Talk to the Paw

09/04/2026

https://x.com/nichulscher/status/2095964737624289502?s=57

08/29/2026

Shock collars (and other pain causing training equipment) must NEVER be acceptable. Period. When I wrote about this, I received all sorts of responses - and some I address in this story in the link in comments. I can't understate the importance of this. Just as we are on one paw beginning to ban the use of shock collars in dog training in some places, there's a movement to normalize their usage - even coming from a certification council for dog training. Dog owners need to spread the word about the truth of what these pieces of equipment do to our dogs. And many who screamed at my first story on this clearly never read the story or even accept the myriad of evidence of how damaging using shock collars is

08/29/2026

And for those who say "I just use the vibration", I want you to put those prongs on your neck and walk around while I hold the remote and you have NO idea why those keep vibrating on your neck. It is not as awful as a shock, but pretty darn close and disconcerting, to say the least!

08/23/2026

Did you know one of the simplest ways to make your dog happier is to let them sniff?
A 2025 study showed that dogs who spent just two weeks doing daily nose work approached new situations with greater optimism, confidence and curiosity.
Why? Because sniffing isn’t just how dogs explore the world; I t’s how they think, solve problems, and satisfy one of their most important natural instincts.
Every walk doesn’t have to be about covering distance. Slow, strolling “sniffaris,” scent games, hidden treats, and nose work activities give your dog’s brain the enrichment it craves while helping reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your dog’s mental health is simply giving them permission to stop... sniff... and experience the world the way nature intended. 🐾
🐾 Let your dog lead the next walk. You might be surprised how much happier you both become.

08/23/2026

08/02/2026

Twice this week I have received emails requesting more information about my dog training that left me a little concerned. I always answer and suggest a pro bono 15 minute phone call. But these two were very complimentary, overly so, and when they answered me about the phone call, they asked for zoom instead. The first one I lucked out...they were 10 minutes late before I decided to decline and let them know that. I also could not find anything about them online. The second was very similar in tone, and I cannot find anyone in this town, with "small children" by that name. So, I went online and found this:

"Zoom scams often involve fake meeting invitations that, when clicked, can download malware onto your device. Always verify the sender and create your own meeting links instead of clicking on links from unknown sources."