Category: Dog

Introduction

The domestic dog is a member of the Canidae family. This is a biologically cohesive group of carnivores and consists of thirty-eight species (Serpell 10). thus far, man has managed to fully domesticate the dog (Canis familiaris) although he has also attempted to breed the raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) and the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in captivity for their fur (Klinghammer and Goodmann 36).

The current paper tries to show the link between the modern domesticated dog and the grey wolf using documented evidence from morphological, molecular, and DNA investigations.

Tracing the origin of the domesticated dog

In 1868, Darwin argued that the various domesticated varieties of the dog could have originated from several wild species or from a single wild species. A number of authors contend that the domesticated dog could have originated from the jackal, the wolf, or other unknown and extinct species (Serpell 10).

Darwin also suggested that it would be almost impossible to ascertain the origin of the domesticated dog. However, the combined results of vocalisation, morphological behavior and molecular biology of the domesticated dog now show that the wolf is the principle ancestor of the dog (Grandin and Johnson 87).

In the 1950s, Konrad Lorenz proposed that certain modern breeds of the dog could have been the descendants of the wolf, while others could have originated from the jackal. However, Lorenz soon realised that the jackal had a characteristic and complicated howling repertoire that is quite different from that of the wolf or dog.

This discovery made Lorenz to rescind his earlier view that the domestic dog could have been a descendant of the jackal (Serpell 11). Another hotly contested idea is the origin of the Australia dingo. Molecular and anatomical investigations indicate that the dingo may be categorized as a feral dog of ancient descent. In addition, these findings reveal close resemblance between the Australian dingo, the wolf, and the pariah dogs in South-east Asia.

What are the ‘precursors of the modern domesticated dog?

Bones belonging to wolves in the Middle Pleistocene period have been found alongside those of early hominida. This association is indicative of an overlapping of the hunting activities and occupation of wolves and humans. Human hunters may also have killed wolves occasionally for their skins which they used as clothing (Serpell 12).

Once in a while, human hunters would be accompanied by a live pup that they ended up eating but occasionally, such a pup would get accustomed to the family group, effectively becoming tamed. The wolf pups that turned out to be less submissive with maturity would undoubtedly be driven away or killed. Others that showed signs of submission were tamed by humans (Savolainen et al 1611).

Such tamed wolves are the precursors of the true domesticated dog, although they are many generations apart. Some remains of these animals that were discovered at late glacial sites reveal slight morphological differences in comparison with the remains of wild wolves.

Wolf skulls believed to belong to the last Ice Age have also been retrieved at Fairbanks, Alaska. This are thought to be approximately 10,000 years old. These wolf skulls are characterized by shortened facial regions and for this reason, they are thought to be the remains of tamed wolves. This information is supported by evidence of humans having crossed into North America via the Bering Straits around this time.

Theories of domestication of dogs from wolves

Although it is still not clear how the actual domestication of the Grey Wolf took place, nonetheless, a number of theories have been proposed on how the domestication process took place.

One such theory has to do with the orphaned wolf-cubs. Several studies have suggested that humans were able to tame and socialize some wolf pups that they took while still young. One study has also endeavoured to show that it is possible to socialize the adult wolves successfully (Koler-Matznick 99). In contrast, other scholars contend that socializing adult wolves can be time consuming especially when pups are more than 21 days old.

Many scientists are convinced that the early humans adopted orphaned wolf cubs and then proceeded to nurse them. Thereafter, the adopted wolves began to breed, in effect bringing forth “wolf-like” domesticated animals. As more generations of these “wolf-like” domesticated animals were born, they bore a lot of resemblance to dogs.

Another theory holds that the early wolves were scavengers and as such, they would often be attracted by the refuse that humans left behind at campsites. Some of these wolves proved quite successful in their ability to interact with humans and as a result, these traits were passed on to future generations.

Ultimately, there emerged a generation of wolves that had a tendency to be domesticated. Humans decided to keep those dogs that showed the least amount of fear and those that demonstrated high level of socialization. Consequently, the early dog developed unique traits that we can now recognize the modern day dog.

One of the behavioural characteristics of the gray wolf that made it easier for humans to domesticate them is what is known as “flight distance”. Flight distance is a measure of the level of closeness that an animal can allow something that it considers dangerous before deciding to run away.

If an animal has a shorter flight distance, it means that it is not scared by the presence of humans even when feeding. Such a behavioural trait might have been passed down to successive generations of the animals and over time it was amplified to the point that the animals felt comfortable in the presence of humans.

Ideally, wolves are believed to have separated into two populations. The first group was made up of a pack of hunters while the second group was made up of village-oriented scavengers. Although there are scanty details as to how the next steps evolved, however, sustaining these two divergent populations must have required the presence of selective pressure.

DNA evidence

Prior to the development of the DNA technology, scientists held two schools of thought regarding the origin of the domesticated dog. Most of the researchers assumed that the early dogs were the descendants of the tamed wolves and through interbreeding and evolving, this had resulted in a domesticated species.

We also have another school of thought that suggests that the modern dog is the distant descendant of the wolf. The same school of thought also believes that the jackal and the coyote could also have been distant relatives of the modern dog.

However, DNA evidence now points at the wolf as the sole ancestor of the domesticated dog. One scientist who has done a lot of DNA work on the ancestors of the domesticated dog is Carles Vila. Through his numerous studies, he has analyzed various types of wolf DNA from some 27 populations across North America, Europe and Asia (Vila et al 1687). He has also compared the results of his studies with DNA of some 67 breeds of modern dogs from various parts of the world.

DNA evidence has revealed the most diverse group of wolves possess similar sequences to the ones found in the most ancient breeds of the domesticated dog, including the dingo of Australia. The German Shepherd Dog was shown to share a close resemblance to wolf sequences, in comparison with the sequences of the main dog group (Vila et al 1688). This is a sign that such breeds may have been produced by crossing wild wolves with dogs.

Conclusion

Over the years, a lot of research has been carried out on the origin of the domesticated dog, with scientists divided into two schools of through. The first and largest school of through believed that dogs could have been the descendants of the gray wolf. Other scientists suggested that the older domesticated dog could have been the descendant of the red fox, or even the raccoon.

However, there is now compelling evidence to suggest that the early humans most likely domesticated the modern dog from the gray wolf. This assertion has been supported by molecular, morphological and DNA evidence that point at a closer relationship between the domesticated dog, and the gray wolf, more than the red fox and the raccoon.

However, because the origins of some of the morphological differences between wolves and dogs are still not clear, there is need to undertake more DNA studies. Such studies also need to be supplemented by a re-evaluation of canidae fossil and archaeological records so that we can resolve the many questions regarding one of man’s ancient domesticated animal.

Works Cited

Grandin, Temple and Catherine, Johnson. Animals in translation, New York, NY: Scriber, 2005. Print.

Klinghammer, Erich and Goodmann, Patricia. “Chapter 2: Socialization and management of wolves in captivity”. In Frank, Harry. Man and Wolf: Advances, Issues, and Problems in Captive Wolf Research. The Hague, The Netherlands: Dr W. Junk Publishers, 1987. Print.

Koler-Matznick, Janice. The origin of the dog revisited. Anthrozoos, 15.2(2002):98–118. Print.

Savolainen, Peter, Zhang, Jing, Luo, Joakim Lundeberg, and Thomas Leitner. “Genetic

Evidence for an East Asian Origin of Domestic Dogs”. Science, 298. 5598(2002): 1610–1613. Print.

Serpell, James. The domestic dog: its evolution, behavior, and interactions with people. Cambridge, Mass: Cambridge University Press, 1995. Print.

Vila, Carles, Peter, Savolainen, Jesus, Maldonado, John, Rice and Rodney, Honeycutt.

Multiple and ancient origins of the domestic dog. Science, 276.5397(1997): 1687-1689. Print.

There are many reasons why you might consider getting a dog. If you are looking for a big, patient, and caring dog, then the Great Pyrenees Dog is just what you need. These dogs are perfect for playing with kids and helping blind people. Besides, the Pyrenees dog is a charming animal that cannot leave anyone indifferent who has seen a huge snow-white dog with smart and slightly sad eyes. For their responsibility and care, these dogs have been championed since ancient times, and you’ll know why just in a minute.

The Pyrenean giants were known over 6,000 years ago. Together with nomadic tribes, they arrived in France from Spain, where they came possibly from Asia. In the folklore of the French Pyrenees, there is a touching legend about the origin of the breed. It tells about a little girl who got lost in the mountains and wandered in deep snow until nightfall. Exhausted and cold, she began to pray to God to help her. And a miracle happened – tall cold snowdrifts turned into large white dogs, which with their fluffy hair warmed the girl until morning, and at sunrise, they brought her to the village. In gratitude, the parents of the child left the giants with them. Loyal dogs began to protect the poor from hungry predators and thieves (American Kennel Club, 2021). The Pyrenees dogs have established themselves as unsurpassed guards of sheep herds, so they were subsequently used to protect border fortresses and castles. The first documentary records of white defenders date back to the early 15th century.

