from the editor: In This Issue
This issue is all about how we bridge the species divide to communicate with our pets. Fortunately, even though we don’t technically speak the same language, we are able to connect in so many ways.
reader submissions:
What words does your pet know?
Walkies? Bye Bye!
Mouse!
Hungry?
Treat, Chewy?
Go Bye Bye?
Chew, Bone, Eat!
Toy!
Go for a Ride?
Continued on page 24
Connie Rhoades Hinds
Brenda Drake Lesch
Emily Tayrien
Allye Rhoades
Lydia Archer
Teneka Huffman
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contain advice, opinions, and statements from various writers. TAME does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any advice, opinion, statement or other information provided by any other person or entity. Reliance upon any such opinion, advice, statement, or other information shall also be at your own risk. Neither TAME nor its a liates, nor any of their respective agent, employees, advertisers or writers shall be liable to anyone for any inaccuracy, error, omission, timeliness, completeness, deletion, defect, or failure of performance.
The World’s First Talking Dog?
buttons, began working with Stella, teaching her to express herself. Stella has learned over FIFTY words. She can can even use the AAC to create phrases up to ve words in length. WOW!
In her book, How Stella Learned to Talk, Hunger shares her story and techniques used in training. Not only can you enjoy the book, there are lots of videos online where you can see Stella in action. You can even purchase AAC-type devices and give your dog a chance to learn to “talk.”
a Blue Heeler/Catahoula mix, has become a national sensation for learning to “speak” by using a button communication device. Called an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device, it is used by speech-language pathologists in working with toddlers. Stella’s human, Christina Hunger, is one such professional. She theorized that her new puppy could be taught, using the AAC, in much the same way as her patients. She was right! Hunger, using paw-sized
Book Review: “This book is part memoir, part how-to guide. It’s amazing to think of the possibilities to deepen the connection we have with our dogs ”
—Mary Potthoff, Springfield, MOLOCAL NEWS FROM TAME PARTNERS
PRECIOUS K9S
PK9s has added on. In addition to their 6000 sq ft Athena’s Arena, they have a new 1,500 sq ft Training Center. They recently celebrated with an open house and ribbon cutting. Enjoy more photos on page 25!
THE BARKER SHOPPE
We love that Maggie and the gang at Barker Shoppe are big supporters of Rescue One. They regularly host adoption events. If you’re looking for a new family member, be sure to mark your calendar and attend the next one!
FETCH PET SUPPLIES & GIFTS
Dog Wash Wednesdays are a hit at Fetch. Hazel isn’t really a big fan, but pet-parents really enjoy the self-service option with towels, shampoo, hair dryer and someone on hand to do the after bath clean up!
Somehow we have learned to speak with each other, sometimes without even saying a word. Primarily, however, we’ve learned to connect by using three different methods, visual, auditory and tactile.
Auditory & Verbal Communication
We hear them. They hear us. Considering that animals don’t speak actual words, they are great communicators. Dogs bark, growl, whine, and use body posture to tell us what they are thinking. Cats purr, meow, growl and hiss to get your attention and convey the message they want us to receive. When speaking to them, how loud we speak and the pitch of our voice helps pets understand when we are pleased with their behavior or are trying to correct them.
It’s amazing how humans and animals bridge the species divide to communicate with each other.
Learning to communicate with your pet is important. Not only do we express our love and care for each other, but we can keep each other safe from harm.
Pairing words with gestures helps pets understand what you are trying to say easier and quicker.
Visual Communication
Teaching our pets to respond to visual cues, rather than only using our voice, has some advantages. They can understand us in situations that are noisy or if they are a ways off. Also, as our pets get older, it helps if they become hard of hearing.
Likewise, our pets make their own vocalizations to get our attention and communicate their wants and needs. Dogs and cats especially, use their tails, ears, eyes and teeth to communicate.
Tactile Communication
Humans and pets say a lot to each other through physical contact.
Dogs, for example, may lick, paw or mouth. Many times they lean on their owners too. Dogs, in general, nd physically touching their human family members makes them to feel safe and content. Some ways cats can ex-
press physical affection is by sitting on our laps, sleeping next to us, licking (grooming) us, and rubbing up against our legs.
There’s no doubt about it, touching, petting and snuggling our pets has similar positive effects on both humans and animals.
Want to teach your pet?
These tips will help set you both up for success.
• Remember to go slow and be patient.
• Use short words, paired with visual gestures and body language.
• Keep your interactions positive, offering praise and rewards.
• Train together in a calm, safe environment.
• Be consistent. Use the same words and gestures each time.
Many of the problems that occur between dogs and owners are the result of a communication gap. Every dog owner should establish a list of basic commands to train with. These commands can create a foundation of communication.
Sit. The sit command means the dog’s hips are on the ground while the shoulders are upright. The dog should remain in position until released.
Come. The come command in dog training means stop what you’re doing, ignore distractions, and go directly to the owner.
