The Newsy Neighbour
January Issue #111
Article provided by:Designer Mutts by Laura
As a dog groomer, I have had dogs come into my
shop shivering and frightened on their first visit. As time goes on, I develop
a relationship with these dogs and their fear subsides. Unfortunately, this is
not always the case. Some dogs continue to act in this fearful way due to a
lack of socialization. I use many techniques to try and calm an anxious dog and
I have learned that a gentle hand goes a long way but there are things that
owners can do at home to help this process.
Owners often ask me what they can do to calm
their nervous pet. No matter what age, size or breed your dog is, socialization
can go a long way in terms of having a balanced pet at the groomers and at
home. I understand that not everyone is capable of taking their dog to
different places but the more you can incorporate your dog into your family’s
activities, the healthier and more balanced your dog will be. In addition to
taking your dog to new places, introduce them to as many new people and other
dogs as possible. Book play dates with your friends and their dogs!
Dog-friendly venues are limited; however, they
do exist. Spruce Meadows is a world renowned equestrian centre that allows you
to bring your dog and you can watch world class show jumping! One that many don’t
know about is Canadian Tire. You may get some stares from other shoppers in the
store but in my opinion, it is worth the value of a well socialized dog. More
and more dog-friendly patios are starting to appear where you can enjoy your
lunch with the company of your four legged friend. The more places that you can
take them, the better. Even if it is just for car rides, provided you do not
leave them unattended in a hot vehicle or cold weather. A grooming shop or pet
store is another great place to take your pup. I encourage many to drop in my
grooming shop when they are out and about with their dog, just for the
socialization aspect. Nail trims are a perfect time to get your dog out of the
house and to your local grooming shop.
When I was a student, I introduced my two dogs
to as many new places as I could get away with. This included the hallways and
elevators at the University that I attended, the video rental store and even
the annual fair one year. All these experiences helped create well balanced dogs
that I could take anywhere, including the 14th floor of the Foothills hospital
when a family member suffered a stroke. My dogs were a hit among the patients
in the common area of the stroke unit. Be creative… you never know what places
are accepting of your dog unless you try.
In addition to basic obedience, there are
numerous fun activities that you can do with your dog. Not only are they great
for socialization but the bond you create with your dog will last forever.
Consider volunteering in a pet therapy program. Agility and flyball are great
for the high energy breeds. Tracking is something to consider for the dogs that
love to follow their nose.
When dogs are brought up without being
socialized, they can grow up to be unruly and fearful of new situations. I
understand that you can be nervous yourself when entrusting your dog to a
stranger like a groomer for the first time. When you drop your dog off at the
groomers, the best thing you can do for your dog is to remain calm yourself,
trust your groomer and pass off your dog with confidence. I encourage you to
get to know your groomer prior to your first visit with your dog so that you
can be relaxed yourself. Our dogs are aware of what we are feeling and if we
are nervous, so are they! Many daycares exist that often will provide
socialization classes in addition to the daycare. If your dog is a nervous
nelly and it is difficult for you to take them with you on outings, consider
these socialization classes or daycare once in awhile. It can make a tremendous
difference! All of these methods of socialization will help your groomer safely
groom your dog but most importantly, will create a happy balanced best friend
for you to enjoy for many years!
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