Does My Dog Love Me?
Now a Sunday Times bestseller Have you ever wondered what your dog is really thinking? Our dogs mean the world to us and as owners we do our best to make sure they feel happy and loved, whilst also keeping them in line when needed. But wouldn't it be so much easier if we spoke the same language and could ask what they were thinking or feeling? In his latest book, top dog trainer, Graeme Hall, reveals the secrets to understanding what your furry companion is trying to say and how they see the world. Drawing on 15 years of experience training over 5,000 dogs, and backed up with scientific evidence, he tackles all the tricky questions you've ever wanted to ask, such as 'how do I tell my dog he's been naughty?' and 'how long does a dog remember?'. Sharing his own personal stories and practical tips, Graeme demonstrates how to interpret your dog's body language and use that knowledge to build a stronger, more rewarding relationship, as well as how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a new pup parent, this book will change the way you think about your four-legged best friend.
BIRDS and SQUIRRELS
One page of text and two of photos were added since the book was published.Last summer, I had two spare E-Trike battery racks. I decided to use them to make a bird feeder. Although I didn't know much about birds and squirrels at first, I learned what they needed over the summer: food and a safe place to eat it.In the end, I made eight bird feeders, two of which were 'Long Johns', and one artistic creation: the colourful Winter Palace.I put one of the 'Long Johns' up for the squirrels, as they had damaged a few bird cages previously.And so began my adventure with birds, squirrels and cats (sadly).I wrote the main text in one go. My mood fluctuated a lot during this process, and I believe this is reflected in my sense of humour. My girlfriend helped me with the text as much as she could. Thank you!
Real World Dog Training
Tired of dog training that just doesn't work in the real world?Forget the sugar-coated methods and endless bribery with treats. Real World Dog Training is here to challenge nearly everything the "positive" trainers have told you.For too long, modern dog training has been hijacked by the utopian fantasy that positive reinforcement alone has the answers. Unfortunately, this damaging ideology worsens by the day. But the real world doesn't work that way.In this unapologetically honest expos矇, Tully Williams reveals the truth about why "positive" training so often fails, and why correction succeeds-often more quickly, easily and far more effectively-all while achieving superior welfare outcomes.Grounded in real science and decades of extensive experience, this book cuts through the misconceptions, myths and even outright lies plaguing contemporary animal behaviour and psychology.It's time to stop feeling guilty about using correction, and embrace the responsible and truly scientific approach that actually works in the real world.
Real World Dog Training
Tired of dog training that just doesn't work in the real world?Forget the sugar-coated methods and endless bribery with treats. Real World Dog Training is here to challenge nearly everything the "positive" trainers have told you.For too long, modern dog training has been hijacked by the utopian fantasy that positive reinforcement alone has the answers. Unfortunately, this damaging ideology worsens by the day. But the real world doesn't work that way.In this unapologetically honest expos矇, Tully Williams reveals the truth about why "positive" training so often fails, and why correction succeeds-often more quickly, easily and far more effectively-all while achieving superior welfare outcomes.Grounded in real science and decades of extensive experience, this book cuts through the misconceptions, myths and even outright lies plaguing contemporary animal behaviour and psychology.It's time to stop feeling guilty about using correction, and embrace the responsible and truly scientific approach that actually works in the real world.
Stable Core Training
Creative concepts and exercises that fundamentally improve your riding foundation, enabling you to excel in any training system or discipline.When horsewoman and certified personal trainer Joyce Kramer discovered that the riders most committed to fitness were not reaping the benefits of their improved athleticism on horseback, she abandoned the standard protocol for developing strength, endurance, and stability. Her background in the study of movement and holding patterns enabled her to develop her own unique approach to physical training capable of improving riding function and performance in such dramatic ways, it can bring out what she calls the "inner elite rider" in everyone.Using phenomenal hand-drawn imagery and engaging photographs of her own students at work, Kramer begins her book by clarifying the four most important ingredients to riding in harmony with an equine partner, as well as the aspects that nurture a sense of "feel" in the rider: AlignmentCenteringGroundingPositive TensionThe second part of the book focuses on rider position, deconstructing the body's sections and again using imagery to enable readers to connect all their "parts" into one cohesive, breathing, supple "whole." An optimal position allows the horse to carry the rider comfortably and efficiently, promoting performance to the very best of his ability.Finally, Kramer takes the reader on a journey to the "deep core," which she has identified as key not only to limiting extraneous movement of the exterior body visible to others, but also to the energy exchange at the most exciting level of connection with a horse. Bones, internal organs, and spinal stabilizers are engaged on the ground and in the saddle, using sound cues, proprioceptive props, and imagery, with mind-blowing results.With hundreds of images, tips, and exercises that can be modified according to age and ability, and an excitingly fresh perspective, this book can be the key to any rider reaching the next level in the saddle--whether that means excelling in a whole new division of competition, or recovering or rebuilding after time away from the sport. Every page is full of fun, engaging answers to your riding questions, ideas for clearing your stumbling blocks, and the endless promise of pursuing an activity you love in the company of your horse.
