Please read on to understand our dream of a non traditional rescue home, and help us realize it…
Dawn: Our Overnight Human Caregivers awake and prepare for the day. They immediately let us go outside. Some of us are more isolated due to medical or behavior issues; the rest of us slept in groups with the dogs we like the best. Our Caregivers sleep with, and check on, us all night long in our home-like environment. You will not find this level of 24/7 attention and care in very many animal settings.
I am your guide through this amazing dog-centered, yet human-friendly facility. I have been here the longest, since I have so much to learn, and also had so much to forget.
A Safe Haven for Learning What We Need to Know: Some of us are learning to like humans after mistreatment at their hands, so we get enough attention to make us happy but not scared. Others are learning that being alone is safe, after developing anxiety from being abandoned or frightened, so they receive less attention than they want, but enough to help them feel secure.
The original intention of animal shelters was to protect the public from dangerous animals, and to provide a safe place for lost pets until they were united with their owners. The traditional shelter model is obsolete in this current time of millions of family pets being abandoned. Meantime, these unfortunate throwaways deserve a life, as we work to change the public’s consciousness about when and where and why to get a pet, and how to create a lifelong joyful relationship.
The Morning Humans Arrive: Upon arriving, the Morning Humans clean our sleeping areas and dish out our breakfast, while outside we relieve ourselves, stretch our muscles and get reacquainted through greetings and play. There isn’t much waste to clean up inside since our routine is supportive of house training - just like in a real home (sigh). Special attention is paid to accidents to ascertain if someone is ill, needs more house training, or needs to join the "go-out-in-the-middle-of the-night" gang.
The Big Question: The Mornings join our Caretakers to discuss us. Who needs what? Who did what? Who is improving? And the biggest question of all - howls, barks & yips! - Who chose, and was chosen by, a Forever Caregiver yesterday? There is laughter and tears and excitement. There is also some disappointment for those who didn’t find a match. But we aren’t worried since we know that Misha May will make sure we get our turn.
Food, Glorious Food: Here we are, running inside (politely, of course) to get our breakfast. Food, glorious food! Soon, there is only the sound of munching and crunching, demonstrating our delirious satisfaction with each mouthful. After eating, we rest quietly, digesting, maybe even dreaming about this day‘s possibilities and adventures. Each moment, each day, is so very special at the Misha May Lodge.
The Office: Some Mornings will remain with us, allowing us to have outside time as needed. Everyone else heads to The Office, a very important place. Preparation for the day is important in order to offer what we call Great Customer Service to anyone who contacts Misha May. This is one of the places where Big-Heart Volunteers help us. They are so smart - they know about using computers, answering phones, finding money, cleaning, fixing, planning and leading and well, everything! Some of them also spend time with us walking, training, playing, bathing and comforting. I have so many favorite Big-Hearts!
The Front Door: It is very exciting to watch the front door. So many good things come to us through there: food, toys, donations, money, human friends, and dog friends who need us. People bring their Owned Dogs for training classes, traditional and holistic medical care, boarding, and that ‘special operation.' Radiant Rescuers bring their foster dogs for training and care as well. People borrow from our extensive library, listen to Dogsmart Speakers, watch DVDs, and share and learn at our Monthly Meet and Greets.
Misha May Excellent Owner Model: Rescue colleagues visit from other states and countries. They leave, feeling confident that by following our model, they will demonstrate to their communities how to value, choose, and commit to a new best friend.
I Remember: When I came through the front door, I was very confused and frightened. Immediately, the Greeting Friends helped me feel safe, and over time, convinced me that I would be able to trust and love again. I believe them now. I believe them so much, that I am ready to watch for the Forever Caregivers.
Watching for the Forever Caregivers: They come in looking and talking and wondering. Will they find their friend? We respond by watching, smelling and considering. Are they my new, forever family? Sometimes it is love at first sight; sometimes we are all awkward; sometimes our expectations and dreams match perfectly; sometimes it just doesn‘t work out like we all had hoped.
Quality Companion Animals: Most of us will make a better companion, than any typical non-socialized, caged animal you will buy at a pet store, who has been separated too early (8 weeks is the minimum) from their parents, who are living their lives in torture at a puppy mill, for breeding purposes only. (No reputable breeder would allow their pets to be sold through a pet store, where they have no control over their placement and future.) We are also right up there with any bought bred dog since we receive comparable or better care, plus training. Some of us have quirks which Misha May will be honest about and help the Forever Caregivers work out. None of us brings more money from our reasonable adoption fees than Misha May has spent on our care. Profit is not the focus at Misha May, our futures are.
Not Watching the Leave Behinds: The only time we don’t like to watch the front door is when a Leave Behind arrives with his owner. Sometimes they grasp their situation right away - their pain and confusion is difficult to witness. But, of course, we know that if there is space, Misha May will accept whomever is next, and get them what they need.
Examples of Rehabilitation: The training is reward based, anxiety reducing and primarily instructive in nature, rather than corrective or punitive. Each individual case, including Separation Anxiety and Human or Dog Aggression, is evaluated by an experienced behaviorist, after which a professional team creates a treatment plan. Everyone at the Lodge, from employees to volunteers, joyfully reviews treatment plans, and keeps all of their contacts with each animal consistent and supportive of the goal of adoptability.
Fearful dogs engage in confidence building activities. Unruly dogs receive instruction in manners and etiquette. Puppies are socialized and socialized and socialized some more. Clever, intelligent dogs are stimulated and challenged both physically and mentally. Very active dogs are exercised and entertained. All of us receive supplements, love, training and the time we need prior to facing adoption. Forever Caregivers are informed of everything known about the chosen dog, with the reminders that training is a lifetime process and all dogs are required to be returned if they don’t work out.
