WALK IN THEIR SHOES

How it feels when you have a dog with reactivity or behaviour struggles.

Walk in their shoes.

There has been a lot of talk about mental health recently. What has that got to do with dog training? I work as a team with pet parents, sometimes for weeks at a time. I really feel when they talk about how difficult it is having a dog with behaviour struggles.

Whether it is having a dog that lunges and barks out of fear, or a dog that is so fearful of being home alone. The emotion it causes, the stress, even arguments amongst loved ones can be immense.

One of my clients recently nearly had me in tears when she told me that she feels embarrassment and shame when she is out with her dog.

The looks from other dog owners, believing that her dog is dangerous, when we know he is the softest, most adorable dog, when he feels safe.

Another lady I am working with, again really upset because her dog has separation anxiety. Friends and family have told her that she is stupid letting a dog rule her life, after all it's just a dog.

Remember these dogs didn't ask to be fearful, and it certainly isn't what these pet parents thought life would be like when they first brought their puppy home.

So wouldn't it be nice if these special people felt supported, encouraged, empathised with, rather than feeling shame or guilt.

Maybe ask if there is anything you could do to help. Or simply keeping your distance when you see a fellow dog walker struggling. or for separation anxiety, maybe offer to sit in with their dog if they need to go out, or just ask can I help support you.

To the pet parents I work with, you have my respect, and I have your back

Categories: : Anxious/nervous dogs, Reactivity