Happy owners of this rare breed of dogs note intelligence, kindness, patience, and love for household members. Former draft dogs and brave guards today have partially lost their working skills but have become excellent companions. Like bears, Giant dogs patiently endure the pranks of children, allow them to ride on themselves, and play with them cheerfully and enthusiastically. Therefore, Pyrenees dogs are used for the psychological rehabilitation of children with developmental disabilities (American Kennel Club, 2021). Frightening-looking dogs peacefully coexist with other pets and get along even with cats. Dogs never show aggression, they are always balanced and calm, but the inherent genetically protective properties make the dog wary of strangers.

The magnificent fur coat of the Pyrenees requires special attention and care. To look well-groomed, the coat must be thoroughly combed 2-3 times a month and daily during the shedding period. If you do not follow the pet’s thick fur, it will form tangles (American Kennel Club, 2021). You should also not bathe your dog too often; otherwise, the fur might become thinner and less soft. Showpieces are washed with special bleaching shampoos to eliminate yellowness around the mouth, eyes, legs, and lower abdomen. Since mountain dogs love water and swim with pleasure, water procedures are not burdensome.

The dog will not obey a person of weak character and nervous. It is better to entrust training to a professional dog handler. By nature, the Pyrenees dog will not tolerate rough treatment or violence. Therefore, when training, you should act persistently but try to avoid “breaking” the dog’s character. The dog can be trained to search, work, be a rescuer, and guide blind people considering its natural skills. Dog handlers advise socializing the dog from the very beginning (American Kennel Club, 2021). So that he does not perceive others like a herd that requires care and control, the dog should spend as much time as possible with pets and family members.

Reference

American Kennel Club. (2021). Great Pyrenees dog breed information. Web.

Introduction

Cesar Millan is a famous dog behaviorist (“Cesar’s Way: Achieving Balance and Harmony” par. 3). He has featured in different television series and documentaries examining various dog behaviors. The Mexican-American citizen has earned the attention of many dog enthusiasts across the globe. The TV series “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan” has been broadcasted in many nations across the globe. The television program offers numerous concepts that can be used to rehabilitate stressed or aggressive dogs. The dog behaviorist also established the Dog Psychology Center (DSC) in 2002. For around six years, the center delivered adequate support to many clients and community members. This research paper therefore gives a detailed analysis of Millan’s life, career, achievements, and legacy.

Personal Life

Early Childhood

Cesar Millan “was born to Maria Teresa Favela and Felippe Millan on 27^th August, 1969” (Millan 6). Millan was born in Sinaloa, Mexico (Millan 8). As a child, Cesar Millan interacted with different animals thus reshaping his future goals. His grandfather owned a big farm in Sinaloa. His grandfather’s farm had different animals such as dogs, cows, goats, and sheep (“Cesar’s Way: Achieving Balance and Harmony” par. 2). Millan earned the nickname “the dog boy” because of his natural ability to interact with dogs (Millan 9). His love for animals gave him the opportunity to study the major behaviors associated with dogs.

Migration to America

Brooks indicates that Millan’s family migrated from Sinaloa to Mazatlan when he was a young boy (36). At the age of 21, Millan managed to cross the United States-Mexican border. During the time, Millan was unable to speak English fluently (Brooks 39). As well, the Mexican did not have a visa at the time. This fact shows clearly that he was an illegal immigrant (Brooks 61). Cesar Millan “became an American citizen in 2009” (“Cesar’s Way: Achieving Balance and Harmony” par. 6). However, he had become a permanent United States’ resident in the year 2000 (“Cesar’s Way: Achieving Balance and Harmony” par. 4). Currently, Millan lives in California’s Santa Clarita and has two children (“Cesar’s Way: Achieving Balance and Harmony” par. 8).

Life in America

After settling in the United States, Millan struggled with life until he finally landed his first job. The “job was at a dog grooming store” (Millan 22). During the time, Millan was able to pursue most of his career goals. He continued to monitor the behaviors and responses of dogs under different circumstances. He managed to acquire new skills that would play a significant role towards supporting his future goals. He also met Jada Smith.

Brooks believes that Jada Smith played a significant role in Millan’s life (62). For instance, he provided a competent tutor of English to him. This new move made it possible for Millan to communicate in English and offer quality services to most of his clients. He eventually founded the Pacific Point Canine Academy (PPCA). The dog behaviorist “attempted suicide in 2010 after his longtime wife and partner, Ilusion Millan, filed for Divorce in March the same year” (Brooks 109)

Cesar Millan’s Career

The establishment of PPCA was a turning point for Cesar Millan. His acquisition of new English skills made it easier for him to focus on his goals. His improved communication skills opened up new opportunities for him. After several years, Millan opened the Dog Psychology Center. This “center was mainly aimed at rehabilitating large dog breeds” (Owens 9). The uniqueness of the center attracted many clients and stakeholders.

Consequently, the dog behaviorist became a celebrity in different parts of the country. His success story and ability to support the needs of troubled dogs attracted many partners. In 2002, Millan won his first contract with a famous entertainment company called MPH Entertainment (Milio, Millan and Peltier 28). The contract was aimed at developing a reality TV series. The purpose of the series was to educate more people about the best dog psychotherapy and rehabilitation processes.

Throughout his early career, Cesar Millan focused on the unique issues characterizing human-dog relationships (Owens 6). He launched his first magazine in 2009. The magazine “Cesar’s Way” is read widely by many people in every corner of the globe. In order to make the magazine informative, Millan offers useful ides that can be used to manage and train dogs. As well, he incorporates different articles addressing the behaviors of dogs.

Career Philosophy

Most of Cesar Millan’s works “promote a technique known as calm-assertive energy” (Millan 29). The behaviorist’s theory explains why dogs should be treated as creatures with conscience. This is the case because dogs have unique needs similar to those of human beings. A proper knowledge and understanding of such needs can make it easier people to address the major issues affecting their dogs. The “unique needs of dogs include exercise, discipline, and affection” (Millan 65).

The dog owner should therefore address these needs in order to get the most desirable outcomes (Milio et al. 63). The first issue is to ensure the energy needs of every dog are addressed in a professional manner. This means that the dogs should be exercised in order to behave well. They should also be guided used the most appropriate rules. The behaviorist also indicates that dogs should receive appropriate affection in order to produce the best results.

Concepts

Cesar Millan’s philosophy for training dogs is characterized by five unique laws or essentials. These laws are natural and should be considered whenever supporting or fulfilling the above three needs. The “first natural law outlined by Millan argues that dogs are instinctual” (Milio et al. 68). The second law states that “energy is everything” (Owen 5). As well, dogs should be treated as pack animals that can interact and associate with others. It is also notable that “dogs sense from the notion of reality” (Millan 92). A proper understanding of such laws can make it easier for dog behaviorists and trainers to produce quality results.

In order to achieve the best outcomes, Millan’s training technique has five unique leadership attributes that must be taken seriously. To begin with, dog trainers should always project assertive and calm energy (Brooks 78). This assertive energy will ensure the targeted dog responds in an effective manner. The technique also guides trainers to provide rigorous exercises to the targeted dogs. Such exercises will improve the level of coordination (Milio et al. 109).

Discipline should also be maintained in order to ensure the dogs behave in a proper manner. Affection is what makes a dog trainable (Milio et al. 109). The behaviorist encourages individuals to show affection to their dogs. Pet owners should also embrace this technique whenever training their dogs.

It is appropriate to provide adequate boundaries and limitations. Effective rules should be used to govern the behaviors portrayed by the targeted dogs. Dogs also portray diverse body signs and languages. Individuals who want to get quality results should master and interpret these body languages (Brooks 47). Such leadership techniques have been observed to deliver quality results.

Dog Care

Millan’s philosophy also embraces the power of effective dog care. According to the dog behaviorist, veterinary experts should consider the basics of appropriate dog care. Such considerations include provision of vaccinations and nutrition (Brooks 28). People should also travel with their dogs in an attempt to fulfill their unique needs. Routine dog care should also be in accordance with different rules of health.

For instance, dog owners should bath their dogs frequently. Special eye and ear care should also be provided in a timely manner. Routine care should also focus on the dog’s skin. Dental care should also be taken seriously whenever supporting the needs of dogs (Millan 40).

The issue of health care and support should also be embraced by dog owners. Dogs should be diagnosed frequently in order to prevent various diseases. Allergies should also be monitored in order to offer the best foods and diets. Wounds and cuts should be nursed by veterinary specialists. De-worming should also be done frequently (Brooks 39). Millan’s model therefore offers appropriate strategies and processes that can support the health needs of many dogs.

