Last updated Fri, Oct 18, 2024
Enhancements to our Awards and Schedule pages are done! Thanks for your patience...both are much easier to navigate now with the new links. I wish I would have added them years ago! My next project - a page with my pups including my Chelsea Golden Retrievers. Highlights of the wonderful seven generations of Goldens and their people I have known starting with my first "Chelsea" prefix litter in 1980!
Semi-retirement has arrived... The 2024 fall sessions will be my last through BCE. The submission deadline for winter and spring 2025 classes is in October, however the 2025 contract will not be available for review until December. As I have been told there will probably be changes made, I am not comfotable committing without knowing specifics. All good!
My *last* O&M Two, Two Plus! and Recreational Agility classes through BCE will start the last week of October at Hilton Ele. If prerequisites are met, join us!
Specials for Results - Pawformance Alumni teams that have completed my O&M Two will be available on a limited basis. If you and your pet are alums, feel free to inquire via email or call me. Please note your pet's name and last class completed if it has been awhile, thank you.
It will take a little time to update my web site. If you see a reference to Brighton Community Ed other than Fall 2024, please disregard same. Thanks for your patience, I have a lot of content here.
I appreciate the trainers that have trusted me with their pet's training. This fall marks eleven years with BCE and I will enjoy the memories!
And to those that have taken time to send kind words and pictures upon hearing of my upcoming changes, as you know this is bittersweet. Hugs to you and your wonderful pets! Thanks, Mary T.
Autumn - my favorite time of year!
Most of the time, the weather is perfect for getting outdoors with pups. The bugs aren't too bad, beach water is still warm and the dogs aren't likely to get over heated from retrieving! Perfect!
Much Program News!
The 2024 fall sessions will be my last through BCE. The submission deadline for winter and spring 2025 classes is in October, however the 2025 contract will not be available for review until December. As I have been told there will probably be changes made, I am not comfotable committing without knowing specifics.
Please note, if you choose to register for a class, I'm not sure when and if the next level will be available in a public location. I appreciate the trainers that have trusted me with their pet's training. This fall marks eleven years with BCE and I will enjoy the memories!
A prerequisite change for the Pawformance Recreational Agility Level One class where all obstacles are done on leash. If your pet is well mannered (around other pets and not (too) sassy when on the leash, inquire about Recreational Agility. Two sessions are offered every fall and spring. We meet in Hilton Elementary School's carpeted Multi Purpose Room on Monday evenings.
As before, O&M Level Two Obedience remains as a prerequisite for Rec. Agility Two as some pet are off leash as training allows. Manners are very important! When Rec. Agility is not running in the winter, AKC Rally Obedience is offered for fun and/or show if desired.These classes are much fun and offer special time with your pet!
Pre Agility If you are curious if you and your pet may enjoy this, try a one night Pre Agility offering'. Pets in all stages of training are welcome to try it with their regular class trainer if they are not super reactive. Lunging and constant barking at others (people or pets) is not enjoyable. Be considerate, some pets may need more training before attending. Note, once trained, this is a great outlet for pets that need something to do!
Interested? Inform the instructor (not BCE) that you will be attending. Bring cash or a check payable to "Brighton Comm. Ed" aka "BCE" and arrive on time at the start of class. No CC's for this offering. For more info, go to my Schedule page (click on the link at the top of this page) and scroll down to the Pre Agility listing.
Aspirin pain relief products and Xylitol. Meds should be cleared with your veterinarian before giving. Note that Xylitol sweetner is very harmful to dogs and it may now be found in aspirin! It may cause a sudden release of insulin which then leads to a sudden drop of blood sugar. Be aware it is found in many products, check labels before letting your pet share snacks that are labeled for people. Please check with your veterinarian for a safe pain management.
Traveling Tip!
When traveling with your pet, it's best if your pet is comfortable on leash and able to potty away from home. For that reason, acclimating your pet to being on leash when relieving itself is a terrific idea. Some people never do this and their pet may resist going if leashed - so sad for the pup! Remember the 'how to do' tips shared at the end of your first class with me (if you stayed for same).
Pet edibles from China!!
This is not-so-new-news, but many well known stores have chosen to still sell treats on their shelves coming from China. There have been documented cases of thousands of pets that have died or became seriously ill from digesting food with toxins found in them in our country alone. Be sure to check labels and discard anything with "China" on it!! I find it sad what greed can do to people in the trade that we assume care about our pets... Too much info to share here on this subject - Google and learn.
Important Link Here:
FDA Pet Food Recalls & Withdrawals
DIY Long Line
If you are in need of a long line, looping two leashes together will work. Or, to save money - you may make one! Simply purchase parachute cord for smaller pets or clothesline or boat cord for larger ones and simply add a bolt snap. Adding another bolt snap at 20+ +/- intervals if longer lines are needed will save time if your pet may get tangled is a concern. Using a harness on your pet instead of a collar is recommended and be sure to supervise!
If you prefer to keep your pet in a limited area, consider an over head cable to provide for exercise. Consider ample 'head' room for people when setting this up! Again, a harness may provide a safer connection than a collar. Supervision is important, too. Pets can get tangled and visiting animals - including children - may come on to your property. : )
Donating? Keep your money local and give to the agencies that actually use the vast majority of the funds for the animals. There are many 'businesses' and even some local non profits that are skilled at taking advantage of people that have a soft spot for animals. Heart-wrenching ads on television can attract you. There is one agency that receives much money which provides their admin staff annual salaries of not only six digit figures, but high multiple hundred thousand $ salaries. TAILS DOWN!
As dynamics in organizations can change, before donating to any agency or group. Do your own research to help ensure where your money is going reflects your beliefs before sending funds.
Angel Paws Pet Rescue - Results - Pawformance trainers Beth and Jen H. have started their own rescue with a few others. They literally have decades of experience and are located in Milford. Ask for a flyer at class if none are on the table! (Note - my browser has come up with several rescues using the Angel Paws name, be sure 'Pet' is noted after Paws.) Their web site: www.AngelPawsPet.com
BradysK9fund.com Past Results trainer Tom S. ("Hercules" - Belgian Malinois now at the Rainbow Bridge) was featured on our local WHMI radio / web news in August 2024! He has been working overtime as a die setter for Ford Motor Co. to raise funds for safety vests for Michigan working K9s. K9 officers are expected to provide all equipment for their dogs and these vests are not cheap! As of August 2024, Tom has two sponsored K9s. They are K9 Gunner - Wayne Co Sheriff and K9 Zeke - Kent Co Sheriff. Tom highly recommends donating directly to: www.BradysK9fund.com (Ohio).
Please help to spread the word! There are at least twenty people advertising training in our tri-county area. It's a very competitive market and many people do not fully realize the differences in methods. As those that know me, referring people that will value this 'hands on' program will be much appreciated. Business cards are available for drop off at pet related businesses and veterinary hospitals. Please share when you can! Much of my business is word of mouth and spreading the word will help ensure I'm still running when you get a future pup and may wish to return to class with your new pet, thank you!
Enjoy your training journey and life with your pet!
My best, Mary T.
Recently lost pets, I'm hoping your memories offer some comfort.
Such a gift it is to have experienced the love and bond with a dear pet.
Sadly, not all people are fortunate enough to have this experience, be thankful for the time you have had!
"Meka" - Akita - Cindy H.
"Hercules" - Belgian Malinois - Tom S.
"Lucy-Lu" - American Cocker Spaniel & Golden Retriever, a 'Dakota' mix - Robert L. & Carrie S.