Doggone fun at the library

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On August 17, the McLaughlin Public Library will be going to the dogs.
Yamei Ross, owner of Canine SOS, will be on hand in the library’s McLaughlin auditorium for a special seminar on dog training. Starting at 6:30 p.m., Ross says there’s a lot scheduled for the evening’s chat.
“I will be talking about the different types of dog training methods that are currently available, how to navigate through the confusing maze of information that is out there, how to better understand your dog and ultimately what methods are preferable,” she says.
Ross, a certified dog trainer, canine behaviour specialist, aggression consultant, professional pet dog groomer and dog bite prevention educator for three dog bite prevention organizations (Dogs and Storks, The Dog and Baby Connection and Doggone Safe) has been in business since 2009.
“It is my aim to help educate and support families with babies, toddlers and school aged children to live safely and harmoniously with their family pet dog,” says Ross.

She says that she decided to open Canine SOS because there was a lot of confusing information out in the public about dog training, much of it outdated, unscientific and inhumane. “One of my goals was to educate my clients on humane, science based training methods; helping them to see that you don’t have to “dominate” your dog in order to effective changes in their dog’s behaviour.”
Ross offers these three tips as most critical for dog owners looking into training. First, she recommends you do your research. “Look for a trainer that is educated in, and uses science based, positive reinforcement methods. The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has a great article on how to choose a trainer. The Ontario Veterinary Medical Association also has a position statement outlining what methods they consider acceptable.”
Once you have a suitable trainer, Ross says you have to do your homework. “Carefully follow the trainer’s instructions,” she says. “You won’t see results if you don’t put the practice in.”
Finally, Ross it’s important to remember to have fun and not to put such high or unrealistic expectations on your dog. “Keep in mind that they are animals,” she says. “Dogs don’t do things we dislike to get back at us or be stubborn or naughty. This is a myth. Right or wrong never enters into it, because dogs do not have the capacity for abstract thought.”
There’s plenty more to learn at Wednesday’s seminar and Ross hopes participants will take something special away from the event.
“I am hoping the participants won’t just be focused on whether a method works or is effective, but will consider whether it also takes into consideration the bond and relationship they hope to have with their dog. I want them to leave better informed and educated about which dog training methods are best for the health and well being of their family pet.”
For more information call Eva Saether at 905-579-6111 ext. 5260 or email esaether@oshawalibrary.on.ca. Registration is free at any branch of the Oshawa Public Libraries.