With the assistance of my friend and colleague, Jo Ragen see below for my first infographic on the often unspoken stage that we all experience when we love and share our life with a dog ...that is not just a dog.

What to do when death causes a physical break in the connection between a human and a dog?

This infographic was created on behalf of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers Australia (www.APDT.com.au) and Blackdog Wear (www.blackdog.net.au) to help raise the awareness of the use of positive reinforcement training and the use of humane training equipment and methods. 

Dr Paul Weiss, (a paediatric dentist) has a dog called Brooke that aids in calming his clients. It's been reported that the dog only attends the clinic one day per week and except for this photo usually sits on the floor to be patted by specific children.
Visiting only one day per week is good news as far as the dog is concerned as research shows cortsiol levels remain heightened in dogs when they are involved in therapy work on consecutive or multiple days per week putting their welfare at risk. Besides needing to have a dog that is very touch oriented and loves it's head being patted very much, it would be interesting to know how long it stays with each patient and if this is forced or if it can go away of its own accord and how long the days are.
....Love one of the comments from someone that said the dog's name should be 'Fang'.

Easter gathering - Open invite to all dog enthusiasts. Come with or without your dog for a fun, relaxing day in the sun. 11.30-3pm, Matraville NSW. Click here to RSVP. BBQ, music and dog related activities will be available on the day. We will also be celebrating the accomplishments of the people and dogs associated with Competent K9 in a short presentation from 12.30-1pm.

I am so grateful for dogs, music, dance but even more excited about the fact that well established services are valuing the role of recreation and play in achieving goals and contributing to the quality of life of individuals. On behalf of Competent K9 I just want to highlight, celebrate and thank the staff with whom I had interactions with at the Ella Centre, Haberfield. The work that...