"Water Proofing" Dog Beds

When searching for a new dog bed for your k9 kids, try to find something that has a zipper cover that can be removed.

After you get your dog bed picked out, pick up some garbage bags that are the same size or bigger than your bed. We use 55 gallon drum liners that fit perfect for our large size beds.
You can also use smaller ones for each side of the bed. 

By placing a garbage bag over the entire cushion it will prevent spills or messes from leaking through. Not to mention it is way easier to clean just the cover and not the entire bed. 

Small beds are doable, but med to large, is just a pain in the butt.

Using a simple garbage bag will also cut down the cost on "water proof" dog beds, which can be expensive due to the size of bed you may need for your pup.

This idea is great if you have a new puppy, a messy dog, dogs that lick their paws, dogs that drool  or for senior dogs. It is also great for people that like to wash their dog beds once a week... 

like us haha.  

Teaching "Down"

As you know, when training a dog, there are several different methods to teaching a behavior or a command. When it comes to our dogs first learning a specific gesture we prefer to use positive reinforcement. Which includes a clicker, small soft treats (or their meal time food) and a happy ready to work pup. There is a communication barrier between us and our k9 kids. They do not understand what you are asking of them UNLESS you show them. Dogs in general are not naturally defiant so if you have to keep repeating a command to your dog over and over and over, that means your dog does not fully understand what you are asking of them. To learn more about clicker training please take time to visit one of our favorite sites Karen Pryor Clicker Training. 

Today we are working with rescue dog Uma. She is learning the basic concept of the "down". We start off by getting her attention and luring her into the position we want, which is - down. At this time you will not be saying the word "down". You want your dog to get the gesture/motion of "down" first. When you give the hand single and your dog downs a few times, then you will be adding the word. Now, some dogs take a while to understand what it is you are trying to get them to do, so have patience and allow the dog some time to think.  You may have to click and reward for the dog just looking at the floor. Eventually, that will bring the dog closer and closer to a "down". It's like a puzzle, you have to figure out all the piece to make it come together. You have to figure out how to HELP your dog understand this new command. It takes time and lots of patience.

Once your dog is getting the hang of the "down" motion, you will then add the vocal command "down" with the hand gesture. Click and treat for them going into position. Keep training sessions short. If you notice your pup getting bored get their attention, lure them into a down and end on a good note. Try again later on :)

Over time your dog will get better and better at understanding what you want of them. You will be able to replace the clicker with the vocal "marker word" - YES and their treat will be a pat on the head or back from you.

Quick break down:
1) Have on hand clicker, treats (or meal feeding) and a ready to work pup.
2) Get your dogs attention
3) Lure your dog towards the ground. When they go into a down (or even look at the ground) CLICK & TREAT.
4) Lure your dog to the ground a few times with OUT saying a word.
5) When they start to grasp the "down" motion THEN add the word "DOWN".
6) Keep sessions short & end on a good note
7) Have patience
8) Have FUN!
9) Do this often

Here is a video of Uma learning the basics of DOWN

**FUN TIP FOR BLIND OR DEAF DOGS:

If you have a deaf dog, use a small flash light in place of your marker/clicker. Flash the light towards their eyes and then treat. Deaf dogs also pick up on face expression so be happy when your dog is learning and gets what you ask of them. Some times we use a "thumbs up" for the dogs we are working with as a marker.

If you have a blind dog, hold the treats to your dogs nose and slowly bring your hand with the treat to the ground. Let your dog try to get it out of your hand, you will see their body get lower and lower to the floor. When they "down" click and open your hand so they can have their reward. 

Homemade Tug Toys

1.) What you will need is (3) long pieces of material from old jeans, blankets, clothing or any type of fabric.

2.) Tie the one end into a tight knot. We like to tie a few knots to make sure it is secure. 

3.) Have someone hold that end so you can "very tightly" braid the three pieces of fabric. If you do not have anyone to hold it for you, put it under your foot. 

**The tighter you braid the tougher it will be for the dogs to pull it apart.

4.) Tie the end piece into several knots as you did the first, find a pup and let them enjoy their new toy!

Rope toys in stores range in price anywhere from $8.00 to $25.00 depending on length and size. Using recycled fabric you will save a load of money. ;)

Making homemade toys for our fur kids is a lot of fun! We think so and so do our dogs.

Plus it tires them out. ;)
!!Enjoy!!

Dog on a Treadmill?

We say yes, YES, YES!!

