever he came from, there are to be no more excuses.

His present behavior, today, matters.  His future with you matters.

Live in the present, deal with the aggression issues he’s exhibiting TODAY.

STEP #1 – Be the person in your dog’s world who deals with all things scary.

Stop allowing him to feel in charge of everything in his environment.  Never make your dog feel like it’s his duty to defend or protect your family or property.  Let your dog see that he can rely on YOU to deal with everything scary.   People ask me: aren’t I afraid something may happen to me or someone may break into my house?  NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!  If something were to happen and I was scared, truly scared, I know that my dogs would step up and deal…. But those are the contingencies.

STEP #2 – Teach your dog CONFIDENCE!

Teach CONFIDENCE!!!!  We want confident and independent children, don’t we?  So why then are we fostering fear in our dogs?

Confident dogs are crucial.  If you see a fear don’t ignore it or keep him from it.  I can’t believe how many owners come to me saying their dog fears the clicker.  And, let me tell you, that was me in the beginning of my career.  I was training service dogs taken from shelters, I got a dog and she was terrified of the clicker…

I went to the “powers that be” of the organization and they basically told me “if she couldn’t get over the sound of the clicker, then she couldn’t be a service dog”  I was horrified at first!  How could they be so uncaring, then I realized they were right… imagine the sounds you hear in public… waaaaaay worse than a click.

So, I clicked until she could care less.  In the beginning, it sent her running…. But after I did it nearly constantly while I watched TV etc.  she got over it.  She learned to be successful and she was placed!  It taught me to reevaluate a dog’s fears.

STEP #3 – Make & Teach Eye Contact

Know what else gives dogs confidence?  EYE CONTACT!!!!   Eye contact and focus gives an under-confident dog a coping mechanism.

I currently own an under-confident dog, my Malinois.  He is also not necessarily friendly.  So  I have taught him to give me eye contact and focus when he is nervous.  If he does so, I will reward him heavily and valiantly for making a good choice.

He was honored a few years ago for being one of the fastest swimming dogs in North America.  If you look at him you can’t see his under confidence because he gets his confidence from me.  He gives me eye contact and his own focus in trials such as this, and it has become his coping mechanism.

I have told this story before, but I’m a runner … And while running with me, my dogs can’t pull but they don’t have to be in perfect heel position; it isn’t rational.

So we were running in the neighborhood when I saw a dad out walking with his double stroller.  I knew it was a guy with 2 kids… my dog didn’t.

Apparently, he was scared or at least feeling unsure, because he immediately put himself in the heel position and gave me eye contact and focus!

I instantly knew:  my dog didn’t know what the strange-looking contraption was.  But I had given him the confidence and coping mechanisms to deal with his insecurity in an appropriate way!  Teach your dog good coping mechanisms.

#4 – Be Willing To Admit You Need Help

Working with dogs exhibiting aggression isn’t something you should tackle alone.

If you don’t feel SAFE handling your dog… if you’re AFRAID of your dog… then get a professional involved:  a board-certified behavioral specialist.  Speak with your local vet, see who they recommend.  Ask around before investing any money in training to be certain you’re dealing with a professional who is prepared to help YOU train your dog safely, not a snake oil salesman who will use fear and punishment to dominate your dog FOR YOU — and ultimately make your dog’s fear and aggression issues worse.

If you’re still comfortable handling your dog, and you feel like you’re dealing with more minor aggression and fear issues, then consider checking out our 8-Week “Emotional Recalibration Training (ERT) Program, delivered 100% online, that teaches you to control your dog’s reactive and fear-driven behaviors… so he’s less likely to have an aggressive outburst.

And he’s finally predictably calm and trustworthy around other people and dogs.

Click here to learn more about ERT Training For Aggressive & Fearful Dogs

However, keep in mind this isn’t a quick fix either.  You need to be willing to watch the videos we’ll send you, and do the assigned training exercises with your dog.

It comes with a money-back guarantee, and you can try the first 4 weeks for free, but still — you need to do the work if you want to see the results.

