The next best gift one can give your new puppy or dog household, is the gift of a formal training group or individual lesson or two. Most owners wait too long, often allowing problem behaviors to percolate, before the infamous “call” is made to a knowledgeable trainer. I start puppies in formal, working sessions at 9 weeks of age. The majority of my “early childhood education” clients are rewarded with quite impressive off-lead dog control by 5 months of age. They think they’ve died and gone to heaven. Those young minds are like sponges — they’re soaking up all that learning and experience — it just better be right.

The weekend before Thanksgiving, I exhibited my 14-month-old German Shepherd dog, Cartier Noir, for the first time in AKC Championship Conformation competition. This young neophyte won an impressive 4-point Major. Though we were over-the-top with this incredible accomplishment, equally satisfying were the affections of so many at ringside who were attending their first dog show. The entry was 2,600 dogs — hustle, bustle, crowded conditions, babies, strollers, wheelchairs, crutches … you get the picture.

Four different families told me they had never seen so many well-behaved dogs. Their young children fussed with Cartier — who has not been raised with child exposure. Our caveat was this — sound temperaments coupled with early and balanced training is the only way to go for all of the dog-owning public. Give your dog, and yourself, that gift. It lasts a lifetime.

Now, tuning in to current events at the shelter … how about considering one of these to help you deck those halls this season:

Peanut is a well-behaved 5-year-old female Boxer mix. She has been bounced around one too many times, and is ready for a forever home. Peanut came to us after her owners just “didn’t want her anymore” (oh, we just love that excuse ... sigh). She has charmed us with her adorable “happy wiggle” when she greets staff and adopters, and her eyes seem to sparkle with a genuine happiness that is contagious. Peanut is meant for a family, especially one that will love her unconditionally — she will certainly return the love!

Pepper, a 6-year-old male Pomeranian, is full of energy and craves attention! Pepper is very vocal, and will bark to get your attention. He would prefer a home that can offer him a lot of play time, and at the end of the night a nice comfortable bed to cuddle up on. Pepper was found as a stray, and has been at CGHS/SPCA ever since. He came in with some medical issues that have since been resolved, including a severe flea allergy which left his once-beautiful mane lackluster and missing in patches. Pepper gets along with other animals, though he would prefer a home without young children ... he’d like the spotlight all to himself!

Spot, a very handsome shorthaired tabby, really misses the warmth and comfort of his previous home. His owner unfortunately had to retire to a nursing home, and Spot has had a hard time adjusting to the shelter life. He’s 3 years old, very loving and affectionate, and he has a tendency to meow for affection. Spot’s adoption is even sponsored — come give this sweet and loving guy his forever home!

Named for his merry personality, Jingle is a lot of fun and full of love! Jingle has a wonderful temperament, good looks, and we were all shocked to see the amount of toes he has — some paws have multiple toes, even as much as a whole extra paw! Jingle is only a 1 year old, and was found as a stray, despite his docile and affectionate personality. Come fall in love with this little guy — we’ll promise he’ll sweep you off your feet!
 ***
Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by e-mail at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Here’s the scoop: each year more than 1,000 pets call the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA home, for what we hope is a short time. This year as you are shopping for gifts, please consider the many homeless animals that won’t have a home for the holidays this year.

By donating a toy to CGHS/SPCA, you’re helping our furry friends feel at home and comfortable while they wait for the most special gift; their forever home.

Our Toy Wish List Includes:

>> Kongs

>> Tennis Balls

>> Plush or Squeaker Toys

>> Dog Chew Toys

>> Rope Toys

>> Cat/Dog Treats

>> Scratching Posts

>> Cat Feathers

We welcome new or gently used toys now through Jan. 2 for the homeless cats and dogs in our care. There will be a box especially for these holiday gifts in the main office. For more information, contact Jessica at 518-828-6044 ext. 100 or jessica@cghs.org. Thank you for your support!

We especially love flexible Nylabones and Kongs of all sizes for our need-to-chew canines. All of our animals love their “soft babies.” All of our animals love their treats and biscuits — just like you and I (the treats I mean!)

Thank you all for your generosity — please consider taking a new family member (with four legs) home for the holidays!

