Maureen Backman, the founder of The Muzzle Up! Project is officially “retiring” from this wonderful initiative to pursue other endeavors. She has graciously handed off The Muzzle Up! Project and all of its social media accounts to Michael Shikashio CDBC. We wish Maureen all the best as she continues to pursue her dreams! Her efforts have impacted the lives of … Read More
Muzzle Q and A: Heidi Steinbeck, CTC, CPDT-KA
Next up in our Muzzle Q and A series for Muzzle Awareness Month is Heidi Steinbeck, owner of Great Shakes Dog Training. Heidi is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Certified in Training and Counseling (CTC) through the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers developed by Jean Donaldson. In addition to private and day training, she is involved in education services to Chew Dog Rescue … Read More
Muzzle Q and A: Jean Donaldson
As part of Muzzle Awareness Month, The Muzzle Up! Project is publishing a series of interviews with noted dog trainers and behaviorists. Up first is Jean Donaldson, founder of The Academy for Dog Trainers and award-winning author. Jean is one of the top dog trainers in the world and has lectured extensively in the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. … Read More
Muzzle Comfort
While they look ominous, muzzles are a humane safety measure for dogs. That being said, when used the wrong way, they can be aversive and harmful to dogs. If using a muzzle with your dog, keep the following in mind: Introduce your dog to a muzzle via classical conditioning (trainer speak for allowing your dog to form positive associations with … Read More
Modifying Your Dog’s Muzzle: An Equipment Guide
For many dog owners, finding the best muzzle for their dog often involves modifications, whether to prevent skin chafing, provide a more secure fit, or ensure more efficient delivery of treats. The following is a compilation of resources to help you create the most comfortable fitting muzzle for your dog. If you are still searching for a muzzle, take a … Read More
Finding the best muzzle for your dog: An equipment guide
The Muzzle Up! Project has received a large number of requests for information on the different types of muzzles available, breed-specific muzzles, and where to purchase them. The following is a starter list, compiled from our own research and information from supporters. Please email us at muzzleupproject@gmail.com if you have any questions or resources to share. We’d especially like to hear from … Read More
Muzzle FAQs: How to Measure a Muzzle
Awhile back, Muzzle Up! asked you to send in questions about muzzles, muzzle safety, muzzle training, and anything else muzzle-related. Unfortunately, there’s a shortage of quality information on this topic, let alone an easy way to find answers to questions. With your support, our ongoing “Muzzle FAQ” series will bridge this information gap. Here’s a selection from the first batch … Read More
Muzzle Q & A: Dr. E’Lise Christensen Bell, DVM DACVB
Last year, we launched a Q and A series with veterinarians and veterinary behaviorists as part of Muzzle Awareness month. Due to its popularity, we are continuing the series, this time with Dr. E’Lise Christensen Bell, DVM, DACVB. Dr. Christensen is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and an international lecturer and author. As the only board-certified veterinary behaviorist in Colorado, she sees … Read More
Muzzle Q and A: Dr. Jeannine Berger, DVM, DACVB, DACAW, CAWA
Next up in our Muzzle Q and A series for Muzzle Awareness Month is Dr. Jeannine Berger. Dr. Berger first obtained her veterinary degree in 1991 in Zurich, Switzerland. She moved to Davis, California in 1998, where she completed her residency in veterinary behavior and attained board certification with the American College for Veterinary Behaviorists from UC Davis in 2007. In 2014, she … Read More
Muzzle Q & A: Dr. Meredith Stepita
The final installment of this month’s Muzzle Q & A series is Dr. Meredith Stepita. Dr. Stepita grew up in Maryland, but now calls Northern California home. She received her DVM from the University of Tennessee in 2006. After completing an internship and working in general practice in Arizona she entered into the Clinical Veterinary Behavior Residency Program at the University … Read More