But honestly… wouldn’t it be NICE to stop feeling afraid… that your dog is going to bite someone (a child?) or attack another dog?  And relax when you’re out in public with your dog?  Or having guests over to your house?

Aggressive dogs need to be handled like loaded guns.  With care, concern, and the right training and information.  The wrong move can have deadly consequences.

The post My Dog Would Never Bite… And Other Lies. appeared first on TheDogTrainingSecret.com.

from TheDogTrainingSecret.com https://ift.tt/3hyNEv8 via IFTTT

[psychotherapyconsultants]

Break Free of Your Anxiety and Phobias in 4 Simple Steps

Anxiety that causes serious discomfort shouldn’t have to go on forever. Yet long-term talk therapy and treatment with medications don’t always free a person who’s suffering. Millions of Americans are dealing with some form of anxiety disorder: according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), each year, 40 million American adults grapple with an anxiety disorder in some form. 

One approach that can help you break free of anxiety and phobias is a simple series of steps. Unlike open-ended talk therapy, it’s not expensive or time-consuming, and unlike pharmacological approaches, it has no side effects.

It’s called LPA — Learning, Philosophizing, and Action.

This direct approach enables you to identify the problem, and think about the problem and its affects on your life, relationships, work, and home. After you learn more about your anxiety or phobia, and consider how it’s limited you, you can start taking clear steps to defuse its power over you. 

Once you learn LPA, the only tools you need are a good chair, a pen and a notebook. Try to practice what you’ve learned three or more times a week. It doesn’t have to take long — five minutes is plenty. If you begin to feel uncomfortable, or overwhelmed by fear, stop the exercise, get up, and resolve to try again the next day. 

Here’s how each step works:

1. Relax

To follow the LPA steps you need to first quiet the mind. There are many simple and effective relaxation techniques for this.

For instance: Find a quiet spot and a comfortable, supportive chair. Next, take a few easy, deep breaths. Feel yourself begin to float on each breath. When you reach a peaceful state of relaxation, you’re ready to start the next step.

2. Learn

In the learning phase, you focus on the nature and details of the problem by asking yourself questions. Write down all the details of what you remember and realize, including how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally.

If you’re facing an anxiety, ask yourself:

What am I feeling?

What is making me anxious?

How do I feel when I am anxious — for instance, a stomachache, a headache, sweating?

If you are addressing a phobia, ask yourself:

What am I afraid of?

What does this fear prevent me from doing — for instance, leaving the house, taking the subway, or driving across a bridge?

How do I feel in the grip of this phobia?

Now ask yourself about the first time you began to this way:

What is my first memory of feeling this way?

What else was going on at the time?

What did I learn?

3. Philosophize

Once you have learned about the nature of your anxiety or phobia, you have enough information to look at the bigger picture. During this phase, you step back and challenge the thinking to led to this problem in the first place. Your look for the origins of your anxiety or phobia, and think about how it has affected your life, your relationships, your work and even your financial situation over time.  

Ask yourself: 

Did someone else convince me to feel this way?

Is it possible I picked up this anxiety or phobia from a parent?

What’s the big picture?

How did I take this belief and expand on it myself?

Without meaning to, parents may pass on their anxieties and phobias to their children. But this faulty learning can be fixed. You can use a simple math problem to illustrate: A child walks into kindergarten, having been convinced at home that 2 + 2 = 3. It’s only going to take one quick lesson to show that is wrong. This may be a simplified version, but it shows what happens with learned or even inherited anxieties and phobias. The learning passed on to you was flawed, but you believed it.

Dogs, cars, deep water, dentists — Think about how you picked up on other people’s anxieties. Were you encouraged to feel anxiety or fear in certain situations? You may have grown up thinking that feeling anxious was perfectly normal. But now you can change that thinking. Consider the impact this anxiety or phobia has had on your life. If you could undo its power, wouldn’t you?

4. Act

Taking action means unlearning those behaviors. One effective tool for this step is the Probable or Possible exercise. It helps defuse the power of the anxiety or phobia by looking at whether or not something is likely to actually happen. For instance, if you’re phobic about dogs, you may be afraid of being bitten in circumstances when it would be very hard for that to happen. For example: you are on one side of the street, and a dog and its owner are walking on the other side of the street. Yet you’re afraid the dog will bolt, escape its leash, and come and bite you. That’s often the way fear works: it takes a possibility and intensifies it until it seems like a near-certainty. Irrational or not, you believe it. Asking if it’s possible or problem is a way to take that fear and reduce it down to size. 

So ask: It many be possible that the dog runs across the street to bite me. But is it probable? 

Think about it: what is the likelihood of that really happening?

Investigate all the factors that would have to be in place for the fear to come true. You could even research the statistics, or learn all about dog behavior. Information is often a missing piece of the anxiety and phobia puzzle. 

Once you know the different between the possible risk and the probable risk, remind yourself: This is possible, but it is not really probable. Keep reminding yourself that, and see how you feel the next time you encounter a dog. 

The LPA brings new perspectives to old faulty beliefs and problems, helping you see your way out of old patterns. It also works in small steps, each just one part of the process. Do these as much as you want. Remember that you are the one in control. But the more you practice, the more effective it will be. That’s because when you do something successfully a number of times, the success-producing behaviors replace your old thought and behavior patterns with positive, productive ones.

Brick by brick, you can take the actions to face your fears, free yourself from them, change your life. And once you learn LPA and incorporate it into your routine, you can use it to tackle other obstacles. LPA has been proven to be highly effective in dealing with many forms of PTSD and conquering insomnia as well.

Reference:

Anxiety and Depression Association of America: Understand the Facts Depression. Retrieved from https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression

from World of Psychology https://psychcentral.com/blog/break-free-of-your-anxiety-and-phobias-in-4-simple-steps/

[bloojayoolie]

Being Alone, Cats, and Children: Petty's Charms will light every room in your heart! #39193 1 year old 53 lbs of FUN Waiting for his hero @Manhattan ACC TO BE KILLED 9/4/18 “The most significant and important thing about Petty is all the love he has to give.” Volunteer Misha Barbour writes - There's nothing petty about Petty. And there's also nothing small. Personality? In the same way a star can light up the evening sky, Petty's charms will light every room in your heart, a presence truly bigger than life. His smile? It's nothing short of critical to set eyes on it once in your life. And good luck holding back a grin of your own at the sight of something so bright. But the most significant and important thing about Petty is all the love he has to give. Just moments into meeting a fellow volunteer and I found ourselves happily covered in kisses, fur, and Petty himself most of all. An every ounce of adoration was returned. Petty is a young, active boy who's said to have a tendency to guard his food so might do best with an experienced and active family without any tiny fingers or toes. He has most enjoyed the company of female dogs at the shelter. Petty will also need plenty of laps, plenty of love, and plenty of people to charm. And for everyone to know there's nothing petty about Petty. Just like there's nothing petty about love. Petty can be reserved below until 12pm ET tomorrow (9/1) Petty #39193 Male white dog @ Manhattan Animal Care Center About 1 years old Weight 53.2 lbs Owner surrender on 23-Aug-2018, with the surrender reason stated as person circumstance- moving. Volunteer Misha Barbour writes - There's nothing petty about Petty. And there's also nothing small. Personality? In the same way a star can light up the evening sky, Petty's charms will light every room in your heart, a presence truly bigger than life. His smile? It's nothing short of critical to set eyes on it once in your life. And good luck holding back a grin of your own at the sight of something so bright. But the most significant and important thing about Petty is all the love he has to give. Just moments into meeting a fellow volunteer and I found ourselves happily covered in kisses, fur, and Petty himself most of all. An every ounce of adoration was returned. Petty is a young, active boy who's said to have a tendency to guard his food so might do best with an experienced and active family without any tiny fingers or toes. He has most enjoyed the company of female dogs at the shelter. Petty will also need plenty of laps, plenty of love, and plenty of people to charm. And for everyone to know there's nothing petty about Petty. Just like there's nothing petty about love. Petty can be reserved below until 12pm ET tomorrow (9/1) Petty is at risk due to being diagnosed with Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex which is contagious to other dogs. Petty will likely require in home care with a course of antibiotics. We recommend Petty go to an adult only home. You may know me from such films as... https://youtu.be/_sdazm7J3hM My medical notes are... Weight: 53.2 lbs Vet Notes 27/08/2018 [DVM Intake] DVM Intake Exam Estimated age:1y Microchip noted on Intake?n Microchip Number (If Applicable): History :o surrender Subjective: Observed Behavior -wags tail, easily distracted by smells. o said food aggressive--not seen Evidence of Cruelty seen -n Evidence of Trauma seen -n Objective T = P =60 R =wnl BCS 5/9 EENT: Eyes clear, ears clean, no nasal or ocular discharge noted Oral Exam:clean teeth PLN: No enlargements noted H/L: NSR, NMA, CRT < 2, Lungs clear, eupnic ABD: Non painful, no masses palpated U/G: 2 testes MSI: Ambulatory x 4, skin free of parasites, fews crusts on face but seems like dirt CNS: Mentation appropriate - no signs of neurologic abnormalities Assessment: healthy Prognosis:good Plan:neuter SURGERY: Okay for surgery 31/08/2018 SO epistaxis noted on board and during kennel side exam. BAR in kennel. EN -- slight epistaxis, not actively bleeding. sneezing and serous nasal discharge. A CIRDC epistaxis P move to ISO doxycycline 100mg tablet -- give 2.5 tablets PO q24h x 14 days enrofloxacin 136mg tablet -- give 2 tablets PO q24h x 14 days cerenia 60mg tablet -- give 0.5 tablet PO q24h x 4 days Added enro due to high risk of pneumonia in shelter at this time. epinephrine 1 drop per nostril q12h x 1 day Details on my behavior are... Behavior Condition: 1. Green Behavior History Behavior Assessment Petty was stiff bodied during intake he allowed us to collar him and take his picture. He did not want to go into the kennel. He was barking and lunging at other dogs when they passed by him. Date of Intake: 8/23/2018 Basic Information:: Petty is a male white and brindle dog that is estimated to be 1 year old. His previous owner got him from a breeder and kept him at her auto shop for the past year until she had to move and was unable to take him with her. Previously lived with:: Multiple people, 1 Dog How is this dog around strangers?: Petty is friendly with strangers but was kept away from them when they arrived at the shop. How is this dog around children?: Petty was around multiple children ranging from 7-16 years of age. He usually left them alone. How is this dog around other dogs?: Petty lived with another dog and was friendly and affectionate with her. How is this dog around cats?: Petty was not around cats but would often chase them away. Resource guarding:: Petty guards his food and will try to bite anyone that tries to remove his bowl. Bite history:: Petty has no history of having bitten another person or animal. Housetrained:: Yes Energy level/descriptors:: High Energy, Confident, Pushy Other Notes:: Petty enjoys loud noises and will bark along with them. He enjoys baths and playing in water. He likes to be brushed for shot periods of time. Has this dog ever had any medical issues?: No Medical Notes: Petty has no known medical concerns. For a New Family to Know: Petty is a confident dog that enjoys playing with dogs. He had free choice of being inside or outside. He eats ate both wet and dry food. He is very house trained and is crate trained as well. He pulls lightly on the leash when being walked. Behavior Assessment Date of intake:: 8/23/2018 Spay/Neuter status:: No Means of surrender (length of time in previous home):: Owner Surrender (In home for 1 year) Previously lived with:: Adults, children (ages 7-16), and a dog Behavior toward strangers:: Friendly with some, may lunge at others Behavior toward children:: Friendly and affectionate Behavior toward dogs:: Friendly and affectionate with the dog in the home Behavior toward cats:: Chases them Resource guarding:: Yes, Petty guards food, escalating to snapping when someone touches his bowl Bite history:: None reported Housetrained:: Yes Energy level/descriptors:: Petty is described as confident and pushy with a high level of activity. Date of assessment:: 8/26/2018 Look:: 2. Dog pulls out of Assessor's hands each time without settling during three repetitions. Sensitivity:: 1. Dog leans into the Assessor, eyes soft or squinty, soft and loose body, open mouth. Tag:: 2. Dog is not fearful, but is unresponsive when touched. Approaches the Assessor when the game ends (may need coaxing to approach). Dog is focused on stimuli other than the Assessor. Paw squeeze 1:: 1. Dog gently pulls back his/her paw. Paw squeeze 2:: 1. Dog gently pulls back his/her paw. Flank squeeze 1:: Item not conducted Flank squeeze 2:: Item not conducted Toy:: 1. Minimal interest in toy, dog may smell or lick, then turns away. Summary:: Petty approached the assessor with a soft body. He was distracted during the assessment, sniffing around the room. He allowed all handling and displayed no concerning behaviors. Summary:: In the care center, Petty has succeeded best with female dogs who are respectful and gently playful. When attempt was made to introduce to the male helper dog, Petty hard barked and growled. Due to arriving as a stray, history around dogs is unknown. Summary (1):: 8/25: When introduced off leash to a female dog, Petty is soft and social, greeting nicely and staying engaged. Summary (2):: 8/26-27: Petty is soft and polite when greeting female dogs. He is tense and hard barks greeting male dogs through the fence, Summary (3):: 8/28: Petty engages in running play with female dogs. Date of intake:: 8/23/2018 Summary:: Tense, barked and lunged at other dogs ENERGY LEVEL:: Petty is described as having a high level of activity. We recommend long-lasting chews, food puzzles, and hide-and-seek games, in additional to physical exercise, to positively direct his energy and enthusiasm. BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION:: ADULT ONLY HOME Behavior Asilomar: TM - Treatable-Manageable Recommendations:: No children (under 13) Recommendations comments:: No children: Due to his previous owner reporting that Petty will snap over his food bowl, we recommend an adult only home. Potential challenges: : Resource guarding,Fearful/potential for defensive aggression Potential challenges comments:: Resource guarding: Petty is reported to snap when his food bowl is touched. For this reason, we advise against ever removing items from Petty's possession without safely trading for an item or greater or equal value. Guidance from a professional trainer/behaviorist is highly recommended to aid in safely managing/modifying this behavior in a new home environment. Fearful/potential for defensive aggression: Petty is reported to lunge at some new people. Guidance from a professional trainer/behaviorist is recommended to assess behavior after decompression in a new home environment. Force-free, reward based training is advised when introducing or exposing Petty to new and unfamiliar situations. * TO FOSTER OR ADOPT * If you would like to adopt a dog on our “To Be Killed” list, and you CAN get to the shelter in person to complete the adoption process *within 48 hours of reserve*, you can reserve the dog online until noon on the day they are scheduled to die. We have provided the Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan information below. Adoption hours at these facilities is Noon – 8:00 p.m. (6:30 on weekends) HOW TO RESERVE A “TO BE KILLED” DOG ONLINE (only for those who can get to the shelter IN PERSON to complete the adoption process, and only for the dogs on the list NOT marked New Hope Rescue Only). Follow our Step by Step directions below! *PLEASE NOTE – YOU MUST USE A PC OR TABLET – PHONE RESERVES WILL NOT WORK! ** STEP 1: CLICK ON THIS RESERVE LINK: https://newhope.shelterbuddy.com/Animal/List Step 2: Go to the red menu button on the top right corner, click register and fill in your info. Step 3: Go to your email and verify account Step 4: Go back to the website, click the menu button and view available dogs Step 5: Scroll to the animal you are interested and click reserve STEP 6 ( MOST IMPORTANT STEP ): GO TO THE MENU AGAIN AND VIEW YOUR CART. THE ANIMAL SHOULD NOW BE IN YOUR CART! Step 7: Fill in your credit card info and complete transaction Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) nycacc.org HOW TO FOSTER OR ADOPT IF YOU *CANNOT* GET TO THE SHELTER IN PERSON, OR IF THE DOG IS NEW HOPE RESCUE ONLY! You must live within 3 – 4 hours of NY, NJ, PA, CT, RI, DE, MD, MA, NH, VT, ME or Norther VA. Please PM our page for assistance. You will need to fill out applications with a New Hope Rescue Partner to foster or adopt a dog on the To Be Killed list, including those labelled Rescue Only. Hurry please, time is short, and the Rescues need time to process the applications.

[debbieandulics]

Dog Bite Complications

You have been bit by a dog, now what? You may need to go to the hospital depending on the seriousness of the bite. It can range from a scratch to life-threatening injuries. On top of making sure you are medically stable, doctors have to figure out how to best treat the wounds not only for healing and cosmetics, but for another, potentially lethal reason, infections. 

Of course, the first thing you need to do if bitten or attacked is get to a safe place. Assess the seriousness of the bite. If the bite is serious, seek immediate medical attention, particularly if there are signs of exposed bone or muscle, profuse bleeding, loss of function, or severe pain. Otherwise, apply pressure to bleeding areas until it has stopped. As soon as possible, wash the wound with soap and water. Apply antibiotic cream and cover with a clean bandage. Lacerations may need stitches but seeping will help drain the wound decreasing the potential for infection. If the bite is deep and you have not had a tetanus shot, you will need to get one. And be very aware of signs of infection. It is imperative to seek medical attention if any sings of infection appear, your life may depend on it. Illnesses that suppress the immune system and other health conditions may pose an increased risk for infection.

The Dog Bite Treatment article on dogsaholic.com thoroughly explains infections from dog bites, “Usually, in the first 24 hours after being bitten, one’s wound should be swollen, red and painful, but it should not stay like that ... If the symptoms worsen in time, it is almost clear that the wound got infected. These infections are common because pathogens are basically injected into one’s skin when the dog’s teeth penetrate it. There is almost no way for the bacteria to get out, unless the wound bleeds excessively. Moreover, if the dog’s fangs penetrated one’s superficial fascia, he or she might develop septic arthritis and osteomyelitis, which are bones infections.”

Here are the possible symptoms of infection:

Swelling that occurs immediately after the bite

Wound gets bigger instead of smaller

Wound becomes redder

Puss appears, which can be white, green or pink

Wound starts smelling funny

Pain increases in time

Fever, chills or acute pain occur

Wound does not heal properly although you apply ointments

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an average of 18% of dog bites become infected. They list some of the diseases you should be familiar with are: 

Rabies is one of the most serious diseases people can get from dog bites. Although getting rabies from a dog in the United States is rare, rabies is a disease that you should be aware of. Rabies is a virus that affects the brain and is almost always fatal. The most common way rabies virus is spread is through the bite and saliva of an infected animal. The disease can be prevented by vaccinating dogs. People who are exposed to a dog or any animal that could have rabies should receive treatment immediately to prevent rabies. 

Capnocytophaga spp. are bacteria that live in the mouths of humans, dogs, and cats. These bacteria do not make dogs or cats sick. Rarely, Capnocytophaga spp. can spread to humans through bites, scratches, or close contact from a dog or cat and cause illness. Most people who have contact with dogs or cats do not become sick. People with a weakened immune system are at greater risk of becoming sick.

Pasteurella is a type of bacteria seen in over 50% of infected dog bite wounds. Pasteurella commonly causes a painful, red infection at the site of the bite but can cause more serious disease in people with a weak immune system. Often these signs are accompanied by swollen glands, swelling in the joints, and difficulty moving.

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is type of Staph infection that is resistant to a certain group of antibiotics. Dogs and other animals can carry MRSA without showing any symptoms, but the bacteria can cause skin, lung, and urinary tract infections in people. In some people, MRSA can spread to the bloodstream or lungs and cause life-threatening infections.

