Dogs require exercise each and every day. Whether you own a Chihuahua or a Golden Retriever, exercise is a necessity! Limited exercise and decreased socialization tends to cause behavioral problems, such as; destructiveness, separation anxiety, and/or aggression. This can also be caused by and owner's negative reinforcement. Have you ever taken your dog to the vet or grooming salon and as it was shaking you petted it and said "it's O.K."? If you have, you have just exhibited negative reinforcement. You reassured your dog that it was acceptable to be afraid of that there was something to be afraid of. This tends to make the dog more difficult to handle. This type of behavior should simply be ignored. Without saying or giving a command, our dogs may react to our emotion because they can sense and smell the pheromones that we emit. When we are nervous, fearful, or hesitant, our dogs can sense this and exhibit a negative or dangerous reaction. As owners, we must make our dogs realize that we are the "Alpha Dog" through calm assertiveness. The dog must at all times know that you are the pack leader. This, along with an exercise routine, will prevent many behavioral problems.

I truly believe that dog day care facilities should exist in every town. Just be sure to stop in, view the facility, and ask pertinent questions. Ask about the number and experience of the staff, and how many dogs they cater to each day. I don't feel that the ratio of staff to dogs is always important. It depends on the personality and energy of that given group of dogs. On one day, I can accept 25 dogs with a staff of 4-5 and on another I may accept 45 dogs with a staff of 3-4. It is dependent upon the "crew" that is coming in that particular day.

Our valued clients have entrusted the care of their dogs to us since 1999. It is our job to be sure that their dogs are safe, happy, and enjoy their days with us. Stop in to tour our facility or visit our website at www.ladedapetspa.com