Feeding Horses
This concise handbook provides evidence-based, practical horse nutrition accessible to all readers. Standing out from very dense theoretical horse nutrition books, it arms equine students, veterinary students and horse owners with practically applicable information, bringing theory and practice together. At the end of each chapter, veterinarian and equine nutrition experts Dr Gulsah Kaya Karasu and Dr Peter Huntington provide guidance on practical applications, calculations and the real-life use of information. For example, how is gastric ulcer formation triggered by traditional horse feeding? How can the risk of gastric ulcer formation be reduced with evidence-based feeding?Divided into four parts, the book covers the horse's digestive system, types of feeds, formulating rations, and nutrition-related health disorders. Its scientifically validated, practical information will be invaluable for horse owners, students and trainers, equine nutritionists and practitioners within the equine industry.
Dogs Are a Woman's Best Friend
This breezy, charmingly illustrated gift book celebrates 30 women from all walks of life, including artists, scientists, and humanitarians, who have one thing in common-their unique bond with their dogs. This charmingly illustrated book celebrates the unique bond between fascinating women in history and their loyal best friends. You'll visit inventor and actor Hedy Lamarr and her Great Dane, Donner, in their home in the Hollywood Hills; walk alongside the sea with poet Emily Dickinson and her Newfoundland, Carlo; and cheer on tennis great Serena Williams with her Yorkie, Chip. You'll also learn important life lessons from a dog's perspective, discover who's in the canine hall of fame, understand how to speak dog, and more. You can even take a quiz to find your paw-fect pooch match--are you a unique dachshund or an outdoorsy Labrador? Or maybe you're a sweet-natured Cavalier King Charles spaniel, or perhaps a passionate border collie. There's so much to dig into among the pages of this book, and every dog lover will learn something new.
Dog Show
ONE OF OPRAH'S FAVORITE THINGS! NATIONAL BESTSELLER New York Times bestselling author and former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins captures the essence and mystery of dogs in this special collection of poems inspired by our beloved companions, with striking watercolor canine portraits by Pamela Sztybel. As Oprah says on Oprah Daily online: "This collection of 25 poems by Billy Collins is a sweet gift for dog lovers. 'A Dog on His Master' is a favorite of mine." "Everyone who has a dog--or still grieves for one--will find themselves in this collection of witty, sweet and poignant poems by former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins . . [an] eminently giftable collection."--The Washington Post"There are lots of books about man's best friend, but none as sweet or as beautiful as Dog Show."--Air Mail "The pleasures here are many for Collins fans, dog lovers, and any reader looking for clever, poignant, and spirit-lifting poems accompanied by deft, lively, and affectionate paintings."--Booklist Billy Collins's Dog Show celebrates the joy of our canine best friends, honoring the love we feel for the animals who play such vital roles in our lives. In twenty-five poems, Collins distills the many ways dogs warm our hearts, from the happiness we experience as we watch a dog run unencumbered by our burdens, to the silliness of cradling a dog in our arms as we step on the scale together. Turning his inimitable eye and ear to the complexities of dog behavior, Collins ponders all that these winning creatures give us and what we learn from them about ourselves. For more than four decades Collins has delighted readers with his insight, wit, and clear poetic voice. In Dog Show, "America's favorite poet" (The Wall Street Journal) illuminates America's favorite pet (sorry, cat lovers). Accompanied by Pamela Sztybel's watercolors, which effortlessly depict a dog's humble grace, Dog Show reveals the profound role these majestic animals play in our lives and the meaning they give us.
