Ask if you can watch a training session or a video of a session so you get an idea of what your dog will be subjected to.

Don't make a final decision on a dog obedience school until your dog has met trainers. Dogs are extremely good judges of character.

For most part, someone in this line of work is going to be a good person and a dog lover. Some, however, will be doing it just to get a paycheck and may not have your pal's best interest in mind.

If your dog doesn't like them... take another route.

You might want to consider local 4-H club. 4-H is where I learned how to train my own dog as a child. It isn't a dog obedience school in traditional sense. It teaches kids how to train their dogs, or a friend's dog. It's a youth education program and it provides many facets of education, one of which is often dog training.

Read more about dog training videos if you would like an alternative to dog obedience school.

See, dogs can develop calluses and arthritis from laying on hard floors or rocks in ground.

Naturally we did what we could to make her more comfortable during her last days.

That dog was a mighty powerhouse in her time, and it was so hard to see her deteriorate like this.

Now, all five of our dogs have warm dog beds to keep them comfortable, warm, and most importantly, healthier.