This week, KGW News at Sunrise is going to the dogs!
Tuesday
Tim Gordon talked with Oregon Humane Society’s expert in training, Tanya Roberts. A behavior specialist with OHS for 20 years, Tanya demonstrated different issues in dog training with the help of Hawk. From harnesses and leads, sit, down, recall, and getting your pooch to come to you, it all takes a lot of praise. Watch Tanya and Hawk in action below:
If you’re interested in OHS training, one-on-one help, or free seminars for your furry friend, visit the OHS website.
Wednesday
Tim talked to OHS veterinarian Kristi Ellis about keeping your pooch safe on Halloween.
Most people know that chocolate isn’t good for dogs because it makes them sick. If they get a little they should be OK, but more than that could really be trouble.
Dog parents also need be cautious of Xylitol, a sweetener being used in gums and candy that is very bad for Fido. Ellis said do your part, check the labels, and keep all human treats out of your dog's paws.
Ellis also talked about how to keep your dog away from the chaos of trick or treaters, and about costume safety.
Bonus coverage: Here's Tim's dog Lulu in a tutu!
Thursday
Adding a dog to the family shouldn't’ be a rushed decision. But if you and your family are ready, Healy said these are things you should consider:
What size of dog do you want? Low or high energy? Puppy or older dog? What are the costs of caring for a new furry friend? The bottom line: Look at who you are (and who your family is) to find a dog that fits your lifestyle.
Friday
Tim headed to one of Guide Dogs for the Blind main campuses in Boring, Ore. It’s a beautiful place where trainers work with the dogs after they’ve been socialized in volunteer foster homes for a year. This is also where the visually impaired and blind come to train with their future canines before leaving as a team. Watch his story.
During Tim’s visit he met April, a senior trainer, who was working with a blonde lab named Leo. He also met Jake who has been severely impaired since birth. He now works for GDB and is also an outreach alumni ambassador with his partner Forli, a black lab.
“I was inspired by these people, the dogs and by the Guide Dogs for the Blind organization. Truly a fitting finish to Bark Week to look at these canine companions, that as everyday heroes, provide so much more to the human in their life!” Tim said.