In Honor of National Train Your Dog Month, Assisi Animal Health Shares Training Insights & Expertise

PINEHURST, N.C., Jan. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Assisi Animal Health, creator of the Assisi Loop®, an effective non-pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory device (NPAID®) that works as a PEMF therapy for animals to reduce pain and inflammation, offers insights and expertise on proper training techniques.

Most pet owners are aware of the obvious needs required for proper pet care, such as food, water, and shelter, however the need for proper training is often not considered a "necessity." In truth, dogs are intelligent, eager to please and their training is a critical part of their ability to receive proper mental stimulation as well as learning to function in their "human pack." Well-trained canine companions not only become more enjoyable pets, but training also helps to meet the intellectual and emotional needs of canines. Advanced training for some breeds that love to "work," such as Border Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Labrador Retrievers, is truly essential to satisfy their hard-wired drive for purpose.

Regardless of their breed, many pet owners are surprised to find their pet actually enjoys training sessions and the experience fosters a positive human /dog connection. (A relationship Assisi Animal Health defines as one of the best life has to offer!) There are many levels of canine training – from basic to competitive levels, however, there are some universal rules that maximize the training experience, provide safety and help achieve positive results.

Be consistent. This is perhaps the most important tip. No matter what training method is being implemented, consistency is key. Much like raising toddlers, our canine companions respond positively when they are consistently reinforced and they are met with the same corrections for their mistakes. It is also helpful to ensure all family members are involved in the training process and use the same terms, rules. Dogs are smart – they learn quickly who enforces the "no couch" rule and who does not!

Be concise. Give your command one time only using a strong voice. Dogs are sensitive to tone and inflection, so a firm voice is more likely to be obeyed. This, of course, does not mean yelling or angry tones. A firm, direct command is far more powerful and constructive and will not undermine your connection.

Choose the proper time. Tired, hungry, or distracted dogs are not ready to learn. Selecting quiet times in which engaging and being ready to listen will work best. Be sure to limit sessions to about 15 minutes to keep the dog focused.

Be positive. Enthusiastic praise helps pets understand when they are getting it right! Rewards such as verbal praise, a simple pat on the head or a "good boy!" all contribute to the positive reinforcement model. A word of caution on the treats - while it is great to reward a dog with a small treat once in a while, do not ONLY reward with treats. It can condition a dog to only respond when a treat is in sight, not to mention add a few extra pounds of "dog" to train!

Assisi Animal Health's clinical solutions complete the Circle of Care®—the collaboration of veterinarians and owners in animal health and healing. Assisi strives to help veterinary professionals and owners improve the quality of life for companion animals using the Assisi Loop, the non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical healing device that is based on the same FDA-cleared technology used on humans. The device uses low-level pulses of electromagnetic energy to reduce pain and swelling, and to enhance recovery.

Media Contact:Kaysie Dannemiller, Assisi Animal Health, 866-830-7342, kaysie.dannemiller@assisianimalhealth.com

News distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.prnewswire.com

SOURCE Assisi Animal Health