Aware

My boyfriend and I love horseback riding, but he just ends up in so much pain 'down below'....is there riding apparel that will give him more support and cushioning?

Thanks :)

These questions are based on dogs that have grown up with treat-training.

1) Have you ever had an instance where you've given your dog a command, but had to repeat it because the dog did not obey even though you're holding a treat?

2) Have you ever let your dog off-leash and had to repeat the recall command more than once?

3)If you answered 'yes' to either 1 or 2, do you feel that a treat gives you complete control over a dog if/when his life would depend it?

(for example, for what ever reason, the dog gets free and is running toward a busy street, do you think you'd have to repeat the command to stop or recall if something more interesting than a treat intrigued him?) That repetition could mean life or death for your dog.

I'm asking this because I often hear owners at off-leash dog parks constantly repeating commands until their dogs finally listen, and then they reward with a treat. I don't believe that's safe at all, but the majority of treat-trainers out there simply 'expect' it, like it's normal for all dogs not to listen the first time they're asked.

Saw on the news that over 500 dogs were rescued from a meat market in China. http://www.vancouversun.com/life/After+hour+stando...

Why do they eat dogs? Don't they have the knowledge to know that these animals have been our companions for ages and ages?

If it's a cultural tradition, I can respect that, but I CANNOT accept the horrid conditions in which these dogs are kept before being slaughtered. Horrid is an understatement.

I've noticed a lot of negativity when it comes to discussing Brad's methods, but I personally was trained by him and know for a fact that he NEVER uses any forms of abuse. Yes, I saw the video that looped the so called 'smacking' the dog in the face....which of course is blown way out of proportion by all the people who watched it and made ASSUMPTIONS. The technique he used in that video has nothing to do with hitting, slapping or smacking. What he's actually doing is BRUSHING the dog's fur the wrong way across its head, while being careful not to touch eyes or the delicate nose. It is a quick, precise movement which, to uneducated dog owners, can seem like he's hitting the dog. Both of my dogs were unruly and could never go for hikes off leash, but since working with Brad both my dogs are worlds better and one of them can now go off leash and will listen to me EVERY time. My other dog still needs some more training, but he will certainly be able to go off leash in the future, it will just take more time and effort on my part.

My question is for those who have DIRECT experience with Brad Pattison OR with one of his CET's.... What was your experience, and how did it affect you and your dog?

People who haven't even met him, or who are 'speaking' on behave of a friend who has, please keep your answers to yourself.

My friend is on his way to the vet as I type this but he lives in the country and has a good drive ahead of him. He woke up this morning and his 9 month old Rottweiler, Carlie, couldn't urinate and kept throwing up. Carlie has all her shots and was in great health up until today. Any information or knowledge about this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

In Toronto, Canada, a dog owner must pick up its dog's poop when on public property. I completely agree with this. I have two dogs of my own and its my responsibility to clean up after them.

But my question is: Why don't Mounted Police have to pick up their horse's poo? They even make special "bags" that fit under a horse's tail to "catch" the poop, so the police wouldn't even have to dismount! I think its disgusting for tourists who are strolling around downtown Toronto, only to walk right into a huge pile of horse poo!

I have a 1 year old neutered male Boston Terrier. I recently(3weeks ago) got a 9 week old Olde English Bulldogge pup. The two dogs love each other, they're practically inseparable! But just these last few days, my Boston has started to randomly pee on me. At first, I thought it was maybe because I was so tired and missed his signs of wanting to go outside. But just this evening he has peed on me 3 times! He has been outside plenty of times, so I know for a fact that it doesn't have to do with that. I have a feeling this is all somehow related to the pup, but I have no idea how to fix this problem. Any insight is greatly appreciated!

I always notice Red Tailed Hawks wherever I go, even in the downtown core of Toronto. I would like to know what this means or symbolizes. I've always felt a strong pull toward nature and am learning to walk the Red Path now.

Any words of wisdom and guidance are deeply appreciated!

Does anyone know what the black jaguar may symbolize in dreams, and also in different cultures?

An older blind woman was calling out for help on the subway, saying that this was her stop, and she needed someone to help her get up to the streets. I watched as people moved out of her way as she felt around for someone to help. I was sickened that everyone tried to avoid her touch! When she came to me with hands stretched out, I took them in my own hands and led her to where she needed to go. HOW COULD SO MANY PEOPLE BE SO CRUEL & HURTFUL?

I couldn't believe what I had witnessed. I know that many people let their ego or pride stop them from humbling themselves to help the needy, but don't they realize that one day they are the ones that may need that help?