Passion Fur Paws Dog Training

07/09/2025

We’re practicing our “leave it” skills with food on the floor — an important part of therapy dog training, especially for visits to nursing homes where dropped food can be unsafe. Our pups are doing an AMAZING job mastering this skill! 🐾👏

07/09/2025

We’re learning how to be on our best behavior in social settings as part of our therapy dog training! 🐾 Follow along as we grow into confident, well-mannered therapy dogs ready to spread comfort and joy! 💛

06/29/2025

🚨 Heat Stroke in Dogs: What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know This Summer

As the summer sun blazes on, so do the risks for our four-legged companions—especially when it comes to heat stroke. At Passion Fur Paws, we’re not just passionate about training dogs—we’re dedicated to keeping them safe, healthy, and thriving. Heat stroke is a silent danger that can escalate quickly, and every responsible dog owner needs to recognize the signs and know how to respond.

🌡️ What is Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Heat stroke (also called hyperthermia) occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises above a safe level, typically 104°F (40°C) or higher. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat to cool off—instead, they pant and rely on limited sweat glands in their paw pads. When temperatures soar or humidity is high, these cooling methods become ineffective, and the result can be life-threatening.

⚠️ Warning Signs of Heat Stroke

Time is critical. Watch for:
• Excessive panting or drooling
• Bright red or pale gums
• Rapid heartbeat
• Weakness or collapse
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Glassy eyes or confusion
• Seizures (in severe cases)

If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, act fast. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.

🐶 Who’s Most at Risk?

While any dog can suffer from heat stroke, some are at greater risk:
• Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers)
• Seniors and puppies
• Overweight dogs
• Dogs with thick or dark coats
• Working dogs or high-energy breeds during outdoor activity

🚫 Dangerous Scenarios

Even well-meaning dog owners can underestimate summer heat. Be extra cautious in situations like:
• Leaving your dog in a parked car (even for a few minutes!)
• Outdoor walks during peak heat (10am–4pm)
• Running or biking with your dog on hot pavement
• Long training sessions in full sun without shade or water

✅ How to Prevent Heat Stroke

At Passion Fur Paws, we modify training routines during hot weather to keep our dogs cool and focused. Here’s what you can do too:
• Walk early in the morning or after sunset
• Always bring water on walks
• Use cooling vests or mats
• Provide shaded rest areas
• Never leave your dog in the car
• Watch humidity—it makes heat harder to handle

💡 Emergency Action Steps

If you suspect heat stroke:
1. Move your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area immediately
2. Use cool—not cold—water to wet their body (especially belly, paws, armpits)
3. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink (not ice)
4. Go to the vet right away

Waiting it out is not an option—delayed treatment can lead to organ damage or death.

⸻

At Passion Fur Paws, we believe a well-trained dog is a safe dog—but safety always comes first. Keep an eye on the temperature, adapt your training routines, and know the signs of heat stroke. Let’s make this a safe and happy summer—for you and your canine companion. 🐾☀️

06/27/2025

https://contigodogs.com/blogs/news/5-easy-enrichment-ideas-you-can-do-at-home

5 Easy and Enriching Activities You Can Do at Home with Your Dog Keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated is just as important as regular walks and belly rubs. Luckily, dog enrichment doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. With a little creativity (and some treats), you can keep you...

06/23/2025

If anyone is available today - Alison Demaris and Champ are doing a vacation Bible school event where the mascot is a dog and they wanted a couple therapy dogs for the kids to meet and learn about. It’s from 1-2 today. If you’re available to join the address is
200 W Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823

06/14/2025

Passion Fur Paws is back in action training these amazing pups how to be the BEST therapy dogs ever!!! Great job tonight Toto and Frankie! You guys did amazing!!! Duke joined our training as well, learning how to be the bestest boy!
Quick note: as these pups get more comfortable we’ll be opening outings up to previous clients of Passion Fur Paws as well! Stay tuned!

03/19/2025

For everyone that has recently added a furry family member to the family - here is a FUN way to participate and encourage proper socialization! Have fun with it!!!

Dog Socialization Scavenger Hunt

Purpose: To safely expose your dog to new experiences, people, animals, sounds, and environments to support confident, well-rounded behavior.

✅ People & Interactions
* Meet a person wearing a hat or sunglasses
* Greet someone using a wheelchair, walker, or cane
* Observe a child riding a bicycle or scooter (from a safe distance)
* Walk past a jogger or group of people
* Interact with a person carrying an umbrella or large bag

✅ Animals & Other Dogs
* Walk calmly past another dog on leash
* Watch a squirrel or bird without lunging
* Visit a pet-friendly store or park with animal smells
* Observe a cat from a safe distance (if possible)

✅ Surfaces & Textures
* Walk on gravel
* Walk on metal grates or manhole covers
* Walk on sand or dirt
* Walk across a wooden bridge or deck
* Step on a rubber mat or tarp

✅ Sounds & Noises
* Hear a doorbell or knock on a door
* Walk near traffic or a busy street
* Hear loud construction sounds (jackhammers, trucks)
* Hear a vacuum cleaner or lawn mower
* Experience sudden noises (dropping a metal bowl, loud clap)