Feline
"A big and beautiful gift-worthy holiday art book" (New York Times) from the preeminent animal portrait photographer and the bestselling author of Dogs, Endangered, and Birds, this is a stunning collection of over 170 photographs of cats, with text on the species, their evolution, and why we love them. With this lush, gift-ready package, Tim Flach's Feline celebrates domestic cats while also highlighting their wild counterparts and the urgent conservation efforts to protect them and their habitats. For thousands of years, felines have captivated humanity with their beauty, intelligence, unpredictability, and fierce independence. In his latest work, world-renowned photographer Tim Flach explores this deep, sometimes one-sided but always enduring bond, revealing the many identities of cats--from their sacred status in ancient cultures to their viral superstardom in the digital age. Feline showcases the world's most extraordinary cats, show champions, and internet icons with millions of followers. From pedigrees like the classic British Shorthair and curly coated Rex breeds to the werewolf-like Lykoi and the humble moggie representing the majority, Flach's images capture the personality, character, and spirit of felines in a way never seen before. Evolutionary biologist Jonathan Losos provides fascinating context, weaving together science, history, and human connections to explore what makes cats so compelling. He examines their evolutionary journey, adaptation to diverse environments, and the growing influence of human intervention on breeding. Meanwhile, neuroscientist Morten Kringelbach delves into the science of cuteness, unthreading why felines hold such power over us. QR codes offer exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, providing insights into Flach's creative process and the authenticity of these unbelievable felines. From the untamed wild to the warmth of our homes, Feline is a mesmerizing tribute to the grace, mystery, and enduring presence of cats in our lives.This beautiful volume is the gift book every cat lover needs.
Cat Tales
Feared, revered, respected, and beloved, cats have left an indelible paw print on the histories and civilizations of humankind. Over the last two million years, cats and people have interacted in diverse and unexpected ways, but the predecessors of today's furry friends were predators, not pets.Leading anthropologist Jerry Moore charts the cat's path from deadly enemy to improbable roommate, making use of the latest archaeological evidence to produce an original and revealing narrative. Starting with the terrifying prehistorical scimitar--tooth cat of the Pliocene age and the lion drawings of the Paleolithic Chauvet caverns, Moore journeys through our complicated history with these charismatic creatures. He travels along the Nile and across the Mediterranean, sailing on to South America, exploring pet cemeteries, cat mummies, and exquisite statuary across continents and centuries.Illustrated throughout with photographs, artifacts, and artworks, this book surveys our relationships with cats from the Paleolithic period to the present day, unlocking the mysteries of these remarkable creatures. While cats are now beloved members of families around the world, our attempts to bring cats in from the cold have not always had happy endings, as Moore explores through such famous feline fanciers as Joe Exotic, Siegfried Fischbacher, and Roy Horn. From incredible archaeological finds to cave paintings, and from classical statues to contemporary social media, Cat Tales surveys ancient and modern interactions between humans and cats, wild and domestic, to ask a simple question: who domesticated who?
Freshwater Aquariums
For beginning aquatic fancier looking to start out right with fish, Freshwater Aquariums by David Alderton is the ideal primer. A vertebrate that breathe primarily by means of gills and swim by means of fins is the author's lead-in to the first chapter called "What are Fish?" Alderton builds the reader's confidence by providing solid information about what fish are anatomically speaking, how they evolved, how they breathe, how they move, where they live, and how they behave. The new fancier's aquarium begins in chapter two with instructions on setting up the tank, including selecting the right size, figuring out how many fish, setting the tank, equipment, substrate, heating, lighting, filtrations, plants, water chemistry, assembly, and more. Choosing the freshwater fishes that appeal to the reader is the subject of "Introducing the Categories of Fish," which schools readers in seven categories: Cyprinids (e.g., goldfish, minnows, and barbs), Characins (e.g., tetras), Cichlids (e.g., oscars, angelfish, and discus), Anabantoids (gouramis, bettas/Siamese fighting fish, and paradise fish), Toothcarps (guppies, swordtails, platies, black mollies, and killifish), Catfish, and others (loaches and Chinese algae eaters). The purchasing, maintenance, and feeding of fish are described in considerable details, and the author gives a basic overview of breeding and keeping fish healthy as well. Resources, glossary, and index conclude the book.
