REMOTE CONTROLLED
Whisperer speaks
By Levi J. Long
LLONG@AZSTARNET.COM
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 10.04.2007
Cesar Millan is known to millions as the Dog Whisperer, a trainer and behavior specialist thrust into the pop-culture limelight through his televised work with persnickety canines. Millan started his fourth season of "Dog Whisperer" last month on the National Geographic Channel. Each episode documents how he transforms and rehabilitates problem dogs and their owners. Besides having the popular TV show, Millan is an author whose second book was released this week: "Be the Pack Leader: Use Cesar's Way to Transform Your Dog . . . and Your Life" (Harmony Books; $25.95). Millan talked with Caliente during a phone interview last week.
What's the new book about? What will it do for readers?
"It's really a book with answers for the audience. People have read 'Cesar's Way' and say, 'How can we get more tips?' This book offers more in-depth advice and discusses the pros and cons of dog-behavior tools. Everyone wants to know what the best tool is to connect with the dog. I want to make it more simple for people to understand their energy."
Your book teaches humans to become pack leaders. Is it hard to teach humans the concept of calm-assertive energy?
"It's definitely gotten easier to teach people. . . . I've learned the mechanics of learning patterns and figuring out what works best. It sometimes depends on what kinds of lives they are leading. . . . It's all about energy. Dogs get my energy. The book is about teaching the meaning of calm, assertive energy."
You've been parodied on "South Park" and "Saturday Night Live" and have been referenced on dozens of other TV shows. How does it feel to be a pop-culture figure?
"I'm from Mexico. I have to say it's an honor to be a part of the culture here. It's all done in a humorous way. In my marriage, we laugh about everything, and to be on 'South Park' it's the cherry on top of the cake.
Has there been a dog case that's been too tough to overcome?
"In Season Four, there's a case where it took me 70 days to help a dog. . . . It gets tough. Sometimes people want quick results. But I've got to find out about their whole being, find out how it works and make sure everything is working in the relationship."
There are 50 dogs that you care for in your pack. Does it get overwhelming?
"Honestly, no. Within the pack you have a group of dogs that are stronger than the rest, but you have to keep them and yourself within a balanced state. . . . But I love to have a large pack, that's when I'm happy. There are 50 dogs who are supporting my happiness."
Why have you decided to devote your working life to helping dogs and dog owners?
"Helping dog owners came later in life. I wanted to become a famous dog trainer. Now I help train humans and help to rehabilitate dogs. It's now my passion to connect them with Mother Nature. . . . I think it's about following your instinct, love and having full respect for a species called dog."
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