Carrie Chaffin Portfolio

Spotlighted Work for Outstanding Content:

Animal Accolades

Blog, 2008 – current

AnimalAccolades.blogspot.com

Carrie Chaffin, author, editor, content creator

Breed Expert

Pillar Page for Optimizing SEO Strategy, October 2023

Canine Manners: A Guide to Effective Puppy Training and Beyond

https://breedexpert.com/canine-manners-a-guide-to-effective-puppy-training-and-beyond/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, September 2023

Your Guide to Dog Training: How To Tackle the Basics of Behavioral and Obedience Training

https://breedexpert.com/your-guide-to-dog-training-how-to-tackle-the-basics-of-behavioral-and-obedience-training/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Op-Ed, July 2023

Geriatric Years Done Right: How I've Gotten Multiple Dogs To Live Healthy, Active Lives Past 16 Years

https://barkspot.com/geriatric-years-done-right-how-ive-gotten-multiple-dogs-to-live-healthy-active-lives-past-16-years/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Review, July 2023

Ziwi Peak Raw Alternative Gently Processed Dog Food

https://barkspot.com/ziwi-peak-raw-alternative-gently-processed-dog-food/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, July 2023

10 Steps To Teach Your Dog To Love Nail Trims

https://barkspot.com/10-steps-to-teach-your-dog-to-love-nail-trims/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Listicle, July 2023

The Four Best Books for Every Dog Person

https://barkspot.com/the-four-best-books-for-every-dog-person/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Review, July 2023

Accommodating Needs With the Canine Sport Sack Dog Carrier

https://barkspot.com/accommodating-needs-with-the-k9-sport-sack-dog-carrier/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Review, July 2023

Enjoy the Stroll With a Mendota Dog Walker

https://barkspot.com/enjoy-the-stroll-with-a-mendota-dog-walker-leash-collar/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, May 2023

10 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds

https://breedexpert.com/10-family-friendly-dog-breeds/

Carrie Chaffin

Ongoing Samples of Published Work:

Bark Spot

Website, October 2023

The Most Sought-After Dog Foods for Health and Taste

https://barkspot.com/the-most-sought-after-dog-foods-for-health-and-taste/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, October 2023

Singapaw Wild Alaskan Prime Salmon Jerky

https://breedexpert.com/singapaw-wild-alaskan-prime-salmon-jerky/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, October 2023

A Mother's Love: ADAPTIL Calming Collar for Dogs

https://breedexpert.com/a-mothers-love-adaptil-calming-collar-for-dogs/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Marketing Article, September 2023

K9 Training Institute Online: Total Transformation Masterclass

https://breedexpert.com/k9-training-institute-online-total-transformation-masterclass/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Top Orthopedic Dog Beds on the Market: Our Recommendations

https://barkspot.com/top-orthopedic-dog-beds-on-the-market-our-recommendations/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Best Extra-Large Dog Beds for Your Big Pup

https://barkspot.com/best-extra-large-dog-beds-for-your-big-pup/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

5 Best Leashes for Safe and Enjoyable Walks

https://barkspot.com/5-best-dog-leashes-for-safe-and-enjoyable-walks/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Top Harnesses for Leash Training

https://barkspot.com/top-dog-harnesses-for-leash-training/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Durable Dog Leashes for the Modern Pet Parent

https://barkspot.com/durable-dog-leashes-for-the-modern-pet-parent/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

8 Custom Collars for Your Furry Friends

https://barkspot.com/8-custom-dog-collars-for-your-furry-friends/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

The 8 Best High-Quality Dog Collars

https://barkspot.com/the-8-best-high-quality-dog-collars/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Finding the Perfect Crate: Sizing and Features for Your Dog

https://barkspot.com/finding-the-perfect-crate-sizing-and-features-for-your-dog/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

5 Homemade Dog Treat Recipes for a Happy and Healthy Pup

https://barkspot.com/5-homemade-dog-treat-recipes-for-a-happy-and-healthy-pup/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Keep Your Furry Friend Safe and Comfy with Portable Dog Kennels

https://barkspot.com/keep-your-furry-friend-safe-and-comfy-with-portable-dog-kennels/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