The Dog Tricks and Training Workbook, Revised and Expanded
With this workbook from the author of the internationally best-selling 101 Dog Tricks, learn the core concepts of dog training, and apply those concepts in training 30 different tricks. As you work from level to level in this revised and expanded edition of The Dog Tricks and Training Workbook, you will master the key elements of dog training--timing, technique, motivation, and building on known behaviors--as you achieve a stronger bond with your dog. Choose from a wide range of tricks, from basic (Sit, Shake Hands, Paws Up) to advanced (Ring a Bell to Go Out, Tidy Up Toys into Toybox, Fetch a Soda). This complete curriculum features: Photo-illustrated step-by-step instructions for every trickVideo tutorials accessible via QR codesQuick tips and encouragement sidebarsReview quizzes and prompts to re-evaluate your knowledge, your dog's progress, and your relationshipA tracking chart for training sessionsSpace for notes at the backThrough this user-friendly course, you will establish a conscious and consistent pattern of relating to your dog in a meaningful partnership based on trust, communication, and respect. Also by Kyra Sundance, learn to do even more with your dog with: 101 Dog Tricks; 51 Puppy Tricks; 10-Minute Dog Training Games; 101 Dog Tricks, Kids Edition; Dog Training 101; The Pocket Guide to Dog Tricks; Kyra's Canine Conditioning; and The Joy of Dog Training.
The Herbal Dog
A hands-on guide to holistic canine herbalism "Even if skeptical readers don't come away completely convinced, they'll be enormously educated--Hogan imparts a huge amount of biological information about dogs, and does it all with an easy readability that will make quite a bit of it stick. An informative and sometimes eye-opening examination of natural remedies for helping your dog."--Kirkus Reviews - Teaches the tenets of holistic herbalism for the individual dog - Presents safe, clinically proven, and effective protocols for common canine conditions, from acid reflux to allergies to itching, scratching, and yeast - Lays out a comprehensive materia medica of canine-specific herbs, including what conditions they are good for, their energetics, internal and external use, safe dosages, and contraindications In this comprehensive guide to holistic care for dogs, clinical canine herbalist Rita Hogan explains that by looking at dogs as individual ecosystems with unique personalities, physiology, and needs, we can select effective and personalized herbal remedies to support their constitutions and provide relief from many different ailments. Hogan, who has spent more than two decades working with canines, uses energetic principles (cool, warm, dry, damp) to reveal how herbs are not "one size fits all" and how to find the root cause of chronic imbalances. She discusses in depth how a dog's main organ systems work, how they are connected to each other, and why we need to understand them when choosing specific herbs and foods. Presenting safe, clinically proven, and effective protocols for common canine conditions--from acid reflux to allergies to itching, scratching, and yeast--Hogan presents a wide variety of holistic and herbal remedies: from herbal tinctures, glycerities, and phytoembryonics to flower essences, essential oils, medicinal mushrooms, and homeopathy. Her comprehensive materia medica of canine-specific herbs that she uses in her practice details what herbs are good for which conditions and why, what types of energetics are involved, safe dosage recommendations for each herbal remedy, and when to discontinue an herb. Allowing each of us to take a hands-on approach to our canine companions' health and longevity, this herbal guide outlines how to help them live their best lives by our sides.
Bosco and the Rainbow Bridge
Meet Bosco, a charming Scottish terrier with a heart as brave as a lion's and a spirit as joyful as a summer day. Bosco was more than just a dog; he was a friend, a companion, and a furry confidant to his loving family. Embark on a tender journey with Bosco - a journey of love, friendship, and the courage to say goodbye."Bosco and the Rainbow Bridge" is a heartfelt tale that touches upon a moment every pet lover knows too well. Through tender words and gentle illustrations, you will witness Bosco's adventure beyond this world, where he finds new friends and discovers the most beautiful meadow, just on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge.
