Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Farley (9 1/2 y/o IWS) had his left rear leg amputated due to OS on September 20th, 2023. Once he finished his chemotherapy and follow-up blood work in January showed a normal white count, I started him in Nosework (NW) classes
In NW, dogs learn to find various scents (birch, clove and anise) by pairing those scents with treats (hot dog bits for Farley); we usually start with treats in boxes and then scents with treats in boxes and then scents in boxes (the dog is immediately rewarded with treats when s/he finds the box with the scent). This is basically how most search dogs are initially trained using scent from their target (such as bombs, drugs, etc)
When the dog clearly understands it is searching for scents (usually introduce one scent such as birch at a time), we expand the searches to various containers (boxes, backpacks, lunchboxes, etc), indoor areas (library, office, playroom, etc), outdoor areas and vehicles (scent hidden on the outside of the vehicles)
The scents used are obtained from a central source so they are always the same; the scent is put on a short Q-tip and then in a closed (but with air holes) container which is often magnetic
NW is an ideal activity for disabled dogs; they can be handled on or off leash (obviously on lead when outdoors).
Below is a recent room search by Farley looking for scents paired with treats
Christine
So much fun watching Farley enjoy showing off his skill! He really is having a ,good time.......and we are having a good time watching him! It looks to me like Farley has figured oit this "game" very well!!
You BOTH are doing a great job!
Thank you for taking the time to share so much detail of what nose work involves. Fascinating.
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
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