cooperative care for puppies
Many dogs fear being handled by strangers, which can be particularly problematic visiting the vet or groomer. However, when dogs learn to tolerate handling and husbandry procedures when they are young, they grow up to become active and willing participants in these experiences.
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In this video, KPA CTP Erin Britton is teaching her puppy, Dill, to be comfortable having his ears and mouth examined. Note how Dill has full control over when Erin touches him. When Dill places his chin on the towel, he communicates to Erin that he is okay with her touching him. If at any point in the training Dill pulls away as Erin approaches, she stops and waits until Dill relaxes again. “I've equated this experience to going to the doctor,” Erin says. ‘If you were at the doctor's office and said ‘stop,’ the doctor would stop immediately and figure out a way to make you more comfortable. There is no reason dogs should not have the same choice and control in their lives.”
For more tips on how to prepare your pet or your clients' pets for successful vet visits, check out our Better Veterinary Visits course!
Happy Training!