In this episode, we sit down for a lovely chat with the amazing Debby Dobson, Animal Behaviorist and owner of Good Dog! Animal Behavior. Dogs are her passion and although she works with all types of dogs, she primarily works with those who are fearful and often reactive dogs, to help them "feel comfortable in their own fur" and have full, well-rounded, and well-loved lives.
I work primarily with fearful, reactive dogs, many of whom are rescues.
As more Americans began adopting rather than buying dogs from breeders, as a pet sitter, I began to notice behaviors in dogs I'd rarely seen before. Some were shaking when I arrived, others froze ridgedly with a "don't come near me" look on their faces. My challenge was how to help them relax and trust me. The first "tool" I used was taking them for a long walk, during which I simply followed and observed.
Later, I adopted a dog of my own who I observed and walked for several days at the shelter before I brought her home. During that time, I saw no sign of any aggression whatsoever. When she came home Nora was polite and respectful of my cats as well. But two weeks later, she tried to bite a male friend of mine who'd been sitting sharing his lunch with her on our back steps.
Needless to say, I was shocked. I even tried to re-home her, but fortunately that failed. Thus began my almost 2-year journey into dog behavior. I wanted to help my pup feel comfortable in the world; I wanted to take her anywhere with me and not worry that she would hurt anyone, or be utterly miserable and tense herself.
I've always loved dogs. They are so emotionally honest, and if they have a supportive, caring home environment, they are the most loving, loyal, sweet companions. I want to help people give their dogs the best life possible. I want to work with people who are dedicated to their dogs' happiness and well-being.
I am in the process of writing a memoir about my dog Nora and the journey we took together. A condensed chapter in my book appeared in a recent Chicken Soup for the Soul book about dogs. I have also written a number of articles about dogs that have appeared online, and in print. I have spoken about dog behavior locally in a workshop forum (including at a dog club) and have also taught dog behavior as a 6-week class.
I am actively looking for more venues in which to speak about dogs, and I welcome the opportunity for more interviews.
=> To book Debby... email her at: [email protected]
I provide one-on-one consultations with my clients pertaining to dog behavior related problems. I plan on expanding this to small online classes within the next year to reach more people. I have also taught "Dog Behavior 101" as both a 6-week class and a 2-hour workshop.
For more info => [email protected]
Info about the Rescued Beagles:
A recent court order that shut down a disreputable breeding facility in VA has now thankfully freed almost 4000 Beagles from a terrible life. They had no toys, no interaction and stimulation, and often lacked proper veterinary care.
And now they all need new places to live! The article below has a link of who to contact if you or someone you know can foster. I have also alerted my contact at the ASPCA Behavioral Rehab Center to see if they might be able to take some of the neediest cases, those who are badly traumatized. Additionally, I posted the article on NextDoor as well as on an online animal rights group I belong to.
https://www.today.com/pets/pets/4000-mistreated-beagles-rescued-envigo-rms-rcna37890
The HSUS is working with its partner shelters across America to transport these dogs into places where they can start the process of healing. Please read the article carefully - there are many links for further information about ways to help.
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