Discrimination Policy: Misha May does not turn away any breed, age, behavior, condition, illness, size, etc. The Caregivers are prepared to face each individual situation with compassion and creativity, finding and making available what this being needs. I have seen puppies of all kinds and very old dogs, too. I’ve seen mutts of every combination and purebreds of every type.
At least 25% of abandoned, homeless dogs are purebreds or designer mutts. This means that an irresponsible, uncaring store, puppy mill or breeder profited from their initial sale, while the ultimate price is being paid by the dog, and the financial burden is being carried by the rescue system.
Only about 10% of people getting a dog choose a rescued dog. No wonder so many of us are here!
More on Our Schedule: The remainder of our day until dinner, (food, glorious food!) will bring us what we need and want. Some of us will see a vet or a trainer. Others will play in a supervised group or in a game like agility (we have to keep those active breeds busy). Hikes and field trips are provided - so are swims. Our Lodge was designed for us, and our Humans understand. We aren’t just waiting; we are living. The plan is to help us improve everyday to remain or become exceptionally adoptable!
The Chosen: Forever Caregivers will choose some of us today, and it will be obvious that we have chosen them too. References are called, homes are visited, contracts are signed, and then….what we have dreamed and been patient about, what we have built trust and waited for, is really coming true. As those fortunate ones leave us behind, they feel confident that they have the skills, understanding and matches to live well with their new families. They are also relieved to know that we, their friends who are left behind for now, will have the same opportunities. They are proud to be Misha May success stories, proving that there is a home waiting for nearly every dog.
Evening: For those of us still here, we eat and rest and play and have one last time outside. We bless all living beings and give thanks for our merciful reprieve.
Quiet Time: We settle in with our buddies in our comfortable, and comforting packs, to live and love and play another day…..
Imagine our doggie lives without The Misha May Sanctuary, Training & Adoption Lodge - It isn’t here yet but it will be, won’t it? Will you please donate, fund raise, and network to help us
get the safe haven we so badly need? Please…
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
What students think about the UNDERSTANDING DOGS class
A Different Type of Training Class, presented by The Misha May Foundation.
Instructor: Lorraine May, M.A.
An integrative, holistic approach to training, behavior, health and healing, including obedience, flower essences, calming techniques and communication. Includes a behavior consultation / coaching session / treatment plan for each dog. Learn how to solve canine behavior problems! Better yet, be confident that you can avoid creating or encouraging them!
Diane: The Understanding Dogs Class is an innovative way to learn about dog behavior, human behavior and how to integrate them together to enhance the lives of both. The approach is unique in that participants do not bring their dog to every class. Only one participant brings their dog to class, thus giving all participants an opportunity to focus on the lecture material and demonstrations.
The other benefit is that each night is dedicated to a “case study” format for the dog attending class that evening. The lecture materials, demonstrations and lesson topics focus on the particular dog of the night, giving the owner hands on, specific actions they can take home to help improve behavioral issues and address their concerns. I learn something new every session because of the dynamics of each owner and their dogs. Everyone is unique and this class addresses their uniqueness in a very special manner. You will not be disappointed.
Richard: I found this training to be very helpful. I learned things that I had not anticipated but that have helped me understand my dog and dogs in general. I have owned many dogs, most of them rescues of one sort or another.
The dog that Lorraine helped me with in her class is Abby, who is a three year old golden who has had a very difficult life with lots of trauma and subsequent fears. Her fear of humans and her behavior related to those fears had deemed her “unadoptable” from the rescue group that was trying to help her. I knew I needed help with this dog as I did not have the understanding of what she needs in order to feel safe enough to learn and adjust. Like many people I thought she needed discipline and rewards to change.
What I learned in this class was first how animals learn and the types of conditioning we teach them unintentionally which can either help or hinder them. Then I was able to understand more about how the dog needs to be in control of a frightening situation and not the other way around. Instead of dragging her over to meet people she is afraid of, I learned to let her know that she is able to go as far as she wants without any coercion. This allowed her to calm down knowing that she was not going to be forced into a panic inducing situation and therefore eventually she would come in and exhibit the desired behavior on her own accord and this in turn would lead to less stress in other situations now that she has learned how to deal with one.
It is like building a foundation of trust beyond what we already had. She now knows that I understand some of her fears more clearly and that allows her to deal with them. I have noticed that she seems calmer and her behavior has improved markedly.
I will probably ask Lorraine for some additional training for some specific guarding of the car behaviors. She is a much happier dog and much easier to live with now thanks to what I have already been taught.
Chelsea: Thanks so much for the class, I really enjoyed seeing the techniques you used with each different dog that was brought into the class. I really enjoyed the fact that you let the dogs do things at their own pace and did not let the owners force their dogs into a situation that would be too stressful for them to handle.
I think the main thing I got from your class is that everybody needs to know that there is a kind and loving way to help your animals live in a world that is comfortable for them and not full of fear and unwanted experiences.
Jenny: I found the discussion on desensitizing most helpful. For a dog who has issues, to try and minimize or eliminate the fear of certain triggers is extremely important. (e.g., the sound of another dog's tags rattling). It makes sense but I would not have thought to do that on my own!
Sue: I have a perfect example of what works beautifully with a dog. I took Bailey for a walk in the park yesterday, I reigned him in by my side as we approached two other dogs. They were not jumping, they were not aggressive, they were just looking at Bailey as we passed by.
