RHODY PETS: Lessons make

Who’s Walking Who?

An Animal Rescue RI specialist helps owners take the reins when it comes to leash training their dogs

ARRI helps humans and their dogs get ready for a summer of leash walks RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: SHENGA

By Karen Kalunian

Shenga is a stunning two-yearold Mastiff mix whose gentle ways and sparkling eyes will steal your heart! This boy is looking for an adult home, preferably with a fenced-in backyard so he can enjoy play time. When you first meet Shenga, he’s a little shy but you’ll soon find he’s full of love, and he’s waiting to share it with the right person. If you’ve been searching for a loyal companion, Shenga may be the dog for you.

For more information about Shenga, please contact RIbased foster care program Handsome Dan’s Rescue by emailing Lyn at ltozeski@gmail. com or visit their website HandsomeDansRescue.org.

If you have been thinking of adopting or know of an animal in need please contact Karen directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com

The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming – what could be lovelier than a South County stroll with your dog? That is, until the shoulder pain sets in from all the pulling or your nerves set in as you spy another dog or rattling skateboard approaching.

“The big question is, ‘Are you walking your dog or is your dog walking you?’” says Kate Conley, behavior and enrichment specialist at Peace Dale’s Animal Rescue Rhode Island (ARRI). “The Loose Leash Walking technique can really enhance the bond between pet and owner – your dog will find greater enjoyment sniffing without being constantly corrected just as much as you’ll benefit from not being dragged down the street! Plus training your dog to have good manners adds mental stimulation to the sensory pleasures of being outside.”

This newfound harmony also lessens the likelihood of a new dog being surrendered or returned to a shelter due to handling issues. To this end, ARRI o ers free, one-hour Loose Leash Walking classes, held in their scenic shelter grounds on weekend mornings.

“Classes are open to everyone and we’ve hosted every breed and size from Chihuahuas to Great Danes,” Conley says. “We also welcome dog-owners who are wary of bringing along their pup – perhaps it gets nervous around other dogs or is a puppy with zero attention span – this way they can observe and then work on the technique at home.”

Conley recommends a standard six-foot leash (no retractables!), ideally attached to a harness rather than a collar to relieve the pressure and strain on the dog’s neck.

“We typically have three trainers for groups of six to ten dog-owners and break into smaller groups so we can focus on each dog’s specific needs. For example, we recently had a dog who was great at walking but highly reactive to squirrels, so I spent the full session working on ‘Leave it’ and we made good progress!”