Down. In dog training, the down command means lie down on the oor (or ground) and hold that position until released.
Stay. Remain in position while the owner walks away from the dog and the dog holds still until he’s released.
Release. This is the word that tells the dog he can move from the position he’s been in.
Yes. A verbal marker to let the dog know his actions are correct.
Good dog/good boy/good girl. Verbal praise that can be used after the ‘yes’ marker or after the dog is released. Leave it. Telling your dog to “leave it” means to ignore what you’re paying attention to; whether it’s food on the oor or the dogs barking next door.
Outside. What is your word or phrase for the dog to go outside to relieve himself?
Go to bed. This sends the dog to his bed or crate.
Dinner. This word, or the phrase, “Are you hungry?,” signals that it’s time to eat.
Go for a walk. It’s time to go for a walk.
Get it. Please get your ball, toy, or the newspaper.
Bring it here. Bring me your ball, toy, or newspper.
Drop it. Spit out what’s in your mouth.
Kitties can learn words too! Some of these words have practical purposes, others may be more for fun.
Sit. This is a pretty user-friendly trick for your cat and so is a great one to start off with. Teaching your cat to sit might be useful when you want to give them a treat.
High ve. It’s a cat trick that’s stimulating and rewarding for your cat, provided that you give them a treat for a successful high ve.
Fetch. Just like their canine counterparts, domestic cats are easily able to learn how to fetch an item for their owners. One bene t of this trick is helping your cat get exercise.
Come. Most animals will quickly learn their name when adopted by a loving owner. This can be turned into the ability for your cat to come to you on command.
Stand up. Getting your kitty to stand on his hind legs as a party that can be easily taught with a little bit of persuasion.
Kiss me. Training your cat to give a kiss is a simple and easy cat trick which many cat owners love to do. Whether your cat does it for love, or a treat, that’s something you’ll have to decide!
Lay down. This is a cat trick that can be taught to cats pretty quickly. There may be times that you require your cat to lie down, such as when when you are trying to sleep!
LESSONS LESSONS OUR PETS OUR PETS
It’s amazing that something that doesn’t speak our language can sure can teach us a lot!
Be Thankful!
Our pets are so open when it comes to showing appreciation. Through wagging tails, snuggles and vocal expressions, they let know how grateful they are for even the simplest of things.
Live in the Moment.
Our pets don’t dwell on the past or even get too concerned about the future. They are happy to enjoy the present. They seem to wake each morning with a positive attitude, ready to embrace a new day.
Love Unconditionally.
Our pets are so forgiving. They accept us just as we are and make us feel like we are the most important person in the world. They are such great examples of nonjudgmental acceptance.
Exercise is Necessary!
Pets are often on of the best motivators to get a bit of exercise. Our dogs delight in a good walk and kitties love a good game of stalking and attacking a toy. Owning an active pet guarantees you will not only need to get up and about, but enjoy it too!
Many pets enjoy a little fun in the sun. These products make it even better!
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How pets can tell us they are not feeling well.
Many pet owners have wished that their pets could talk. This would be the most helpful when there is obviously something wrong. While they can’t verbally tell us what is hurting, our pets often do communicate illness in other ways.
EATING HABITS
• Disinterest in food or water
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Inability to hold food down
ACTIVITY LEVEL
• Lethargy
• Disinterest in favorite activities
SKIN AND FUR
• Unusual skin spots or changes
• Scratching or itchy skin
• Distended or bloating of belly
• Increased shedding or patches of hair loss
BREATHING
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing
• Wheezing
POTTY ISSUES
• Loose stools
• Difficulty or inability to go potty
UNUSUAL BEHAVIOR
• Hiding
• Lack of coordination
• Seizures
• Excessive licking
• Whining or crying
• Limping or favoring leg or paw
• Blood in stool or urine
• General unusual changes in behavior
• Discoloration of gums
Disclaimer: Articles and content by TAME is not, nor should be considered, or used as a substitute for, veterinary medical advice, diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional advice from a veterinarian or other professional.
BARK IN THE PARK
Place: Phelps Grove
Date: May 20, 2023
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Bring your canine companions to this low-key event. Grab your lawn chairs and spend a few hours visiting with vendors and relaxing under the tree canopy.
Website: parkboard.org/664/Dog-Events
Facebook Event Page: Bark in the Park
DOWNTOWN DOG RUN & SUMMER PET PARTY
Place: Downtown Park Central Square
Date: June 3, 2023
Time: 8:30am-12:30pm
Sign up for the 5K Run/Walk or just come for the Pet Party on the Square. Enjoy food, music and fun.