Famous Quotes

Americans have learned many things and ideas from the exemplary works of Cesar Millan. The behaviorist focuses on a wider range of issues such as dog communication, hygiene, and training. His dog-training philosophy has been embraced in different parts of the world. Brooks also believes strongly that thousands of dogs have realized their psychological and emotional needs because of Cesar Millan’s contributions (87). These achievements explain why future scholars will benefit a lot from the works of this self-trained dog behaviorist (“7 Great Quotes from Cesar Millan” par. 7).

The dog enthusiast has also presented numerous quotes that continue to encourage and support the needs of many dog owners. One of his favorite quotes states that “discipline is not about showing a dog who is the boss; it is about taking responsibility for a living creature you have brought into your world” (“7 Great Quotes from Cesar Millan” par. 2). The other quote from the behaviorist is: “I believe in integrity. Dogs have it. Humans are sometimes lacking it” (“7 Great Quotes from Cesar Millan” par. 4). These quotes show clearly that Cesar Millan is a great educator whose ideas will transform the field of dog psychology for very many years.

Conclusion

The works and contributions of Cesar Millan have led to new theories that can be used to study animal psychology. The dog specialist informs more people about the importance of treating dogs as instinctual creatures. Such creatures should also be respected and equipped with the three basic needs (Owens 3). Individuals should also be ready to take good care of their dogs. The dog care approach should also address the health needs of the targeted dogs. Millan’s revolutionary ideas have therefore reshaped people’s views regarding the abilities and needs of dogs. People should therefore embrace these issues in order to support the needs of their pets.

Works Cited

7 Great Quotes from Cesar Millan 2016. Web.

Brooks, Michelle. Cesar Millan Doesn’t Live Here: The Comedy and Chaos of Living with Four Dogs. New York: Author House, 2009. Print.

Cesar’s Way: Achieving Balance and Harmony 2016. Web.

Milio, Jim, Cesar Millan and Melissa Peltier. Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan: The Ultimate Episode Guide. New York: Simon and Schuster, 2010. Print.

Millan, Cesar. Cesar Millan’s Short Guide to a Happy Dog: 98 Essential Tips and Techniques. New York: National Geographic Press, 2015. Print.

Owens, Paul. Fast Start Training Tips. 2006. Web.

Introduction

People all over the world have different pets because their preferences, needs, and conditions are not the same. However, everyone knows the saying that “dogs are man’s best friend” (Bababusuyi par. 1). Dogs are the animals that tend to become members of the family. Their devotion and will to protect their owners lead to a long-lasting relationship, similar to relationships that can be observed between relatives.

Moreover, when they are properly trained, dogs serve as a substitute for alarm and security home systems as well. Unfortunately, some people tend to be afraid of dogs or just do not realize how much benefit they can provide. This paper will discuss the main advantages of protection dogs—including psychological, physical, and security-related benefits—to ensure that guard dogs are not scary even though they may attack people to keep their owners and property safe.

Main Point

Regardless of the fact that protection dogs are animals that can hurt people, they are loving and supportive family members that provide their owners with a wide range of benefits.

Psychological Benefits

Just like all other dogs, protection dogs help people cope with depression and loneliness. They improve individuals’ self-esteem and make them happier (McConnell et al. 1241). Dogs are very sympathetic animals, so they are always near whenever their owners feel upset or sad. They try to please people and interact with them. Because they are submissive and dependent on their owners, dogs make people believe in their own strength. They also make vulnerable people feel protected.

Physical Benefits

Dogs require much attention; they need to be trained and walked at least twice a day, and they enjoy playing active games, which helps their owners stay fit and healthy (McConnell et al. 1239). Additionally, protection dogs often have lots of energy, a trait that is peculiar to their breeds. As a result, they turn out to be more active and are always ready to “ask” people to interact. Very often, owners take their dogs with them whenever they go somewhere, which also prevents them from being passive all day long.

Security Benefits

Guard dogs can protect people and their property. They not only bark to inform their owners if something strange occurs, but they also frighten or attack the offender. Dogs’ superhuman senses allow them to see more than people do and to differentiate various smells as well as sounds at a distance (Bababusuyi par. 21). As a result, these animals not only identify their owner and their owner’s friends and relatives but also a stranger who is trespassing on private property. While a regular alarm system would just notify the owner or agency of the situation, a dog is more likely to actually attack the offender and thus prevent a crime.

Additional Benefits

Protection dogs can also help people cope with livestock. They can be trained to gather all animals together and to attack wild animals that threaten both herds and owners (Urbigkit and Urbigkit 1). Of course, the breed plays a crucial role in this situation because the size and strength of the dog matters. However, people can select the most appropriate breed beforehand depending on their unique needs.

Conclusion

Guard dogs are not scary animals that attack people; they are loving, helping, and protective members of the family. Being properly trained, they can provide their owners with numerous advantages, giving them the opportunity to feel better both physically and emotionally. Depending on their breed, protection dogs can cope with tasks of different levels of difficulty to keep people and their property safe, but their general characteristics are the same.

Works Cited

Bababusuyi, Kemi. Why It’s Very RISKY Not To Own A Dog In Your Home! 2012. Web.

McConnell, Allen, Christina Brown, Tonya Shoda, Laura Stayton and Colleen Martin. “Friends with Benefits: On the Positive Consequences of Pet Ownership.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 101.6 (2011): 1239-1252. Print.

Urbigkit, Cat, and John Urbigkit. “A Review: The Use of Livestock Protection Dogs in Association with Large Carnivores in the Rocky Mountains.” Sheep & Goat Research Journal 25.1 (2010): 1-8. Print.

The Border collie is an animal of the dog family that characterize with a well-balanced and athletic body. In addition, the Border collie exhibit style and dexterity in identical gauge with soundness and potency. History asserts that the Border collie originated from a border country separating Scotland and England.

In this border country, breeding was not a light matter and was governed a biddable stock idea and the ability of the animal to labor extensively on a rugged terrain. This selective breeding went on for a long period and eventually, a new Border collie with unique working styles such as fetching and gathering developed.

The resultant Border collie exhibit unique features such as trainability, strength and energy; features so vital to its physical size and appearance. Other features of the Border collie include a bizarre intuition and a creepy reasoning capability. The Border collie is able to master training and work minus an instructor. In addition, research shows that the eyes of the Border collie can spellbind cattle due to its intense stare.

Due to its trainability, agility and obedience, many people have found the Border collie useful in detecting things like bombs and narcotics. Perhaps this is the reason why many security firms including the military and police use the Border collie to enhance security (American Kennel Club, 2010, pp. 1).

The Border collie has a slender body relatively longer as compared to its tail and a flat skull. The size of the skull and the muzzle appear to be equivalent, and often characterized with a modest stop. This dog has got brawny teeth that cab bite its prey with a scissors bite, and in most cases, many of them have oval brown eyes, except the merles breed that has one or both eyes.

The Border collie has also equidistantly placed ears that stand erect or semi erect so that it is able to grasp instructions or hear various sounds from the surrounding. In taking a front view of the Border collie, the front legs appear straight. However, the front legs appear slopping when one takes a side view.

The border dog has a medium sized tail and whenever it becomes excited, the tail raises up. The skin of the Border collie is thick appearing as a double coat for guarding the dog against harsh climatic conditions. The two coat layers, sleek coat and coarse coat, measure about 1 inch and 3 inches in lengthy respectively.

Moreover, the coat colors of the Border collie come in different colors for example, purely black or yellow, a mixture of black and white, a blend of yellow and white, or a concoction of red and white. Nevertheless, the main reason of breeding border collies is not to show off physical exquisiteness, but for reasons to do with working capability and perspicacity (Border collie, 2010, p.1).

The most stupendous trait of Border Collies is the yearning to labor on primarily above other things. For instance, among the very many activities they involve themselves is herding. During herding, the Border Collies lowers its head in a position to stare intensely at the sheep thus, scaring it not to wander.

The Border Collies are able to monitor every movement of the livestock, and they retort by moving, in some cases indiscernibly, in order to cash in or counter the livestock. So long as the movement of the Border Collies and the sheep is calm and steady, they can look for the stock as they graze in the field. So far, the Border Collies are the world’s leading sheep-working breed that portrays work ethic, acumen and athleticism.

Contrary to being heelers, Border Collies are good in heading and gathering as they can run around the stock, congregate them, and then make them go back to the shepherd. Although they deserve some training in order to take away the flock or herd from the shepherd, in most cases, they can use instinct to perform this particular task.

In most cases, Border Collies are hard working animals. In fact, the happiest moment in their lives is when they are involved in doing something be it herding, suppleness, compliance or sporting activities. The main reason why Border Collies exhibit workaholic nature is the history of their breeding selection.