The woman then jerked her dog and actually pulled her up on two legs and was harshly yelling something at her so she would not look at Bailey. This broke my heart. I almost stopped to tell her about your classes but felt it would not be received well. Lorraine teaches with kindness.
In this situation I applied a training technique I learned. I had tasty treats in my pocket, and as we approached the other dog, I distracted my dog by doing the "dance". I put the treat down to his mouth and said sweet things and we literally turned in a circle away from the other dog or distraction.
I wish everyone would take Lorraine's classes because of what I saw in the park yesterday. You do not teach pets with cruelty, they just learn fear.
Cheri: The Understanding Dogs class was a great opportunity for me to work with my dog, Heidi. She had a bit of a rough beginning as a puppy, and so have been working hard with her since to gain a better understanding of her needs, but had a couple areas to continue to work on and thought this class might help and it did. As usual with one of Lorraine's classes, the training seemed to give me more training than to the dog, which is a good thing.
The main issue I had with Heidi was that Heidi wouldn't come back to me off leash or when outside in the backyard when called. After hearing others in the class with similar issues and after talking about how perhaps the dogs aren't understanding what we're asking of them, several training options were presented to try, including trying a different word other than her name or 'come' which I've probably worn out by now. 'Treat' was suggested with a different dog so I thought I would give that one a try. Sure enough, it worked. She came to me like a bullet when I called her in from the back yard, and is consistently doing it ever since. The strange thing is that I have never used that word as she was not a treat motivated type of dog so I was really surprised that word meant anything to her. Now it means 'come' and she sure does get a treat.
I had an unfortunate opportunity to try it off-leash about a week ago when she got out of the back yard through an open gate I accidentally left open and she ran off. I was just sick and she was no where in site. I ran into the house to get the car keys to go look for her and when I ran out again, there she was running right back to me! It was the very first time she didn't run away. I was just thrilled and am sure it's a result of Lorraine's wonderful advice and the training and practice Heidi and I continue to partake in. Thanks Lorraine!
Maureen: I'm a great fan of Cesar Millan. I watch his TV show, read his books and own his DVD series on training your dog. Unfortunately, I have not been able to become him and I always felt inadequate. Since taking Lorraine's latest class, I feel much better about myself. My dog, Nelson, is better behaved and I feel good about his progress. I plan to take more classes.
I especially liked the class where Nelson was featured. It was very helpful for Lorraine and the others to watch me interact with Nelson and get pointers on how to do better. Nelson has a problem walking on a leash. He recently started barking at other dogs on leashes. The last public walk we made, I carried treats and whenever a dog approached, I made Nelson sit and fed him treats. He didn't bark once at the other dogs. I felt it was quite an accomplishment.
Classes are offered in Arvada, Denver, Englewood, Littleton and more. For additional dates and locations, or to invite us to your location, please visit www.mishamayfoundation.org, email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com or call 303-239-0382.
Instructor: Lorraine May, M.A.
An integrative, holistic approach to training, behavior, health and healing, including obedience, flower essences, calming techniques and communication. Includes a behavior consultation / coaching session / treatment plan for each dog. Learn how to solve canine behavior problems! Better yet, be confident that you can avoid creating or encouraging them!
Diane: The Understanding Dogs Class is an innovative way to learn about dog behavior, human behavior and how to integrate them together to enhance the lives of both. The approach is unique in that participants do not bring their dog to every class. Only one participant brings their dog to class, thus giving all participants an opportunity to focus on the lecture material and demonstrations.
The other benefit is that each night is dedicated to a “case study” format for the dog attending class that evening. The lecture materials, demonstrations and lesson topics focus on the particular dog of the night, giving the owner hands on, specific actions they can take home to help improve behavioral issues and address their concerns. I learn something new every session because of the dynamics of each owner and their dogs. Everyone is unique and this class addresses their uniqueness in a very special manner. You will not be disappointed.
Richard: I found this training to be very helpful. I learned things that I had not anticipated but that have helped me understand my dog and dogs in general. I have owned many dogs, most of them rescues of one sort or another.
The dog that Lorraine helped me with in her class is Abby, who is a three year old golden who has had a very difficult life with lots of trauma and subsequent fears. Her fear of humans and her behavior related to those fears had deemed her “unadoptable” from the rescue group that was trying to help her. I knew I needed help with this dog as I did not have the understanding of what she needs in order to feel safe enough to learn and adjust. Like many people I thought she needed discipline and rewards to change.
What I learned in this class was first how animals learn and the types of conditioning we teach them unintentionally which can either help or hinder them. Then I was able to understand more about how the dog needs to be in control of a frightening situation and not the other way around. Instead of dragging her over to meet people she is afraid of, I learned to let her know that she is able to go as far as she wants without any coercion. This allowed her to calm down knowing that she was not going to be forced into a panic inducing situation and therefore eventually she would come in and exhibit the desired behavior on her own accord and this in turn would lead to less stress in other situations now that she has learned how to deal with one.
It is like building a foundation of trust beyond what we already had. She now knows that I understand some of her fears more clearly and that allows her to deal with them. I have noticed that she seems calmer and her behavior has improved markedly.
I will probably ask Lorraine for some additional training for some specific guarding of the car behaviors. She is a much happier dog and much easier to live with now thanks to what I have already been taught.
Chelsea: Thanks so much for the class, I really enjoyed seeing the techniques you used with each different dog that was brought into the class. I really enjoyed the fact that you let the dogs do things at their own pace and did not let the owners force their dogs into a situation that would be too stressful for them to handle.
