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Living with a cat can be beneficial to children. Cats can enhance a child’s self-esteem, teach them responsibility and help them to learn empathy.
As a general rule, if your child is under six years old, it’s best to adopt a cat that’s over two years old.
Below are some guidelines to help you start off on the right foot. Remember to always supervise small children with your new cat.
Keep in mind that some cats do not like to be held, but will sit next to you and your child, especially if offered treats or petting. Have your child sit in your lap and let the cat approach both of you. This way you can keep your child from getting “carried away” with pats that are too rough.
See: “Preparing Pets for a New Baby”
Remember to be patient. Your new cat may take some time to feel comfortable around your child. Your cat also needs to learn which behaviors on his part are appropriate and which are not.
Punishing your cat or kitten for inappropriate behavior will not help and is likely to make matters worse. If he learns that being around children always results in “bad things” happening to him, he may become defensive in their presence.
If your cat is growling, hissing, or biting at your child for any reason, the situation needs IMMEDIATE attention.
For additional information and resources, visit our website www.BrevardSheriff.com.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
Overweight cats are at a higher risk of health issues like diabetes, skin issues and arthritis. Being overweight also decreases the quality of a cat’s life. They are unable to thoroughly groom themselves all over, have trouble getting around, feel uncomfortable and may possibly be in pain. However, through diet and an active lifestyle, your cat can maintain a healthy weight and live a healthier life.
Feeding
Feeding your cat limited amounts of food anywhere from twice a day to several times a day is recommended to prevent your cat from excessive eating. Many owners are accustomed to free feeding, which involves leaving a pile of food out, especially when they have multiple cats. However, free feeding may increase the chance that your cat will overeat. Cats are not always the best judge when it comes to excessive eating. They may eat because they do not feel full or out of boredom. By managing how much your cat eats, you are able to keep an eye on your cat’s appetite. A change in appetite could be an indication of illness, and these changes can be hard to detect when your cat is free fed. New research has also shown that the activity level in cats increases with multiple small meals a day.
Exercise
An active cat is a healthy cat. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and can prevent issues that occur due to boredom, like overeating. Provide yourcat with plenty of toys, such as balls and furry mice, that they can bat around. There are also interactive toys that can be turned on when no one is home. However, the best form of play involves both you and your cat. By playing with your cat every day, you are ensuring that it receives the exercise it needs.
Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is also important to help your cat live a healthier life. By stimulating your cat’s mind, you can decrease boredom and prevent health and behavior problems from occurring.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
An aversive is something that your cat finds unpleasant. It can be used to discourage her from a particular action or place. Aversives by themselves however, rarely work. They are most effective when used as part of a behavior modification plan, where you teach your cat an appropriate, alternative behavior. Please experiment cautiously and sparingly when choosing an aversive, as individual responses will vary. One aversive that is mildly unpleasant for one cat may be terrifying for another and have no effect on yet another. The goal is to apply the aversive at a level that will cause your cat to avoid the action or place without becoming fearful, while working on teaching a pleasant alternative.
Using Textures as Aversives
Apply these textures to places you need your cat to avoid, and add toys or treats to appropriate places to make them more attractive.
Indoors:
You may need to weigh the aversive material firmly or tape it to keep it in place. To protect furniture or floor finishes from sticky substances, attach the material to a piece of foil or heavy plastic and secure that with weights or light tape. Easy-to-attach, commercial varieties of texture aversives are available from most pet supply stores.
Using Smells as Aversives
Apply these substances to places you need your cat to avoid, and add toys or treats to make appropriate places more attractive. Avoid placing scent aversives near the litter box, as it may cause your cat to stop using the litter box.
Indoors and Outdoors:
Soak cotton balls, rags or washcloths in the “stinky” substance. To help protect carpets, upholstery, floors, or furniture, place the saturated object on a piece of weighted foil or heavy plastic. To prevent the substance from seeping into the plant soil, use the same precautions.
Using Tastes as Aversives
Apply these substances to places where your cat’s mouth should not be, and offer an appropriate toy or treat instead.
Some of these substances may damage furniture or floor finishes, so be sure to test them in a hidden location first. Except for hot sauce and cayenne pepper, these substances should be safe to apply to human skin; however, some individuals may be sensitive to them.