Bred for endurance, the Border Collies can run over terrain surfaces over long distance without getting tired. Perhaps this is the reason why whenever they are unoccupied, they become irrational, fanatical, and disparaging (Coren, 1995, pp. 8-27).

In addition to herding livestock, Border Collies can also herd other domestic animals, children and home equipments. Normally, they do not nip the heels of the livestock to counter them. Instead, they use their stern eyes although in small cases especially during running, they can nip the legs of human beings.

Under this scenario, children are the casualties, as they do not know how to manage this behavior. Thus, it is much advisable to control this behavior because soon the Border collie can turn a factual nuisance. Their life expectancy ranges between 12 and 15 years although diseases like epilepsy and hip dysplasia can cause early death. Furthermore, Border Collies have the habit of chasing cars; habit that leads to their early death under the wheels.

In conclusion, Border Collies are useful animals that can perform numerous tasks especially that of herding livestock, children and equipments or machines. Many shepherds describe them as loving and people-oriented dogs; descriptions that portray their expediency especially in herding. Although they mature slowly, these dogs are highly intelligent and can learn new things with a lot of ease.

Reference List

American Kennel Club. (2010). Border Collies. Retrieved from <https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/border-collie/>

Border collie. (2010). Retrieved from <https://www.dogbreedinfo.com/bordercollie.htm>

Coren, S. (1995). The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of Our Canine Companions. New York: Bantam Books.

Theory of Classical Conditioning: The Basics

In ordinary life, a person makes a number of habitual actions without even noticing them; for example, when leaving for school or work, hardly anyone will forget to lock the door; likewise, when greeting someone, most people would stretch out their hand for a handshake. Caused by classical conditioning, these habitual actions, or reflexes, can be either simple or complex, yet they all have one thing in common – they were acquired at some point of a person’s life.

Also known as responded conditioning, or Pavlov’s theory, classical conditioning can be defined as a conditioned response to a conditioned stimulus (Basford & Slevin, 2003, 560). The principle of conditioned theory mechanism seems to have become a common knowledge.

According to Basford and Stein’s interpretation, classical conditioning is developed in a person or an animal when a neutral stimulus “is paired or occurs contingently with the unconditioned stimulus on a number of occasions” (Basford & Slevin, 2003, 560), which leads to the neutral stimulus producing “the same response as the unconditioned stimulus” (Basford & Slevin, 2003, 560).

As it has been stressed above, Pavlov is immediately associated with the term of classical conditioning. In his experiments, he offered his experimental dogs food, which served as an unconditioned stimulus, causing them to respond in reflex salivation. Simultaneously with the unconditioned stimuli, a neutral stimulus (a bell ringing) was also used.

After the experiment had been reiterated several times, a neutral stimulus turned into a conditioned stimulus – the dogs started salivating at the sound of the bell as well (Basford & Slevin, 2003, 560). Thereforethe theory of classical conditioning clarifies the nature and development of conditioned, or trained reflexes and behaviors.

Scenario Number One: Proving the Classical Conditioning Theory

Classical conditioning works in a very efficient way, since it affects people and animals on the subconscious level. Perhaps, one of the most powerful tools for changing one’s behavioral pattern, it might be considered somewhat unfair when tested on people, which is why it seems much less controversial to try the effects of classical conditioning on animals.

People say that of all animals, cats are the least trainable. However, being animals, just like dogs an people, cats are also subject to the effects of training (Johnson-Bennett, 2007). In the given experiment, the myth concerning cats being completely untrainable will be finally busted.

Experiment description

A four-year-old Maine Coon cat is going to be the object of the experiment. The subject of the experiment will concern teaching a cat to “handshake,” i.e., raise its foreleg and allow the trained to hold and slightly shake it. The experiment is going to be carried out in the following manner:

Step 1.

The cat is being shown a snack (e.g., a piece of Kibble).

Step 2.

As the cat sits, the trained slightly touches the cat’s chin holing his/her hand palm up.

Step 3.

The cat raises the paw to stop the trainer.

Steps 4 and 5.

The trainer shakes the cat’s paw lightly and gives the cat a snack.

Step 6.

The trainer pets the cat and praises it.

The steps 1–6 must be repeated at least twenty times (i.e., the process of training will take at least a week) until the cat learns the routine subconsciously and the classical conditioning is finally formed. In the end of training, as soon as the trainer stretches his/her hand with a palm up, the cat will raise the paw to get the snack, since a handshake will be associated with a snack immediately. Technically, the given experiment is rather complicated to carry out, given the “cat nature” (Johnson-Bennett, 2007), which is why a Maine Coon breed was chosen as the type of cats who are the easiest to train.

Scenario Discussion and a Chart: How the Classical Conditioning Theory Is Going to Work

Since the given experiment presupposes that there are several unconditional stimuli that lead to respective unconditional responses, the chart is going to be different from the traditional one, yet it is going to follow the same pattern.

As the given diagram shows, the basic elements of the classical theory of conditioning are in their places. To start with, there is the neutral stimulus, which is going to become a conditioned stimulus at the end of the experiment. The two unconditioned stimuli (lifting the hand up to the cat’s chin and showing a snack at the same time) predetermine the logical uncontrolled responses (i.e., lifting the paw and wanting the snack).

As soon as the trainer shakes the cat’s paw and the cat gets the snack, the procedure is over. As soon as the procedure is carried out repeatedly, classical conditioning is formed: if the trained stretches out his/her hand with a palm up, the cat lifts its paw thinking that it will trigger getting the snack. It can be assumed that in two to three weeks, the cat will acquire a conditioned habit.

Reference List

Basford, L. & Slevin, O. (2003). Theory and practice of nursing: An integrated approach to caring practice. Chettenham, UK: Nelson Thornes.

Johnson-Bennett, P. (2007). Starting from scratch: How to correct behavior problems in your adult cat. London, UK: Penguin.

Spoken language has always been the priority of humans. Indeed, there is no animal that is capable of conveying a cohesive idea with the help of its vocal apparatus – or, at least, this is what most people think. However, when it comes to defining the difference between people’s and animals’ minds, it is abstract thinking, not language, that draws the line between people and animals.

Language, or, to be more exact, the mean to convey their emotions, is obviously an important skill of animals in general and dogs in particular, the recent research published in Guardian (Sample, 2013, October 31) and titled Seeing left- or right-asymmetric tail wagging produces different emotional responses in dogs (Siniscalchi, Lusito, Vallortigara & Quaranta, 2013) says.

The research hypothesis is based on the fact that tail wagging is symmetrical in dogs for the most part; therefore, when the wagging becomes asymmetrical, it evokes particular emotional responses in dogs, from curiosity to aggression.

The researchers, therefore, link the mechanism of asymmetric tail wagging with brain activity and asymmetry, therefore, making a supposition that asymmetric tail wagging has a particular effect on social behavior among dogs. The research results have shown that the initial hypothesis of the researchers was, in fact, absolutely correct.

Indeed, the correlation between the static, the right wagging and the left wagging stimulus and the reaction of the dogs towards the given stimuli was obvious, the right wagging being deciphered as a positive signal, while the left one obviously triggered a negative reaction (Siniscalchi, Lusito, Vallortigara & Quaranta, 2013, 2282).

The positive aspects of the given research design and methodology are quite obvious. The fact that the experiment was conducted in real life, with a control group of dogs, a life-size dog model, a simultaneous observation of the dogs’ reaction and the immediate transcription of the results, is very fascinating.

It was important that the results of a research in animal behavior should be based on a real experiment and provide the researchers with an opportunity to make their notes real-time while the experiment is taking place.

The downsides of the given research design are also very clear. Though clearly being trained, the participants of the experiment are, nevertheless, dogs, and, therefore, are very hard to control, convince or reason with. Therefore, the research results might turn out rather rough and, thus, will need further testing.

It could be argued that dogs are relatively easy to control and command; however, the changes in the dogs’ mood are very hard to track down, as well as the factors inflicting these changes. Thus, in some cases, the results of the research may have been shaped by outside factors.

The follow-up study known as Investigating dogs’ emotional responses to tail-wagging behaviours of other dogs (Siniscalchi, Lusito, Vallortigara & Quaranta, 2013a), though not yet published, is going to tackle the issue regarding the way in which dogs respond to other dogs expressing emotions, i.e., wagging their tails.

Therefore, the researchers are going to push the envelope by deciphering the sign language of communication among animals. Moreover, the study is clearly going to define the ways in which dogs emote when communicating to each other.

The given research, therefore, may possibly lift the veil of secrecy surrounding the animal communication and will, probably, help figure out whether language truly is unique to humans only.

Reference List

Sample, I. (2013). Dogs communicate different feelings with right or leftward tail wagging. Guardian. Web.

Siniscalchi, M., Lusito, R., Vallortigara, G. & Quaranta, A. (2013). Seeing left- or right-asymmetric tail wagging produces different emotional responses in dogs. Current Biology 23(22), 2279–2282.

Siniscalchi, M., Lusito, R., Vallortigara, G. & Quaranta, A. (2013a). Investigating dogs’ emotional responses to tail-wagging behaviours of other dogs. Veterinary Record: Journal of the British Veterinary Association, 173(19), 478.

Animal Assisted Therapy

Animal assisted therapy, abbreviated as AAT entails the utilization of animals that have been therapy certified to be part of the healing strategy. According to a description by Delta Society, animal assisted therapy is an important component of treatment for different individuals and groups who appear to be cognitively, emotionally, socially or physically challenged. People found in the nursing homes or hospitals particularly the elderly and children normally benefit from the use AAT.

Whereas animals namely kittens and stallions having been making exceptional therapy animals, it is clear that dogs are beyond doubt the best and common type of therapy faunae. This might be attributed to the inimitable bond which is shared between humans and canines (Thompson, 2009). Truly, therapy dogs have proved to be making a significant change in the lives of individuals they happen to encounter.

The history of Animal Assisted Therapy

Even though it looks current and new age, animal assisted therapy or pet therapy can trace back its historical roots to Belgium in the nineteenth century. During this period, farm animals mostly those located within the Belgium town were considered to be an imperative component of therapy for the disabled home-based people.

This implies that animals particularly the dogs have incessantly assisted human beings to recover from various mental illnesses since time in memorial. In fact, dogs have lifted human beings spirits, offered them companionship and helped them in working (Thompson, 2009). Nevertheless, in the twentieth century, animals became legitimately acknowledged for their respective therapeutic aptitudes.

Elaine Smith in the fiscal 1976 was the first person to establish the initial therapy dogs’ registry in the US called Therapy Dogs international. A year later, the currently known Delta Society was formed under the name Delta Foundation. This foundation was mandated to investigate the impacts that animals had on individuals’ lives (Prothman, Bienert & Ettrich, 2006). Currently, the two groups together with various others have assisted in the provision of therapy animals to individuals who require animal assisted therapy.

Legal and ethical issues in AAT

Therapy dogs are often selected as puppies founded on their training receptiveness and disposition testing. The breed of dog selected should suit the work it is envisioned to accomplish implying that therapy dogs should contentedly fit into the life of a therapist. If a dog is deemed a fabulous pet it is not true that it will definitely be an operative canine psychotherapist.

Ethical attributes needs to be taken into consideration (Halm, 2008). The preferred traits include: the dog can easily calm itself, lacking hostile tendencies, possess high level of frustration tolerance, well socialized, cope well with other canines and desire to constantly be with beings.

Dogs that do not enjoy interacting with human beings and those that do not have a gamut of actions and tricks must not be chosen. Therapy dogs must adore creating contacts with beings in order to be groomed and petted. However, the chosen dogs must be accustomed to the therapy surrounding environment and must positively respond to what the client requires (VanFleet, 2008). Since there are dogs of various ages, sizes and breeds, therapy dogs must be non-aggressive and social.

After a therapy dog is selected, it should be given the primary obedience training. To realize this, training of the therapy dogs must be handled by competent counselor and trained pet handlers. The training needs to gyrate around fun, praise and positive reinforcement (Shelton, Leeman & O’Hara, 2011).

The training and certification of therapy dogs needs to be done and approved by recognized agencies. Since there are global AAT certification programs, therapists who want to use therapy dogs in their psychotherapy work should ensure that the dogs certified to be used in the treatment sessions.

Agencies that promote therapy dogs training and certification

Delta Society registers and certifies pets which offer animal assisted therapy. Delta Society recommends that any dog that is to be used in animal assisted therapy must exhibit obedience by successfully finishing the testing and training program (Delta Society, 2006).

The certifications with Therapy Dogs International (TDI) necessitate that therapy dogs and their trainers must pass the primary Therapy Dogs Test, the Canine Good Citizen as well as the obedience class.

The certification further requires the dog handlers to reach an agreement that they will aptly follow the Delta Society standards while maintaining the annual vaccination and health records. Therapy dog handlers are required by TDI to annually renew their membership cards including routine checkups, current vaccinations and yearly veterinary visits (Thompson, 2009).

Suitable therapy dogs’ profile

Breed: Therapy dogs maybe of any breed, but attributable to the overall temperament traits, other breeds are considered to be more suitable. Examples of the most popular therapy dogs include collies, greyhounds, Newfoundland and retrievers. Some dogs are always too timid, protective or aloof, yet it is important to consider an individual dog. Here are examples of therapy dogs breeds:

Retrievers

Coolies

Size and age: Therapy dogs can take any size ranging from giants to toys. Particular concern should be given clients who could fear larger dogs. Toy breed therapy dogs needs gentle handling.

In fact, therapy dogs needs to be at least one-year old and should be allowed to continue provided the dog is mentally and physically able.

Uno the beagle

Health status and temperament: Therapy dogs must be well groomed, clean, updated on heartworm exams, negative fecal and vaccination. They need to be of good physical health including free of ear and eye discharge and have their nails clipped. Therapy dogs must not be aggressive, must have tolerant temperament and stable. They need to have interests in individuals and outgoing in nature. See picture below for corgi:

Approaches of incorporating therapy dogs into therapeutic sessions

When a mental health professional intends to bring dog into a therapeutic session, there are a number of factors that must be put into consideration. First, the therapist must set the goals that are allied to the utilization of the therapy dog and this should be done for each client. Secondly, the psychotherapist needs to determine the frequency on how the therapy dog should be used (Phillips, 2003). The therapy dog’s presence might not be important for all therapeutic play sessions.

For example, there might be certain kids who actively react to the therapy dogs’ usage in each and every session while other kids may fancy using dogs occasionally. In non-directed play psychotherapy, it might be supportive for the therapist to incorporate the therapy dog in each session given that this kind of therapy requires maintaining some continuity, certainty and constancy in the therapeutic play sessions (Thompson, 2009). Here is picture of a dog used in therapeutic sessions:

Pugs

In directed psychoanalysis, therapy dogs might occasionally be utilized to respond to a kid’s therapeutic goals and objectives. Third, the health professional must consider the stress and energy levels of the therapy dogs since it might limit the dogs’ usage in different treatment sessions (Sockingam & Li, 2008).

When it becomes apparent that the therapy dog is frazzled, worn-out or detached, such a dog’s usage might not be considered therapeutic any more. It is of great significance to permit therapy dogs to quit therapeutic sessions if they display signs of worry or anxiety (Thompson, 2009). This could equally be considered as an imperative modeling session for children.

Goals of dog therapy

VanFleet and Thompson (2009) in their study highlighted the following as the major goals and intentions of integrating dogs into patient or clients treatment sessions:

• To uphold the expressions of children or patients feelings and enhance their self esteems
• To develop the patients care giving, sharing and empathetic capabilities
• To assist in the quick establishment of rapports and capitalize on the ordinary interest that patients such as kids and adults tend to have in faunae
• To provide nurturance via presenting to the clients the unconditional interactions and acceptance
• To improve on the children’s confidence levels and social skills whereas decreasing their maladaptive and aggressive behaviors
• To provide the children and adults with the sole opportunity of overcoming the fear they might have in dogs
• To foster the patients healthy attachment affiliations not just with faunae such as dogs but also with people
• To help patients particularly the kids to share their shocking experiences in a passionately harmless manner, and;
• To assist in the improvement of problem solving and cooperation capabilities

In psychotherapy, animals such as dogs might be used in various ways to help psychotherapists meet these goals. However, very few methodical techniques have been acknowledged. For instance, some health professionals such as nurses and clinicians have used the dogs’ presence during patients’ treatment sessions to simply moderate anxiety. Other psychotherapy professionals have more actively used dogs together with other animals as co-therapists, in allegorical storytelling and role plays.

A further category of psychotherapists have seen animals like dogs as an opportunity for kids and other patients to unveil their controls for instance through obedience training (Kottman, 2001). This last category uses dogs as diagnostic tools to solicit children’s ability to link with other living things, their abilities to emotionally self-regulate, their aggressive tendencies and social skills.

Benefits of therapy dogs in counseling sessions

Animal assisted therapy as an important method of intervention entails introducing an animal such as a dog in the immediate surroundings of a patient or client with some therapeutic intentions. Recent research studies have revealed that AAT proffers innumerable benefits that surpass those that can be offered by customary therapies (Landreth, 2002).

Indeed, animal assisted therapy is not a therapeutic style like the rational emotive theory or the cognitive behavioral theory. This is because therapists have the chance to integrate the dog in any professional therapeutic style that has already been enacted by the therapists.

