It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas
It is probably appropriate to wish everyone a happy Christmas at this point of the year -it seems to creep up very suddenly
What I would like to ask is that you consider your dogs wellbeing alongside your own at this time of year
Please take a look at the infographic which is at the bottom of this post as it outlines so many areas that can add stress and anxiety to our dogs lives. This is a very clever infographic from Kathy Kawalec of Dancing Hearts Dog Academy
This is particularly relevant to puppies and newly rescued dogs-they are the most vulnerable to changes within their living spaces and the rhythm of their daily activities
Adding things to our homes including Christmas trees and flashing lights can create sensory difficulties for dogs, as can visitors and noisy activities as the excitement ramps up.
If we are aware of how these specific additions to our homes can affect our dogs we can make allowances and adjustments which can make everyone’s life a little easier. There is a reason why so many dogs end up in rescue directly after Christmas butwe only need a bit of careful thought
Safe places for a dog are a must in a busy home-they -allow dogs to move away should they choose- and if you prepare a safe place before Christmas begins and make sure you spend time with your dog in the area it will be a place of REFUGE but not punishment. These are not areas where you dog is denied your company or because they become annoying to visitors, rather they are places where your dog has the choice to go if needed.
There are many other things you can put in place before and during Christmas-I have an e-book which I can send out if you would like it-email pennie@horseandhoundschool.co.uk if you would like me to send it over
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