Table Training Begging at the table is one of dogs’ most common bad habits. Breaking it is especially difficult if you have children or other family members who love sneaking scraps under the table to your pet. Slipping human food to your dog not only encourages this annoying habit but risks causing obesity and stomach upset. Also, some human foods are toxic for dogs. Raisins and grapes can cause kidney problems — including the raisins in a seemingly harmless oatmeal cookie. Chocolate can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Garlic and onions are linked to anemia in dogs, and macadamia nuts may be especially harmful, potentially causing vomiting and nervous system damage, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Breaking the begging habit isn’t difficult if all family members are consistent in following the rules. Begin by refusing to look at or talk to your dog when it begs. Simply ignoring your pet is best since dogs (like some human kids) prefer negative attention or scolding over being ignored! Teaching a dog basic obedience commands can discourage them from impulse-driven behaviors. Work with your pet on learning to “sit” or “lie down,” and try using those commands to distract them from begging. BREAK THE BEGGING HABIT
If someone drops food on the floor and your dog races
to snatch it, train them to respond to a “leave” command. Or train an alternate behavior during
dinner, such as sending them to a designated area away from the table with the command, “Go to your spot.”
Other options include moving your dog to another room while you eat. Or consider feeding your dog before your own meal, preferably in a separate room. When they are finished, say, “All done,” and be consistent in denying them food after that. During holiday meals when guests may undo your training by dropping scraps for your pet, consider giving your dog an alternate treat to devour away from the table, such as a KONG toy stuffed with peanut butter. Following all these rules consistently will help your dog learn its place in the family, resulting in a more contented pet!
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N ePwo lSi cCi eVs C
UnNtiloFtiucrether Due to a staffing shortage, SCVC will be closed on the first and third Saturday of the month. We will continue to be open on the second and fourth Saturdays. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Judy Weaver Terry Calhoun Jil Ludlam
• At the time of scheduling a
dental or surgery appointment, a $250 deposit will be required. This deposit will be applied to the procedure bill. If you need to cancel the appointment, and you give us at least a 24-hour notice, the deposit will be refunded.
• Due to the increasing cost of
credit card processing, there is now a 3% service charge added to all clinic services and products. If paying with cash, check, or PIN debit, there is no charge.
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