Dogs in Movies / Puppies As Presents

Posted by jennifer on December 21, 2008 in Dog & Wolf News / Issues.

Sandy, Hollywood, California...

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For those of you going out to the movies this holiday season, be sure to check out the upcoming furry flicks: "Marley & Me" based on the best Selling book by John Grogan and the film, "Hotel For Dogs" based on another book by best selling author, Lois Duncan.
I wanted to take some time to talk about a few things that we see in the dog industry as a result of animal films. Sometimes (such as in the case of 101 Dalmatians), when people see a film about cute cuddly puppies, or dogs, they go out and purchase or adopt one without thinking of the responsibility, time, money and long term care a dog needs. Unfortunately, many of these animals are given up to local shelters, turned loose on the streets or not given the proper care and devotion that they require. I urge everyone to take the same type of approach when purchasing or adopting a dog, puppy, kitten or cat as a present. These gifts can sometimes come with many hazards. Many people buying or adopting a dog spur of the moment, fail to look at the right dog for their particular environment, age of child, exercise routine and long term financial planning. Having a pet in any form is a responsibility so I urge everyone to really think long and hard about bringing in a new addition to their family. If well planned out, the right dog should enhance your life, not hinder it and proper and responsible pet ownership is the key to success.
Also, this goes without saying but PLEASE do not purchase a wolf or a hybrid this holiday season. Do your part to help keep nature wild. For wolf or hybrid help, please contact Mission: Wolf at: www.missionwolf.com.
Now onto the good stuff... Here's a homework assignment for you. If you go out to see Marley & Me, ask yourself how you would go about fixing the problems that took place in the film. Labs can be very destructive puppies and really good hunting dogs require a lot of exercise. So here's your chance to be the dog trainer. I'm looking for someone that can solve ten behavior problems and training issues that occur in the movie. The first person who can e-mail me the answers will get a 20% discount on your next dog training session! (This is also a trick to see who is reading my blog... LOL)
As I say to all my clients, it is YOUR job to be the trainer. It's YOUR duty to understand your animals as they think. It's selfish of us to expect them to only understand our way of thinking. Relating to your dog as another dog, putting together all the pieces of the puzzle, never getting stuck in one way of thinking are all keys to the secret of success. Remember that dogs are simple, we are complex. There is a lot your dog can teach you about living in the moment and appreciating all elements of life at this time of year. If you are out there alone during the holidays, pick up your leash and your best friend will come running. I'm sure he or she could go for a good walk! I'm never alone with my dogs, cat and fish no matter where I am or how far I travel. They are always with me.
Best wishes for a happy and safe holiday season...
Jennifer


Fact: In the movie "Hotel For Dogs", ninety dogs were used to create this film.

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