Eight

This month Griffin turns eight months old and Blaze is now eight years old. This also means that I have been 'in' dogs for eight years.

It is so much easier to be a dog owner in 2009.

• There are more resources available. Easy to understand and professional books/videos for pet dog training and competition training. (Check out Dogwise and CleanRun).
• The increase of resources means that more libraries have some of these materials, making them even more accessible for everyone.
• Opportunities for training have increased. I can find piles of 'positive' dog training classes within a reasonable driving distance. This does not guarantee that I will be getting that type of instruction, but it's a change.
• Quality of training has increased. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior has released position statements about dominance in theory and the use of punishment in training. Scientific journals have had numerous articles about details in training and how methods may increase or decrease problems or success.
• There are many more trials (somewhat) locally available for people to compete in, even with mix breed dogs.
  
• More 'higher quality' food, treats, toys, and supplies are easily available. It was impossible to find some of the things that are now sold in every pet supply store now!
  

But where will things be when Griffin is eight years old? More on that next time!