| received badge | ● Teacher (source) |
| answered a question | putting leash on a dog? It could be a trust issue. Its different when an owner is around. A dog sometimes behaves differently when their owner is near by because they feel safer and more secure with a new person getting close to them. You don't want the leash to be an issue especially if you will be dog sitting this pet again or for a long period of time. It might be good to try to different approaches. If you are approaching the dog from above or standing over him when trying to place it around his neck, he may see you in a threatening way. Try sitting on the floor and getting him to come to you. Start off by petting him on his back or massaging his whole body (its just as relaxing for pets as it is humans but be gently )and slowly getting closer to his neck. Keep doing this throughout the days which will show him, you have no intentions of hurting him. Gradually add the leash into the mix. For instance while petting his neck, lay the leash near him where he can see it so he equates good feelings with the leash. After awhile, maybe even have the leash in your hand while you massage or pet his neck. Then try to place it on him and see what happens. It usually has nothing to do with the leash. Dogs are very sensitive to a persons feelings. If you are getting nervous during this time, he can sense it and that may be making him more nervous. Aggression isn't always a sign of an angry dog; a lot of times aggressive behavior is due to nervousness. Try to take a deep breathe when you are doing this too. Relax and he will relax. Good luck. It doesn't hurt to have treats around while petting and massaging him too. Equating positive actions with a difficult experience can help alleviate the negative emotions. When you're nervous, doesn't it help to have something with you that helps ease the nerves? |
| answered a question | What do people do about keys to the front door? I like Candace's idea about getting a key pad. For me, most of my regular patrons have given me my own copy of their house keys because I have been with them for so long. But just starting off, it might be a good idea to meet the day prior to starting the stay to receive the key and then just leave the keys at the owners home at the end of the stay. If that isn't convenient, a good hiding place outside the house like under a mat is a great idea. |