Positive Reinforcement
It is so important to prepare your best friend for different experiences and situations, so that they are able to cope and adapt with change. In order to build resilience to sudden change, we need to introduce our dogs to new experiences, noises, people, places, cars and other animals. This needs to be introduced in a supportive and controlled way by reinforcing our dogs to ensure they develop confidence to try new things.
This week has been a week of uncertainties with bushfires, strong winds, full moon, and now potential floods. This level of change can cause us anxiety and stress, which can in turn funnel down to our dogs. Here are some steps that can assist us with planning and supporting our dogs when there is change.
- Have a clear evacuation plan; including a pets grab bag. Practice this evacuation at times when you are not stressed and when there is no emergency. Generalize this by practicing events at different times – such as evacuating in the dark.
- Introduce change into your dogs routine; by feeding at different times, walking different routes and staying in different locations (friends houses, camping).
- Have a chat with the vet (if needed) and have some situational medication for emergencies or ensure you have non-medical options available such as adaptil or thundershirts.
It’s important to use positive reinforcement to teach these skills and build your dogs confidence to make decisions. Reward (with what your dog loves most) all behaviours you like – such as choice to lay down on their bed, or choice to investigate their environment. Any time your dog does this it builds confidence and resilience which helps them during times of stress.
A stressful event can cause behaviour change and trauma for your dog. It’s important to be kind and supportive and seek help when things have calmed down.
