need a little more space.” Keith is there to meet people and their dogs, along with Chris Ramsay, owner of the Shaker Hound Academy. After a short introduction, Keith or Chris will indicate several dogs to start off. The rest of the pack follows in a single file. Dogs do not physically interact with each other at any time, teaching them that there is a time for play and a time for walking without the expectation of interacting. Keith encourages the dog owners to use whatever training tools they find work for them. There’s no judgment if your dog wears a prong collar or an E collar. “From the beginning I wanted the walk to be inclusive. The important thing is that the owners come and work with their dogs. We’re working together as a group,
regardless of training style.” Retractable leashes are not permitted, however. The dogs must be maintained close to their owners throughout the walk and these don’t allow you to have enough control. Many walkers bring water for their pets, as the walks last about an hour around the lake and it can get warm. There are several rest stops along the way where the dogs can rehydrate but also learn to sit or lay down and relax in the presence of other dogs. Bags for cleaning up after your pet are also necessary. During the hour-long excursion, Keith and Chris will direct several exercises to increase the dogs’ ability to be in control in proximity to each other. “In the beginning it started off just as a walk. But we’ve been
Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland
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