The first full week of November is designated as the Humane Society’s National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. Here at Dog Training Now, we love to celebrate all dogs, every day. We do have a special place in our heart for adopted dogs and their owners. In fact, many of our Trainers – and our two owners, Dan and Melissa – have adopted an animal or two. Our connection with adoption goes even further and we wanted to take this opportunity to talk a bit more about the connection that our very own Trainer Marcus has to a local animal shelter.
Trainer Marcus and Animal House Shelter
For years, Trainer Marcus has been on staff at Animal House Shelter, a no kill animal shelter in Huntley that is committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and adopting out all breeds of dogs and cats. As an Adoption Counselor and Trainer, Marcus has the opportunity to play matchmaker, finding the perfect fit for a dog in its new forever home.
“When I am trying to match a prospective owner with a dog, I look at many factors that could make the relationship better,” says Trainer Marcus. “I try to ask questions to find out more about the owner’s personality, lifestyle, home, and expectations. Once I have these pieces of the puzzle in place, I can help them find a dog that may be a great fit.”
Once that connection happens? “You can tell right away when they fall in love with the dog,” says Marcus. “I always tell owners that when they adopt from us, they are actually saving two dog lives – the dog they adopt and then the dog that we can rescue to take that open spot in the shelter.”
We love that Trainer Marcus has the chance to connect owners and dogs at Animal House Shelter. Next time you are in the studio, ask him about his role there – it is fun to watch him speak so passionately about his role.
Keys to a Successful Adoption
Trainer Marcus has seen many adoptions over his years (and his own dog, Wanda, was adopted too!), and has two keys to a successful transition home – time for adjustment and training.
“Owners have to realize that it will take some time for their new dog to adjust to the home, and to them,” says Marcus. “It takes patience, but it is worth it. I always encourage owners to give it time.”
Training is another way to ease the transition. Not only does training provide your dog with expectations and manners, practice sessions between the two of you are a wonderful way to build your bond and relationship. “Training helps owners communicate better with their new dogs,” says Trainer Marcus. “Now owners are understanding their dog’s body language and they are working on a common goal.”
Are you ready jump start your dog’s training? Give us a call to set up your free consultation. We are ready to help you, and your dog, build a relationship that will last for years to come.