Excerpts

From Wags To Riches

My career as a professional firefighter was over because of an injury. Even though I was still living in Virginia, I was planning to move to Florida. My family was located there, and I wanted to be closer to my nephews and parents. A month prior to moving to Orlando, I agreed to take a Dalmatian named Spanner from a fellow firefighter. He was unable to keep the dog and did not know where to turn. This was an old dog that was set in his ways. Spanner definitely had his share of problems, both behaviorally and physically. I did not really know what I was getting into, but it was a turning point for me. It was the beginning of a new path, and I had no idea at the time where it would lead. Little did I know how much this one dog would be responsible for teaching me, guiding me and setting me on my incredible journey. I simply thought I was helping out a friend, yet I received much more out of the deal.

We give our friends what they need by understanding and speaking their language. We convey to the dogs in simple ways to show them that we can be the decision maker, the leader of the pack. What is important is that your dog is getting what they truly deserve; a happy, relaxed and stress-free life. This is the way to the ultimate relationship with your dog. This is the dog that can give back to you tenfold, while also allowing them to retain their full spirit. The canine species is so amazing that even dogs that have owners who do not quite "speak" their language will still give special gifts of enlightenment, joy, fulfillment and much more.

When your mind is in a state of chaos as Sierra's was, no learning can occur. We need to recognize the times when our excitement gets the better of us and slow ourselves down, allow ourselves that awareness so our energy can stay positive. Chaotic energy is overpowering and highly negative. We want good vibrations to propel us forward. Be honest and know yourself, it is the only way we can grow.