Happy Walks for Happy Dogs
First week back today after a relaxing week off just walking one dog (our Penny). It’s been brilliant to see all the happy faces again, and a new face has joined our regular crew, adding to the smiles.
We also had a flurry of emotions on Thursday, when we found out that Brian, a gorgeous 2 year old cockapoo, was at risk of being put to sleep because of behavioural issues. We have offered him an emergency foster home whilst we help settle and assess him. A big thank you to On The Way Home Dog Rescue who are supporting the placement, and to everyone else who has offered to help. We won’t be taking on any overnight boarding clients for the next few months whilst we focus attention on him, thank you for your understanding.
Always Learning
There was no time for formal learning this week as it’s been very busy talking with rescues, trainers, behaviourists and vets to learn more about what makes Brian tick, and how we can best help him feel safe in his new home. I have learnt that there is a wonderful community out there, of kind people dedicated to improving and helping the welfare of dogs in need.
Thought for the week – do you mind your Ps & Qs with your dog?
Humans are brilliant at communicating with words. Dogs are brilliant at communicating with body language. Neither dog nor human are always great in the translation. Dogs have a genetic advantage over us – humans have selectively bred dogs who understand our language the best. So us humans have to work a bit harder. However, humans also have the advantage that our body language often mirrors our words without having to actively think about it, making it easier for dogs to understand. So even if your dog doesn’t understand the words “please” and “thank you”, they will recognise the body language that goes alongside it. Give it a go and let me know what you think in the comments below.
Previous posts:
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, doggie emotions and the Cuddles cue.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, resource guarding update, and cold smells.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, resource guarding webinar, and dog whispers.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, the importance of rest, and is bathtime always necessary?
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, wonderful dog professionals, and minding your Ps & Qs
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