Chelle & Alumni Polly Pocket

Treadmills are a great energy re-leasers and come in handy on days where we can not get out doors with our dogs. The treadmill will not only kick some of the extra energy your dog may have, but it is also a great mind stimulating exercise! When your dog is on the treadmill they have to think for themselves to stay in time with the treadmill as it moves. Treadmills can come in handy if you have a multi dog home and need to make sure all the pups in your care get their exercise in for the day. 

When you start your dog off on the treadmill (make sure you have treats on hand) you want him/her to get used to the surroundings and this new "thing" in your home. Let him/her walk on and off of it, let them sit on it and even ask them to lay down on or near it so they know there is nothing to fear. 

Guide them by it and reward them for accepting it.

Some dogs take longer then other to get used to this machine, so when you aim to teach your dog to use the treadmill make sure you have about 2-3 hours set aside at first. Be sure there are no to very little distraction in your home, and make sure your pup has done his/her business before you get started. You do not want to rush your dog, let him/her get comfortable at their own pace. In return your dog will accept this new training exercise and will look forward it.

To get Polly Pocket use to this new contraption, we sat on the treadmill and guided her over with some high value treats. We praised her for walking up to it, stepping on it and then sitting on it. Polly loves the praise and knowing she is doing a good job. This little lady catches on quick with just about everything she is shown. **Keep in mind every dog is different and may approach this new challenge in a different way so be patient, be consistent and keep those treats coming.**

After about a 20 minutes we faced Polly in the right direction with Chelle standing over her making sure she wasn't going to jump off or get too overwhelmed when we started it up. Having one hand on the leash over Pollys head and the other hand at Polly's side (so she knew not to jump off) reassured her everything will be ok and she is doing a GREAT job!!

We started Polly off at the lowest setting, letting her get familiar with it moving on its own. At first she wasn't sure what this was all about and was walking a in a zig zag motion, but Chelle stayed in place talking to her, telling Polly what good girl she was.

Holding treats in front of her face helped her keep moving forward and rewarded her for doing so. Polly and treats go very very well together. Along with praise. { Did we mention she LOVES to be told what a good girl she is.}

Keep those treats coming for the first time learning

Polly goes for about 15-20 minutes a day, trotting at a fast pace getting up to 2 miles. Polly enjoys the treadmill and will even go over to it when it is off and sit on it looking at you with that "Well, we gunna do this or what" face. It took Polly a total of an hour and a half to get fully comfortable to where Chelle could stand up and let Polly just trot away. 

After a few more times Polly will be able to jump on without Chelle standing over top of her.

Good Girl Polly!!!! 

 Please note: When your dog is doing more activity then normal you have to monitor their food intake. Make sure they are getting what they need for the exercises they are doing! And ALWAYS check with your vet and make sure your pup is healthy for some extended exercise.

Balance is key to a healthy life. Good food, Exercise, Mind stimulation, Love, Play and REST, make for a happy dog and a happy owner. 

Treadmill donations are still needed for our rescue dogs. 

If you can spare a treadmill that is in working condition please email mk9karen@hotmail.com 

We are located by Philadelphia & Scranton/Wilke barre areas. 

Canine Good Citizen

We spent the first part of our day touching up on some CGC (Canine Good Citizen) work with two of our lover boys Brad Pit and Petey. We have been so busy these past few months we were slacking a bit on their training... and it showed. All these two wanted to do when they first saw one another was pounce, play and pull. Yikes. 

But, thankfully since these boys are living the "nothing in life is free" way, they bounced back quickly and it was down to business... treats and then play. 

Here they are working on "Reaction to another dog".
During the CGC test, here is what the run down will be.

"Reaction to another dog test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 10 feet. The dogs should show no more than casual interest in each other. Neither dog should go to the other dog or its handler."

To check out the rest of the CGC test go HERE:

Anyone up for a challenge?
Work with your pup towards passing this test before 2014 begins.

If your pit bull dog accomplished getting their CGC we would LOVE to hear about it and share it with everyone else.

Send clear photos in JPG format of your dog and you holding up their CGC Certificate along with your experience to: modifiedk9@Hotmail.com

Title email CGC Accomplished!

Looking forward to seeing some really big sm:)es!
Much Love
The Modified k9 Family

Come when called. - Recall Game

We use the clicker (or marker) during a lot of our training sessions. When we use the clicker we never us it to attract our dogs attention. The clicker is used when our dogs are doing the exact action we want.

Today we are going to fill you in on a fun game we do with our pups to teach them how to come when called. This exercise will help your dog understand to come to you every time you call them.