I think the main thing I got from your class is that everybody needs to know that there is a kind and loving way to help your animals live in a world that is comfortable for them and not full of fear and unwanted experiences.
Jenny: I found the discussion on desensitizing most helpful. For a dog who has issues, to try and minimize or eliminate the fear of certain triggers is extremely important. (e.g., the sound of another dog's tags rattling). It makes sense but I would not have thought to do that on my own!
Sue: I have a perfect example of what works beautifully with a dog. I took Bailey for a walk in the park yesterday, I reigned him in by my side as we approached two other dogs. They were not jumping, they were not aggressive, they were just looking at Bailey as we passed by.
The woman then jerked her dog and actually pulled her up on two legs and was harshly yelling something at her so she would not look at Bailey. This broke my heart. I almost stopped to tell her about your classes but felt it would not be received well. Lorraine teaches with kindness.
In this situation I applied a training technique I learned. I had tasty treats in my pocket, and as we approached the other dog, I distracted my dog by doing the "dance". I put the treat down to his mouth and said sweet things and we literally turned in a circle away from the other dog or distraction.
I wish everyone would take Lorraine's classes because of what I saw in the park yesterday. You do not teach pets with cruelty, they just learn fear.
Cheri: The Understanding Dogs class was a great opportunity for me to work with my dog, Heidi. She had a bit of a rough beginning as a puppy, and so have been working hard with her since to gain a better understanding of her needs, but had a couple areas to continue to work on and thought this class might help and it did. As usual with one of Lorraine's classes, the training seemed to give me more training than to the dog, which is a good thing.
The main issue I had with Heidi was that Heidi wouldn't come back to me off leash or when outside in the backyard when called. After hearing others in the class with similar issues and after talking about how perhaps the dogs aren't understanding what we're asking of them, several training options were presented to try, including trying a different word other than her name or 'come' which I've probably worn out by now. 'Treat' was suggested with a different dog so I thought I would give that one a try. Sure enough, it worked. She came to me like a bullet when I called her in from the back yard, and is consistently doing it ever since. The strange thing is that I have never used that word as she was not a treat motivated type of dog so I was really surprised that word meant anything to her. Now it means 'come' and she sure does get a treat.
I had an unfortunate opportunity to try it off-leash about a week ago when she got out of the back yard through an open gate I accidentally left open and she ran off. I was just sick and she was no where in site. I ran into the house to get the car keys to go look for her and when I ran out again, there she was running right back to me! It was the very first time she didn't run away. I was just thrilled and am sure it's a result of Lorraine's wonderful advice and the training and practice Heidi and I continue to partake in. Thanks Lorraine!
Maureen: I'm a great fan of Cesar Millan. I watch his TV show, read his books and own his DVD series on training your dog. Unfortunately, I have not been able to become him and I always felt inadequate. Since taking Lorraine's latest class, I feel much better about myself. My dog, Nelson, is better behaved and I feel good about his progress. I plan to take more classes.
I especially liked the class where Nelson was featured. It was very helpful for Lorraine and the others to watch me interact with Nelson and get pointers on how to do better. Nelson has a problem walking on a leash. He recently started barking at other dogs on leashes. The last public walk we made, I carried treats and whenever a dog approached, I made Nelson sit and fed him treats. He didn't bark once at the other dogs. I felt it was quite an accomplishment.
Classes are offered in Arvada, Denver, Englewood, Littleton and more. For additional dates and locations, or to invite us to your location, please visit www.mishamayfoundation.org, email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com or call 303-239-0382.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
CATS ~ CATS ~ CATS ~ CATS ~ CATS ~ CATS ~ CATS
need adopted and fostered
Every now and again The Misha May Foundation takes in cats under special circumstances. You will be touched in particular by Amy, as you read below. Let us know if you are interested in adopting, or would like to give fostering a try.
Email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com or call 303-239-0382.
Pearl is actually a very soft gray, although she appears black in this photo. She is a 3.5 yr old spayed Domestic Shorthair. She is up to date on all vaccines and is FIV negative. She is calm and sweet, rode in a carrier in the car well and is curiously exploring her new surroundings. She likes being petted and immediately laid down to receive more! She would probably do well with another friendly cat. She is petite. We don't have any other history.
Clifford is a neutered 4 yr old Orange Tabby who is a very fit 17 pound cuddleboy. He is confident and very companionable. You can tell he is used to love - his owner fell on hard financial times and had to give him up. He is up to date on vaccines and is FIV negative. He rode well in the car and seemed fine with having new surroundings to check out. When I walk into the room, he comes to greet me. A fine boy who seems quite mellow and friendly.
Amy is a spayed 3 yr old blue & cream Calico who is up to date on vaccines. You can get a sense of how striking she is from this photo. She is very sweet and calm and very companionable. She jumps into your lap but also likes to explore.
She was declawed already (Misha May does not support declawing). The bad news is that she is FIV positive which means she is considered unadoptable by most shelters, and had to get out to a rescue who would work hard at finding her placement.
As I understand it, FIV is passed through bites between cats. The most common placements are as only cats or with others who have FIV. Although, there are some cat owners who confidently mix positive and negative cats, and report no problems.
The right person will come along. Of that I am certain!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Welcome the Winter Power Animals
by Lorraine May
Winter is a time for resting, dreaming and awakening to inspiration. When we are prepared, we can luxuriate in this fertile darkness accompanied by our best ideas, our purest insights and our deepest spiritual understandings. As we draw near to our winter reverie, we can harvest what has value during autumn, while allowing that which is useless and outdated to wither and die, and pass away from us.