Feel free to call us with any questions at 518-828-6044, or visit our website at www.cghs.org. Stop down and see us at 125 Humane Society Road, off Route 66 (about a mile south of the intersection with Route 9H) in Hudson. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday. The food bank is open to any from the public in need of pet food or for those wishing to donate food anytime during business hours. All of our cats and kittens are “Furrever Free” with all expenses paid. Spay/neuter clinics for cats are $65 male or female, including a rabies vaccination and a 5-in-1 feline distemper combination vaccination. Nail clipping services are available every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the shelter, no appointment necessary, for a donation of $5 for cats and $10 for dogs.
 ***
Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by e-mail at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Dogs that are on tie-outs could have their houses placed under decks or trees for added protection. Many dogs will pull blankets and beds out of their houses. As long as the house is well-made and prepared, the cozy comforter can be forsaken! If you decide to use straw, make sure that it is changed frequently. Damp, wet bedding is a breeding ground for skin infections.

Do not forget that it is against the law for a dog to be outside without sufficient shelter if it is housed outside. Crates are not sufficient and are not law-compliant. Boxes, lean-tos, etc. are no-no’s as well. If you’re tending to feral or semi-feral felines, try to supply an indoor haven. Barns, sheds, garages, outbuildings, etc. with doors cracked open can prevent cats that are on their own from succumbing to freezing temperatures and frostbite.

I have a “rule” that most dogs should be brought in at 20 degrees Fahrenheit. My Husky and Malamute (and Shepherd) friends typically chuckle at this, because most of these breeds are outside snoozing at 0 degrees or below!

Please call our Cruelty Unit if you think a small animal is in jeopardy. Though requirements for equines differ greatly from smaller or large companion animals, most outside horses should have run-in sheds. Many do well without, as long as they have sufficient feed.

I remember racing up to my barn to bring SoFar and Dudley inside during a sleet storm. If you think they wanted in — they didn’t. Those rotund, well-fed bodies were keeping them warm, and they were enjoying the change in the scenery. If you see horses that look in jeopardy, please call us. Many owners are innocent to proper cold-weather management. Others may need to be prosecuted.

Here is the CGHS/SPCA Wish List for Hanukkah and Christmas:

>> Canned dog and cat food;

>> Biscuits and treats for kitties and puppies;

>> Paper towels;

>> Clorox and dish liquid;

>> Blankets and towels (no quilts);

>> Self-adhesive stamps (44 cent or forever);

>> Toys, toys, toys — Kongs, flexible Nylabones, Jolly “Kettle” Balls, Buster Cubes (small and large);

>> Pet-friendly ice melt (Safe Paw or comparable);

>> Loving, caring homes with a small spot for a new companion (or two)!

On a final note, we are currently well-stocked in eager kittens and cats as well as faithful dogs, just waiting to lie next to you during the upcoming holiday season. Without further ado, let me introduce a handful to you — but I’m sure you’ll want to come down yourself to pick one or more!

Sophie and Fiona: After the passing of their owner, Sophie and Fiona found themselves at our shelter, away from the comfort of their home and in an unfamiliar environment. When in their cage, they can be found snuggling one another, completely inseparable as they look to each other for security and comfort. These sisters are strikingly beautiful; their beautiful electric blue eyes complement the silvery hue of their soft fur, and it would be impossible to not fall in love with their remarkably stunning features. Sophie and Fiona are both 2 years old, and would make wonderful companions to any family.

Jacob: Jacob, a Redbone Coonhound, is sure to howl his way into your heart! Jacob is only 11 months old, with a goofy temperament and a hilariously silly attitude. He will need a home that can offer him a lot of exercise and room to run, as he’s still young and has a lot of energy to burn. Being a typical Coonhound, Jacob is sure to follow any scent on his nose, so he will not be an appropriate option if you are looking for a free-range dog. Jacob previously lived with dogs, cats and children, and would be a great addition to any family!

Dash: Left behind by his owners after being bounced from home to home, Dash is a quiet and mellow guy that is sure to steal your heart with his charming disposition and soulful eyes. Most of the staff have found themselves wondering why no one has fallen in love with him yet since he’s a delight to be around, extremely easy-going and very affectionate. Despite being a 1-year-old hound mix, we have not once heard him howl or bark. He is very relaxed, and he greatly prefers the comfort of a couch and a warm lap to a run around the neighborhood. You’ll find him to be a wonderfully calm and loving dog that is sure to appreciate the forever home he so greatly deserves.