Often, the presence of a dog in therapeutic treatments is seen to develop and enhance trust building links amid clients and therapists. If a dog is integrated in healing sessions, it customarily releases the therapeutic angsts and pressures and the relations with such an animal emerge to be exciting, gratifying and very humorous. Through interacting with dogs, clients or patients may be helped to focus on issues that are perceived to be difficult since dogs aid in bringing the ability of the clients to be in touch with the allied state of mind.

In fact, when patients’ feelings are shared with therapy dogs, the dogs may prompt the emotive sharing course with the psychotherapists (White &Allers, 1994). For the patients, the dogs are observed as allies and friends, therefore they present a harmless environment to share emotions. Dogs thus provide nurturance by presenting the unrestricted acceptance.

To realize the positive results of using therapy dogs, Chandler (2005) identified various key techniques of administering AAT. These included:

• Allowing the clients to hug, touch and pet the therapy dog when the desire or need arises
• Drawing on the therapy dog as a co-therapist so as to summarize, clarify, paraphrase and reflect on the expressions and actions of the client, therapy dog as well as the relationships amid them
• Use therapy dog to develop and improve on the therapeutic association quality
• Using therapy dogs to offer access to the clients emotions

The value of AAT in the mental health field

To enhance therapeutic experience, animal assisted therapy with dogs has always been integrated with the play therapy to form the canine assisted play therapy also abbreviated CAPT. This type of therapy involves the inclusion of therapy dogs into the play therapy sessions so as to upsurge the quantity of chances that could be used to reflect feelings and track behaviors.

A therapy dog functions as co-therapist in therapeutic sessions whereby it engages the relaxing influences of the play (Thompson, 2009). Psychotherapist and dogs usually engage clients via the non-directed and directed play therapy. The main intention is to improve the emotional health of the clients especially the children.

Studies on dog assisted therapy

A research was conducted by Thompson, Weaver and Mustaine (2008) on the usage of dogs in the non-directive play therapy. The study method united both qualitative and quantitative techniques to investigate the variances in kids’ actions in the absence and presence of trained therapy dogs. Both negative and positive behavioral results were yielded by the gathered quantitative data. However, the qualitative data were derived from the general therapist narratives.

Study results indicated that there was a considerable effect on the response of the kids to play psychotherapy when therapy dogs were incorporated. For example, kids freely established rapport, portrayed improved knack to participate in thematic play and had enhanced affect and moods. Moreover, kids demonstrated a reduction in play distractions and destructive behaviors.

Further research studies have showed that animals play an integral part in the general growth of children. While in the company of animals, kids tend to learn about their social responsibilities, emotional reciprocities, boundaries and interactions.

Studies have further revealed that children and adults who own pets particularly dogs, cats and horses have better social skills, higher self-esteem and are more empathetic for others than other kids. According to Jalongo, Astorinno and Bomboy (2004) assertions, the animal to child bond seems to be very strong and it is different from any other kind of connection that children may encounter.

Gonski (1985) reviewed the issues of kids and the aged who had behavioral and emotional problems and reported that such children and old age groups had positive response towards animals.

In an analogous study of the ill-treated and abandoned kids in the short-term care, Gonski (1985) found that the ordinary company a dog was enough to elicit laughter, create excitements and lively conversation amongst children and the aged who materialized to be generally resistant, hostile and withdrawn. Such findings have formed the basis for instituting animals’ particularly the canines into therapeutic treatments.

Conclusion

Animal assisted therapy has proved to have the capacity to potentially mediate and successfully intervene for patients only when appropriate steps are assumed. Nevertheless, it is deemed imperative for psychotherapists to have some strong grounds in the play therapy prior to attempting to add therapeutic play dogs to the patients’ treatment sessions or children playrooms.

Furthermore, it is of great essence for psychotherapists to hand choose their preferred therapy dogs for temperament and personalities in order to make sure that the selected dogs have the correct certification and training regarded essential for their works. Above all, researches done on compelling counseling intervention have revealed that dogs are wonderful companions, friends and teachers. Currently, dogs appear to play a significant as wonderful therapists.

References

Chandler, C. K. (2005). Animal assisted therapy in counseling. New York: Routledge.

Delta Society (2006). Improving human health through therapy, service and companion animals. Web.

Gonski, Y. A. (1985). The therapeutic utilization of canines in a child welfare setting. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 2, 93-105.

Halm, M. A. (2008). The healing power of the human-animal connection. American Journal of Critical Care, 17(4), 373-376.

Jalongo, M. R., Astorino, T., & Bomboy, N. (2004). Canine visitors: The influence of therapy dogs on young children’s learning and well-being in classrooms and hospitals. Early Childhood Education Journal, 32(1).

Kottman, T. (2001). Play therapy: Basics and beyond. Alexandria, VA: American Counseling Association.

Landreth, G. L. (2002). Play therapy: The art of the relationship. New York: Brunner-Routledge.

Phillips, D. (2003). Research and reflection: Animal-assisted therapy in mental health settings. Counseling and Values, 48, 47-56.

Prothman, A., Bienert, M., & Ettrich, C. (2006). Dogs in child psychotherapy: Effects on state of mind. Anthrozoos, 19(3), 265-277.

Shelton, L. S., Leeman, M. & O’Hara, C. (2011). Introduction to animal assisted therapy in counseling. Web.

Sockingam, S., & Li, M. (2008). Use of animal-assisted therapy in the rehabilitation of an assault victim with a concurrent mood disorder. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 29, 73-84.

Thompson, M. J. (2009). Animal assisted play therapy: Canines as co-therapists. Compelling Counseling Intervention, 199-209.

Thompson, M., Weaver, A. & Mustaine, B. (2008). Effects of a trained therapy dog in child centered play therapy on children with anxiety disorders: Unpublished doctoral dissertation (Thompson). Sarasota, FL: Argosy University.

VanFleet, R. & Thompson, M. (2008). The power of cross-species play: Theory, research, and practice of canine-assisted play therapy. Paper presented at the annual conference of the International Society for Anthropology, Toronto, Canada.

VanFleet, R. (2008). Play therapy with kids & canines: Benefits for children’s developmental and psychosocial health. Sarasota, FL: Professional Resource Press.

White, J., &Allers, C. T. (1994). Play therapy with abused children: A review of the literature. Journal of Counseling & Development, 72, 390-394.

Dog Parks are places where people take their dogs for exercise and socialization. The people who engage in such kinds of activities are those who reside in apartments or in big cities. Therefore, these kind people do not have enough spaces where they can take their dogs for exercise. There are other people who engage in such activities to enable them interact with other people who have similar interests. This provides people with an opportunity to share their experiences on dog rearing issues.

In many parks located in Los Angeles, it has often been reported that dogs face various dangers while in the parks. Overly aggressive dogs can often run loose while in the parks thereby causing severe harm to people and other inferior dogs (Hess & Orthmann, 2007). There are other dogs which react by defending themselves when they are attacked by other dogs. In such cases, most of the dog owners are left wondering whether they should let the dogs deal with these issues by themselves or whether they should intervene.

There are other people who come to the parks with small dogs which cannot be able to defend themselves from the aggressive and antisocial dogs. They therefore expose the small dogs to the risk of being attacked by the big dogs. In addition, there are people who come with small children to the parks. Such children may play with different dogs without knowing the harm that the dogs can cause to them.

There are also people who are irresponsible to the extent that do not watch the activities that their dogs engage in while in the park. The establishment of dog parks assumes that dogs are well mannered and well-trained. However, this is not often the case because there are dogs which are very dangerous and cannot coexist with other dogs in a peaceful manner (American Planning Association, 2006).

In order to minimize the risks that are associated with dog parks, it is important for dog parks in Los Angeles to come up with a security policy which would be helpful in minimizing the risks that are observed in the different dog parks in the area.

Insecurity from dogs is a very critical issue that every person who visits a dog park should be well aware of. This is because it is very difficult to predict the dangers that people would face in a dog park where dogs of all characters are present.

To ensure that the security policy in the parks in Los Angeles is successful, there are various programs that need to be implemented (Hess & Orthmann, 2007). This analysis will therefore discuss the various strategies that parks in Los Angeles should implement in order to make the security policy successful.

Security Policy at Dog Parks

To ensure that parks are secure, there are certain measures that both the dog owners and the park owners should implement. The dog owners should be able to handle their own dogs effectively. This is especially the case for those people who bring aggressive dogs to the parks (Maluegray, 2006). There are various ways in which the owners of the parks can facilitate this process.

