Animal Talk

lifestyle

PETTA LK

Make sure your property is secure and that there is no way

your dog can escape. If your dog stays outside, they should be

confined to the back of the property – theft and poisoning are

very real dangers. Remove any items that could potentially harm

your dog (such as pieces of metal), or that they may target for

chewing. Your dog should have a sheltered, comfortable sleeping

area and plenty of fresh water.

Safety first

Say goodbye

A pilot study has shown that

petting your dog before leaving home

could assist in calming him during an

absence^2. Take a minute to sit calmly

with your dog before you leave and touch

him gently – this is not a time to excite

him. Similarly, when arriving home,

acknowledge your dog but don’t go

over the top with greetings. Save

that for when he’s settled down

a bit to reinforce calmer

behaviour.

Auditory options

Certain types of music have a calming effect

on dogs, so leave the stereo on when you leave

the house – a speaker near a window is fine

for outside dogs. Light classical music is best,

but there are also many options online of

relaxing dog music.

3

Get moving

Obesity is a growing concern

in dogs, and when left to their

own devices, many dogs will

spend most of the day lying

around. Walks, tossing toys

or tiny treats, agility at home

or simply running around the

garden and calling your dog to

follow you are all good options.

Dogs need to use their brains. Fortunately, there are a

multitude of treat-dispensing toys and puzzles available

for dogs, either to buy or make yourself – just search on

the internet. Training is also great, and it doesn’t have

to be hard. Simple games, like giving a treat for eye

contact, responding to being called, or a few sits are

hugely beneficial.

Start thinking

Chewing relieves tension

Look for chews that your dog

can enjoy safely when you’re

not home – stuffable toys such

as Kongs are a good option.

Otherwise, provide chews

when you’re home

to supervise.