Shy: Shy, a 5-year-old Shiba Inu, was cast away by previous owners and left to roam as a stray before being picked up and brought to CGHS/SPCA. Appropriately named, Shy is very timid of new people and situations, and will need a very low-key, mellow home to settle down in. Shy would prefer a home with adults only, as children can be too much for him. He is very handsome and once you gain his trust, he will sneakily snuggle you for affection and politely ask you to play fetch with him. Shy is very sweet, and though it may take some time and patience for him to welcome you into his heart, you’ll be glad you made the effort!

***
Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by e-mail at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

“First, I never assume that the possibility does not exist that either my dog will get injured or that we may get separated. No matter how ‘foolproof’ he may seem, there is always the risk that something beyond my control or imagination can happen, with adverse consequences. An old cowboy I once worked with was fond of quoting one of his favorite adages to me (oftentimes as I was lying in the dust on my fanny with a bucking bronco yards away): ‘Nothing will make a liar out of you sooner than a horse.’ I think he would extend the liberty of switching out ‘horse’ for ‘dog.’ Point taken.

After much deliberation, I came up with the following compilation of first-aid supplies that are now de rigueur on our outings. Although the list looks extensive, all of the items can be carried in mid-sized cosmetic case, which tucks into even a small-ish fanny pack.

>> Leash and non-slip collar: Keep this at the ready, not buried at the bottom of pack, in case you need to restrain your dog at a moment’s notice (even if you do normally have dog off-leash).

>> Whistle: to summon help; to let others in your party know where you are if you split up; to call your dog or help him locate you if you should get separated (especially if he is whistle-trained). I like for each person in party to have one for communication.

>> Gauze pads: for wounds

>> Gauze wrap: for wounds

>> Adhesive tape: to secure gauze or bandage

>> Vet wrap or self-stick bandage: for a more secure way of securing larger areas that need protection

>> Scissors: to cut tape, bandages; to cut away dog’s coat if it is long and blocks view of injury

>> Small needle-nosed pliers: to remove porcupine quills; to cut wire if dog gets tangled in it

>> Tweezers: to remove prickers, briars, thistles

>> Panty hose legs: to serve as muzzle; to help restrain dog

>> Antibiotic ointment: for small scrapes and wounds

>> Betadine or antiseptic wash: use as antiseptic wash

>> Small squeeze bottle of water (fresh, clean): to rinse out wound

>> Alcohol wipes: to clean pliers, scissors before using

>> Antiseptic hand cleaner: to clean your hands before working on a wound

>> Latex or rubber gloves: Who knows what icky things your dog might get into!

>> Benedryl: in case of allergic reaction or buffered aspirin: if dog is in pain due to injury. Talk with your vet about dosages and when/how/if to use appropriately.

>> SprayShield: if a threatening animal gets too close to you or your dog

>> Emergency blanket (those small, compact silver ones for keeping in car or for hikers): Not only will this keep your dog warm if it’s a cold day, after the sun goes down, or if he starts to go into shock, but it can also be used by you and another person as a “sling” to transport an injured dog. In extreme cases, the reflective surface could be used as a flash signal to summon help.

>> “Cheater” glasses: If you need glasses to read, you will need them to treat a wound or remove quills, splinters! Don’t be caught with all the proper emergency supplies — and not be able to use them because you can’t see!

>> Dog ID tag: Even though my dog has a microchip, I always keep his physical ID tags on when we are out so that if we get separated and someone picks up my dog, she can call me immediately, without going through the process of having a vet or shelter reading the chip. By using a two-sided tag, I can have my home contact info on one side and common “while visiting phone numbers” on the other. (Tip: forgo putting dog’s name on tag, and use the additional engraving line for a helpful number or address.)

>> Water: Although this isn’t an emergency supply, it is important to remember to provide water for your dog. Unless you are fully confident that there is a ready supply of fresh, clean water on the trail — and that your dog is comfortable drinking from streams or ponds — carry water for him. Bring either a collapsible water dish that will fit in your fanny pack and share your supply with him, or bring a “Gulpee,” a water bottle that has an attached drinking tray for the dog.

If traveling with dog, keep in car:

>> Copy of recent vet records: In case you have to make an emergency visit to a new, out-of-town vet, have list of recent shots, any allergies, and any health issues a vet should be aware of.

