Social Pups Pack Walks

This group is designed for those wishing to have set schedules for socialization activities for their dogs. Did you know that socialization is one of the five enrichment needs that every dog needs to feel balanced and happy? It's time we start to shape our dog's livlihoods for success. This group is to empower, motivate, and connect as we venture off into the wilds of Northern Alabama and Southern Tennessee.

If your dog wears a muzzle and you're working with a trainer, please bring them. Is your dog a little uneasy and prefers to alert you to every newcomer wanting to say hello, then bring them. Is your dog a social butterfly? Maybe they want to greet everyone even if it's unsolicited? Bring them. Maybe you're just in it to pet the dogs and have no dog ofyour own? Well, come and show your support. No matter your dog's socialization journey, you're welcome.

If your dog tends to show any of these behaviors, please allow extra space (15-50ft): barking, whining, overly reactive to various stimui, unsure or uneasy, holds up their front paw, licks their lips, looks to you for assurance, naturally reacts and veers off into the direction movement or sounds, turns their head when faced with eye contact, hackles raised, intently moving/ pulling on lead towards the ones around (this is reactivity by definition), or shows other symptoms of stress then give them space. We want them to respond and be able to take treats while still noticing stimuli.

Did you also know that dogs use play to alert others in the nearby area that the area is safe? YES! Use play, squeaky toys, treats, tug, chase, recall games, and other rewards to ensure that your pup is engaged with you, then do it.

This group is for everyone.

If you need further guidance, please read 'Control Unleashed' as this author delves into the nitty-gritty of handling. Patricia McConnell is a competition sports dog trainer who exclusively gets highly reactive dogs ready for sport competition. She uses games and movement to help any dog, so learning how to not only handle your dog, but also handle them without so many treats involved, is still a proven system.

I want you and your dog to have fun. Isn't that why we got them? Having fun, socializing with peers, learning to engage and provide opportunities to anyone willing to thrive with their companions is what we are for.

Rain or shine (extreme weather conditions omitted)

Schedules help dogs that are a little more antsy than most, which is why we meet rain or shine. Your dog knows what day and time it is, and this circadian rhythm helps to define the criteria to make a calm dog. If they know what to anticipate than they will relate.

We will meet in areas that are within 1.5-2 hours of the Madison/Huntsville area, and this usually includes a nearby waterway (creeks, waterfalls) because while this is 'work' for your dog, having opportunities to cool down keeps these behaviors maintained because your dog can't perform if they are not ready.

I will always be there 15 minutes early to answer any questions you may have about handling your dog on the trail (using LIMA, operant conditioning methods, and positive reinforcement) to ensure that we have a great time.

If at any point you don't feel safe or you're not able to advocate for your dog, please message me. Advocacy means to have the ability to offer your dog choices, and if they don't want to be pet or approached, you have the right to say no.

You have the rest of your dog's life to get this down, so don't rush the process and don't feel pressured. Offering choices through advocacy is what this is about.

Please come join us!