7 Best Portable Kennels for Home and on the Road

https://barkspot.com/7-best-portable-kennels-for-home-and-on-the-road/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Using Positive Reinforcement for Effective Dog Training

https://barkspot.com/using-positive-reinforcement-for-effective-dog-training/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Paw-Some Gift Ideas for Pet Lovers and Their Dogs

https://barkspot.com/paw-some-gift-ideas-for-pet-lovers-and-their-dogs/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

The Pros and Cons of Homemade Dog Food

https://barkspot.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-homemade-dog-food/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Orthopedic Beds: Supporting Your Dog's Health and Comfort

https://barkspot.com/orthopedic-beds-supporting-your-dogs-health-and-comfort/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Crating Made Easy: Tips for a Stress-Free Experience

https://barkspot.com/crating-made-easy-tips-for-a-stress-free-experience/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

9 Human-Grade Dog Foods To Try Today

https://barkspot.com/9-human-grade-dog-foods-to-try-today/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Dog Insurance: Pre-Existing Conditions and Limits

https://barkspot.com/dog-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-and-limits/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

Why You Need Dog Insurance and How to Choose the Right Plan

https://barkspot.com/why-you-need-dog-insurance-and-how-to-choose-the-right-plan/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

7 Must-Have Chew Toys for Puppies

https://barkspot.com/7-must-have-chew-toys-for-puppies/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, September 2023

24 Best Dog Christmas Gifts For All The Good Boys And Girls

https://barkspot.com/24-best-dog-christmas-gifts-for-all-the-good-boys-and-girls/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Marketing Article, September 2023

SpiritDog: Online Dog Training Made Easy

https://breedexpert.com/spiritdog-online-dog-training-made-easy/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, September 2023

Shorkie: The Ultimate Guide

https://breedexpert.com/shorkie-the-ultimate-guide/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Interactive Dog Toys: The Key to a Happy and Stimulated Pet

https://barkspot.com/interactive-dog-toys-the-key-to-a-happy-and-stimulated-pet/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

7 Portable Dog Kennels for Pet-Friendly Adventures

https://barkspot.com/7-portable-dog-kennels-for-pet-friendly-adventures/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

The Freshest Dental Treats for Your Dog's Teeth

https://barkspot.com/the-freshest-dental-treats-for-your-dogs-teeth/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Top Orthopedic Dog Beds for Large Breeds

https://barkspot.com/top-orthopedic-dog-beds-for-large-breeds/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

8 Trendy Dog Tracking Collars of 2023

https://barkspot.com/8-trendy-dog-tracking-collars-of-2023/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Durable and Fun Toys for Active Dogs

https://barkspot.com/durable-and-fun-toys-for-active-dogs/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

7 Top Dog Leashes for Training and Obedience

https://barkspot.com/7-top-dog-leashes-for-training-and-obedience/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

The Finest Dog Food Brands on the Market

https://barkspot.com/the-finest-dog-food-brands-on-the-market/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Best Dog Leash Brands for Active Dogs

https://barkspot.com/best-dog-leash-brands-for-active-dogs/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Puppy Playtime: The Best Chew Toys for Hours of Fun

https://barkspot.com/puppy-playtime-the-best-chew-toys-for-hours-of-fun/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

9 Luxury Dog Beds for Your Beloved Pet

https://barkspot.com/9-luxury-dog-beds-for-your-beloved-pet/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Best Dog Harnesses for Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

https://barkspot.com/best-dog-harnesses-for-hiking-and-outdoor-adventures/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Fashionable Dog Leashes for Trendy Pet Owners

https://barkspot.com/fashionable-dog-leashes-for-trendy-pet-owners/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

5 Ergonomic Dog Harnesses for Everyday Wear

https://barkspot.com/5-ergonomic-dog-harnesses-for-everyday-wear/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

7 Leashes for Active Dogs

https://barkspot.com/7-leashes-for-active-dogs/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Dogs with Allergies

https://barkspot.com/best-grain-free-dog-foods-for-dogs-with-allergies/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, August 2023

Interactive Toys Are Key to Dogs' Enrichment, Happiness

https://barkspot.com/interactive-toys-are-key-to-dogs-enrichment-happiness/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, August 2023

Best Large Dog Kennels for Outdoor Adventures

https://breedexpert.com/best-large-dog-kennels-for-outdoor-adventures/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, July 2023