1. They should notify the dog owners that they are supposed to take care of their dogs while in the parks at all time.
2. Dog owners should be notified that if they do not take care of their dogs they would be forced to leave the parks.
3. In case a dog becomes aggressive and the owner is not concerned, the staff at the park should file a complaint to the police.
4. In case of a dog attack and the owner is unable to control it, the park owners should intervene and try to stop the dogs from the aggressive activities.
5. While breaking up a fight between two dogs, the park owners should recommend dog owners to do so while holding a walking stick. This is especially the case if a person does not know how to break up a dog fight.

In order to make a dog park safe, there are certain recommendations that park users should follow

1. The dogs should pass a test before being allowed to enter into a park. The dogs that fail to pass the tests should not be left to wonder alone in the parks.
2. There should be parks for small dogs and big dogs since small dogs are more prone to being attacked by the big dogs.
3. A dog owner should also ensure that he is a responsible dog handler.

To ensure most dog parks in Los Angeles are secure, people need to ensure that they are responsible dog handlers. To be a responsible dog handler, a person should follow some basic rules while in the park. These rules are as follows

1. In case of a dog attack, a person run away from the park immediately to avoid the dog fight.
2. In case you are not experienced at handling dogs, you should ensure that you go to the park during off-peak hours to minimize incidences of attacks from the fierce dogs.
3. In case of a dog fight, you should ensure that you call your dog from the pack or chase the group of dogs.
4. It is important for a dog owner to show his dog that he is more fun than the other dogs. Therefore, as a dog owner, you should ensure that you play the games that your dog loves to play.
5. You should always ensure that you pay 100 percent of your attention on your dog in case it is off-leash.
6. In case you wish to have a talk with other dog owners, you should do it when paying close attention on the moves that your dog makes.

Strategies for Security Policy Implementation

Responsibility is an attribute that dog owners should have especially if they often take their dogs to the parks. Dog owners should be able to track every move that their dogs take while in the parks. When dog owners are responsible, they can be able to interfere whenever they see their dogs engaging in dangerous activities such as attacking people or other dogs.

However, there have been instances whereby various dog owners in Los Angeles have been irresponsible thereby leaving their dogs to cause severe injuries to other people as well as other dogs in the parks (Bill, 2012). This state of affairs has instilled fear among different dog owners. Some of the people who have ever encountered a dog attack therefore find it very difficult to take their dogs to the parks for fear of repeat incidences.

Therefore, parks owners in Los Angeles should develop a strategy that would enable them to determine how responsible people are with regard to keeping a close watch at their dogs. To ensure that people take responsibility for their dogs while in the parks, the owners of the parks should ensure that they notify people who bring their dogs to the park of the various dangers that people and their dogs often encounter.

People should also be warned that in case their dogs engage in dangerous activities when they are not paying close attention, corrective measures would be taken such as making the owners of the dogs to pay for the damages that their dogs cause.

In addition, the owners of the dogs would also be banned from bringing their dogs to the parks in order to prevent such occurrences from happening in the future (Bill, 2012). Responsibility is therefore a very important attribute to consider from those people who bring their dogs to the parks thereby eliminating any incidences of danger occurring to other people who use the parks.

Every organization should be able to handle its operations with competence. To do this, it needs to ensure that its staff is competent to carry out its services efficiently. In the case of dog parks in Los Angeles, they need to ensure that the staffs that patrol the parks are well equipped with the different tactics of dog handling. This is because they play a big role in assisting dog owners whose dogs get out of control and they cannot manage to handle them for lack of adequate skills in dog handling.

For security reasons therefore, owners of dog parks in Los Angeles need to ensure that they inquire from the dog owners the various dog handling techniques that they know (American Planning Association, 2006). In case a person does not have sufficient skills of handling a dog, the staff at the dog parks can always keep a close watch on such people in order to prevent things from getting out of control. The staff can therefore be able to act immediately when things get out of control.

Safety measures are very helpful to an organization especially when people do not know where to report any incidences of danger. Dog parks pose very many dangers to people. As a result, people need to be given directives on what they should do in case of danger (Benson, 2009).

The parks in Los Angeles therefore need to set up alarms which people can easily access to call for help before any severe damage is witnessed. This form of investment would save the park owners time and effort of having to go round the entire park looking for any incidences of danger.

Dog parks are places where dogs are taken for exercises and socialization. As a result, a dog should be able to respond to its owner the way it has been trained. It is important to ensure that a dog is capable of responding to the signs that its owner makes so as to be sure that in case it gets involved in any form of danger, it would be easy to alert the dog and it would therefore refrain from engaging in a dangerous activity.

There have been instances in Los Angeles dog parks whereby dogs that are involved in dangers are not responsive even to their owners. This is an indication that the dogs have not been given adequate training to enable them understand the message their owners try to communicate to them.

To ensure that dogs do not get involved in severe dangers, it is important for the park owners to ensure that the dogs pass certain tests before they are allowed to enter the parks (Moore, 1995). This is because they would pose severe danger to other dogs especially if they are called and then fail to respond to their owners.

Small dogs are very prone to attack by the big dogs. The small dogs cannot manage to defend themselves from the big dogs when they are attacked. It is up to the owners to ensure that they keep a close watch on the small dogs because they would suffer serious injuries when attacked. However, in instances whereby small dogs have been allowed to relate with other big dogs, there have always been cases of the small dogs being injured. To minimize incidences whereby puppies have had to incur serious injuries, park owners should ensure that they set in place small parks where puppies can relate with other puppies without any serious injuries being reported (Moore, 1995). This would serve as a security measure aimed at protecting the puppies from the injuries that they might encounter from the bigger dogs.

The Implementation of private parks is also an issue that dog parks in Los Angeles need to lay emphasis on. This is necessary to consider because there is a group of people who come with dogs to the parks but they do not have the slightest idea of how they can separate a dog fight when their dogs are attacked.

In addition, there are people who come to the parks with antisocial and aggressive dogs which would easily attack the other dogs present in the parks (Wogan, 2008). As a result, such people find it important to protect themselves and their dogs from the attacks. The best mechanism to achieve this goal is when such people take their dogs to private parks where there is no interference from other dogs.

However, many parks have not been able to implement private parks successfully. As a result, incidences of attacks especially by non-trained and aggressive dogs have been common in the parks. To minimize these risks therefore, it is important for the park owners in Los Angeles to ensure that they provide adequate private parks in order to prevent incidences of dog attacks hence assuring safety to the people who bring their dogs to the parks.

To ensure that incidences of dog attacks are as minimal as possible, all dogs entering the parks should be screened to ensure that they are well trained and are highly responsive to their owners (Benson, 2009).

In addition, it is important for the owners of the dogs to reveal all the information relating to the dog’s behavior so that the park’s staff can easily determine whether the dog belongs in a private or a public park. In case of those dogs that become aggressive while in the public park, they should be directed to the private park as that would be an indication that they cannot coexist with other dogs in the same park (Wogan, 2008). This would boost the security of the parks since most of the dogs would be in their right parks.

It is true that there are those people who visit the parks with dogs that are antisocial and very aggressive. It is also true that there are people who love their pets so much regardless of their level of aggressiveness to such an extent that they take them to wherever they go during their free time. In case such people visit the parks with their dogs, it is important for the park owners to be prepared on how they would handle the dogs that such people bring with them.

With such dogs in the area, the park owners should ensure that they have competent staff that can be able to handle all dog related cases (American Planning Association, 2006). Such experts should be able to carry out socializing sessions for those dogs that are socially challenged.

The socializing sessions would be helpful in reducing the aggressive behaviors of such dogs hence making them less risky to those people present in the parks (Wogan, 2008). However, even after socializing lessons, the dogs should be kept close to their owners because socializing sessions might not be highly effective to some dogs.

In the case of antisocial, fearful, and defensive dogs, there is another solution that can be implemented. This is especially the case for those parks in Los Angeles which cannot manage to secure private parks mostly because of lack of sufficient resources. When this is observed, the high risk dogs should be fitted with muzzles to prevent them from biting or attacking people and other dogs in the parks (Bill, 2012). With those muzzles, the owners of the dogs would be sure that their dogs can safely relate with other dogs.

Fences around the parks also serve as very important measures of enhancing security around the parks. Parks should be fenced all around in order to prevent dogs from getting off the park. The dogs that get off the park may end up causing serious damage to outsiders.

It is therefore important to ensure that fences are present in order to ensure that dogs do not leave the park without the knowledge of their owners. The best fences that would be effective in limiting the dogs from reaching the outside environment should be as tall as 6 feet (Hess & Orthmann, 2007). In addition, the fences should be tilted to the inside.

The fencing should also be designed in such a manner that it can deliver shocks to dogs once they come close to the fence. This would eliminate any chances of dogs attacking people outside the park. Fences limit the movement of the dogs thereby enhancing security of the areas that surround the park (Maluegray , 2006). Therefore, effective fencing of the parks is one of the critical issues that park owners in Los Angeles should address.