>> Copy of microchip info: In case you and your dog get separated, it is good to have this info for quick reference

>> Recent photo of dog: If you get separated, it might come in handy. Photo should be recent and show distinguishing marks/features (no, not a photo of Pooch dressed up as a pumpkin for Halloween!).

>> Seat belt/harness/crate for travelling: that’s probably another story!

I know the current trend in running, hiking and biking is to “Go Lite,” but sometimes it is worth carrying a little extra weight for the safety of our buddies. Carrying supplies shouldn’t be limited to only out-of-the-way or lengthy hikes — even when close to home, it is a good idea to carry a first-aid kit. A mile is an awfully long distance when trying to maneuver a wounded or sick dog to safety.

There are some lessons we don’t want to learn the hard way, and being out in the woods with an injured dog and no way to help him is near the top of that list. Believe me, an extra pound in your pack lightens the burden of responsibility for another creature that sits heavily on your shoulders.”
***
Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by e-mail at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Recently, I was in a large local pet store where a training session was being held. My mouth dropped as I watched a “trainer” hide a piece of snack from a puppy-in-“training” behind her back, with the puppy firmly focused on the tidbit in the clenched fist. Without redirection, the puppy continually lunged around the back of the “trainer” in an attempt to snatch the morsel, while my own ears hurt from the “trainer” repeating in increasing volume only one word: “No!” I cringed wondering how this negative reinforcement was likely to bring a dog with behavioral issues back to the training table in a few years … then asked Charlene if I could most humbly share my experience in her media. Thanks for the opportunity Char — keep up the good work! And to all of her readers, shop your puppy-trainer carefully!

I have asked a fellow columnist, Susie Davidson Powell, if I could share the insights she had into this field by reprinting one of her columns, and she generously agreed. I’ll share one more piece of vital information after the quote. If you read this before, please read it again — it can’t hurt! (From Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013, “Look on the Bright Side — with a Little Positive Reinforcement”)

“Since Felix arrived in our house, it’s been chaotic. You’ve seen Cesar Milan and Victoria Stilwell descend upon suburban neighbourhoods to restore order to the pack with their dog-whispering ways. So when you pick up the telephone and call Charlene Marchand, it means exactly one thing: you need help. Dog help. For some it’s the beginning, an introduction to training for an ebullient puppy; for others it’s nearly the end of the rope for a dog with aggression or behavioural issues, families preparing to part with an unmanageable four-legged friend. Her voicemail sets the tone. With clear enunciation and a warm, firm tone, Charlene instructs you to leave your name with your number, twice. And you do, sitting up straight, tail wagging just a smidge.

This, I’ve discovered, is Charlene’s way with words.

We’ve been down the puppy road before and, having lost two aging Boxers within a year of each other, it was no surprise when family rumblings became regular pleading for a puppy. The trouble with puppies is that they woo you with voodoo. Big watery eyes peer up begging you to take them home. And that’s just in photos. Before I could effectively inoculate myself with memories of chewed suede stilettos, I caved. And Felix, a Boxer puppy, arrived.

Like babies, everyone looks at puppies as if butter wouldn’t melt in their mouths, and appear slightly appalled when you moan about their trying behaviour. But they don’t know about the behind scenes chaos: the chewed boots, shredded books, and small toys that are dismembered or hideously mangled beyond recognition. (I mistook an orange lump for hardened Silly Putty only to find it was a miniature horse stripped of its fuzzy hide, decapitated and chewed into something resembling a wad of gum.) Despite my efforts to enforce training rules with a crate, books and a low-budget crate-training video apparently made for people with low IQs, we had a new variable: Small Children.

Every minute after 6:30 a.m. was fraught with battles, nipping, screaming over stolen toys, chewing and indoor accidents. Gates went up around the house until we began to resemble a TSA security screening area. But the greatest problem was that Felix viewed Finn, our 3-year-old, as his peer, routinely barreling into him like a bowling ball into a skittle. I called the vet in despair.

The idea of trying a respected dog behavioralist, felt extreme. And very American. Like going to therapy. Shouldn’t we be able to handle this ourselves? But I put down the pet store store puppy-training schedule, and called Charlene.