The Forever Dog
#1 New York Times BestsellerIn this pathbreaking guide, two of the world's most popular and trusted pet care advocates reveal new science to teach us how to delay aging and provide a long, happy, healthy life for our canine companions.Like their human counterparts, dogs have been getting sicker and dying prematurely over the past few decades. Why? Scientists are beginning to understand that the chronic diseases afflicting humans--cancer, obesity, diabetes, organ degeneration, and autoimmune disorders--also beset canines. As a result, our beloved companions are vexed with preventable health problems throughout much of their lives and suffer shorter life spans. Because our pets can't make health and lifestyle decisions for themselves, it's up to pet parents to make smart, science-backed choices for lasting vitality and health. The Forever Dog gives us the practical, proven tools to protect our loyal four-legged companions. Rodney Habib and Karen Becker, DVM, globetrotted (pre-pandemic) to galvanize the best wisdom from top geneticists, microbiologists, and longevity researchers; they also interviewed people whose dogs have lived into their 20s and even 30s. The result is this unprecedented and comprehensive guide, filled with surprising information, invaluable advice, and inspiring stories about dogs and the people who love them.The Forever Dog prescriptive plan focuses on diet and nutrition, movement, environmental exposures, and stress reduction, and can be tailored to the genetic predisposition of particular breeds or mixes. The authors discuss various types of food--including what the commercial manufacturers don't want us to know--and offer recipes, easy solutions, and tips for making sure our dogs obtain the nutrients they need. Habib and Dr. Becker also explore how external factors we often don't think about can greatly affect a dog's overall health and wellbeing, from everyday insults to the body and its physiology, to the role our own lifestyles and our vets' choices play. Indeed, the health equation works both ways and can travel "up the leash."Medical breakthroughs have expanded our choices for canine health--if you know what they are. This definitive dog-care guide empowers us with the knowledge we need to make wise choices, and to keep our dogs healthy and happy for years to come.
What Kind of Dog Is That?
The answer is only a simple DNA test away. In this charming book, photographer Grace Chon pairs stunning portraits of mixed-breed pups with their DNA breakdowns, revealing the origins of their adorable quirks--from long bodies and stubby legs to that one floppy ear that refuses to stand up straight. Sometimes funny, sometimes surprising, and always exceptionally lovable, What Kind of Dog Is That? is a must-have for every dog lover.
The Care Your Dog Deserves
What if I told you that Grooming your Dog can be Stress free? Dog grooming isn't exactly the first thing you signed up for when you got your pup. You imagined fetch, cuddles, maybe a cute bandana. But here you are, up to your elbows in fur, wondering if you're doing any of this right. That's where The Care Your Dog Deserves comes in. It's like a friend who actually knows what they're talking about, no judgment, just solid advice.This book keeps it simple: how to pick the right brush (because not all fur is created equal), survive bath time without flooding your house, and handle the details like nails, teeth, and ears without a meltdown, yours or your dog's. Plus, we'll talk about those uninvited guests like fleas and ticks. (they've gotta go).It's not about perfection or show-dog nonsense. It's about real, practical tips to keep your dog healthy and looking their best. By the end, you'll feel like you've got this, and your dog? They'll be strutting around like the rockstar they are.So, grab your brush. Let's get to work.
Missy's Clan Christmas
Whatever gospel you believe in or not, Christmas is for us a break at the end of the year, leading up to New Year.It is a period of holidays, where you can look back at the year'sachievements amidst the heavy shopping and merriment.It is a period where humans show warm feelings and generosity towards each other, and of decorating inside and outside.Animals join this warm spirit.We were feeding the birds and squirrels at the back of the house, close to the wood covered banks of the lake.Naturally our cats were discussing the idea behind the bird feeding house, and its use. They were no doubt disappointed that we didn't pay enough attention to the flow of free meals here. The point about a setting atrap is that you attend to it! It's no good just to set a superb trap and then leave it. It's irresponsible!
Missy's Clan - Deer Friends
No, it is not a spelling error. It is not "Dear" friends but "Deer" friends...as in Roe deer - Buck, Roe and Fawn.Actually, they were not "dear" at all the first time!When Anjuli and Lille-Tiger saw two deer the first time, their eyes widened, hair stuck out, tails all bottle cleaner brush like. The deer jumped them and galloped down the bridge and disappeared into the Orchard, down a steep slope to the left and the end of the bridge. Shed No 1 to the left, which Anjuli loved.
Missy's Clan Basket Case
A basket case is of course someone who is whackoo or looney. We use the term in a slightly different meaning. We already showed cats in baskets in Missy's Clan Education, but we have some more pictures to share with you.Playing with baskets was by accident.We start with Cottonball occupying a basket that we had been using for mushrooming and left on the living room window sill. That was funny enough for a picture.Many times, funny situations happen and you do not have a camera ready so you don't get a picture.Eventually you get round to try to have a camera ready nearby. But when someone is able to show you always these funny situations, you get to wonder if they are instructed and not really just happening. We bought some Spring flowers over in the supermarket and they were in this nice basket with the long handle. The handle was to protect the flowers from being crushed during transport and sale.
A Guide to Bali Dogs
Discover the hidden treasures of Bali's canine culture with this comprehensive guide. Whether you're a dog lover, traveller, or local resident, this book offers invaluable insights into the history and daily lives of Bali dogs, as well as practical ways to support their well-being.
