By discovering and admitting, that our dog and us actually have a problem, that his behaviour is of disturbance for his surroundings, that he does not have a normal life, we already have made the first step. Every dog is a single living being with its own temperament and its own thinking. Every single one of them has recieved a different education, has grown up in a different enviroment, has been subjected to different requirements by his owners. That is why, at the »Vesele tačke« each case is approached individually: For the first visit I prefer to choose the dog`s home enviroment. Before the visit, a questionnaire is sent to the owner. When it is filled up, we agree for the first visit, where we discuss the questionnaire, the behavioral problem in details, the owners expectations and if necessary, first measurements of corrections and tasks are given. This first visit also gives me the opportunity to observe the dog in his own enviroment, his interacting with the owner, the family members other dogs /animals. I consider this approach of the utmost importance as it gives me the possibility to write a tailor-made work programme. A programme that can`t be followed, however good, is useless. The written work programme is then delivered at the second visit, which is in about two to three weeks time, depending on the severity of the situation. The work programme consists of the assessment of the current situation, my observations during the first visit, diagnosis, explication and step-by-step solution and actual work. However, this is only the beginning of the owner`s work, that is why I like to follow the progress and in case of need we adjust the programme at any time if needed. If no special problems are encountered the programme is usually reassessed after a month: the progress, the problems are discussed and again the program is adjusted in case of need.

Is it possible to solve all behavioral problems?

Some problems can be solved to a complete resolution. However some of them unfortunatelly can`t be solved and the measurements of prevention have to be adopted. This enables a partial improvement of the owner`s and the dog`s life. But they have to be followed till the dog`s parishment. Ther is no universal recipe. My councelling is aimed only at a certain dog and his owner. Every work programme is different and personalized.

What about education? Can I contact you before a dog enters my home?

Of course! I am particularly happy when I recieve calls and questiones like the one above! There is no doubt, that adding a new familiy member to your household is a very special moment and it is more than worth getting ready for it. In this case a work programme from the first day of your puppy or dog`s life in your home is made, regarding your wishes and possibilities. A seminar about puppy education will hopefully be soon available at “Vesele tačke”. Follow the “news” for more information.

 A final thought…

The methods of my work with the dogs are based on a correct and just integration of discipline with the correct and just amount of attention and love. Consistency and setting clear boundaries is an obligation. The education of a dog is a living process which is constantly evolving each day, 24 hours of it! And this is the reason, why we have to assure, that it has to be the best possible every moment, even when we are not present. I firmly believe, that only a well educated dog has the opportunity to live happy and harmonious with his family and in the community.

Maja Turk, DVM