Tips for Finding the Best Portable Kennel for Your Dog

https://barkspot.com/tips-for-finding-the-best-portable-kennel-for-your-dog/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, July 2023

5 Invisible Dog Leashes for Walking Your Dog with Style and Safety

https://barkspot.com/5-invisible-dog-leashes-for-walking-your-dog-with-style-and-safety/

Carrie Chaffin

Bark Spot

Website, July 2023

Three Top Probiotic Brands for Dogs with Allergies

https://barkspot.com/three-top-probiotic-brands-for-dogs-with-allergies/

Carrie Chaffin

Calming Dog

Website, June 2023

Natural Remedies for Dog Anxiety Relief

https://calming.dog/2023/06/12/natural-remedies-for-dog-anxiety-relief/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, May 2023

The Best Brushes for Your Red Heeler in 2023

https://barkspot.com/best-brushes-for-your-red-heeler/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, April 2023

Exciting Toys and Gear for Your Golden Retriever

https://breedexpert.com/exciting-toys-and-gear-for-your-golden-retriever/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, April 2023

Puppy Training 101: Essential Skills for Your New Best Friend

https://breedexpert.com/puppy-training-101-essential-skills-for-your-new-best-friend/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, April 2023

Overcoming Common Training Challenges: Advice from the Experts

https://breedexpert.com/overcoming-common-training-challenges-advice-from-the-experts/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, April 2023

DIY Doggie Dishes: Crafting Nutrient-Rich Recipes for Your Pooch

https://breedexpert.com/diy-doggie-dishes-crafting-nutrient-rich-recipes-for-your-pooch/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, April 2023

Tackling Leash Training: Tips for Polite and Enjoyable Walks

breedexpert.com/tackling-leash-training-tips-for-polite-and-enjoyable-walks/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, April 2023

Exciting Toys and Gear for Your Golden Retriever

https://breedexpert.com/exciting-toys-and-gear-for-your-golden-retriever/

Carrie Chaffin

Breed Expert

Website, November 2022

A Comprehensive Guide to Training Your Cane Corso Puppy

https://breedexpert.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-training-your-cane-corso-puppy/

Carrie Chaffin

Collective Remarks, the Houston Dressage Society Newsletter

July 2009, Collective Remarks page 27

Of Self Carriage and Collection

Carrie Chaffin

Collective Remarks, the Houston Dressage Society Newsletter

March 2009, Collective Remarks page 24

Simplicity in Visual Aids, A Clinic and Lecture with Volker Brommann

Carrie Chaffin

Collective Remarks, the Houston Dressage Society Newsletter

February 2009, Collective Remarks page 7

One Foot in Paradise

Carrie Chaffin

The Journal of Ophthalmic Photography

Volume 29, Number 1, Spring 2007, page 38

Optical Coherent Tomography’s Role in Following Patients with Age Related Macular

Degeneration Being Treated with Off Label Avastin

Carrie Chaffin, MS, and Michael Bloome, MD

Ophthalmic Photographers’ Society Annual Education Meeting

October 2004

Scientific Session Presentation Abstract published in The Journal of Ophthalmic Photography

Volume 27 Number 2 Fall 2005

Optical Coherent Tomography versus Fluorescein Angiography in the Imaging of Retinal

Pathology Following Co-treatment with Photodynamic Therapy and Intravitreal Kenalog

Injection

Carrie Chaffin, MS, and Michael Bloome, MD

Journal of Domestic Animal Endocrinology

May 2002, Volume 22, Number 3

Effects of Frequency of Treatment with Recombinant Equine Somatotropin on Selected

Biological Responses in Geldings

C.E. Chaffin nee Thatcher, and D.L. Thompson, Jr.

Proceedings From the 17th Equine Nutrition and Physiology Society Symposium

2001, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY

Oral Presentations – Production Management

Frequency of Injection and Efficacy of Recombinant Equine Somatotropin

C.E. Chaffin nee Thatcher, and D.L. Thompson, Jr.

The Interdepartmental Program in Animal, Dairy, and Poultry Sciences of the Louisiana State

University and Agricultural and Mechanical College

June 13, 2000, A Thesis

Effects of Frequency of Treatment with Recombinant Equine Growth Hormone on Biological

Responses in Geldings

Carrie Chaffin nee Thatcher

Gunner Advanced Rally

 Tonight Gunner and I played advanced rally with both FOOD and TOYS as distractions. Gunner is doing a great job with changes of pace, and his pivots are improving. Next week we will be virtual trialing Rally Intermediate Virtual course three.

