Aggression Referrals

Are you having aggression issues with your puppy or dog?  Or are you beginning to see signs that have you concerned?  If the answer is "yes" please take it seriously and get the help sooner than later of a Professional Dog Trainer, Behaviorist, or Specialist who specializes in dog aggression issues.

Examples of aggression issues:  Leash Aggression, Barrier Frustration, Fear Aggression, People Aggression, Dog Aggression, Handling Issues, Resource Guarding (Items such as toys, food, you), Territory Aggression, Biting History (with people, dogs, or other animals), Sibling Rivalry.

Red Flags you may need help:  You no longer can walk your dog, as it is no longer fun and/or it is embarrassing.  You cannot take your dog out in public due to fear it may bite.  You no longer can have company over, because your dog becomes to upset and/or you are afraid your company will get bitten.  You are or are becoming afraid of your dog because they have been bitten or threaten to bite.  Your Vet and their Staff are afraid of your dog and you must muzzle it prior to an appointment.  You can no longer pick up or handle your dog without getting bitten.

Take the time and money and focus on issues before they have time to get worse.  If you start to see issues that are concerning you, take the time to call and consult a Professional Dog Trainer, Behaviorist, or Specialist who specializes in aggression issues.

I do not recommend you treat aggression with aggression, it normally backfires on you long-term and makes things worse not better (and can get you bitten!).  Seek profession help.  Be wary of accepting and implementing ideas and suggestions of well meaning friends, family members, and associates who are "not" Pet Professionals!  They may mean well, but may unknowingly give you advice that can backfire and place you and your dog in a dangerous situation or set you up accidentally to fail.

Call and speak with a Professional and go over your concerns, as soon as possible.  Make an appointment with one "you have thoroughly researched" and feel comfortable/confident working with you and your dog.  Do not be afraid to ask for and pay for a second opinion/evaluation with a second Professional.  Like doctors and veterinarians, sometimes you may feel more confident with another evaluation versus accepting only one.

© 2006 The Right Steps & Cindy C. Smith. All rights reserved.

Referral Information & Website Links:

Trainers and/or Behaviorists in the Sacramento Area:

4 Paws University: Lisa and Kelly: info@4pawsu.com , (916) 549-0260, (916) 549-0364

Sacramento SPCA: Val Masters: 916-383-7387 ext. 9142, vmasters@sspca.org

Ruth McDaniel ~ Barcc Dog Training & Servies, LLC ~ 530-417-5038 ~ ruthmcdaniel@lycos.com

UC Davis: Behavior Department: (Frequently asked questions) (530) 752-1393

&

We welcome you to attend one of our:

"Free Seminars" on Positive Solutions to Problem Puppy Behavior include: Play Biting, Jumping, Housetraining, Management, Leadership, Chewing, Exercise and Toy Ideas as well as what to expect as your puppy matures from a Puppy to Adolescent to Adulthood to Senior.