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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday June 27, 2008 - 23 Trainer helping dogs find a happy home Continued from page 16 owners (high-energy dogs fit in with active people, older dogs often need a quieter environment). She briefs the owners on their new dog's temperament and background, and teaches them how to continue building on the foundation she has created. This well-planned process increases the likelihood that the match will be permanent. Hechtenberg also follows up with the new owners to make sure there are no problems -- and makes house calls if necessary. In addition to working with dogs already in the shelter, she acts as a resource to the dog-owning public, who can consult her on animal behaviour. "It's kind of preventive medicine. If I can work with them and give them advice or direct them appropriately over the phone regarding behavioural concerns with their pet, then maybe the situation won't get bad enough that the owner feels the only thing to do is give up the dog." Before Hechtenberg's arrival, about 10 per cent of the dog adoptions didn't take and the animals were returned to the shelter. Currently only about three per cent of adoptions are unsuccessful. Before Hechtenberg started working with the animals, 50 to 60 per cent of the dogs weren't showing well to prospective owners because of their behaviour problems. That's down to about 20 per cent, and counting. "Now that the dogs looking for a new home are more comfortable in the kennel, they're showing well. People are picking them out, falling in love with them and taking them home -- and the dogs are staying with their new families. It's a real happy ending." Patrick's Story Part hound, part goof, Patrick came to the shelter as a stray puppy. A big dog, his good looks weren't enough to outweigh his rough play. In a four- month period he was considered and rejected by 10 potential owners. At the root of the problem was his habit of jumping up on people and "mouthing" them -- sometimes hard enough to cause bruises. His high energy level made him too excited to make a good first impression. When Hechtenberg arrived on the scene, she removed him from the adoption room and set up a training program that included meeting lots of new people in order to calm him down naturally. Using treats, she painstakingly taught him to obey the command to settle and stay. Hechtenberg put together a team to work with him, including a staff member and six seasoned volunteers. They gradually introduced him to challenging situations, like behaving in stores and meeting other dogs on leash. Patrick began to improve. About four months into the intense training, a couple arrived at the shelter looking for an ener- getic dog that would go running with them and fit in with their very active lifestyle. "Patrick greeted this couple and their dog beautifully. He turned out to be the perfect pet for them because he has so much energy and such a high mental capacity. This is a great Cinderella story." Need a car that gets just under 50 for mpg $ 10,000 or less? BERTIN STABLES NOW BOOKING Summer Camps · Saturday at Farm 10am-3pm $40 (Children 5-12 yrs.) · Weekday Lessons 4/$107 or $35/Lesson (905) 827-4678 www.bertinstables.com SATURDAY @ 12 NOON, 2 N, ONLY ON 570 NEWS. TUNE IN TO 570 NEWS, SATURDAY, , JUNE 28TH AT 12 NOON FOR A SPECIAL SESSION ON LEG, FOOT AND ANKLE PAIN WITH DR. MOONA FROM ADVANCED PAIN RELIEF. SATURDAY @ 12 NOON, ONLY ON 570 NEWS. We have hundreds! He'll discuss recent innovations in health care that are designed to offer you lasting relief. Dr. Moona will touch on laser therapy, spinal decompression, shockwave therapy and more. If you suffer with daily pain, tune in and have your questions ready. Ask the experts with Advanced Pain Relief. s 1-877-40-SAVE-GAS OAKVILLE KIA.COM R001173022 124 Wilson St. Oakville 905-339-2500