The Complete Australian Cobberdog And Australian Labradoodle
A totally unique book for all dog lovers everywhere, with never before released images, and material and expert tips on dog care, training and breeding. Beverley reveals how she co-developed the hugely popular Australian Labradoodle and went on to create a new pure breed of dog - the rare and ethereal Australian Cobberdog. Few true stories can offer such exhilarating joy, tragedies and unlikely victories.Beverley has navigated a very long and difficult to the ultimate triumph of creating a lasting legacy by developing a new non shedding and allergy friendly pure breed of dog that prefers to be with people above all else.
Barkitecture
A showcase of eclectic designs, architectural inspiration, and adorable dogs. Barkitecture is a world of innovative pet architecture featuring over 50 unique houses, from sleek modern beauties to whimsically fun creations. Whether you're a seasoned designer, a pet parent looking to create a special retreat for your furry family member, or simply someone who loves animals, you will adore this book of cool digs and furry friends. For the cat lovers out there, don't worry--felines have their place in Barkitecture too! With a dedicated chapter featuring creative cat-friendly designs, this book celebrates all pets of the four-legged variety. As you dive deeper into the insights and invention of stylish and functional pet architecture, get to know the companies, creators, and their furry friends behind the scenes. These designs are not meant to kick a pet out of the main house but give them their own custom oasis, whether for indoor or outdoor use. Catered to a variety of personalities and breeds, these houses have a range of uses such as napping, relaxing, or playing, with some practical features to please the owner as well. From the company Barkitecture, founders of the one-of-a-kind pet architecture and design competition, each featured house is auctioned off with 100 percent of the event's profits going to pets in need, including local foster and pet rescue organizations listed throughout the book. Written by the president of Barkitecture, Joshua Thomasson, find photos from five years of the event. Feast your eyes on adorable dogs in exciting houses throughout these themed chapters: Furry Furnishings for indoor doghousesBarks and Recreation for outdoor doghousesGreenest Paws for sustainable doghousesPawsitively Unconventional for intriguing doghousesMeow-dern Purritecture for cat houses (Yes, cats are welcome with all the scratching posts and climbing trees they could dream of.)With a blend of art, architecture, and cute dogs, this book is the perfect gift for the designer or dog lover in your life.
All in the Family!
All in the Family takes an in-depth look at owning two or more pets. This insightful book is aimed at both current and potential pet owners who would like to share their home with an animal companion, but can't make up their mind what kind - or if two or more animals might be a better solution.Through studies and lots of real-life examples, the author hopes to convince animal lovers that two's company - and even three is definitely not a crowd! The book explores why more than one pet is a great idea for all concerned - for both owners and pets. It is also highlights how pets could benefit from the presence of other animals in the household, and in some cases be given a completely new lease of life.Although many might feel two dogs or cats are plenty, it could be that more are even merrier. Expert advice is given on making the right choices to avoid a combination that clearly won't work, perhaps due to the breed of dog or cat; the owner's location or residence; a current lifestyle situation, or the incompatibility of some species combinations.Combinations of dogs and cats, as well as other animals, are discussed, with clear evidence that pets such as rabbits, pigs and hedgehogs, among others, can all live happily in a mixed-species environment.Featuring interviews with real-life, multi-animal families, who relate their personal experiences of mixed species, the book is illustrated throughout with dynamic photographs of pets at play, eating, sleeping and interacting with each other, their owners and families, showing what fun, joy, laughter and love animals can bring to a home.