Winter is a time for resting, dreaming and awakening to inspiration. When we are prepared, we can luxuriate in this fertile darkness accompanied by our best ideas, our purest insights and our deepest spiritual understandings. As we draw near to our winter reverie, we can harvest what has value during autumn, while allowing that which is useless and outdated to wither and die, and pass away from us.
Echo aka Hank - my favorite power animal no matter what the weather!
Are you anticipating winter with its hush of snow, its dark serenity, and its frosty cleanse? Are you eagerly awaiting the opportunity to blast your way through deep snow banks like Misha, my black Labrador Retriever mix, used to do?
Or, are you dreading the inevitable decline of your immune system, the uncomfortable depression of your mood, and the impassable conditions of our highways? Do you, like Oscar, the Miniature Poodle, try to convince everyone that going outside is senseless, and that instead, you will wait for them, nestled in your robe by the fire?
Whether you are anticipating or dreading winter, the wisdom of the Winter Power Animals is available to guide and direct you. Preparation is key. Acceptance is crucial. Self-care is critical. Gifts abound. As winter approaches, the animals prioritize this sometimes-difficult transition. Following their lead, we humans can take cues, and copy strategies, from the animals near and dear to us.
Begin by observing the animals in your household for their cold weather adaptations. Has their appearance, appetite, or energy level changed? Have you found them sleeping in a patch of sunlight?
Next, notice any differences in the appearance and habits of our blessed wild animals. Perhaps you don’t catch sight of them as often, or maybe not at all. Some may even have become more daring in order to gather what they will need for the cold, barren months ahead.
As fall ends, Moose comes into power, having survived hunting season and completed the mating rituals. Moose is a solitary animal and can be called upon to help us tolerate the isolation that winter weather can impose. Moose, who is almost totally fearless, can also share his ability to navigate great depths of snow.
As winter approaches, look to Mountain Goat to learn how to receive and offer support for what lies ahead. Don’t rush into the season, but prepare with certainty. If you need to regain balance, employ flexibility or expand your perspective for the winter months, mountain goat energy can aid you here as well.
Raven and Goose are spiritually linked to the sacred time around Winter Solstice. Solstice is the shortest, darkest day of the year, during which the sun shines the least. Raven is particularly important regarding this darkness, as her magic helps us learn to bring more and more light into our lives. Raven helps us to maintain a sense of playfulness, and to develop resourcefulness. Raven is not easily intimidated and awakens our courage. Through Raven, we have a path to understanding all other animals more completely.
Goose improves our ability to communicate. Perhaps this winter you will begin to write, or make more time to read. Goose encourages a healthy diet including fresh vegetables, and makes a vegetarian diet more attainable. Just thinking of Mother Goose can enable us to transform any remaining negative childhood memories into bright adult opportunities.
During the winter, call upon Swan and Groundhog for their abilities as teachers. The large and graceful swan, who prefers colder climates, helps awaken you to your inner beauty, which you will be able to share with the world in the spring. Parents are guided to enrich their children’s winter journey with the mysteries of song and poetry.
Groundhog, the only true hibernator in our group of Winter Power Animals, falls into a deep unconscious sleep for approximately 4-6 months in his underground burrow. This state is conducive to lucid dreaming, facilitates healing and initiates out of body experiences. Groundhog enlivens interest in new areas of study for our rebirth in the spring.
As winter ends, Lynx energy is profoundly significant. At this time, Lynx kittens are mature enough to separate from the family and create independent lives. Mother Lynx taught hunting skills to the kittens in autumn, and kept watch as they achieved competency in winter. At winter’s end she sends them off with skills that will ensure their survival. Lynx energy can aid us as well, in a spring launch of newfound independence. Those connected to Lynx energy have an uncanny ability to fathom deception, to intuit the deepest truths, and to keep silent when appropriate.
With winter rapidly approaching us now, it is time to meditate upon, and welcome in, the Winter Power Animals. Establishing a reliable connection will trigger a daily reminder to thrive, not just survive.
Rufus, another example of my favorite animal!
Even now, there is still time to prepare. There is still time to release physical toxins and begin a healthier way of eating. There is still time to let go of crippling emotional patterns. There is still time to say farewell to thoughts that will poison our dreams. Let’s plan to awaken in spring to plant our seed ideas, having tenderly nourished them and ourselves, during the winter respite.
Many Blessings. Blessed Dreams.
Friday, February 26, 2010
An Evening of Beginning Animal Communication (everyone can do it!)
to benefit
A 501(c)(3) non profit dog rescue – We know you love the animals like we do…
We don’t give up on our dogs!
with nationally known author
Joan Ranquet
When: Thursday, March 11, 2010 from 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Where: Washington Park United Methodist Church
Address: 1955 East Arizona Avenue, Denver, CO
Cost: $15 in advance – your name will be on a list at the door; $20 at the door
Tickets: http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/ Make A Donation button or call 303-239-0382
or checks can be mailed to Misha May, PO Box 151166, Lakewood, CO 80215-1166
Presentation, Prizes, Book Sale & Signing, Animal Items, Local Business Owners
Joan will illustrate how to use telepathy to speak with and listen to your pets. She has acted as a translator for healing human/animal relations, helping with behavior problems,
Where: Washington Park United Methodist Church
Address: 1955 East Arizona Avenue, Denver, CO
Cost: $15 in advance – your name will be on a list at the door; $20 at the door
Tickets: http://www.mishamayfoundation.org/ Make A Donation button or call 303-239-0382
or checks can be mailed to Misha May, PO Box 151166, Lakewood, CO 80215-1166
Presentation, Prizes, Book Sale & Signing, Animal Items, Local Business Owners
Joan will illustrate how to use telepathy to speak with and listen to your pets. She has acted as a translator for healing human/animal relations, helping with behavior problems,
isolating the discomforts of illness and easing crossing over.