Pearls:

• When pivoting, the handler stays in the exact same place with their feet as they pivot around. Pivot in place as though you are pivoting on a paper plate, keeping both your feet on the paper plate as you pivot.
• Start fairly close to the start cone. Get Gunner in good heel position before removing his leash, then once I remove his leash just hand it or toss it away and begin the rally course from this good heel position.
• Practice solid sit-stays at home so I can leave Gunner in sit, then walk away and toss or pick up his leash, and then return to him while Gunner maintains the same sit position.
• If Gunner gets close to a good position but sits a little crooked, do NOT fix it if you are competing in the ring. Take the minus one point for "out of position" rather than risking minus ten points for busting the sign. 

Gunner demonstrating his fancy heel trot:

Gunner playing rally with food and toys as distractions:

RIV 3 course we will be trialing this coming week at Cowtown Dog Sports:

Gunner Rally Intermediate Virtual Trial

June 21, 2023 UPDATE: Gunner got a qualifying score of 92 from AKC judge Karen Wrey with the comment "Nice handling!" I'm really happy with Gunner's progress.

Gunner and I played rally in another virtual trial. This is our first time doing an intermediate course. Gunner is doing a great job with prompt heeling position and changes of pace from fast to slow. Our homework includes working on pivots and me working on my own precision with footwork.

Pearls:

• Moving at a brisk pace helps Gunner stay focused and motivated.
• Keep pivots brisk; cue and pivot more quickly to help keep Gunner moving around the pivot.
• For sign 119, Right Turn Dog Circles Right Forward, the handler stays still until the dog passes around and out of the handler's path, then the handler takes one obvious step to the right and then the pair heels onward. 

Gunner playing at the Rally Intermediate Virtual trial:

Jackie Playing Weaves and Fun Courses

Today Jackie showed me that she can easily do independent weaves with me more than ten feet away from her. Our homework includes continuing to proof independent weaves, with me farther away and in different locations. We also need to play weave entries from different angles and with Jackie on my right-hand side.  Jackie is doing a great job with weaves, stopped contacts, and directional cueing. 

Pearls:

• Begin to play with allowing Jackie 10 feet (or more) of space while she's doing weaves. Trust her to enter the weaves, and play with allowing her as much space as possible.
• Think about Jackie's line of travel. When she has a tight turn, guide her path so that her approach to the next obstacle is reasonable, safe, and easy for her.
• For homework, practice "Round, round, round!" with hoops, and "Here!" recall turns back toward the handler.

Jackie playing weaves and fun courses today:

Weaves, Serpentines, and Distance

 Pearls:

• Verbally and bodily cue the next obstacle before Jackie lands from the previous jump or obstacle
• Smoothly indicate Jackie's line of travel to her as though you were guiding a laser pointer along her path
• Never fuss at her if she misses an entry or makes a mistake; rather, call her back to you and start again
• Keep moving. Run run run!

Jackie playing weaves, serpentines, and tunnels with distance:

Gunner Playing Rally May 25, 2023

 Tonight we practiced leash skills in intermediate-level rally, with distractions of toys and food items placed throughout the course.

Gunner playing rally:

Up Close

Pearls:

• When playing "Round round round!" once Jackie has gone through the hoop  (or over the jump, or around the barrel), keep your arm closer to you when she is on the return rebound back toward you to keep her moving toward the next obstacle (and prevent her running back through the obstacle which is an off-course).

• Proof weaves to the point where you can be running in any direction, in front of or behind, including distractions, so Jackie will always enter the weaves correctly and stay in the weaves until the end independently even with distractions.

• Throw the lotus ball with the hand farthest away from the last obstacle in the series to keep Jackie focused on the driving hand for direction. So if the last obstacle is on the handler's left, throw the reinforcement with your right hand.

Jackie playing:

Understanding Dog-Human Companionship

 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0148296307002214

This is an interesting article on the human-dog bond.

Ten Family Friendly Dog Breeds

 Head over to the BreedExpert for my recent article Ten Family Friendly Dog Breeds. This article came out well and I'm rather fond of it!

The pinnacle of dogdom, the wonderful golden retriever: