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Last updated Fri, Mar 20, 2026
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!
Results - Pawformance!
Hello, thanks for taking a look here. Much ado in the Results-Pawformance dog house already this year! Many trainers have been keeping up with their pet's training in spite of life issues... it is nice to be able to come in and enjoy the paws and trainer chat and leave cares outside for later!
I have been trying to find a balance of keeping the program 'smaller' and more personal here vs. the larger numbers I had in each class when I was with Brighton Community Ed and had staff in the earlier years. However, as I haven't been running ads, in the past few months when in public and seeing people I know, some have been surprised to hear that I am still offering classes (what else would I be doing...ok, maybe Pickleball, lol)! Thus, an ad will be in The Marketeer, March issue. Puppy Class and Obedience & Manners Level One will begin April 11th.
Referrals! Trainers usually find me by 'word of mouth' and veterinarian & trainer referrals. If you are comfortable referring me, feel free to pass along my business card. There are some on the table at class, feel free to take and share at your veterinarian office if your vet appreciates your well trained pet. Thank you, it is much appreciated and will help ensure I will be offering classes the next time you get a new pet!
Many new titles fall 2025 through February 2026 to report! See below for the new achievements including AKC Rally-Obedience qualifying scores. My "Awards Page" will be going through a major re-do, for now, recent info is below.
Also, much appreciation for the alum that have been supporting me forever...and the new trainers, too! Several all looking forward to entering Canine Good Citizen Title later this spring. It is so nice to have the dynamics in motion back in my own 'dog house'.
Floor Time for practice is Saturdays at 12:30pm. For Results pets, come in when the yucky weather is upon us. Trainers from various training levels are welcome. The time will change to 1:00 beginning April 4th. See my Schedule Page for more info & updates.
Trainers have an opportunity to practice the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test a few times each year with guest helpers. As the pets in training get used to me and the regular class attendees, having someone unknown to them to put them through tests that require interaction with the evaluator was good prep for the real test. Following, when some trainer decide to do visits with their pets, the dogs are very comfortable doing same!
Much appreciation to those that like to help out! Thanks to Wendy W. who has not only owned many dogs, but has done much fostering and was a dog walker for many years in the Fenton area.
Brian and Penny A. have also done foster volunteering and have owned Labrador Retrievers for decades.
We all had much fun including trainers and their pets! New CGCs earned are listed below.
As mentioned previously here and in classes... I believe in the merit of a 'good CGC test' with unknown people acting as evaluators as well as pets being in a new environment. Especially for those pets that may be doing therapy visits! While it's nice that people do train for the test, even if at the pet's regular training facility, I simply believe it speaks volumes for a pet to qualify away from their 'training place' and not having their instructor or someone known to them as the evaluator give them 'a pass' at class. ; )
New - Silver Paws! Help keep your beloved, geriatric pet engaged! A re-do of my past 'Golden Oldies' class.
If it's been awhile, a 'Meet & Greet' may be suggested. Pets must be comfortable to attend.
Sorry - "Silver Sneakers" passes are not accepted - haha!
Thanks to Lisa & "Ginger" - Golden & Poodle mix - for the class rename!
Interested? Call to arrange a Meet & Greet to see if this may be a good fit. See the Schedule Page fmi.
Reminder, I am no longer with Brighton Community Education. The 2024 fall sessions were my last through All good! I will enjoy the memories! I appreciate the trainers that have trusted me with their pet's training September 2013 through October 2024.
Inclement Weather Tips!
Thunder storm season! If your pet gets anxious when the weather is inclement, especially if thunder and lightning is happening, do not coddle. Many people make the mistake of over comforting and telling their pup that "It's OK" which may increase the pet's concern. With enough 'practice', it may lead to storm anxiety. Instead, let your pet be with you, be more matter of fact and reassure your pet that everything is fine w/o too much gush (even if your heart is breaking a little). Engage with an activity when possible. If your pet has to be alone, perhaps give it the 'special' large knotted, white rawhide bone when it needs to be crated. Also, close curtains and/or shades, keep lights on and the radio or TV on a little louder than usual.
Go outdoors with your leashed pet at potty time if there is a chance it may run off or climb a fence if startled. Many pets are surprised with sudden thunder claps and lightening, and may go into severe flight drive during during same. High winds and unexpected gusts may also spook pets! Remember to stay grounded so you do not increase anxiety issues your pet may have.
Some pets may be comforted wearing a baby or child size T-shirt. Since recommending same decades ago, 'thunder shirts' for pets are now on the market for the same purpose and are pricey! Using a tight fitting T is the same and save some $$s. After the snow has melted, it's time to walk your property and pick up sticks, scat and other items that may be tempting to your pet. Remember with the warmer weather, odors may entice your pet to leave the property. Melting lake ice may also be a hazard! Be sure to monitor and use a long or drag line if needed to keep your pet safe.