She has been featured on Good Morning America on ABC, Animal Planet, The Los An
She has been featured on Good Morning America on ABC, Animal Planet, The Los An
geles Times, The Sun Sentinel, and The Palm Beach Post.
Joan was the celebrity animal communicator in a short documentary on the AMC channel.
She is also the founder of Communication With All Life University.
http://www.joanranquet.com/
Joan was the celebrity animal communicator in a short documentary on the AMC channel.
She is also the founder of Communication With All Life University.
http://www.joanranquet.com/
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Aggressive Dogs Are Made, Not Born
By Lorraine May, MA
First of all, most dogs are reactive, not aggressive. Most dogs are frightened, and therefore, utilize warning behavior to try and make the threat go away. Aggression, or intent to harm, may follow for a dog with limited options. Individual dogs have varying degrees of tolerance. There are many things you can do to increase your dog’s capacity for living a life without threats, as well as perceived threats.
Whether you agree with the title or not, it does present the issue in a way that focuses on the possibilities of prevention and rehabilitation, rather than inflated statistics and media hysteria. In my years of volunteering at shelters, training and boarding for the public, and rescuing and rehabilitating dogs, I have never once met a dog that I could, without a doubt, say was born aggressive and dangerous. I believe they exist, and I also believe they were bred that way, on purpose, for a destiny other than becoming a pet. I have also met less than a handful of dogs that I believed were not able to be rehabilitated.
However, the rehabilitation process is often time consuming, requires advanced skills, and is best executed as a labor of love. Preventing the development of aggressive behavior patterns in a dog is far wiser than trying to modify them later. Tragically, most could have easily been avoided in the first place.
Having said that, only get a puppy if you are truly committed to learning how to raise it right. Many dogs are given away when they reach a size that outweighs the amount of training the owner has invested.
Since most dogs resort to aggressive behavior like barking, lunging, growling and biting when they are afraid, it makes sense to minimize threats in their world. To build trust and minimize your dog’s need to be aggressive, try engaging, with your dog of any age, according to the following guidelines.
Attune. Walk a yard in her paws. Find out who your individual dog is. Then celebrate her individuality. Treat her just as you hope your friends and family will treat you.
Be a Detective. What is the motivation here? Assume your dog was simply trying to get what he needed. How can you help him understand the rules and be successful?
Breed Specific Safety. Do not be lulled into thinking that one particular breed of dog is always safe, while another is dangerous. Each dog should be evaluated on an individual basis. If you fear a certain breed, stay away from it, but don’t become an accomplice in cruelty and injustice.
Consistency and Boundaries. It’s only fair to stick to the rules you created. Jumping up engagingly or cutely begging at the table are either permitted or not. Inconsistency is confusing and cruel, and defeats your own training efforts.
Containment for Safety. Be sure that your dog is safely contained within a real fence. Tying or chaining her, leaves her vulnerable to teasing or abuse, a target for wild animal attacks, and a likely candidate for increased aggressive behavior.
Electric fences (and all of the fancy techno devices based on punishment) create negative associations for the dog, with whatever was happening when she was shocked. Formerly friendly dogs have developed aggression toward humans, other dogs, or whatever is associated with the shock or punishment.
Enjoy. Choose a dog who will bring enjoyment to you and will fit nicely into your life style. Having a dog is a responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be a burden. Choose and train wisely.
Positive Associations. Help your dog view the world as a friendly place. If your dog is worried, let him take a cue to relax from you. Over time you are more likely to create a positive association and see decreased fear and anxiety.
If your dog has been reprimanded when other dogs approach, for example, he will be worried, and perhaps react more vehemently, each time other dogs approach.
Protect. Remove your dog from situations she cannot handle. Just as you would not allow someone to torment your child, don’t let anyone, be it family member or professional, torment your dog.
I have removed dogs from vet exams where the vet’s rough handling or minimizing of the dog’s discomfort was setting the dog up for a life of fear about going to the vet. I have stopped a trainer where I could see the technique was raising the anxiety level of the dog. I have changed my groomer when I saw that the finished product was more important than the dog’s well being.
Provide Guidance. Assume that your child (and some other people) and your dog will have interactions which one or both of them cannot handle. Be right there to help.
Punishment. Let me begin by saying I am against it except as a very last resort. There are a myriad of choices before resorting to punishment, and in most cases, it simply is not indicated. You will hear certain professionals say that this type or that type isn’t harmful. They are simply not paying attention. Or they haven’t a well developed repertoire of techniques.
I prefer to invest the time, talent and energy to modify a behavior in a way that makes sense to a dog and doesn’t cause them to fear or mistrust me. I am not in favor of anything that delivers an aversive, when a positive association could have been created. Even something as seemingly harmless as a water bottle or a citronella collar can be devastating to a sensitive dog.
However, if used, punishment is so powerful, it should eliminate the behavior immediately. If you have to keep doing it, then it didn’t work and you are simply torturing your dog. Dogs who spend their lives being leash corrected, sprayed with citronella, or shocked by collars or fences are not being taught or trained. They are being punished.
