family
Tara’s Animal Kingdom
Tara And Puppy Pack Take A Staycation Summering local lets you enjoy some downtime with your pets. Tara Bassett shares experiences and advice that add up to a perfect day for both of you.
We often walk Frankfort Avenue a couple of times a day, greeting friends and shop-owners alike, many of whom generously put out bowls of water. The Pack usually takes long, restorative naps if I have projects, but afternoons can be spent at Bernheim Forest or the Parklands at Floyd’s Fork, hiking and dipping in the streams. Evenings, you’re likely to find us at one of the animal fundraisers that Louisville supports. Here are a few outings and activities that they enjoy as much as I do.
118 TOPS LOUISVILLE | june 2017
Extensive research and trusted recommendations led me to an experienced trainer named Doug Rountree, who came to my home and worked with my three monkeys. Doug is a Master Trainer and Behavioral Therapist for Bark Busters Dog Training. This Australian process is much more than its name implies. Rushing the door, going wild for a squirrel, lunging – all these behaviors and more are addressed within the first visit. Doug Rountree has trained over 2,000 pets since kicking off his Bark Busters franchise in 2006 – and my Brady was one of his first students. It’s a positive reinforcement training method, where you learn to “speak dog.” Basic puppy training is in demand and one flat rate, will provide you with training sessions until your furry little rascal “gets it.”
Doug will warn you that thorough follow-up on the part of the owner is essential to achieve continued success. Ten to fifteen minutes a day of reinforcement training by you produces incredible results. Bark Busters is guaranteed for the life of the dog, provided it stays with you, and Doug will return whenever the dog is not responsive to the simple command, “Bah!” Mike Brockman, DVM, feels strongly that Bark Busters is a success, considering that his long-time patient, Brady Ramon, turned from a “giant misbehaving six-month-old toddler into a calm, obedient companion.” (For more information about Doug Rountree, Master Trainer, Behavioral Therapist, call 1-877-500-BARK.)
Photo by Jolea Brown
A
few days off during the summer are an opportunity to spend quality time with your four-legged kids. On a typical extended weekend, you’ll find me and my puppy pack at the old River Road Country Club early in the day to avoid heat exhaustion-- especially for fetch-crazy Wyatte.
Shopping, dining and walking together ETIQUETTE is always more fun if CLASS your dog has great manners. If your pet’s behavior could use a little fine-tuning, there are plenty of in-town options available that can help little Miss (or Mr.) Chews-a-Lot become a properly socialized family member.