Typically, when you initiate a call looking for a product or service, you’re in charge, fielding questions and determining your interest. But when you speak with Charlene, something happens. She asks about your primary issue, validates your concerns and explains her approach. “Is that something that interests you?” she wants to know. You get a date, directions, a little prep homework and hang up the phone feeling — what? — both relieved and somehow managed, as though she has just lead you through a hundred year maze with the promise of ice cream at the end.

Charlene has been dishing positive reinforcement expertise from her North Chatham Taizé Shepherd Kennel and training center since 1975. Having convinced my husband to join me for a 90-minute lesson and armed with my bag of 300 neatly diced cheese treats, (endearingly called ‘Paychecks’), Charlene set to work training us. I mean, our puppy. As the primary trainer, I found myself being encouraged to adopt a happy sing-song voice, asking Felix to “Track it!” or “Sit, good!” without ever using his name. Every jump and play bite was ignored and redirected to a desired behavior with a reward. And with Charlene’s assured style, I found myself willing to “pucker up my kisser” to get his attention, and sashay across the room to get him to follow. When she asked Felix to sit, I almost did.

What you get: The results were rapid. Ninety minutes and a few hundred pieces of cheese later and Felix was keying into key commands and following directions. Who knew a command has to be repeated 1,123 times just to introduce it as something new, and many more times before it’s ingrained as second nature. This stand alone session is a starting point from which the slog of daily home training emanates but Charlene offers a range of group, intermediate and Good Citizen training classes, along with a program in the jail, which may be useful should you ever find yourself inside.

As a booster, we signed up for the local pet store puppy class — an overwhelming sensory overload for humans and canines alike. Two Pit Bulls were frothing at the mouth intent on a Michael Vick-style interaction. One became so enraged it gave itself a nose bleed which, rather than gushing, just oozed out of its pores. The instructor yelled helplessly across the racket about the usage of training clickers. A silent Beagle sat calmly observing the ruckus. The stringy blonde Pit Bull owner repeatedly became entangled in her leash, grabbing at furniture like a life raft, yelling and jabbing her new clicker at her dog like a television remote. Charlene has since told me good trainers in the area estimate 40 to 50 percent of their business is fall out from disastrous pet-store training programs. I can see why.”

Fine words. As I was saying, a little bit of knowledge is a dangerous thing. Be ever-cautious in whatever training program you decide to enter your puppy into. You can certainly check out Charlene’s web site at www.taizeshepherdkennel.com.”

*** 
Charlene Marchand is the chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by email at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

A team of researchers led by Dr. Benjamin L. Hart at the University of California, Davis has completed the most detailed study performed to date that evaluates incidence of cancer diagnoses and joint problems in one breed — Golden Retrievers — by neuter status: early (before 12 months old), late (12 months or older), and intact. Consistent with previous studies on the topic, the results showed increased likelihood of hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and canine cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in neutered dogs.

The most profound observations were in hip dysplasia in male dogs when comparing early and late-neutering. The risk of development of hip dysplasia doubles, and disease occurs at a younger age in the early-neuter group compared to both the intact and late-neuter group. No occurrence of CCL disease was observed in intact male or intact female dogs, or in late-neutered females. In early-neutered dogs, the incidence of CCL was 5.1 percent in males and 7.7 percent in females, suggesting that neutering prior to sexual maturity significantly increases a dog’s risk of developing CCL disease. With respect to cancer, cases of lymphoma were 3-fold greater in the early-neutered males. Interestingly, incidence of mast cell tumors (male and female dogs) and hemangiosarcoma (female dogs only) were highest in the late-neuter group.

‘Dr. Hart’s landmark study is the first to provide evidence for when to spay or neuter dogs. For years the veterinary community has been aware that early-spay and neuter may impact orthopedic health in dogs. Through a very detailed analysis and inclusion of body condition score as a risk factor, Dr. Hart was able to show that timing of spay and neuter does indeed have health implications,’ said Dr. Shila Nordone, Chief Scientific Officer for the AKC Canine Health Foundation.

‘CCL disease is painful, debilitating, and costs dog owners $1 billion annually to treat. The AKC Canine Health Foundation is committed to funding research, like Dr. Hart’s study, that can lead to evidence-based health recommendations. Armed with prudent guidelines for when to spay and neuter dogs we will have a significant impact on the quality of life for dogs,’ continued Dr. Nordone.