Read. Dogs Bite: but balloons and slippers are more dangerous - Janis Bradley. “Your chances of being killed by a dog are roughly one in 18 million…The supposed numbers of dog bites splashed across the media are absurdly inflated by dubious research and by counting bites that don’t actually hurt anyone.” The benefits of living with dogs far outweighs the negatives. Become educated. Become a better dog owner.
Reasonable Expectations. Think about how long it takes you to learn something. Be realistic regarding the time it will take your dog. Some learning takes a lifetime.
Reward or Ignore. Reward the things your dog does that are appropriate. Ignore the bad behavior if possible. My dog jumps on me, I completely ignore him; as soon as he sits, I praise and pet. If he does it again, I leave the room. Attention getting behavior? Not anymore.
Set up for Success. Have a fairly accurate idea of what your dog is capable of. When you help him feel confident and certain about his life, he can relax and listen to what you want and need from him.
Socialization. This is happening only when your dog is enjoying himself and feels safe. Sending a nervous dog to doggy day care is traumatizing, not socialization.
Teach. “Hello. I’m a dog from the canine culture. We don’t have leashes or collars or heeling, and we don’t necessarily share. Anything on the floor is in our world“. Assume that your dog is acting out of ignorance, just as you would in a foreign country where you don’t know the language and customs.
True Leadership. True leaders wish to maintain stability, establish fair rules, and lower the anxiety and stress of their family group. Leaders who resort to force and intimidation are typically insecure about their position and power.
Volunteer. You will learn so much by volunteering for a reputable rescue group.
Win - Win Tactics. Do not confront when there is another choice - and there almost always is. When there is confrontation, there is a winner and a loser. Neither you nor your dog wants to be the loser. You might get hurt; he might lose his home or worse.
First of all, most dogs are reactive, not aggressive. Most dogs are frightened, and therefore, utilize warning behavior to try and make the threat go away. Aggression, or intent to harm, may follow for a dog with limited options. Individual dogs have varying degrees of tolerance. There are many things you can do to increase your dog’s capacity for living a life without threats, as well as perceived threats.
Whether you agree with the title or not, it does present the issue in a way that focuses on the possibilities of prevention and rehabilitation, rather than inflated statistics and media hysteria. In my years of volunteering at shelters, training and boarding for the public, and rescuing and rehabilitating dogs, I have never once met a dog that I could, without a doubt, say was born aggressive and dangerous. I believe they exist, and I also believe they were bred that way, on purpose, for a destiny other than becoming a pet. I have also met less than a handful of dogs that I believed were not able to be rehabilitated.
However, the rehabilitation process is often time consuming, requires advanced skills, and is best executed as a labor of love. Preventing the development of aggressive behavior patterns in a dog is far wiser than trying to modify them later. Tragically, most could have easily been avoided in the first place.
Having said that, only get a puppy if you are truly committed to learning how to raise it right. Many dogs are given away when they reach a size that outweighs the amount of training the owner has invested.
Since most dogs resort to aggressive behavior like barking, lunging, growling and biting when they are afraid, it makes sense to minimize threats in their world. To build trust and minimize your dog’s need to be aggressive, try engaging, with your dog of any age, according to the following guidelines.
Attune. Walk a yard in her paws. Find out who your individual dog is. Then celebrate her individuality. Treat her just as you hope your friends and family will treat you.
Be a Detective. What is the motivation here? Assume your dog was simply trying to get what he needed. How can you help him understand the rules and be successful?
Breed Specific Safety. Do not be lulled into thinking that one particular breed of dog is always safe, while another is dangerous. Each dog should be evaluated on an individual basis. If you fear a certain breed, stay away from it, but don’t become an accomplice in cruelty and injustice.
Consistency and Boundaries. It’s only fair to stick to the rules you created. Jumping up engagingly or cutely begging at the table are either permitted or not. Inconsistency is confusing and cruel, and defeats your own training efforts.
Containment for Safety. Be sure that your dog is safely contained within a real fence. Tying or chaining her, leaves her vulnerable to teasing or abuse, a target for wild animal attacks, and a likely candidate for increased aggressive behavior.
Electric fences (and all of the fancy techno devices based on punishment) create negative associations for the dog, with whatever was happening when she was shocked. Formerly friendly dogs have developed aggression toward humans, other dogs, or whatever is associated with the shock or punishment.
Enjoy. Choose a dog who will bring enjoyment to you and will fit nicely into your life style. Having a dog is a responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be a burden. Choose and train wisely.
Positive Associations. Help your dog view the world as a friendly place. If your dog is worried, let him take a cue to relax from you. Over time you are more likely to create a positive association and see decreased fear and anxiety.
If your dog has been reprimanded when other dogs approach, for example, he will be worried, and perhaps react more vehemently, each time other dogs approach.
Protect. Remove your dog from situations she cannot handle. Just as you would not allow someone to torment your child, don’t let anyone, be it family member or professional, torment your dog.
I have removed dogs from vet exams where the vet’s rough handling or minimizing of the dog’s discomfort was setting the dog up for a life of fear about going to the vet. I have stopped a trainer where I could see the technique was raising the anxiety level of the dog. I have changed my groomer when I saw that the finished product was more important than the dog’s well being.
Provide Guidance. Assume that your child (and some other people) and your dog will have interactions which one or both of them cannot handle. Be right there to help.
Punishment. Let me begin by saying I am against it except as a very last resort. There are a myriad of choices before resorting to punishment, and in most cases, it simply is not indicated. You will hear certain professionals say that this type or that type isn’t harmful. They are simply not paying attention. Or they haven’t a well developed repertoire of techniques.
