FWD: Dog training essential

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Tuesday May 24, 2005

Dog training essential

 

 

I refer to “Focus on more pressing matters than dog problems” by George Goh of

Subang Jaya, (Letters to the Editor, May 13). I strongly disagree with the

writer’s comments that the proposal to make dog owners attend courses is an

over-reaction.

 

It’s easy for us who are not working in local town councils that have a

responsibility to ensure good relations and harmony in the local community and

neighbourhoods, to proffer our views without realising what they have to put up

with.

 

As a dog trainer – and dog lover – who has been in discussions with some of

these authorities, I’ve come to know that the problem with some animals going

astray and becoming a nuisance in the neighbourhood is far from being imagined.

 

All dog owners must accept this and not be in a state of denial. Dogs do cause

problems such as dropping poo in other people’s property, digging into rubbish

bags and intimidating passers-by with their presence when they are not on a

leash.

 

In all such cases, it is never the dog’s fault but rather the irresponsible

owners’. And it is these people who are a nightmare to responsible dog owners

and their canines. It is such owners that we have to declare “war” against.

 

Training sessions for dogs are an important aspect of dog ownership. Sending

dogs to basic obedience classes is just as important as ensuring that our

beloved pets have food and shelter.

 

Training sessions provide dogs an opportunity to use their energies in a

positive and creative way.

 

However, to ensure that no dog training businesses attempt to exploit the

current situation, the local town councils should set up their own dog obedience

school in order to issue out the yearly licences for dogs.

 

This special department involving dog trainers from various groups should also

include animal rights and care groups like the SPCA to ensure that no animal is

trained with cruelty.

 

Any animal trained in abusive or harsh ways could become counter-productive to

all the good that a special dog training centre is trying to achieve.

 

The department should also include special interest groups from veterinarians

to those involved in training dogs for the disabled, rescue work, canine sports,

police work, etc, in order to gather a wider perspective and experience in the

field of dog training.

 

Please remember that dog training classes are as much for the owners as they

are for the dogs. By attending classes, owners will learn how to relate to their

pets in a more effective way, and understand how to best care for them.

 

Every respectable dog trainer will tell you that all dogs love training

sessions and no owner should deny their pets this useful regiment that will keep

dog and owner happy.

 

The fees for dog training should be borne by the owner and kept at affordable

prices with special discounts and waivers for disadvantaged groups like the

disabled and the elderly.

 

Woofs for dog training

 

Petaling Jaya

 

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