✅ Objects & Obstacles
* Walk past shopping carts
* Observe balloons or flags blowing in the wind
* Explore a stroller or skateboard
* Pass by a bicycle rack or trash bins
* Walk under a hanging banner or through a tunnel (child play tunnel or agility tunnel)

✅ Locations & Environments
* Visit a pet-friendly store (e.g., Home Depot, Pet Supply Store)
* Walk through a park with playground equipment
* Sit outside a café or restaurant patio
* Visit a busy sidewalk or downtown area
* Ride briefly in an elevator or walk up/down stairs

✅ Handling & Grooming Practice
* Let someone else gently touch paws, ears, and tail
* Practice brushing and wiping paws
* Practice being lifted (small dogs) or guided through a narrow space
* Wear a harness, raincoat, or booties for a few minutes

Instructions for Owners:
* Keep all interactions positive and controlled — reward calm behavior with praise and treats.
* Do not force interactions; allow your dog to explore at their own pace.
* Repeat exposures regularly to reinforce confidence.
* If your dog shows fear or hesitation, create more distance and proceed gradually.

03/19/2025

Welcoming a New Puppy: Essential Tips for a Happy Start

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it also comes with a set of responsibilities that require careful preparation and patience. To ensure your furry friend grows into a well-adjusted and happy companion, consider these essential tips from my book, Starting Your Puppy Off on the Right Paw.

1. Establish a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, and your puppy will feel more secure if they know what to expect. Establish regular times for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and training sessions. Consistency helps build good habits and reduces anxiety in young dogs.

2. Create a Safe Space
A designated area, such as a crate or a playpen, provides your puppy with a safe, comfortable space to rest. This not only aids in house training but also prevents destructive behavior when you cannot supervise them.

3. Begin Socialization Early
Puppies are most adaptable between 3 to 16 weeks of age. Introduce them to various environments, people, and other pets in a controlled manner to help build their confidence and prevent fear-based behaviors later in life.

4. Prioritize Positive Reinforcement Training
Using positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, encourages good behavior and strengthens your bond with your puppy. Avoid punishment-based training, as it can lead to fear and anxiety.

5. Invest in Quality Nutrition
Feeding your puppy a balanced diet is crucial for their growth and development. Consult your veterinarian to choose the best food based on their breed, size, and specific needs.

6. Schedule Regular Veterinary Visits
Routine vet check-ups ensure your puppy receives necessary vaccinations, parasite prevention, and overall health monitoring. Early detection of health concerns can save you stress and costly treatments in the future.

7. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation
Puppies are naturally curious and energetic. Engage them with interactive toys, short training sessions, and regular exercise to keep their minds and bodies active. Boredom can lead to unwanted behaviors, so enrichment is key.

8. Be Patient and Understanding
Raising a puppy takes time and effort. Accidents and mistakes will happen, but patience and consistency will lead to a well-mannered adult dog. Embrace the process and celebrate small victories along the way.

For a deeper dive into preparing for your new furry friend, Starting Your Puppy Off on the Right Paw provides comprehensive guidance to help you navigate this exciting journey. With the right approach, your puppy will develop into a loving and well-behaved companion, bringing joy to your life for years to come.

03/07/2025

02/11/2025

**Pending adoptor approval**
We are looking for Duke’s perfect person. Duke is 3, his birthday is in June, he has the same parents as Scouty. He’s a sweet boy, loves cuddles and should be an only dog or in a home with a female dog, he loves kids and gets along with cats. Duke knows basic commands, sit, down, shake, here, and a very basic stay command.
When we first rescued him, he needed months of treatment to put weight on and get his skin to heal. He had severe ear infections to the point you couldn’t see his ear canal at all, he had elephant gray skin where his fur had fallen off because he was left outside and had a yeast infection all over his entire body. He was also pretty shy, as he was abused by the owners and you can tell they would grab his collar to hit him. He’s gone through extensive collar touch training so you can now guide him by the color and he walks well on a leash.
We are prepared to provide free training through his transition into a new home until he’s comfortable and we will keep him at no cost when the new owner needs to go on vacation or away for a night. Any interested person should be 100% certain they are ready as we will not have Duke bounce around. He’s too sweet for that. We ask for a vet reference and we would do a meet and greet, then an overnight visit and if all goes well, he would be ready to start his new life with his forever family.

11/30/2024

Happy birthday to my canine partner in crime, my protector, and my canine best friend. Out of all the dogs I’ve had, I’ve never had one quite like him. He has learned how to react to me and to do what I need from him automatically while we’re out in public together. He has taught me patience, understanding, and how to handle a stubborn and sassy pup. He’s pushed me, and pushed his limits and is quite the diva. His personality is bigger than most humans. Lol
He is happy to wear any hat I ask him to whether it’s being an example for class, going to therapy outings, doing protection work, or being by my side protecting me doing his main job of service dog.
Happy 4th birthday buddy! I love you and appreciate you SO much!!

08/31/2024