There are instances whereby a person who is attacked by a dog may find it convenient to run away. In this case, a person might use the gate as the only option. As a result, the gates in the parks should be designed in such a manner that they would provide security to people in case of an attack by dogs.

Most of the gates in the parks should therefore be designed in such a manner that they would lock themselves from behind whenever a person passes through them. This would prevent a person from being attacked by a dog the moment he gets to the other side of the park.

The security of the dogs is of particular importance in cases of extreme weather conditions. There are times of the year when the weather is not conducive for people to take their dogs to the parks. This is because the weather might pose very serious health risks to the dogs. However, there are people who are normally not worried by the weather and they therefore take their dogs for walks at any time.

In such cases therefore, they look for the dog parks which offer both indoor and outdoor dog services. There are people are capable of providing their dogs with protective clothing especially during extreme weather cases (Bill, 2012). As a result, they can be able to access the park in any time of the year.

However, there are those people who would prefer their dogs to remain indoors for training during bad weather. Because of this, it is important for parks in Los Angeles to ensure that they are capable of providing both indoor and outdoor trainings for the dogs brought in during times of extreme weather conditions. The indoor training sessions should be carried out in tents where the dogs would be protected from extreme temperatures.

The indoor facilities should be spacious and have high ceilings. In addition, they should provide space for private owners as well as puppies to eliminate any chances of aggressive dogs attacking the other dogs (Moore, 1995). In this perspective therefore, the security of dogs is enhanced as the dogs are protected from extreme weather.

In addition, separate rooms are provided for ensuring that dangerous dogs do not attack the other dogs. This strategy would therefore ensure that the parks in Los Angeles are able to provide effective exercising and socializing services for the dogs at all times.

There are those dogs that normally have the habit of digging holes in the areas where they reside. This behavior has also been observed in those dogs that are brought to the parks. In this perspective therefore, it is up to the owners of the dogs to ensure that they keep a close eye on what their dogs are doing so that they can be able to spot their dogs whenever they dig holes in the park.

The owners should then ensure that they burry all the holes that their dogs dig. This would eliminate chances of people being involved in accidents that would be caused by the holes that the dogs dig. In addition, the staff at the parks should always ensure that they walk around the parks to ensure that no open holes have been left by irresponsible dog owners thus minimizing chances of anyone getting hurt in the parks (American Planning Association, 2006).

Whenever people visit the parks, they should be notified that they are supposed to bring in their own food which they would give their dogs. They should also keep a close watch on what their dogs are eating to prevent them from being given food that is unsuitable for them or which can ruin their health (Hess & Orthmann, 2007). Incidences of food poisoning can occur at any time and in order to prevent such an event from occurring, it is advisable for people to ensure that they keep their dogs at their vicinity and give them quality food.

From the analysis therefore, it is true that when the dog parks in Los Angeles focus on improving the security of their parks, incidences of injuries in the parks will reduce significantly thereby making the parks to be fun places for socializing and exercising the dogs.

References

American Planning Association. (2006). Planning And Urban Design Standards. New York: John Wiley and Sons.

Benson , S. (2009). Dog Parks – 12 Tips on How to Keep Them Safe For You and Your Dog. Web.

Bill , E. E. (2012). 7 Dog Park Rules, Tips and Etiquette Standards. Web.

Hess, K. M., & Orthmann, C. H. (2007). Introduction To Private Security. New York: Cengage Learning.

Maluegray , T. (2006). Private Dog Parks: Can Be The Safe Choice. Web.

Moore, M. H. (1995). Creating Public Value: Strategic Management in Government. Boston: Harvard University Press.

Wogan, L. (2008). Dog Park Wisdom: Real-World Advice on Choosing, Caring For, and Understanding Your Canine Companion. New York: Springer.

Introduction

In literature, many authors have well used writing techniques that capture the reader and create a desire within to read their work. With this, novel authors have used variety of writing skills varying from dramatic openings to use of fictional techniques to convey their ideas. Others have also used distinctively interesting characters at the center of their literature. However, mark Haddon, in his novel “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- time”, uses distinctive techniques to make his work interesting and outstanding.

On top of the normal and expected techniques by most readers, he uses extraordinary ones capturing many readers in a distinctive way. This essay seeks to find out and explain the distinctive techniques used in the Haddon’s novel, which draw many readers into its world. It will also see the ways in which these techniques remain outstanding.

Haddon’s Techniques

Mark Haddon can be termed as a well-gifted narrative author, with highly creative ways to capture readers into his work. He captures the reader from the beginning, makes him feel like he is playing part in the narrative, and finally leaves him delighted and encouraged to reread the narrative.

Haddon uses narrative in the first person is by itself a distinct technique that woos many readers (Mark). He puts the reader into the shoes of the narrator through the language he uses. On top of this, he uses a very distinct narrator who is a young boy of 15 years age who is autistic (Haddon 4).

Inasmuch as a novel is meant to entertain, Haddon opens the mind of the reader, insights and inform him about autistic children. He not only speaks about them but shows the reader how their brains work. He also uses the autistic person to portray this, which is very interesting and an outstanding technique. Information on autism is not familiar with many. The technique to mix entertainment with insights and information captures the reader to hold to the novel all through.

In the general view, he uses a child as the narrator of the story. He speaks through the mouth of this young boy, making the focus of the narrative change from Haddon to Christopher an autistic child. The voice of the child pulls the attention of the reader since it’s rare and appeals for more concern.

Inasmuch as many novels seek to portray the overcoming of a disability, Haddon uses an opposite technique (Mark). He uses a character with a disability and one who co-exists with it to the end. In other words, he uses a technique that makes the reader feel in a totally different world.

It separates the reader from the normal to the abnormal and unexpected. Everything that Christopher says has a lot of sense considering his condition. This reader’s effect receives an opposition from the people who surround Christopher who tend to ignore whatever he says (Haddon 110). This thus leads to drawing the reader to develop a curiosity that is maintained throughout the narrative.

He uses Asperger’s syndrome to support the point of using disability. This syndrome is basically a disorder representing disability. Haddon shows Christopher as one who has lost basic and important felling. He can only laugh and cry. This as a result interferes with the smooth relationship they had with his dad.

In addition he remains without a friend through the narrative. This therefore makes one feel emotional detachment of Christopher and tends to support his side, which always seems to lose throughout the narrative. On the other hand, Christopher’s condition touches on family relationships, which create an automatic attachment with the reader. Haddon therefore manages to carry the reader into the world of the novel and holds the reader to the end of the novel.

The title of the book (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- time) is enough to make the reader develop some curiosity. One would basically be carried by the fact it is a curious incident of a dog in the night time. Haddon does not use day time. The use of night time completely makes one have multiple guesses of what the incident would be.

In addition the use of dog and not a cow makes the reader have in mind million of incidents that a dog can be involved in at night. This lays a foundation from which many questions will be answered by reading the novel, thus capturing the reader’s curiosity into the world of the novel.

According to the pace of flow of events set at the beginning of the book, one would expect the murder mystery to be solved in the final pages. Haddon surprises the reader when such mystery is solved at an unexpected point. This gives time for the narrative to pick a higher pitch with raise in emotions and expands the restrictions of Christopher’s difficulty.

It is after the disclosure of mystery when more unexpected characters appear, offering more opposition to Christopher (Haddon 50). The reader hopes things get better for Christopher; they at this point get worse increasing the reader’s attention to the narrative.

Haddon also uses ‘detection’ theme to keep the reader parallel to the narrator thus holding the reader. The whole idea of the narrative is to detect the murder mystery. On the other hand the reader authentically tends to detect what Christopher will do, by reading his mind. Christopher all through believes something is wrong with the people surrounding him.

Haddon’s techniques remain outstanding to date since hardly are there authors using similar techniques. His techniques remain distinct. However, it is important to note that Haddon’s novel has not come to being through much research but through his experiences in life. It is more distinct when you write your own experience and no other people’s experience.

Conclusion

Mark Haddon story is distinct, moving and very entertaining and interesting. The techniques he uses in his work are rare and hardly found in other stories and narratives. No other author has shown such techniques as Haddon. The all work together to capture the reedier into the world the novel.

Moreover, even if not all, at least one of these techniques will make a reader desire to read the work. After beginning to read one gets tied into the narrative emotionally, thus feeling to hold throughout the narrative. Haddon avoids fulfilling the reader’s expectation through Christopher.

He makes sure that the reader plays part in the narrative. All these techniques empower each other thus drawing the reader into the novels world. More authors should endeavor to use such techniques since they not only capture many people, even those who are not avid readers, but also educate.

Works Cited

Haddon, Mark. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. London: Jonathan Cape, 2003. Print.

“Mark Haddon Interview.” DNA learning center. Cold Spring Habor Laboratory, n.d. Web.