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EMAIL CHRISTINAHUGHES BABB AT chughes@advocatemag.com

Zazu is the most blinged-out dog you have ever seen. The pink pooch and her owner, Amy Marks, recently won a look-a-like contest. Click

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Su S an Platz is the dog whisperer of White Rock l ake. She started her business, a ll Dogs a ll Day, about 14 years ago, sort of by accident after her dog sitting clients realized she had a way with dogs that came naturally to her. She has five dogs of her own at home, and she also fosters dogs, usually ones with severe behavior problems, and readies them for adoption. t he longtime l akewood resident recently filled us in on her business and tips for training pups.

What kind of training do you offer, and are there any specific breeds in which you specialize?

I do obedience classes, behavior issues and basic training. I see a lot of puppies after Christmas, but I see every kind of dog.

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WHY DO PEOPLE HIRE YOU MOST OFTEN?

The most common issue, hands down, is potty training. The second one is basic manners — pulling on the leash, jumping up on people. Each dog is different. If you have a lab, you probably won’t be having potty issues. But if you have a Maltese, you are probably going to have a problem with potty. Smaller dogs have a harder time holding it, or they’re not as likely to let you know they need to go out.

SO HOW DO YOU TEACH POTTY TRAINING?

It’s training the owners. They have to learn to disengage and let their dog relax outside and just be about his business, but that’s the hardest thing to do sometimes. A lot of times what happens is the owner will go outside with the dog, and they come back inside, and the dog goes on the floor. And they think, “We were just outside!” but it’s because the dog got too distracted outside by a squirrel or a toy or anything else and didn’t do his business. So you don’t engage with them, you don’t look at them, and then you praise them after.

NO

TREATS?

No. I don’t do treats. My dogs do what I say because they’re doing it for me. They’re not doing it for a treat. Treats are OK sometimes, but I never do treats for potty training.

DOG TRAINING IS EXPENSIVE, RIGHT?

Yes, but it’s well worth it because you’re looking at your long-term life together. Obedience class is always a good idea. It’s an investment, absolutely. I can show people where a dog is limited that they don’t see. People will always tell me, “The dog won’t come,” but I notice, every time they want the dog to come, they’re grabbing, or they’re yelling, or they’re shoving them in the crate. If they think “come” means they’re going to be grabbed, they’re not going to do it. “Come” should always be a good experience because then you always have a dog thinking about “come” in a positive way. Same thing with “sit”. Dogs are always wondering what’s the next step. So if you make it positive, your dog is always going to be looking at you and not what is the next step. Praise is the best thing you can give your dog.

THAT SOUNDS LIKE THE VERY BASICS OF DOG TRAINING.

Yes. It’s training the owner to train the dog. They need a gentle, compassionate touch, but they do need training. There’s a balance. Usually, it’s that they have to expect more of the dog. Dogs get atten-

Are you the right company for my project?

Probe for…practical and innovative solutions they have provided customers with needs like yours. Test the firm’s know-how by asking for a range of options for translating your design dreams into reality. Ask about visiting actual completed or in-process projects.

What is your level of experience and expertise in my neighborhood?

Probe for…experience in the community and expertise in local building and conservation standards. Ask about their architectural philosophy for blending modern design features into established neighborhoods. Learn which projects in your neighborhood produce the best return on investment.

What can I expect once I sign the contract?

Probe for…a project management process with detailed steps, preferably in writing. Find out who will be your liaison and how he/she will communicate. Learn how your vision will be achieved, and your needs for privacy, convenience, and cleanliness respected.

Do you actively participate in trade organizations?

Probe for…organizations that keep members informed of industry issues and new construction techniques. Active involvement correlates with professionalism you can trust. Look for affiliations with local and national Home Builders Associations (HBA of Greater Dallas/NAHB) as well as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Learn about special designations they have achieved, including Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) and Certified Remodeler (CR).

Do you maintain all of the necessary insurance?

Probe for…builder’s risk and general liability insurance to protect homeowners from claims arising from property damage or jobsite injuries. Request copies of the insurance certificates and ask about coverage in the event of an accident involving a worker, visitor, or resident of the home.

Can you provide references?

Probe for…customers who have had similar work done. You’ll want to hear the firm is organized, responsible, attentive to detail, and responsive to warranty issues. Make sure they have a strong network of trade contractor affiliates. Good