04/13/2026
As a trainer, Brett was always a huge advocate for muzzle training. He viewed it as protection for your dog first and secondly for other dogs and humans. He would say that once your dog learns a puncture can get them out of a situation, a learned behavior can form; therefore, he believed in taking the proactive step to train. When you know you're putting your dog in a stressful situation, you can protect them. With no breed limits, he would include this in his puppy training. Human management involves being proactive, not reactive.
I like to think of it this way: if your dog is injured and going into the vet clinic, say it has a cut and needs stitches, it's already upset. The vet having to muzzle the dog for the first time is going to add even more stress. However, if the dog is already familiar with having a muzzle on its face, it's one less thing to worry about, and it gives the vet clinic the safety to do their job with ease.
He also always believed muzzle training should be a slow, gentle, simple process for success.
Today, I know he would be proud of me and Xenia. I've been working with her on this new muzzle from Muzzle Movement for the past month; this was her first time wearing it for a longer period at her annual appointment. She did amazing. You can see in the photo her eyes are wide, her ears are back; the vet clinic is stressful for this livestock guard dog.
Thank you, Avon Animal Hospital, for always taking the time to make our non-social dogs feel as comfortable as possible. Back-door guest as best 🤭. Xenia made it through the check-up without a bark or grumble.
Also, I can't say enough about this brand of muzzle (muzzle movement); it's measured to fit her face perfectly. The typical ones seen in pet stores didn't get a good fit for her wide head. Lacked comfort nose guards. It gives her the space to have a full stress yawn, a removable scavenger guard so she can drink and get those reward treats. Hands down the most ethical on the market I’ve come across! (Brett would likely be less proud I started her training with hot dogs, but Capos' favorite treat was a Cheesie, so I mentally let it slide) 🤣❤️🐾❤️ Muzzle Movement