Sit Means Sit Hawaii Newsletter
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April 2010
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Dear Dog Lovers,,
Welcome to our Sit Means Sit Hawaii Newsletter.
Each month we strive to share content that is of value and interest. We believe in education and raising awareness when it comes to all aspects of dog ownership. This month we are discussing arguably one of the most popular breeds in Hawaii, the Pit Bull.
We thank you in advance for committing to read and implement the content in this months Newsletter. Our goal remains to continually share ways to enhance your relationship with your dog. Like each of you, we love our dogs and only want the best for them.
Happy Training and Aloha, 
Scott
Scott Sanchez
President
Sit Means Sit Hawaii
Vice President Research & Development
Sit Means Sit Franchise Inc.
  
As seen on Animal Planet, The Outdoor Channel, EPSN
Please call us with your questions 283-DOGS
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What Do You Think About Pitbulls?
By Leonard Letoto
| Last year a hot topic in our
local news was the banning of the Pit Bull breed here in Hawaii. This was basically because
a police officer was attacked by a dog (allegedly a pit bull mix), when ordered
to by the owner. The officer was forced to shoot the dog, but the owner was
arrested.
Because of this incident (in addition to a couple of others) politicians felt compelled to introduce a bill that would make it a misdemeanor to own, possess or sell one of these dogs. I wholeheartedly disagreed with this notion, and it was properly voted down. As a professional Sit Means Sit dog trainer, I've heard the question time and time again:
www.howerphotography.com
 | "What do you think about Pit Bulls?"
My answer is that the Pit Bull is a marvelous breed. As with any other dog, a certain degree of commitment is a given, and proper training is essential to enjoy a well-balanced pet. Generally speaking, when a dog owner takes the time from the beginning, to do what is required, the result is a happy, well-balanced, obedient dog, that behaves well around people and most other dogs. Just as we do not fall in love with every person that crosses our path or enters our life, we know that not every dog is going to be best pals with each other. With that said, we all were taught early on in life, the concept of, "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it." Many call this "showing good manners," we can teach our dogs the exact same lesson. The all too common problem nowadays, is that people get a dog for the wrong reason(s), including:
1. My friend has/had one
2. I like the way it looks
3. ________has one (fill in the blank with the name of any celebrity)
4. I saw one on television
5. I saw one in a movie
6. They're so cool
What many people don't realize, is that most dogs were bred for a purpose. Before buying one, you should do a little homework to find out what your preferred breed of dog is meant to do.  The information is readily available on the internet, as well as, books and magazines. You may also solicit the opinions of professionals in the industry (e.g. veterinarians or dog trainers) Trust me, it's worth it. The American Pit Bull Terrier is officially called the American Staffordshire Terrier by the American Kennel Club. Every
Dog's Legal Guide, by Mary Randolph, J.D., stated, "Pit bulls, in fact, were the epitome of the all-American dog in the early part of this century. Pete the Pup, in the old "Our Gang" movies, was a pit bull. Teddy Roosevelt had a pit bull in the White House. And on a World War I poster that used dogs to symbolize the various nations, America was a pit bull-stalwart, unafraid, but not belligerent."
I have always strongly maintained that while certain traits can be common to certain breeds, it is ludicrous to try to force the Pit Bull to shoulder the burden for dog bite horror stories. I can say without a doubt that I've been bitten by more small dogs than larger varieties, including Pit Bulls. In fact, in 2008 the Netherlands lifted a 15 year ban on Pit Bulls, citing that there was no reduction in the number of dog biting incidents during the time the ban was active (since1993.)
The following is taken directly from the AKC website: "The Am Staff" is a people-oriented dog that thrives when he is made part of the family and given a job to do. Although friendly, this breed is loyal to his family and will protect them from any threat. His short coat is low-maintenance, but regular exercise and training is necessary." The last sentence in that paragraph is crucial. Some people think they can just buy a dog, tie it up and expect it to be happy just because it's getting food and water.  Nothing could be further from the truth. That's like taking a trained pilot and making him sit in the airport terminal all the time. He's not going to be happy because he's not being allowed to do what he feels he is supposed to be doing, nor is he being set up for success. Rather than bash innocent dogs, I think that we should enact guidelines to ensure the development of more responsible dog owners. Our suggestion would be a simple certification program for new dog (all dogs, not just Pit Bull) buyers/owners, similar to the ones you need to take before purchasing a firearm. If more citizens were knowledgeable in the healthy ways of dog ownership, dog bite incidents would be reduced dramatically. The byproduct of this could easily be a decrease in the number of dogs turned in to shelters due to behavioral problems. Mary Randolph, J.D. also points out in Every Dog's Legal Guide, "Any
dog's temperament is influenced by its breeding, its health, its
socialization, and its environment." Click Here For Entire Article
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Images Of Success
 
Hargrove Place Sit Means Sit
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Trainer's Quick Tip:
How to Maintain a Steady Learning Curve
| T he age or breed of your dog does not matter when it comes to keeping a steady learning curve. One of the most important aspects to continued learning, is to maintain keen awareness of your dogs level of engagement with you. This means keeping a balance and check of your dogs attention to you AKA engagement. Make sure things are both chronologically age appropriate, as well as training age appropriate for your dog. Fun and structure are a major factors at all levels and must always find their way into your relationship with your dog. Starting and finishing each session with with rewarding engagement with your dog is a proven corner stone for a lifetime of steady learning.
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This Month, Sit Means Sit Hawaii Recommends:
The Pet Depot
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 The Pet Depot is a Kama'aina family-owned and operated pet store. They strive to meet the needs of the growing Ewa Beach and the West Oahu communities. At The Pet Depot you know you will always get great quality, a fair price, and unbeatable service. They have provided many families with the "just right" puppy or pet, and hope that you join their many loyal and satisfied customers in making a The Pet Depot in Ewa Beach, your pet store.
Now open at The Pet Depot, the Dirty Dog Garage Self-Serve Dog Washis a convenient way to wash, dry and groom your dog. See their lists of shampoos, conditioners, tools and extras that come with or can be added on to their standard wash package. For more info call 689-PETS or stop in! Click Here To Visit The Pet Depot's Website
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Sit Means Sit Hawaii Testimonials
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"My dogs are now very well behaved
and I feel comfortable taking them
to a dog park and letting them roam off leash around other dogs"
"He is becoming the great companion dog that I always wanted"
"Thank you! You have added 2 hours to my day." |
Picture Of The Month
"Yes, I'm a model." |
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Become A Fan Of Sit Means Sit Hawaii On Facebook
 Post your dog's pictures, or a story about your dog when you become a fan of Sit Means Sit Hawaii on Facebook. Click on our badge to become a fan today!
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| Sit Means Sit Hawaii BONUS Program
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BONUS
PROGRAM
REFER FRIENDS & FAMILY MEMBERS TO:
When you refer friends and family members
who purchase a Sit Means Sit program,
you will receive
$25.00
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