If you want to bring out the best in people, just add a dog to the room. At Tuesday’s Lions Club meeting, everyone’s softer side surfaced, as they reached down to talk to and pet Butters, the beagle brought along by guest speaker Jim Wright, owner of Brigadoon Canine University in Wooster. Butters is a four to five-year-old beagle that Wright adopted from the Wayne County Humane Society to challenge his own training skills. “I’ve taught Butters only the three most important commands” shared Wright. “The number one reason dogs are released to shelters is behavior issues as most owners did not try to train their dogs. Teaching these three commands can eliminate the most common nuisance issues as proved by Butters. A better focus on the repetition of a few commands, rather than mixing many commands, will keep more dogs in homes.”

Wright discussed the advantages of one training option that utilizes a “TENS machine” type training collar that emits an impulse to the dog that resembles a tap on the shoulder. This training method succeeds as a handler can get and maintain a dog’s focus and attention. Wright said, “A dog trainer’s results can be compared to the difference between the results of a butcher and a surgeon; the difference being skill, intent and outcome.” Wright’s training is fun and enjoyable for both ends of the leash. To learn more about training your dog, visit Brigadoon’s website at http://www.theBCU.com.

Upcoming Lions meetings will include the induction of new members. On Feb. 7, Mistie Ankenman will speak about the Orrville Y, and Kathleen Jozwiak will speak about the Orrville Public Library on Feb. 14. Todd Imhoff will share his exotic birds on Feb. 28. The public is always welcome. Contact Kathi Bond at 330-683-1482 for more details.