| | | | | "Sit with animals quietly and they will show you their hearts. Sit with them kindly and they will help you locate yours."
- Author Unknown
| | Happy Thursday! Here's the scoop: - Read a heartwarming story of Max and Kerry
- Find out which qualities are most important in therapy dogs
- Dogs and humans need exercise!
- Watch Long Island therapy dogs in action
- Chill pups and people
| | Did You Know...?
How long does it take to train a service dog?
(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!) | | | The Power of a Relationship with a Dog
The companionship of a dog can be incredibly beneficial, but this story of Max and Kerry takes it to the next level. Kerry was an outdoor enthusiast who loved hiking and cycling. After a car accident in 2006, he was stuck at home with horrible back pain and limited mobility. His recovery had him in a dark place because he was no longer able to do the things he loved most.
After two years, one simple request helped him start to turn things around. Kerry's wife asked him to walk to the store and buy milk. On his route, he spotted a Springer Spaniel who looked like he had spent most of his time in the dirt outside. The next day, he ventured out again to walk by the dog again. Eventually, he worked up the nerve to ask the dog's owner if he could take him for a walk, and that's when his relationship with Max took off. This became a daily routine. Kerry often needed to sit and rest, and Max would patiently sit next to him.
On one walk, Kerry and Max found themself sitting on a bench looking at the green rolling hills of Catbells, and Kerry promised to take him there someday. Having that goal helped Kerry start focusing on his recovery, both mentally and physically. Six years later, they hit their goal and climbed to the top of the UK's tallest mountain, Ben Nevis.
When an opportunity came for Max's family to move out of the country, they knew that Kerry would be the perfect person to take him in. The two were finally able to spend all their time together. Max became a Facebook star, and eventually, Kerry worked up the courage to be interviewed about his anxiety and recovery work. The interview inspired so many people, and he and Max went on to do television interviews and help give back to those in need.
Max passed in 2022, but his legacy lives on. Max and Kerry touched so many lives by sharing their story and inspired many people struggling to find a dog companion for themselves. | | Traits of the Perfect Therapy Dog
After reading the story about Kerry and Max, you might wonder more about therapy dogs. Max was found unconventionally, but his impact was clear. Therapy dogs can provide calm and love to the people they work with. There are records of dogs used as therapy tools since Ancient Greek times.
Therapy dogs must have a calm demeanor, patience, confidence, and a love of human contact. The assessment process usually begins with a standard obedience test. There are no breed restrictions, but some dogs naturally have a predisposition for gentleness. Common therapy dog breeds include poodles, golden retrievers, pugs, labs, and beagles.
The most important qualities are gentleness and love. These dogs need to provide safety for the people they are working with and must be patient and responsive to commands. Many locations have distractions, so they must remain focused and engaged with their handler.
When being assessed to become a therapy dog, 10 qualities are required, so knowing this list can be helpful for you if you're considering helping your dog become a certified therapy dog. - Supervised separation
- Handling distractions
- Reacting to fellow canines
- Vocal commands
- Behavioral commands
- Walking through a crowd
- Leash behavior
- Petting
- Approached by a stranger
- Grooming
There are many ways that you can get involved in the therapy dog programs in your area. If you don't think you're prepared to help train a dog, you can always volunteer to bring home a trained dog and bring them to their events as their handler. You can also donate time or supplies to the organizations that help place dogs with people or organizations who can benefit from that support. | | | Image courtesy of Unsplash | | Tips For Running with Your Dog
Running with your dog can be a fantastic way to bond while staying fit together, but it's important to ensure that both you and your furry companion stay safe and comfortable during your jogging sessions.
Before starting any running routine with your dog, it's crucial to consult with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is healthy enough for physical activity, especially if they're a puppy, a senior, or have any underlying health conditions.
Once you have the green light from your vet, start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your runs to allow your dog's muscles and stamina to build up over time.
Invest in proper equipment such as a well-fitted harness and a sturdy leash to maintain control and prevent injury. Avoid using retractable leashes, as they can be dangerous during runs.
Choose safe running routes that are free from traffic and hazards, such as uneven terrain or extreme weather conditions. Keep an eye on your dog's behavior and adjust your pace or distance accordingly to prevent exhaustion or overheating.
Finally, don't forget to bring along water for both you and your dog, and take breaks as needed to rest and hydrate. With these tips in mind, you and your canine companion can enjoy safe and enjoyable jogging sessions together, reaping the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise while strengthening your bond. | | | Innovative Fitness Awaits Orangetheory Fitness is a heart rate-based group workout that combines science, technology and expert coaching to help members live a longer, more vibrant life. Featuring full-body workouts designed to: - Build strength and improve your heart health
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Since we are celebrating therapy dogs today, we thought we'd share this Today Show clip featuring a Long Island organization that brings dogs to schools, hospitals, and other public places. Watch the kids read out loud to dogs. This helps kids face their anxiety and practice their reading skills. It's incredible to see these pups in action and see how much joy and help they are bringing. | | Is Your Pup Chill?
Recognizing when your pup is relaxed is crucial for their well-being and understanding their emotional state.
Here are key signs to look out for: - Loose Muscles: When your pup is relaxed, their muscles will be loose, not tense or rigid. You might notice them lying down with limbs sprawled comfortably.
- Natural Posture: A relaxed pup will have a natural posture, with their body neither stiff nor hunched. They may also stretch out or roll onto their back, exposing their belly.
- Soft Eyes and Ears: Relaxed dogs often have soft, partially closed eyes, and their ears may be in a neutral position rather than pinned back or forward.
- Gentle Breathing: Observe your pup's breathing pattern. When relaxed, their breaths will be slow, steady, and quiet.
- Contentment Signs: Look for signs of contentment such as sighing, lip licking, or gentle tail wagging. These indicate that your pup is at ease in their environment.
- Responsive but Calm: A relaxed pup will respond to stimuli but in a calm manner. They won't react with excessive excitement or fear.
- Relaxed Tail Wagging: While tail wagging is often associated with excitement, a relaxed pup may wag their tail slowly and softly, indicating contentment rather than arousal.
Understanding your pup's relaxed state not only strengthens your bond but also helps in creating a conducive environment for their overall well-being and happiness. | | These Cannabis Gummies Keep Selling Out in 2024
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Although this system was discovered in the 1990's, farmers and scientists at Mood were among the first to figure out how to tap into it with cannabis gummies. Just 1 of their rapid onset THC gummies can get you feeling right within 5 minutes! Order now! | | | Thank you to Mood for sponsoring today's Daily Dig! | | Final Bark
Try Orangetheory for free today. | | A Little Treat: - ✅ Did You Know: It takes an average of 18 months to train a therapy dog.
- 🐶 DOTD: Give your pup the spotlight by submitting them for the dog of the day! This month's theme is dogs in spring. This could be anything from your pup playing in the rain or sun, to your dog modeling some spring-inspired garments. Reply to this email with the best pics of your pooch, a short description, and their name to be featured in an upcoming newsletter.
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