I prefer to invest the time, talent and energy to modify a behavior in a way that makes sense to a dog and doesn’t cause them to fear or mistrust me. I am not in favor of anything that delivers an aversive, when a positive association could have been created. Even something as seemingly harmless as a water bottle or a citronella collar can be devastating to a sensitive dog.
However, if used, punishment is so powerful, it should eliminate the behavior immediately. If you have to keep doing it, then it didn’t work and you are simply torturing your dog. Dogs who spend their lives being leash corrected, sprayed with citronella, or shocked by collars or fences are not being taught or trained. They are being punished.
Read. Dogs Bite: but balloons and slippers are more dangerous - Janis Bradley. “Your chances of being killed by a dog are roughly one in 18 million…The supposed numbers of dog bites splashed across the media are absurdly inflated by dubious research and by counting bites that don’t actually hurt anyone.” The benefits of living with dogs far outweighs the negatives. Become educated. Become a better dog owner.
Reasonable Expectations. Think about how long it takes you to learn something. Be realistic regarding the time it will take your dog. Some learning takes a lifetime.
Reward or Ignore. Reward the things your dog does that are appropriate. Ignore the bad behavior if possible. My dog jumps on me, I completely ignore him; as soon as he sits, I praise and pet. If he does it again, I leave the room. Attention getting behavior? Not anymore.
Set up for Success. Have a fairly accurate idea of what your dog is capable of. When you help him feel confident and certain about his life, he can relax and listen to what you want and need from him.
Socialization. This is happening only when your dog is enjoying himself and feels safe. Sending a nervous dog to doggy day care is traumatizing, not socialization.
Teach. “Hello. I’m a dog from the canine culture. We don’t have leashes or collars or heeling, and we don’t necessarily share. Anything on the floor is in our world“. Assume that your dog is acting out of ignorance, just as you would in a foreign country where you don’t know the language and customs.
True Leadership. True leaders wish to maintain stability, establish fair rules, and lower the anxiety and stress of their family group. Leaders who resort to force and intimidation are typically insecure about their position and power.
Volunteer. You will learn so much by volunteering for a reputable rescue group.
Win - Win Tactics. Do not confront when there is another choice - and there almost always is. When there is confrontation, there is a winner and a loser. Neither you nor your dog wants to be the loser. You might get hurt; he might lose his home or worse.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Training Methods Discussion by Lorraine May, M.A.
Join the discussion on facebook at The Misha May Foundation's discussion board.
When I consider a training method or technique, the most important aspect is its impact on my relationship with my own dogs, or The Misha May Foundation rescue and client dogs.
One way to stop the need for rescue is for humans to try and understand canine culture, and offer patience and compassion, just as they themselves would expect when learning something new or facing something unfamiliar.
To that end, Misha May has developed a 6 week class called Understanding Dogs.
When considering a technique, I ask myself some of the following questions:
1) Will this lower the anxiety level of the dog helping her to learn more easily and feel safe in the world?
2) Will this instill trust and confidence in my dog for me, as a knowledgable leader with fair, consistent and realistic expectations?
3) Is there sufficient motivation for my dog to learn this or do this - just as humans expect to be paid $$$ at work?
4) Am I teaching my dog not only precisely what I want her to learn about a specific behavior, but also what I want her to believe about the world, which, for me, is that it is a fun, exciting, and safe place where she can relax and enjoy life with me.
5) Is this based on canine behavior science tailored to fit the individual dog, rather than a cookie cutter approach, an erroneous extrapolation from wolf culture, a release for the trainer's own frustration, an attempt to oversimplify the issue to reach a quick solution regardless of long term consequences, or an exultation of the trainer with the dog being just a prop?
To submit training or behavior questions or to receive our email newsletter Misha May Mutterings with answers and tips, email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com
Let's stop talking about Cesar, and start talking about dogs and the questions we need to ask ourselves!
http://blogs.dogtime.com/dolittler-blog/2009/03/why-veterinary-behaviorists-cant-stand-cesar-millan
When I consider a training method or technique, the most important aspect is its impact on my relationship with my own dogs, or The Misha May Foundation rescue and client dogs.
One way to stop the need for rescue is for humans to try and understand canine culture, and offer patience and compassion, just as they themselves would expect when learning something new or facing something unfamiliar.
To that end, Misha May has developed a 6 week class called Understanding Dogs.
When considering a technique, I ask myself some of the following questions:
1) Will this lower the anxiety level of the dog helping her to learn more easily and feel safe in the world?
2) Will this instill trust and confidence in my dog for me, as a knowledgable leader with fair, consistent and realistic expectations?
3) Is there sufficient motivation for my dog to learn this or do this - just as humans expect to be paid $$$ at work?
4) Am I teaching my dog not only precisely what I want her to learn about a specific behavior, but also what I want her to believe about the world, which, for me, is that it is a fun, exciting, and safe place where she can relax and enjoy life with me.
5) Is this based on canine behavior science tailored to fit the individual dog, rather than a cookie cutter approach, an erroneous extrapolation from wolf culture, a release for the trainer's own frustration, an attempt to oversimplify the issue to reach a quick solution regardless of long term consequences, or an exultation of the trainer with the dog being just a prop?
To submit training or behavior questions or to receive our email newsletter Misha May Mutterings with answers and tips, email mishamayfoundation@gmail.com
Let's stop talking about Cesar, and start talking about dogs and the questions we need to ask ourselves!
http://blogs.dogtime.com/dolittler-blog/2009/03/why-veterinary-behaviorists-cant-stand-cesar-millan
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