Pick a spot that is safe, fenced in or even start in your home so your pup can't get away from you if they get distracted. Start off with two people standing about 8-10 feet apart from one another. Each person will have some soft, small sized treats and a clicker. We like to use Natural Balance food rolls for our dogs training.

When everyone is ready start calling your pup with the word "come" or "here". Make sure everyone uses the same word in a happy tone. When the pup comes to you click, put your hand on the dogs collar and give him/her the treat.

As your pup learns the game, start increasing the distance and the distractions. You will want to start of at a short distance with little to no distraction at first to help your dog succeed in this game. Have fun and make the training sessions short. Making sessions short will keep your pups attention and your pup will learn to stay focused. Too long of a session and your pup can get distracted easy. You always want to end on a good note and the command you asked of your dog.

Tips on when to call your dog:

-Never call your dog for negative/bad things
-Never call your dog and then lock him up for the day to go to work or leave the house.
-Never call your dog to come in from play time, instead go get him.
-DO call your dog for positive/good things like dinner time, treats, walks, car rides, games, play, cuddle time ;)

When you teach your dog to come when called remember you may need it one day to save your dogs life so every time you call your dog it MUST be related to something positive. Then watch them come flying into your arms.

Pearly Whites

Our k9 friends need dental care just as much as we humans do!
 Overall health is so important in all of our lives. Proper nutrition, exercise and routine "grooming".  Unfortunately, dental hygiene for dogs is sometimes overlooked. So next time you go to brush your teeth have you pups following you into the bathroom and pay attention to their pearly whites as well we your own. ;) Catching teeth problems early in your dogs will help avoid severe dental disease.

Your veterinarian will also take a look at your dog’s pearly whites during routine exams, make sure you visit your vet every 6-12 months for wellness check-ups and watch for signs such as: 

-Halitosis (bad breath)

-Increased salvation

-Calculus/Tarter (hard coating on teeth that is usually yellow or brown in color - plaque build up

-Bleeding gums 

-puffy/red gums

-Crying out when chewing or Reluctance to chew

-Loose or missing teeth etc. . .There are several things you can do to help keep your dog’s teeth in good shape. Make sure you start dental routine as early as possible in your dog’s life so he/she get used to having their teeth brushed and inspected. Brushing your dogs teeth is another good way to help keep those pearly whites in tip top shape, but if you do brush them yourself here are some important "need to know" tips. . .

#1. Before you begin, make sure to ask your vet to show you some techniques to make brushing your dogs teeth easier on your dog and you. 

#2. NEVER brush your dog's teeth with human toothpaste. your dog can get very sick from this. Make sure you use toothpaste MADE FOR DOGS. You can pick this up at any pet care store. So, NO human products for your dogs. Period.

#3. Start out brushing your dogs teeth with finger brushes. These are not as awkward as hard brushes and it can help ease your dog into having their teeth and gums cleaned. 

#4. Daily brush is recommended as plaque will turn into tarter within 24-48 hours.

#5. if you are not able to brush your dogs teeth, look into an oral rinse MADE FOR DOGS. 

#6. Dental treats are another good option but should not replace teeth brushing/cleaning.

Being 'hands on' with our dogs can help them have an easier time at the vets office for exams. Groom your dogs coat, bathe your dogs, clean their ears, cut their nails and brush their teeth regularly. May seem silly, but these are things our fur kids need to live healthy lives and these are the kinds of things we do for our family. So, happy care taking everyone - your dog will thank you for it . . . so will your vet and your wallet ;)
Check out these links for more info:

Chronic bad breath in dogs

Your dogs basic needs

Importance for Dental Care for your pets

How do you tire out 3 dogs in one word?...

The answer:

!! BALL !!

It is amazing how something as simple as a ball will provide hours of play, stimulation, exercise and happiness.  With just a ball, you can work on your pups "sit", "wait" and "come" commands as well. A few hours of ball time with your pups will give YOU a few hours of down time in the end. ;)

Check out Bella Vita, Johnny Royal and Brad Pit's ball time and the ear to ear smiles it has created. Not to mention some very pooped pups in the end.

Police Respond to Vicious Dog in Baltimore City

Here at Mk9, we receive a lot of emails and messages about Pit Bull and Pit Bull type dogs. News reports and stories from all over. From both sides of the spectrum as well. The good, and the bad. When we find the ones we believe will do good to help further the education of the general public, we "Share" them with hopes that people will be influenced, and motivated to see Pit Bulls and their owners for what they are, and not what the Media would make them out to be.

Today, we received a rather interesting story from a gentleman in Baltimore. It was a story about a Vicious Dog call, and the Police Officer who answered it. The interesting part is, the gentleman who sent the story IS that Officer who answered the call. So here is the account, from the source;


Hey,

I'm a Police Officer in Baltimore City. I am originally from Wilkes-Barre, and I am a fan of your organization and Pit Bulls. Today I received a call while on duty about a vicious dog chasing kids. When I came on the scene, I noticed people yelling out their windows at the dog. I followed the dog into an ally to see how it was acting. Going on my own approach, being a dog lover, I got out of my car and called the "vicious dog" over to me. The dog came over with it's tail between it's legs and panting. I grabbed my water bottle and the dog sat down next to me and began licking my pants. I started giving the dog water. I brought the dog over and waited for the pound to show up. My partner was not a fan of dogs and was startled by my approach. I suggested to him that this dog cannot be put down, and should be taken to a shelter. We took it upon ourselves to take the dog to the shelter, and transported it in the back seat in the back of our patrol car. Then I decided that I wanted to keep the dog, and spoke to the shelter about the steps to take to adopt it. The dog was originally kept outside and was filthy, and now it just might have a new home. I know you like positive pictures so I have attached a few. Have a great day and keep up the good work!

Officer Dan Waskiewicz
Baltimore City Police

When we heard this story we could not help but SMILE, and maybe do a tail shake or two! :)

Then we got to thinking more about it. How awesome is this story! Not only does it have a happy ending to it, but there are also some major applause points:

Instead of assuming the dog to be vicious and shoot it dead, (as we see so many times before) he analyzes the situation, and sees a nervous dog that needs help.

Instead of letting animal control pick up the dog, and let it disappear, or be put down, he personally takes it to a shelter, IN HIS CRUISER!!!

Finally, he offers the pup a new forever home!

So we at Mk9 would like to say Thank You! Officer Dan, for taking the time to be patient and give a dog a chance. And step outside the stereo types and see this for what is was. A loose dog who was nervous, and needed someone to help. Not someone to yell at him and assume him to be dangerous.

Here is "Bo" with his new family. A perfect picture of a perfect ending or an amazing new beginning. 

Photo by Dan Waskiewicz

CHECK OUT THIS AWESOME UPDATE!!  We'll keep it a secret until you click the link ;)
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150968546036956&set=a.277239856955.154351.58771761955&type=1&theater

And this :D
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150968544351956&set=a.277239856955.154351.58771761955&type=1&permPage=1

AND THIS!!

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150958328476956&set=a.277239856955.154351.58771761955&type=1&theater

Time to store the food bowls. . .

We are putting those bad boy bowls up on a shelf, out of reach. . .
Why?

Well, there will be no more "free" meals for our pups.  Dogs in general like to search for their food, they love to work and the mind stimulation is great for a healthy dog. Our normal routine in the mk9 home is to ask our dogs to sit or down before they receive their meals, but we are stepping up the game a bit. Now they will have to work for their entire meal, in a fun tasty way.

What we are about to show you works well for people on the run and don't have a lot of time to do training until their dogs entire meal is finished. This also works well for dogs that are racer eaters (gobble their food in 2 bites), dogs that like to dump their dishes or dogs that get board with their food (picky eaters).

"We can treat boredom using constructive discontent (hunger) to expend energy, and stimulate intelligent problem solving, resulting in pets that are physically healthy, smarter, and more emotionally fulfilled." - Dr Tripp

What you will need is:

-Large (or) x large size Kong Ball (black), Kong Wobbler or a feeding puzzle that your dog really loves.
The reason for these choices instead of your dogs average food bowl, is there is CHALLENGE involved.

-Next you will need your dogs food that you normally feed.

-For Kong Balls we like to add a bit of Peanut butter (optional) to the top to hold in the dog food.

Food puzzles for your pups will vary in difficulty when getting the food out, pick something that best suits your dogs personality. For example: if your pup is a bit over weight or very clever at getting the food out you may want a harder food puzzle like Canine Genius. If your pup is on the thinner side or gets easily frustrated we recommend starting with an easy puzzle or kong ball. If you like to add a bit more variety to their meal time hide the feeding puzzles around your home.

NOTE:
- If you have more then one dog in your home, make sure all dogs are separated during feeding time. We wouldn't want to set our fur kids up for failure by placing a high value item in the middle of two or more driven dogs. So, put your pups in their own crates or designate a specific room for each.

-Do you feed your dog canned/wet food?
If you do, freeze the food in the puzzles or place the feeding puzzle in a x large bowl which makes it more difficult to get the food and keeps the room cleaner. ;)

Here is a list of some of our favorite feeding puzzles.

If anyone would like to donate any of the below feeders to the mk9 rescue dogs we would be grateful.  

Email mk9karen@hotmail.com for address or more details. Thanks all ;)

• Kong toys  
• Molecuball Treat Ball 

• Busy Buddy Toys 
• Crazy Ball 

"Having a job to do, a challenge, a problem to solve that is within your abilities to do is what keeps us alive, aware and engaged in our lives and the same is true for our canine companions." - Dr. Marty Becker 

We ((LOVE)) routine! -and so do the dogs!

A solid strict schedule = structure, patience & obedience 

Even after a short time the new kid Johnny is picking up on our routine.

We try as best as we can to keep the pups schedule the same every day.
They wake up at a certain time, go out at a certain time, eat at a certain time, train at a certain, play at a certain time and even cuddle at a certain time.

With a schedule along with the "nothing is free" method we help the dogs become more balanced, calm and content.

They get to know what is coming next.
This schedule helps them replace their anxiety or bad behavior issues with patience and understanding of how things run around here.

We are the leaders and they are our pup scouts.

Feeding time:

After the pups all do their business they head back to their crates, their food is placed in front of them and they are told to WAIT as we close the door and do the same for the next pup.

After all the food is down, doors are closed and they are "waiting" nicely we tell them all "OK" and they are free to enjoy their meal.

NOTE:
We feed ALL of our dogs in their crates at ALL times.
This allows them space to eat their food as they will with out being burdened by another dog or devouring their food in a fast manner because there is another dog scouting out their meal.

Crating at feeding time will prevent any unnecessary spats and after they finish their meal they get to relax & digest until it is time to go out for their morning walks and training session.

Frozen Stuffed Kongs

Froze Stuffed Kongs are a wonderful thing when we have a busy day ahead and need an extra few minutes to do laundry, dishes, check your emails or what have you.  The night before you go to bed and after the pups are settled in for the night. Collect all the Kongs you have laying around your house or in their crates.  Stuff them with your pups favorite canned dog food and some peanut butter.  Then place all the Kongs in the freezer until the next morning. It is that simple.

Frozen Kongs are great for when we have new dogs starting on tie downs and getting use to their crates.  Keeps them busy for some time which leaves you free  to catch up on some work or much needed rest. Esp if your a foster parent. ;)

Check out Johnny Royal and his first ever Frozen Kong. Kept him busy for about an hour this morning. No lie - an entire HOUR! With an active 2 year old son in our house we have no time for rest so the extra hour made time for some Lego building adventures.
YAY for Frozen Stuffed Kongs!

Safety Clip For Extra Measures

When getting ready for our outings one of these first things we do is make sure all of our pups collars and harnesses are fitted properly (not too tight, never too loose). When that is all secure we do one extra step that may save you and the pups from an "oops" moment.

We add a safety clip to the end of the leash which
attached to the harness or no slip martingale collars.  You can get the clips at any sporting good store, super market or you can even find them in your dollar general stores. They are usually any where from  $5.00 to $10.00 depending on the clasp.

At one time or another  we have had dogs bounce around in excitement on the end of their leash and unhook the leash clip to the collar leaving us with a leash in hand and NO dog. The dog is off in another direction running after a rabbit, bird or what have you. The feeling is not a good feeling so we have added an extra safety measure to make sure this doesn't happen. We feel a bit better as well using this simple trick with our leash reactive dogs. We always want an extra hand when it comes to making sure they stay at our side ;)

Once you have the clips the next steps are extremely simple.  Attach the clip from your leash to your collar or harness. You want to make sure the openings of the 2 clips are facing opposite directions.

Shown on a Freedom No-Pull Harness

Shown on a Martingale no slip collar - Awesome collar handmade by Sirius Republic

And there you have it. Easy as that!! Check out our friends at Sirius Republic and get your clips ordered.
Who would of thought a $6.00 clip could save hundreds of dollars in medical bills... "dog for bid" your pup ever got away and got hurt.

The simple things are what makes us sm:)e.
Happy outings all.

Want to Become a Foster? Start by Finding the Right Rescue Group

Fostering is not a task to take lightly.  Not only are you opening your heart and home but you are introducing an entirely new world for the dog that will be entering your life.  A game plan should be in place BEFORE you bring home your new friend.  Although you are not starting out as the dog's "forever" home, fostering is still a long-term commitment. Be ready to make this amazing commitment!

Today, we're focusing on the importance of choosing the right rescue group. Fostering for a quality rescue group is probably the most important aspect of your fostering journey.

*A successful foster experience requires a good relationship with the rescue group you are working with.
*An important goal of the rescue group should be making the right dog/family match. The rescue group should take matching foster dogs with foster families very seriously.
*Stay clear of groups that will toss any dog your way before getting to know you and/or the dog.

A QUALITY RESCUE GROUP - WHAT ELSE DOES THAT MEAN?

Quality rescue groups will ASK you the right questions!

An experienced group will WANT to know about your environment/life, how many family members are living with you and if they will be helping with or at least accepting of a foster dog. They will want to know about the other animals you have (how many and what kind). They will want to determine for themselves if those animals will be accepting of another animal and go over options if they are not. They will want to know if you have the knowledge of fostering in general and for the specific breed you may be choosing (side note here - no experience does not mean you don't qualify! It just means that a good group will take this, and everything else, into consideration when finding the right match). An experienced rescue group will want to know if you are willing and able to follow their guidelines for fostering one of their dogs. They'll want to know if you'll be willing to communicate concerns that may arise during your journey with your new friend. They will want to make you aware that it can take time to find a forever family and will want to know if you are completely on board.

*Bottom line - they will want to find out everything they can about you just as much as you want to find out about them!

GO TEAM! Fostering is a team effort.

Look for a group that will give you the support and guidance you will need during the entire time your foster dog is with you.  This is a group effort and you should never feel as if you are taking this on alone.  This journey is a huge responsibility that all parties need to take seriously (all parties = you, people in your home, and people of the rescue you decide to go with). The more seriously all parties take fostering, the more likely you all will successfully reach your goals - getting the dog home-ready and finding the right forever home!

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I FIND OUT?

Fostering is a two-way relationship - what questions should YOU ask?

Make sure you ask the group you are going to foster for how they will aid in this foster experience:

-What will they supply to get you started? (crate, bowls, blankets, collar, leash etc. . .)
-Will they take care of the foster dog's medical/vet needs?
-Will they help you with obedience & home-ready training?
-What will they do with the dog when/if your family goes on vacation? Or has an emergency?
-How will they help you address issues that may arise?
-Will they be available for questions at any time regarding your foster dog?
And any other questions that you can think of that will help you enter this situation with confidence.

The experience.

Fostering is a fun and very rewarding experience. You will grow and learn right along with your foster dog. You will feel joy and love and your new friend will feel it, too.  It may not be easy at first but you are learning and so is the dog you just saved.  Be patient. Be kind. Ask questions. Learn. Enjoy.

Happy fostering everyone. 1 home = 1 life saved!

Pa Pit Bull Pow Wow!

Attn: Pennsylvania Pit Bull Owners

Starting Sunday July 11, 2o11 the mk9 crew will be going to local parks, hiking trails, camping grounds, picnic areas, swimming holes & dog friendly restaurants throughout all of Pennsylvania. We will be posting location & times several weeks in advance so everyone that would like to join us can make proper arrangements. The mk9 crew will be meeting up every Sunday (OR) Monday through out the entire year. We would like pit bull type dog owners & their dogs join us on these days.

It will be a wonderful chance for education, information, exercise, socialization & coming together as a responsible pit bull owners to show their dogs in a proper positive light. 

As pit bull owners we all know how important it is to be the best owner you can be & to make sure your pups are cared for to the fullest. Pit Bull type dogs are med-high energy dogs & being active is a big key in the relationship you have with your dog. Remember a tired proper mind stimulated dog is a good dog C;

We are looking forward to meeting pit bull owners of the pa area, making new friends & sharing tips on how to be a better owner for your dog. We will have trainers joining us that will be willing to answer any question about your pups you may have.

Please Note:
A few things we ask of you:

-All dogs attending are updated on proper rabies shots, vaccs & are licensed.
**You must have this information on you during all of these meet ups.

-You should always have your pups on a safe secure leash & collar/harness.
**Please (NO) retractable leashes. For hikes a long line can be used instead of your 6ft leash.
-Please pick up after your dogs

-Always have water available for you & your pups

We hope alot of you can join us this summer!
We are looking forward to meeting you all. . .& your pups!!

BIG thumbs up to responsible active pit bull owners!