Website: downtowndogrun.com
Facebook Event Page: Downtown Dog Run and Summer Pet Party 2023
TAME PARTNERS
BOARDING,
DAYCARE
& PETSITTING
417 Pet Sitting
In-Home Pet Sitting
417.827.7387
417petsitting@gmail.com
417PetSitting.com
Happy Tails
1670 S. Enterprise Ave. Spring eld, MO 65804
417.881.8644
happytailsmo.com
Side Kick Dog Training
2150 N State Hwy NN
Ozark, MO 65721
417.425.5944
spring eldsidekickdogtraining.com
The Barker Shoppe
1927 E. Bennett Spring eld, MO 65804
417.501.1053
barkershoppepetcare.com
GROOMING
The Barker Shoppe
1927 E. Bennett Spring eld, MO 65804
417.501.1053
barkershoppepetcare.com
Galloway Village Veterinary
4126 S. Lone Pine
Spring eld, MO
417.866.6681
gallowayvet.com
Pet Supplies Plus
2838 S. Glenstone
417.720.4656
petsuppliesplus.com
Pet Supplies Plus
Self Serve Dog Wash
2838 S. Glenstone
417.720.4656
469 Aldersgate Dr. - Nixa, MO
417.886.2743
2920 E. Sunshine St. 417.881.8738
petssuppliesplus.com
Zoomin Groomin
Mobile Pet Spa
We Come To You
Dogs and Cats
417.220.8177
SHOPPING
Al’s Pals Shop Online and at C-Street City Market 417.597.4330
Alspalspetplace.com
Fetch Pet Supplies
1332A E Republic Road Spring eld, MO 65804 417.368.1295
fetchpet417.com
Mike’s Unique Pet friendly ea market 3335 W. Sunshine St. 417.869.5400 mikesunique.com
Pet Wants
1342 E. Battle eld Rd, Spring eld, MO 65804 417.210.8574
petwantsspring eldmo.com
Pet Supplies Plus
2838 S. Glenstone 417.720.4656
1517 W. Battle eld St. 417.882.7387
1717 W. Kearney St. 417.831.7386
2920 E. Sunshine St. 417.881.8738
469 Aldersgate Dr.Nixa, MO 417.886.2743
petsuppliesplus.com
TRAINING & BEHAVIOR
Precious K9s 4854 S State Hwy FF, Battle eld, MO 417.207.3215
preciousK9s.com
VETERINARY CARE & SERVICES
Grove Pharmacy & Prof.
Compounding Lab
3 Spring eld locations 417-881-2910
GrovePharmacy.com
@GrovePharmacySpring eld
Galloway Village Veterinary
4126 S. Lone Pine Spring eld, MO
417.866.6681
gallowayvet.com
Healing Paws
330-D West Plainview Rd. Spring eld, MO 65810
417.886.7070
healingpawsvet.com
James River Animal Hospital
1870 N. De er Dr. Nixa, MO 65714
417.830.3521 (text preferred)
jamesriveranimalhospital.com
Peaceful Crossings
In-Home Pet Euthanasia
417.830.3521
info@peacefulcrossings.com
SpringfieldVeterinary Center 330 E. Battlefield
Springfield, MO 65807
417.887.8030
springfieldveterinarycenter.com
SpringValleyVet East/West 1634 W.Elfindale Street (West) 417.831.2666
1700 S. Enterprise Ave. (East) Springfield, MO 65804 417.896.5651
springvalleyveterinaryhospital.com
PET
FRIENDLYRECREATION
Springfield-Greene County Park
Board/Cruse Dog Park
417.864.1332
Springfield, MO 65807
Parkboard.org/CruseDogPark
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Decorating Den
Jillian Johnson
Interior Designer
417.724.9400
jilliandeeden@gmail.com
Century 21/Jeanna Callahan
Licensed Missouri Broker Associate 417.830.1855
Jeanna.callahan@century21.com
JC21Homes.com
Glass Guru
3337 A. S Scenic
Springfield, MO
417.275.3569
theglassguru.com
Olive was Newsweek’s 2022 Pet of the Year
This issue is all about communication between people and pets. We thought there was no better “tail with a happy ending” than the story of Olive.
Olive was featured on the social media page of a rescue in Carrollton, Georgia. She was clearly in poor shape, with an open sore that ran down the length of her back. Not only that, she was missing teeth, unable to walk and completely deaf. Fortunately for this chihuahua/terrier mix, the perfect person was scrolling. That someone was Elizabeth Dachs. As soon as Dachs saw Olive, she
knew she was going to adopt her. Within an hour of seeing the post, Dachs was on her way to get the neglected, eight-pound pup.
Olive’s healing soon began, both physically and emotionally. Overcoming the trauma of her previous life took time and patience. Fortunately, Olive was a ghter, and her new family was determined. She now lives in New York and under such loving care, her wounds healed. Olive has also learned to communicate through a form of sign language.
Congratulations on your much deserved award, nding your voice, and gaining terri c new family, Olive!
For more photos and information about Olive and her family, visit: www.newsweek.com/deaf-rescue-dog-understands-sign-language-pet-week-1743700