The learning advantages of a pack walk

[charlotte bednarsh]

Paz and I had a great learning experience which I wanted to share with all my friends at Doodlekisses.  Paz is a Pet Partner registered therapy dog, and for the most part, his behavior is truly exceptional.  We live in Lower Manhattan, where the streets are crowded with dogs, people, noise etc., and Paz has learned to ignore almost everything that approaches, however, the area in which I definitely needed improvement, is learning to remain calm when I'm  walking Paz as we are being approached by a dog that appears aggressive, dragging an owner who makes no attempt or is incapable of correcting his/her barking, lunging dog. The other area that is challenging, is that about two months ago, two kids on skateboards came charging down the sidewalk and barely missed hitting me & Paz.  Obviously the sidewalks are concrete, and the sound of the skateboards almost hitting us was absolutely deafening.  As a rule, Paz is very accustomed to lots of loud noises, but since that incident, the minute he sees a skateboard, he starts to bark at it....not the person, just the skateboard.  I've worked with the Pet Partner's trainer regarding techniques for having Paz focus on me rather than the approaching aggressive dog, or the skateboard and there is a definite improvement, However, I still feel anxiety when Paz and I encounter these uncomfortable circumstance and I know Paz senses my anxiety which places him on "high alert".  In any event, there is a wonderful dog trainer in my area who holds "pack" walking groups in which one of the goals is for the handler to gain more confidence and skill when encountering real life situations, as well as helping each dog learn to function with other dogs despite the challenges they may experience individually.  So this past Sunday, Paz and I joined a group of approximately 10 dogs ranging in all sizes, shapes and breeds, each dog had specific issues that needed to be addressed. the walk was supervised by Anthony, the dog trainer and his two legged, as well as four legged staff.  It was one of the best learning experiences that I have had with Paz. It was fascinating to observe how the dogs (and their owners) whatever their challenges, began to thrive when walking as a group.  For me, it was acquiring more skills when encountering the unexpected, and getting tips as each situation arose.  I've been practicing everything we learned since Sunday, and it's amazing how much calmer I feel when confronted with a situation that could be problematic.  I can't wait to go on another pack walk....so much fun and a great way to build my confidence.   Obviously the fact that the walk was organized and supervised by a skilled trainer makes the environment safe and productive for all involved.  I would definitely suggest this pack experience as an adjunct to classroom training which tends to be a more controlled environment.  Here's the link to the NYC trainer who is offering the pack walk experience http://calmenergydogtraining.com/  .  I would love to meet other NYC Doodlekisses members on a pack walk if you are interested.   Just wondering if anyone else had this experience.

[F, Calla & Luca]

My old trainer and her assistant do organize such things out here in the suburbs, to parks and strip mslls etc. 

I haven't gone on one but it sounds lik fun.

[Jarka, Monty & Auggie]

I would really love this. Monty is getting reactive to other dogs when he is on leash. We are meeting a trainer this weekend to see what the options are.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

One of our local specialty pet stores runs a "pack walk along the river" every Saturday morning.  There are lots of dogs, so I haven't taken Murph to one of these yet.  Our trainer does try to bring other dogs to walk with my guys during our training sessions and I often "borrow" neighbors' dogs.  I agree it is a really fun experience for us and the dogs.

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

Nor in WA state either, but If I lived in NYC, I would love to be there!

[charlotte bednarsh]

Hi Meridith,

I don't know when the next pack walk will be, but if we get together enough people, I'm sure Anthony will schedule one.  If you contact him and express interest, he might be able to recruit more people.  I can't wait for the next one and I will certainly keep you posted.  It's such a great experience!  I live in Battery Park City, where are you on the UWS?

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Very cool idea.

[Meridith and Lola]

Charlotte - this definitely sounds like something Lola and I could benefit from.  I live on the UWS.

Do you know when and where the next walk is?  

[Lisa, Daisy & Dexter]

Not here in OH for sure. Sounds exciting, the biggest "pack" walk I have been in was 3 dogs and 4 humans and even that made us feel more confident.