About Penny DiLoreto Expertise As a certified veterinary assistant and a dog breeder, with over 16 years of hands on experience, I am qualified to answer questions in the following categories; General pet health issues, dog grooming, puppy socialization, dog breeding, and basic dog training
Experience In accordance with the Veterinary Assistant program requirmements, I completed 200 hours of intern work under the supervision of a licensed Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine, and volunteered the Escondido Humane Society
Organizations AKC, ACA, and ABA
Publications I have several articles related to; dog grooming, dog behavior issues, and medical topics, printed on various computer websites and free article content sites. If you would like to preview my articles, links to those sites, and articles, are posted on my website located at www.puppies-dot-com.com
Education/Credentials I have a Certificate of Competency from the San Diego Country Regional Occupational Veterinary Assistant Program, and attained Occupational Competencies in the following categories: Animal Handling and Restraint, Vaccines and Injections, Health and safety, Veterinary Laws/Ethics/Industry Data, Biohazard Waste Disposal Laws, Medicating and Grooming Procedures, Medical Math, Breed Identification, and Parasitological studies.
Awards and Honors I received an Outstanding Student Award for my accomplishments in these studies from the ROP program.
Past/Present Clients A partial listing of my past and current clients can be viewed on my website www.puppies-dot-com.com by clicking on the Testimonial Page.
Expert: Penny DiLoreto Date: 3/24/2008 Subject: petting a dog
Question My question is on how to pet an animal. Is it better to go with the fur of a dog or against the fur?
Answer Hi Jessica. If you do not know the animal, it is best to ask the owner if their pet is aggressive, and get permission from the owner before extending you hand toward any animal.
Once you have established that the pet is not aggressive, and the owner has given you permission, make a fist (protecting your fingers) and slowly extending your hand allowing the animal to smell your fist. If he licks the back of your hand, this is an indication that the pet will be receptive to your touch.
Begin with the neck (some animals do not like to have their head touched) and move towards the back (in the direction of the fur) using short strokes. Based upon the reaction of the pet, you can stop, or continue petting - extending the length of the stroke stopping at the tail. Some animals like having their tail gently pulled - however, never pull the tail of a pet you do not know.
When petting your own animal, there is really no right or wrong way. The most important thing is to pet them often. Some pets like to have their tummys rubbed, some like to be scratched behind the ear, some like to have their sides scratched. Try all of these - let your pets response be your guide.
Good luck, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions. Sincerely, Penny D.