Importantly, the task at hand is now to determine if the observations in this study are indeed true across all breeds and mixed breeds of dogs. Dr. Hart is interested in continuing his work by studying Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, and Dachshunds. Additionally, gaps in knowledge continue to exist concerning the complex relationship between sex hormones and cancer.

Last summer the AKC Canine Health Foundation released a podcast interview with Dr. Hart on his early-spay and neuter research as part of a series dedicated to the health of the canine athlete. To listen to the podcast visit www.akcchf.org/canineathlete.”

Source: http://www.akcchf.org/news-events/news/health-implications-in-early.html “Health Implications in Early Spay and Neuter in Dogs,” 2/25/2013

Call us with any questions at 518-828-6044, or visit www.cghs.org. Stop down and see us at 125 Humane Society Road in Hudson. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday. The food bank is open during business hours. All of our cats and kittens are “Furrever Free” with all expenses paid. Spay/neuter clinics for cats are $65 male or female, including a rabies vaccination and a 5-in-1 feline distemper combination vaccination. Nail clipping available Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. at the shelter.

***
Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by e-mail at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Dr. Jerry Bilinski of Chathams Small Animal Hospital sent Dr. Simone Nadeau to assist our Kennel Manager Brenda Sweeney and our kennel staff with thorough hands-on assessments and treatments.

Adoption Supervisor Jhori Jurgenson and her adoption staff were also at maximum capacity, processing a few hundred adoption applications that came in as soon as the abandonment story broke. Local news media did an excellent job of covering the story in those critical early hours. The results were nothing short of miraculous! In two short days, our first group of dogs packed bags they didn’t have, for that ride to their forever homes. This was a testament to the well-oiled machine we have in place at our beloved shelter.

This is what we are called to do, and it is what we do best. Our incredibly supportive community rallied on behalf of the animals, not only with their desire to adopt, but also with a generous outpouring of food, supplies and monetary donations, all of which were so desperately needed to attend to the great number of animals involved. I know that many of you remembered us in your prayers at this time, and those requests to our heavenly Father are always heeded.

We now have another cruelty-abandonment on our hands, with the emaciated dog found tied to a fence near the Amtrak station in Hudson on Aug. 30. Thanks to the efficient and excellent investigation performed by the police department of the City of Hudson, Juan Cinton and Brittany Pinnell, both residents of Hudson, have been arrested and charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, a class E felony. Kudos to all involved!

Thank you, one and all, staff, cruelty investigators and volunteers of CGHS/SPCA, under the direction of CEO Ron Perez. Thank you, Dr. Bilinski, Dr. Nadeau and all at Chathams Small Animal Hospital, who come to our aid again and again at a moment’s notice. Thank you to those who see and report a suspected animal cruelty. It is our obligation to do so. It takes a community and we are so generously blessed in this department.

Before I put down my pen, I must respond to the abundance of “chatter” appearing post our seizure of the Ghent neglect/cruelty animals. This situation has nothing to do with supporting a discussion on limiting the number of animals owned or kept by any individual(s).

Believe me when I say, after decades of experience, that a situation of neglect comes one animal at a time. Many of our arrests involved one animal, in one household. Many of our most outstanding homes have, and meticulously support, many animals. I’ve said it before, and you’ll hear me say it again. Having large numbers of dogs or cats or other small companion animals has nothing to do with quality of care. Each situation should be evaluated on its own merits, or lack of. Period.

Please check our website. We still have a few small-breed dogs available from the abandonment. Better yet, call our shelter for details.

Feel free to call us with any questions at 518-828-6044, or visit our website at www.cghs.org. Stop down and see us at 125 Humane Society Road, off Route 66 (about a mile south of the intersection with Route 9H) in Hudson. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday. The Food Bank is open to any from the public in need of pet food or for those wishing to donate food anytime during business hours. All of our cats and kittens are “Furrever Free” with all expenses paid. Spay/neuter clinics for cats are $65 male or female, including a rabies vaccination and a 5-in-1 feline distemper combination vaccination. Nail clipping services are available every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the shelter, no appointment necessary, for a donation of $5 for cats and $10 for dogs.
***
Charlene Marchand is the chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by email at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Though there is no doubt that an appropriate, knowledgeable positive reinforcement training and counter-conditioning approach can produce some changes and effective results, the fact remains that structured limits and assistance with self-control are necessary with many of these individuals. Many owners quickly become frustrated and anxious themselves when desired results are not promptly forthcoming. The “hole that was dug” may be too deep for the dog or cat to get out of on their own, even with the best of training protocols.

