We recently adopted a new puppy from It Takes a Village, and I have run through the gamut of emotions with him.
He started out as a foster. We've fostered dogs several times before, and I have never once wanted to keep one. We have a small dog that I immediately knew I wanted back in 2020, and he was the perfect little gentleman from the moment I got him. At six months old, he was house-trained, knew basic commands, and never once tore anything up.
This Doberman/Catahoula mix puppy came to us unhouse-trained. The only thing he knew was sit and shake. He tore up anything and everything he could get his paws on. He pees when he's excited. He gets way over-stimulated and is too rough with the little dog.
He was a terrible fit and so much work, and yet, we couldn't live without him. But I will absolutely disclose that we thought about taking him back when his foster period was up several times. But when we dropped him off for his neuter, I missed him so much. We had to go back and get him.
Dog Training Actually Works, Who Knew?
One of the things I have had fun doing is watching dog training videos and replicating their methods.
And wow. They work!
When our new puppy was having trouble with house training, I noticed he'd pee right next to the door. He didn't know how to signal he needed to go out. So, we put some jingle bells up on the front door.
I started training just by moving his nose on the jingle bells and letting him out. It wasn't registering. So, I went with a different approach after watching videos. I realized not only did he not understand the whole process, he didn't even know how to jingle the jingle bells.
So, we started small, with rewarding him just for touching them with his nose. Then we moved on to moving them and making the jingle noise. Then I started letting him out when he'd jingle them.
Now he uses them to communicate. It took about three days to teach him this skill. But I created a monster. He wants to go out all the dang time!
I'm definitely not a dog trainer, but he's doing really well with everything we struggled with, and I'm teaching him a lot of new tricks and obedience training.
Now, as cool as it has been to see his growth, I would still have rather started with a puppy like Bru that didn't pee in my house or jump on guests.
Honestly, the training videos I watched weren't just about training dogs. They were about training me!
I have a bad habit of saying, "Come. Come here. Come here, boy. Bru, get over here. Come, come, come." I am my own worst enemy when it comes to training dogs. Now, I can teach my dog just about anything in a day or two. And I'm thinking more about training through the dog's eyes.
Wouldn't it be nice if your adopted dog already came with a handy set of skills?
Evansville Rescue Dogs Will Get Free Training Before Adoption
Now, select dogs from ITV will start working with a professional trainer before and after adoption.
The Ruff Cut Training Co. announced last week that it was partnering with It Takes a Village No-Kill Rescue and will be working one-on-one with select rescue dogs to help build their confidence, improve their manners, and teach valuable skills that can help prepare them for life in their future homes.
When the dogs in the program find their family, The Ruff Cut will be working with the family to receive a free 45-minute training session. The family will learn what the dog has been taught and how to continue their training.
"I’m incredibly excited to combine my love for dog training with the opportunity to give back to dogs in our community who are still waiting for their person. I’ll be sharing some of the dogs I get the privilege of working with, their progress, and of course celebrating when they find their forever homes! Here’s to stronger skills, smoother transitions, and more successful adoptions!" -The Ruff Cut
Dog Training Can Help More Rescue Dogs Find Homes
This is huge for adoptable dogs and their families. Dogs that have some basic skills are less likely to be brought back to the shelter. Dogs can be a LOT, but if there is support, folks are more likely to save a life.
Adopt a Rescue Dog in Evansville
It Takes a Village has a ton of adoptable and foster dogs waiting for a family. Check out their Facebook page and Petfinder listings to meet your new best friend.
Doggie Treat Guide
- They’re often free but can vary by location and employee. Ask - don't assume.
- Some places may charge a small fee for the cup itself.
- Make an additional purchase, don't just roll up and expect something for free.
- Always ask politely at the window or counter. Most baristas or carhops love handing them out.
- Dairy and sugar can upset dog tummies and should be enjoyed in moderation.
- Dogs must be kept leashed and outside, with the exception of service dogs.
Gallery Credit: Ashley S
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