This is one of my favorite animal training tips: reward for calm. Relaxed on a mat, a great time to reward. Easier said than done, yes!...

Heidi Skievaski, owner of Sublime Gardens , wrote a fantastic blog on the topic: Creating Sensory Gardens for Dogs: A Haven of...

Question: Should I take my house-trained, crate-trained dog with me on vacation? Answer: It depends. If you do, make sure to set them...

Question: Are you having difficulty with a barking, jumping, or lunging dog? Do you suspect this may be partly your fault because you...

Question: Will certain breeds of dog defy your attempts to teach them basic manners? Are Shih Tzus too stubborn? Frenchies too willful?...

To me, training is all about developing a solid way of communicating with animals, paying attention to what they are saying with their...

To me, training is all about developing a solid way of communicating with animals, paying attention to what they are saying with their...

Recently I taught a class at Edmonds College’s Creative Retirement Institute on Animal Behavior: How to Have a Happier Life With Your...

Recently, I had a client ask me what I thought about invisible fences. They were not surprised to hear that I am not a fan.  One concern...

At Shel Graves Animal Consulting, we seek to create a Culture of Compassion and encourage awareness of our Divine connection. We want all...

The holidays are coming. There are going to be a lot of new foods, new people, new decorations, and new things around your house. If you...

Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog by Zazie Todd is the book (and the knowledge) I wish I had had...

Oh my goodness. Ears flying. Tongue lolling. Wiggling. Jumping. Spinning. Is there anything better than a dog who is happy and excited?...

Hello, I’m celebrating six months as Shel Graves Animal Consulting, Doing Our Best for Animals. Six months in business, woo hoo! The time...

I have listened to a number of webinars and podcasts on the topic of whether dog breed affects behavior. A favorite is the Enrichment for...

Recently, I wrote a review of Dr. Mikel Maria Delgado’s new book Play With Your Cat! published in 2024. Short review: I recommend it! Is...

I have had and worked with a number of dogs who, prior to coming to live with me, spent way too much time confined in a crate. So, I...

Instead of fenceline running on your walk, try this instead: Take another route! Cross the street. Avoid this interaction. Go quickly by....

Shel Graves Animal Consulting will be speaking in-person at Everett Public Library. How to Make Your Dog or Cat Happier will be 2 pm,...

Shel Graves Animal Consulting will be at the Sno-Isle Food Co-op 3-5 pm, Sat., Sept. 14 for a free workshop on Fun Activities for Happy...