Certified Dog Trainers--Ten plus years in business
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Prepare for Halloween. Manage the space.
Halloween Tips
Here is an idea for you to avoid children ringing your bell:
Arrange a table by your front door with bags of treats that children can take. You may want to sit outside or put a sign to instruct them to take just one.
Also, it may look cute, but pets do not take well to costumes. It may be fun for you, but not for them.
Well in advance of 'Trick or Treaters' coming to your house, take your pet for a long walk and train skills as you walk. Take five minutes to train more skills before you place them in a room comfortable for them. Give them activities to do. Put food puzzles, snuffle mats, play soft music and put on Dog TV.
Be aware that children can accidentally drop candy, gum, cookies near your home. These are poison to your pet. On their walk, training "Leave it." is a valuable cue.
If you are going to a Halloween party, use all of the above tips and be sure to have an indoor camera and the app so you can check on your pet.
Dogs Love 2 Train, LLC is dedicated to your pet's well-being. We will develop a personalized training plan that is tailored to your dog's needs using only positive reinforcement techniques to help your dog learn new behaviors and overcome problem behaviors.
So, make it a "Happy Halloween" for them and for you!
Please read -- then scroll down for more insights
THUNDER STORMS AND FIREWORKS
Be aware of your approach to your dog. It’s important to remain calm and use a soothing, even tone. Petting can be comforting — long, slow, firm strokes along the length of their body are typically very soothing.
Avoid being frantic in any way. Using a higher-than-average pitch may make your dog think that there really is something to fear. Remain calm and reassuring to help your canine companion.
Walk Them and Train Skills Before the Fireworks Start
Head out for your long walk before the sun sets to increase the chances that you’ll avoid the sounds. When you do go out, you’ll want to ensure your dog is secure on a leash before your walk.
Double-check the fit of your dog’s collar and harness before going outside. A leash, even if you have a fenced-in area, is a great added safety measure to help keep your dog close to you and under control should they get startled.
Use Desensitization Techniques for Sounds of Fireworks
If you suspect your dog will freak out at the sound of fireworks, try playing sounds of fireworks (softly) so your dog is used to hearing them. Try pairing a video of the sounds of fireworks with a treat your dog likes in a process called counter-conditioning.
The volume should be low enough that your dog can notice it, but does not show signs of stress like panting, pacing, leaving the area, or trying to hide. We call this keeping the dog ‘below threshold,’ and it makes it possible for learning to take place. If the dog is overwhelmed, they’re looking to escape the situation and are not going to be nearly as capable of learning that it’s not a threat.” Her other tips including increasing the volume gradually, varying the source of the sound, and using different recordings.
Talk to Your Vet
If your pet’s anxiety is severe, consider booking an appointment with your vet well in advance of the holiday so you can discuss a medication that could help soothe your dog’s anxiety. If you have a dog and you haven’t done any prep work, and you know your pet is going to be in panic, try true therapeutic treatment.You can also ask about trying over-the-counter CBD, dog-calming treats or dog anxiety vests.
Whether your dog gets stressed during fireworks and travel or experiences distress when left alone, Pet Releaf CBD can help. As the original and No. 1 CBD brand, Pet Releaf has helped more than five million pets live happier, healthier lives. Pet Releaf’s USDA-certified organic CBD chews and CBD oils are safe and effective, using third-party testing to ensure quality products. Designed by veterinarians, Pet Releaf products can help dogs of all sizes, ages, and health statuses.
Calming
Try natural supplements like Rescue Remedy for pets; Adaptil.