AKC Rally-Obedience is offered for fun and/or show if desired and is a great pre class for Agility. These classes are much fun and offer special time with your pet while enhancing both physical and mental exercise for the team - both two and four footed! Curious? Results trainers are welcome to view a class!
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Pre Agility If you are curious if you and your pet may enjoy this, try a one time 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!
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? Consider keeping your money local and give to the agencies that actually use the vast majority of the funds for the animals. There are many individuals, '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!
TAILS UP to the volunteers that are responsible. It is a very stressful environment at times and those that contribute have earned a pass to heaven!
As dynamics in organizations can change, before donating to any agency or group, be sure to do your research! Whether it is time or money as both are valuable, know that where your gift it will be somewhere that reflects your beliefs before giving funds. There are people doing pop up rescues that may mean well, but lack knowledge to successfully be evaluatinig and placing pets. Loving dogs imo is simply not enough. Ask for references! Interview people that have experience with their own pets...
People with experience should have pets of their own that are well adjusted and comfortable. Are they well trained, groomed (clean, brushed and nails trimmed)? Are they working with a veterinarian or self-diagnosing and treating without enough knowledge to be doing same? You Tube videos and social media posts do not take the place of professional vet care. Are they insured? Yes - insured in case there are consequences that arise. Michigan is a one bite state, learn if dealing with a dog that may be a hazard.
Rehomed and abused usually animals require more expertise than well mannered pets that are in need of a new home. So be diligent when evaluating individuals or organizations doing rehome services. People flip dogs or may place them without much knowledge just to be involved because it is cool and gets them attention. It is not fair to pets that are placed where they should not be or to the people that invest in them, either. Don't fall for the charm or succumb to pressure! Michigan is a 'one bite' state. The consequences for an animal placed in the wrong environment can having lasting damage - physically and mentally to the animal and people involved.
Furthermore if anyone uses my name or training program as a reference in any way...do contact me to validate same. Knowing someone as a casual acquaintance is not an endorsement that I approve of an individual's actions or recommendations. Thank you.
Congratulations - New Rally-Obedience Title!
Lisa C. with "Ginger" CGC - Golden Retriever & Poodle mix - Attaining 95 out of 100 poiints for #2 Place!
Thanks Fort Detroit Golden Retriever Club for offering at the Companion Dog Training Club of Flint building. 2/26
Congratulations again! In Lansing at the AKC Rally-Obedience Trials
Both Shelties qualified at the Novice #1 Trial finishing their titles. Following a move up to Intermediate trial #2!
Natalie B. with "Eljay" RN (new title), CGC - Shetland Sheepdog and Intermediate Level - First Leg
Natalie B. with "Tucker" RN (new title), CGC- Shetland Sheepdog and Intermediate Level - First Leg and #2 Place
Thank you to the Obedience Training Club of Greater Lansing for hosting 12/25
Congratulations! New Rally-Obedience Legs (Qualifying Scores)
Natalie B. with "Eljay" CGC - Shetland Sheepdog
Natalie B. with "Tucker" CGC- Shetland Sheepdog - Trial #2, Third Place
Lisa C. with "Ginger" CGC - Golden Retriever & Poodle mix - Trial #1, #4 Place; Trial #2 - #2 Place
Only one more leg/qualifying trial needed each to title.
Check back for Natalie updates in December and a Lisa update in early 2026.
Thanks to the Companion Dog Training Club of Flint for hosting! 10/'25
AKC Canine Good Citizen Advanced and Love On A Leash Therapy Test Pass!
Donna (Ken) Z. with "Tucker" - Golden Retriever
Advanced Training & Testing offered by/at the Obedience Training Club of Greater Lansing and
Therapy Test and Pass through Love On a Leash - Lansing Chapter 10-25
Congratulations! New AKC Canine Good Citizens (CGC)
Natalie B. with "Eljay" CGC and "Tucker" - both Shetland Sheepdogs
Lisa C. with "Ginger" CGC - Golden Retriever & Poodle mix
All three dogs above titled at the Obedience Training Club of Greater Lansing, thank you OTCGL! 10-25
Congratulations! New AKC Canine Good Citizens (CGC) and Novice Trick Dog (TKN) Titles!!
George (Marge) G. with "Sadie" and "Daisy" - both Standard Poodles
Donna (Ken) Z. with "Tucker" - Golden Retriever
All three dogs above titled at the Obedience Training Club of Greater Lansing, thank you OTCGL! 10-25
Congratulations! New AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
Joe G. & "Bruce" Doberman Pinscher, much training here with George (and Marge) G.
Test pass with Joe at Sportsman's DTC in Warren 12/24 or 01/25
Such a gift it is to have experienced the love and bond with a dear pet.
When the tears start, turn them into happy ones and remember think about the wonderful
memories you have buried in your heart...
"Willow" - French Bulldog - Jen & Beth H.
"Zoey" - American Eskimo - Holly & Kip S.
"Callie" - French Bulldog - Jen & Beth H.
Time with our pets is so very short. Enjoy your training journey and daily life with your pet!
My best, Mary T.