To assist us with some of these more difficult cases, veterinarians have at their disposal a number of excellent and often effective medications to piggyback a desensitization protocol. I say “usually” because not all individuals respond positively to therapeutic intervention. Dosages of medications often have to be adjusted, and training MUST take place concurrently – meds in and of themselves DO NOT resolve severe behavior problems. Knowledgeable handling is imperative at all times. The goal is to hopefully wean the dog or cat from medications at a future date. Having an open dialogue with our veterinarians is an absolute necessity when the discussion centers around an unresolved behavior problem and the role that pharmacology may play in rehabilitation.

Pioneers in the field of therapeutic intervention, like Dr. Nicholas Dodman of the Tufts Veterinary School of Behavior, have significantly impacted for the better the lives of many companion animals. We must keep in mind that identifying a “cause” for neuroses and psychoses is not necessary to attempt a dual approach to rehabilitation. As a dog breeder, I can identify that most of the problematic individuals presented to me are born with unstable temperaments. Do these genetic instabilities exist in purebred breeding programs? In selective breeding, these issues of poor temperament are selected against, and typically have low percentages of surfacing. Certainly inappropriate handling and management can and does exacerbate the instability. Random matings of individuals raises the chance for more erratic and variable temperaments, anxieties, and reactive behaviors.

To assist with more difficult and chronic problems affecting a dog or cat’s quality of life, a number of choices exist, some of which can include:

>> Clomipramine (Clomicalm) can be used for some compulsive behaviors, i.e. tail chasing, snapping at imaginary lights (or butterflies, bugs, etc.), digging, inappropriate consumption of non-food materials (rocks, stones, cans, etc.), separation anxiety, sound sensitivity, thunderstorm phobia and more.

>> Fluoxetine (Prozac) has been reasonably effective with dog-on-dog aggression, anxiety, and fear-induced people aggression, general anxiety, depression, and a number of compulsive behaviors.

>> Buspirone (Buspar) has been increasingly effective with urine spraying in cats, fear/anxiety, and in some dogs exhibiting aggression with high prey/defense drive.

All medications take time for a therapeutic titer to build. All medications can also have side effects. Many owners cannot “pill” their pets successfully or consistently – this being a typical problem with many cats in need of medication. There’s a lot to consider before embarking on psychotropic intervention. Side effects, breakthroughs, a false sense of security on the part of owners with reactive dogs, are the land mines all the way. To be continued…

Feel free to call us with any questions at 518-828-6044, or visit the website at www.cghs.org. Stop down and see us at 125 Humane Society Road, off Route 66 (about a mile south of the intersection with Route 9H) in Hudson. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday.

The Food Bank is open to any from the public in need of pet food or for those wishing to donate food anytime during business hours. All of our cats and kittens are “Furrever Free” with all expenses paid. Spay/neuter clinics for cats are $65 male or female, including a rabies vaccination and a 5-in-1 feline distemper combination vaccination. Nail clipping services are available every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the shelter, no appointment necessary, for a donation of $5 for cats and $10 for dogs.

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Charlene Marchand is the chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by email at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Thank you to U.S. Congressman Chris Gibson, NYS Senator Kathy Marchione, NYS Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin, Columbia County Sheriff David Harrison, Columbia County Jail Captain John Davi, Columbia County Judges Jonathan Nichols and Richard Koweek, Claverack Town Supervisor Robin Andrews, and Columbia County Clerk Holly Tanner. The site was beautifully and prayerfully blessed by Deacon Peter Trawinski of St. James Parish in Chatham. Have I said before that our cup runs over? It certainly does!                     Our Capital Campaign over the winter months has proven to bear much financial fruit. That being said, the fiscal burden associated with new construction, as well as the obligation of daily operating costs, demands that we continue to reach out to our animal loving community for continued support. For those individuals planning to participate in our project, we have many opportunities for new supporters to become a permanent part of the new shelter. We have two rooms still in need of sponsorship. Indoor and outdoor exercise pens can leave your legacy, and we have a number of pavers still available. These pavers are permanent bricks that will grace the entrance of the building. These bricks can feature your name, your pet’s name, or both. We have a number of sizes to choose from. If your heart is moving you in this donation direction, contact our CEO Ron Perez at 518-828-6044 ext. 108, or email ronperez@cghs.org. Thanks to all who hold CGHS/SPCA in their hearts.

