There are probably dozens, if not hundreds, of dog trainers around the country who were inspired by “The Horse Whisperer,” Nicholas Evans’ bestselling novel about one man’s intuitive way with the equines. But it has really boiled down to two canine Whisperers: Cesar Millan; rich, famous TV celebrity and trainer to the stars; and Paul Owens–not as rich, not as famous and very, very different in his approach to dogs.
After listening to Paul, I had to kick good ol’ Cesar to the curb. According to my former guru, it’s all about leadership: you are the alpha, your dogs the omegas. It’s about rules, boundaries and expectations. Paul’s the antidote for people like us, owners who will never be pack leaders and are sort of crappy at discipline. For him, it’s all about praise with lots and lots of treats. Not that he didn’t espouse the “I’m the boss,” style at one time, but 30-some years of yoga and a few trips to India taught Paul that perhaps kindness and compassion would work better.
Paul offered brilliant suggestions to help de-stress Oliver when the hotel guests drive him crazy. They’re easy to do and fun for both of us. And they work. Paul Owens resonates with me, but I’m not going to drink the Kool-Aid again. Gurus are so ‘60s.
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