Tetanus is a toxin produced by a type of bacteria called Clostridium tetani. This toxin causes rigid paralysis in people and could be a problem in deep bite wounds. (CDC)

Streptococcus and other Staphylococcus bacteria can also be the culprit in a dog bite infection. In most bites that develop infections, the guilty bacteria come from the dog’s oral flora. However, the rest of the time the bacteria to blame come from the skin of the bite victim. It is also possible for the bacteria to come from the environment at the time of the bite. Although not common, rare bacteria can be present, infections can progress to other problems such as endocarditis (an infection of the inner lining of your heart), or you can contract Necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating bacteria).

A small family dog bit Robin Sullins of Austin, Texas in December 2012. The bite was not serious and she did not seek medical attention. Two days later she had a fever and vomiting. Then her organs started shutting down and sepsis set in. She had to have legs below the knees and most of her fingers amputated. The hospital was able to determine it was Capnocytophaga , which is found in the mouths of nearly a third of all healthy cats and dogs, but it is not normally this dangerous in a healthy person. Somehow the bacteria entered her bloodstream and that caused the sepsis, which then caused the blood vessels in her legs and hands to shut down and clot.  

Even if the skin is not broken, there still could be damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and bones. A dog’s teeth are designed for ripping, tearing, and crushing and there can be damage even if the skin is not torn. There was a bite force test by Dr. Brady Barr of National Geographic. He tested the bite pressure of several animals. In his test were three dogs. The Rottweiler had the highest at 328 pounds of pressure. The Pit Bull he tested had 235 pounds, just behind the German Shepard at 238 pounds. The wolf is at 406 pounds while lions and sharks are around 600. The Nile alligator is the highest at just under 2500 pounds of pressure. Another study was done by Dr. Ellis that was published in the Journal of Anatomy in 2009. She was able to show that the size of the animal and the shape of its jaw predicted bite strength. She tested the bite force of the dog breed with the largest head and widest mouth, the Mastiff. The bite force of the Mastiff is 552 pounds of pressure. 

There are other things you should do if bit by a dog. Do you know the dog that bit you? If so, you can find out from the owner if the dog is up to date on its rabies vaccine. You should get the owner’s name and address, the name of the Veterinarian, and the dog’s vaccine license number. If you do not know the dog or the dog doesn’t have a current rabies license, you might need rabies treatment. Because rabies is fatal but preventable, Ohio has a law that any person bitten by a mammal is required to make a bite report to the Ohio Department of Health within 24 hours of the bite. The Ohio Department of Health also suggests seeking medical attention for any bite.

Every year, about 800,000 Americans receive medical treatment for dog bites. More than half of them are children. Understand that a dog bite is a reaction to a stressful situation.  Yes, there are cases when a dog has bitten with no warning signs but the vast majority of cases there were warning signs. It’s just that it can be easy to miss a dog’s warning signs, even more so if there are children around or other distractions. It can be a matter of seconds or even milliseconds for a dog to feel stressed or threatened. A growl is a warning sign. Correcting your dog for growling can make your dog skip the warning next time. It is one of the ways they tell us they are stressed. Sometimes they need a little time to clam down after a stressful situation, just like us.

A common example is children (and some adults) running over to someone’s dog and sticking their hands in the dog’s face without asking permission and the dog growls. The dog’s owner corrects the dog for growling. Everything in this situation increases the chance for a bite. The adult should know that you (and your children) should never run up to an unfamiliar dog. But if it does happen, the dog owner should let the adult know that running up to the dog scared the dog and they should back away. And wagging tail does not always mean a dog is happy! The dog would be blamed if someone was bit, but the dog is giving a clear warning it is uncomfortable and wants the situation to change. If the dog owner and other adult are in a conversation and a child goes to pet the dog and the dog growls, the owner may completely miss the warning. And if the child wasn’t taught what not to do around a new dog, they could easily get bit. Therefore, increasing their risk for that bite wound to become infected.

The numbers are scary but there is something that can help, education. Reducing the number of dog bites is achievable. Having a dog in the home can offer companionship, reduce stress, and increase exercise. Teaching everyone in the family awareness of canine behaviors and interactions decreases bite risks.