Lessons From Meerah
There is nothing like leading a horse through endless labyrinth-like circles or listening to the trickle of water running over swollen legs, to place me into a state of contemplation. And this is how my story begins. Nursing my ten-year-old Arabian mare through a mysterious week-long illness while my mind, and this book, remembers the five years of work, errors, triumphs and tragedies that ultimately led to a true partnership with my dressage and trail horse.Horseback riding is my passion, part of my daily existence and happiness, and when my riding horse unexpectedly died, I needed to fill the void left in my emotional, and social life. Enter Meerah, a five-year-old rescued Arabian, a horse that my ego assumed I could easily train to my liking. But Meerah had her own opinion of how our new relationship should function.I should have known better than to apply the negative-reinforcement-style training that I had used on my old Western Pleasure mount... but I didn't. I was in my late fifties and for the past twenty years had grown spiritually in my everyday life, however, my equestrian-mind remained mired within dominance. It was Meerah who healed my wounded emotions and introduced me to a new way of thinking about horsemanship.Lessons from Meerah is a memoir, a five-year journey of my struggle to remember the simple path one needs to follow to form a successful relationship with a new horse, and not to blindly adhere to a recipe for training that I learned when I was much younger. Yet, ingrained habits are hard to recognize, and even harder to break.My recently deceased horse knew what I wanted and our invisible body language of a raised rein hand, or a touch of the spur, would easily catapult my old mare into the proper response. But Meerah was young, inexperienced, and did not understand my minuscule cues, let alone being ridden. I was determined to lunge my new mare into submission, or bit her head into the proper position, or sit heavy and squeeze my legs into controlling her speed. I was determined to re-create the Western Pleasure and trail horse that I had lost, and never considered my new horse could have an opinion, let alone a different goal than I.Meerah threw me off her back and into a fence, bolted and nearly unseated one trainer, and successfully wiggled her way out from under another. The beautiful Egyptian Arabian was a talented mover and had great potential, IF I could figure out how to ride her.Two steps forward and one step backwards was the progress we made together as I struggled to get her into the frame I desired. And, ever so slowly, the epiphany of common sense seeped into my blue ribbon seeking equestrian head.I learned to accept Meerah's ability to move as a dressage horse, and not as a pre-destined Western Pleasure horse. And as I learned the value of Centered Riding, Liberty training and Natural Horsemanship, I changed my perspective. Meerah was not the typical "equine slave" I could control. Quite the contrary, she became a partner. And through all these lessons I met new people, rekindled old friendships, and grew into the horsewoman I am today.I'll always treasure the memories and experiences of my youth, it is acceptance of change, or is it growth, that I applaud throughout the contents of this book. I hope you find my words, and our story, inspirational for your own life's journey, Suzy and Meerah
Doghouse Days
The Wild and Crazy Class of 2020! Featuring The Doghouse Pupils in attendance at The Doghouse School
Know Your Dog
Most books about dogs talk about the history of various breeds, and are filled with useful training advice, yet we learn almost nothing about how dogs think and feel. Dogs are considered to be easily trained creatures of instinct, but this attitude falls short of the mark. It doesn't take into consideration that dogs are thinking, feeling beings; individuals, just as we are, with different personalities, strengths and weaknesses, and distinct emotional lives. The aim of this book is to have dog owners get to know their companions from a different perspective, through simple routines and games that can be carried out at home. Owners will learn about - and see for themselves - the mental abilities that their dog possesses, and understand their dog much better as the relationship between them grows even deeper.
All for the Love of Great Danes
In the latest book, All for the Love of Great Danes, stories about eight wonderful animals and the people who comprised more than thirty-fi ve years while living in Europe to return to our farm in the US are shared. It is a refl ective review of the cheerful and amusing stories told through a historical lens and from each dogs' perspective while living in Germany, Spain, and the US. Patti Dammier, PhD of Got Carrots?(R) in Roy, Washington, writes intellectually invigorating books about horses and Great Danes. Take your pick from her nonfi ctional and fi ctional books, and horse stories for younger audiences, Got Carrots Resuced Horse, Dr. Dammier reminds her readers that animals respond favorably to humans because we have the ability to create a positive relationship. She relies on her more than thirty-fi ve years of experience in horse training, professional research, and education in writing her books. www.AllfortheLoveofGreatDanes.com
The Mindful Mutt
Did you know that being mindful is as beneficial for your dog as it is for you? The Mindful Mutt explains the connection between dogs and mindfulness, how to be mindful yourself and how to be mindful with your dog. You will see how this mindful connection can deepen your understanding of your dog and why they respond to you the way they do. In this book you will discover: What mindfulness is. How to be mindful. How to read your dog's body language. How to fulfil your dog. How to recognise your dog's state of mind. We also include mindfulness exercises for you and your dog and some basic training to help your dog with self control and relaxation. Jackie and Steve used to be the frazzled owners of highly reactive dogs. Their search for a solution led them to the same place; a pack walk for problem dogs run by a local dog behaviourist. It wasn't long before their dogs had made friends and got Jackie and Steve talking. Their thirst for the knowledge and skills to help such reactive dogs lead normal lives, led to them qualifying as dog behaviourists and becoming trained in the ways of mindfulness. It is now their mission to share what they have learned with as many people as possible, culminating in this book.
