Eau Claire Hometown Media

We all remember being home from school and hearing Bob Barker promote having pets spayed or neutered. Over the years, research has led to more experts advising people to hold off on spaying their female dog.  Theynote benefits with various other diseases. In this episode Heather talks to us on this episode aboutwhat people should know when it comes to living with a dog that is “in tact”. What are...

Can puppies deal with separation anxiety?  Does my puppy have it?  Heather brings on Dawn Olson a local dog trainer/behavior consultant who has gone  through specific education to help answer these questions.  We learn what separation anxiety may look like and specify what is normal vs. abnormal.

We learn about a training method that can be applied to almost any breed at any age. The concept is called “SMART times fifty” or lazy dog training.  The basis of the method is to mark 50 behaviors you see from your dog throughout the day and reward the dog as they happen.  Heather explains in detail how this method works and why this can be a good method for you and your dog.

With the holidays approaching full of parties and large family gatherings, how do we make sure our dogs are comfortable and needs met? -           Managing the event (crates, baby gates, etc.) -           Arming your guests with both knowledge and items -           Allow time/space to decompress -           Find alternative activities for dogs beyond the party -           Utilize obedience skills...

If you’ve ever lived with a dog its likely at some point you may have viewed their behavior as stubborn.  Heather explains what that looks like, why its happening and the next steps.    While there are similarities between human and dog personalities, the brains are entirely different.  This becomes very evident in the reasons why dogs may seem as though they are blowing off their handler or ignor...

Heather’s favorite thing to do is puppy training and that is a good thing because they do take a lot of work.  But with the right knowledge and advice, families can assure a safe and fun environment for their puppy. -           Grooming -           Setting behavior expectations at home -           Setting expectations for out in public

Whether it’s a celebratory pizza party for an office after a successful quarter or an ice cream after a little league game…the right treat can drive us as humans.  Heather is here to say the same idea applies to dogs as well.  Finding the treats that excite your dog can become a great tool to reinforce proper behaviors. Does your dog really like certain treats you always give them, or do they simp...

Stephanie Sorensen has worked with dogs her entire life. She has worked in grooming, boarding, training and more.  This includes owning a few animal-centric businesses. Now she operates Pawsitive Mold Detective, which is a company born out of a personal experience she details. We know that dogs are used to detect things like boms, bodies and cancer but did you know they can also be trained to loca...

A common question people have of Heather and emBark is “How does one become a dog trainer”.  The industry is unregulated with no set path like many other careers.  Heather details her journey to the career and what those interested need to bare in mind. Many come to the job via changing careers but with an unbridled passion for dogs and animals. -           What courses and schools exist -        ...

Why is it important for your puppy to go to school? How does it benefit your dog’s growth and the relationship between you and your family’s newest addition?  While lessons can be taught at home, there are some benefits that your puppy can only gain by being around other humans and dogs. Heather and emBark have a robust schedule of puppy-focused classes and she lets you know how they operate and w...

Oh BLEEP! My Dog Bit Someone, what should I do?  Heather takes us through what dog owners need to be prepared for.  No matter preventative steps taken, dog bites can always occur.  Some 4.5 million dog bites happen per year. #dogs #puppies #dogtraining #animals #wisconsin #eauclaire

Sometimes its necessary to just let you dog do what they naturally want to do, even if you may see it as being “naughty”.  Heather explains when some “negative” behaviors can actually reinforce some intrinsic rewards and strengthen your social bond with them. Dogs shredding an item with their teeth, or dogs consistently exploring areas you want them to avoid may be problematic but there is also a...

Dogs can play a major role in the conservation of our environment, especially with expelling invasive species. Heather talks with Laura Holder with Conservation Dogs Collective, an organization that trains dogs and their handlers on searching out invasive plants, insects, animals and more.  This organization works throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. What are some examples of what they’ve done.

Cats and dogs living together doesn’t necessarily lead to mass hysteria.  Many successfully have both in their household and Heather gives us the essentials to keep in mind.  Heather is admittedly a “dog person” but finding ways for cats and dogs to live in harmony in your home is a FAQ many come to her with. #cattraining #kittens #puppies #dogtraining #pets #midwest #joy #happy #passion

Potty Training! Its most likely the top concern for most new puppy owners and Heather explains the tricks to help guide both human and dog through the process.  What does the process look like and what are the basics to start with? #dogs #puppies #podcast #pottytraining #wisconsin #animals #joy #happy

Sassafras Lowrey is a freelance writer and certified trick-dog trainer whose work as appeared in the New York Times, WIRED and BBC Radio.  In addition, she has toured widely giving workshops and keynote speeches around the world. We learn more about “trick dog” training and the overall world of dog sports.   ⁠Learn more about Sassafras here

Many dogs want to be petted and many of us are more than excited to oblige. Heather takes us through key points to remember to make sure the experience is proper for both sides. With dog bites a major issue, there are protocols people need to remember.  Some dogs are naturally more social than others. Why we need to be rethink asking “may I pet your dog?” What is a consent test you can quickly do...

Social training puppies is one of the most common reasons people bring their dog to people like Heather.  However, what are some things you can do at home to help develop those “soft skills” of socializing?  These are pieces that doesn’t need a trainer or another human, just you and your dog. Spaces you should consider taking your dog to practice and why dog parks are not a good spot for this trai...

The image of kids frolicking with the family dog are wholesome and heart-warming and one of the bets parts of having dog.  Heather is here to provide some important tips and some specific games to consider that can make sure “playtime” remains safe for both human and dog. This is especially a must-listen for those with puppies. #dogs #puppies #playingwithdogs #dogbehavior #familyfun #joy #happy #p...

Heather is telling you NOT to walk your dog!  What does she mean?  Of course, she encourages people to get their dog out and about as its good for both the animal and human. That said, there are circumstances where she advises people to skip that walk depending on the dogs’ behavioral reactions to various stimuli.  Why urban vs. rural settings and time of day make a difference for different dogs....

Knowledge and opinions on everything change as more information comes forward.  That includes the world of dog training and Heather explores the things that she has altered her advice on as new research and experience brings.  Among the advice that has become obsolete and reasons why… -           Tired dog is a good dog -           Leaders always eat first -           Go out the door first -      ...

Growing what is strong and fixing what is wrong are typically why people enter their dogs in classes .  But, Heather reminds us the importance of being ahead of potential problems by being proactive. How just a little work now with your puppy can prevent issues later.   #dogs #puppies #puppycare #dogcare #dogmom #doglover #wisconsin #podcast

The scene of the dog rushing to the door to greet a guest is endearing but can be full of issues too. The same goes for anytime a dog rushes to anyone/anything.  Heather takes us through ways to control the behavior to prevent injuries to your dog, you and friends. Avoiding punishment, equipment and tools she recommends and how to reinforce the behavior you seek. #dogs #pets #familypet #wisconsin...

Are you looking add a dog to your household?  Its an exciting and fulfilling experience. Heather goes through the things to keep in mind before making the final decision to insure it’s the best fit for you. Breed, exercise needs, food needs, future costs, medical needs and more #dogs #adoption #puppies #animalcare

We all balance our personal needs vs. wants.  For example, food is essential but that double cheeseburger is also a want! The same applies to good dog owners as they care for their pet. There are five essential needs dog have followed by wants.  That is not to say that some wants can’t also be seen as needs.  Certified dog trainer Heather untangles what can be a confusing web and simplifies. Each...