Feel free to call us with any questions at 518-828-6044, or visit our website at www.cghs.org. Stop down and see us at 125 Humane Society Road, off Route 66 (about a mile south of the intersection with Route 9H) in Hudson. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday. The Food Bank is open to any from the public in need of pet food or for those wishing to donate food anytime during business hours. All of our cats and kittens are “Furrever Free” with all expenses paid. Spay/neuter clinics for cats are $65 male or female, including a rabies vaccination and a 5-in-1 feline distemper combination vaccination. Nail clipping services are available every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Shelter, no appointment necessary, for a donation of $5 for cats and $10 for dogs.

***

Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by email at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

· Always reward a correct response. Praise, i.e. the signal, the paycheck, the tug, the toy, follows every obedient response to a command. Remember my “Taking for Granted” article in this column. We should never take desirable behavior for granted. Let your dog know when you are pleased appropriately, consistently, and frequently.

· Match your tone of voice to the command. My classes are flush with reminders on our tone-training. I tell my students that I can train a dog faster with a tone differentiation than they can with monotone words (i.e. low voice for stationary exercises such as sit, down, stand, stay, wait, etc. and upbeat tones for let’s go, get it, and that’s right, etc.) I use an offset, sing-song tone for motivational commands like the recall (come) track-it, and leave-it. There’s no doubt in any dog’s mind that you are happy when you’re singing! Verbal corrections (and they do exist) are sharp and harsh (phooey, A-A-A-H). Warn your dog with a low voice if they’re ready to commit a faux pas. Dogs can read if your verbal praise is mundane, mediocre, etc. You can’t mistake enthusiasm, and neither can they. Does anyone want to work for a boss who’s hard to please and doesn’t seem to care about our efforts?

· Timing is everything. Absolutely this is my mantra. I’ve done two columns on this training absolute. Dogs need to know the instant they have done it right, or that they have erred or been misguided in their interpretation of our directions. Your timeline on this one is no more than two seconds. Remember, we don’t live in the instant. They do!

To be continued… but first, the shelter is alive with the patter of little feline paws! We have gorgeous adult residents, in addition to an animated group of kittens. We always have a number of lovely Staffordshire and American Staffordshire Terrier crosses for adoption. We also can refer families to homeowners insurance companies that do not discriminate based on breed. TURKISH has been with us for too long. He’s exuberant and happy, and needs the right person to come along to play with and call his own. HARLEY is an awesome dog who’s great with kids and could adjust to a household with any ages. He was a smash hit at the County Jail New Leash on Life Program, and all that preliminary training is just waiting for someone to take it home in a fully-loaded package deal. BRANDY, our big-boned female St. Bernard, was actually an unclaimed stray and is gentle as a mouse! She walks and loves like a gentle giant, and a giant she certainly is. A must-see if only to admire her (but hopefully more than that!).

Got a hankerin’ for BBQ and lookin’ for a kickin’ good time? Mosey on down to the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA for a Howlin’ Adoption Hoedown Saturday, June 22nd from 11:30 am to 4 pm. (We're located at 125 Humane Society Road, Hudson NY 12534). Join us for a fun filled afternoon featuring Bill Williams and the Spinnin’ Prize Wheel, Bake Sale, Chili Cook-Off & FREE Hot Dogs & Sweet Tea! Call (518) 828-6044 to find out how you can take your pet home the same day! (All animals are sent home up to date on vaccinations, spayed/neutered and microchipped.)

Feel free to call us with any questions at 518-828-6044, or visit our website at www.cghs.org. Stop down and see us at 125 Humane Society Road, off Route 66 (about a mile south of the intersection with Route 9H) in Hudson. Our hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesday and Sunday. The Food Bank is open to any from the public in need of pet food or for those wishing to donate food anytime during business hours. All of our cats and kittens are “Furrever Free” with all expenses paid. Spay/neuter clinics for cats are $65 male or female, including a rabies vaccination and a 5-in-1 feline distemper combination vaccination. Nail clipping services are available every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Shelter, no appointment necessary, for a donation of $5 for cats and $10 for dogs. Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted by email at cghsaaron@gmail.com.