Remote-controlled Aversives:
These items can be used to keep your cat off items, like counters. They are activated by the cat’s behavior, so the owner need not be present to apply them. They are available at pet supply stores or easy to make at home.
WARNING: For fearful cats, avoid using aversives. Aversives may do more harm than good! Also, remember to start out with the lowest level aversive first and experiment cautiously to see what works for your pet.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
What should I do if I have found abandoned kittens?
If you find newborn baby kittens that are quiet and warm, please resist the urge to pick them up and “rescue” them, unless they’re in imminent danger (rising flood waters, along busy road, etc.). They are probably not abandoned or orphaned.
Mama cats have to leave their babies from time to time to search for food for themselves, relieve themselves, or just take a break and have some quiet time. They may be gone up to 8 hours, but are usually not far. If you only see one or two kittens, it’s possible the mama cat is in the process of moving her kittens.
If they look “safe” leave them alone, and allow the mom to care for them. She knows how to do this better than any humans do. Monitor the area, checking every few hours. Approach quietly and cautiously. If mama is near, and she feels that you are a threat to her babies, she will move them. Usually the first place she chooses for them is the safest one for her little ones. If you handle them, or make a pest of yourself, she’ll be forced to move them to another location that may not be quite as safe.
Put fresh, cool water, and food nearby for the mama, but preferably away from the kittens, so that if you attract other hungry cats, you aren’t drawing attention to the babies. Mama cats need extra calories, so give her kitten food, both dry and wet. A box with some clean, soft towels nearby may encourage her to use it as a bed for herself and her wee ones.
If the mama cat returns, that is great! But do not continue to visit or check on the kittens more than once or twice each day. See below.
When should I remove unweaned kittens?
If the kittens are looking distressed, they’re meowing loudly, they are breathing with their mouths open, they look too hot or too cold, they need your help, or the mama cat has not returned in over 8 hours. Sometimes the mama cat is killed by a predator, or hit by a car, while out searching for food.
Once you remove the babies, you must keep them at an appropriate body temperature (100-102.5 F). Using a box with clean, soft towels, make a nest and place the kittens in the box. Cover them loosely with more towels.
So I rescued the kittens, now what?
You have a decision to make: you can either 1) take on the responsibility of feeding and caring for these neonates around the clock for the next few weeks or 2) you can bring them to a local cat and kitten rescue or 3) you can bring them to the South Animal Care Center between the hours of 11am and 3pm and a foster care giver will be assigned to care for the kittens.
And please don’t forget the mother. Be sure that if she remains in the area, that she is trapped, spayed, vaccinated, and returned so as to prevent further litters. Help with this can be found with one of several local cat and kitten rescues.
The mama cat did return! But I’m still worried about the kittens?
The choice to leave kittens in the care of their mother is the best one, if conditions are generally safe despite being outdoors. Keep an eye on these kittens as they grow up. Monitor them no more than once or twice a day. When the kittens begin to wander away from their den, this is good time to consider trapping and spaying the mama and, if you choose, to re-home the kittens.
FROM “THE LEADER OF THE PACK” to “the top dog,” plenty of simplistic metaphors come from the canine world. But relationships between canines can be pretty complex, beginning with the very first meeting. Like most animals who live in groups, dogs establish their own social structure, sometimes called a dominance hierarchy. This dominance hierarchy serves to maintain order, reduce conflict, and promote cooperation among pack members. Dogs also establish territories, which they may defend against intruders or rivals. Obviously, dogs’ social and territorial nature affects their behavior whenever a new dog is introduced to the household.
Introduce the dogs in a neutral location so that your resident dog is less likely to view the newcomer as a territorial intruder. Each dog should be handled by a separate person. With both dogs on leashes, begin the introductions in an area unfamiliar to each, such as a park or a neighbor’s yard. If you frequently walk your resident dog in a nearby park, she may view that area as her territory, too, so choose a less familiar site. If you are adopting your dog from an animal shelter, you might even bring your resident dog to the local shelter and introduce the two there.
From the first meeting, help both dogs experience “good things” when they’re in each other’s presence. Let them sniff each other briefly, which is normal canine greeting behavior. As they do, talk to them in a happy, friendly tone of voice; never use a threatening tone. (Don’t allow them to investigate and sniff each other for too long, however, as this may escalate to an aggressive response.) After a short time, get the attention of both dogs and give each a treat in return for obeying a simple command, such as “sit” or “stay.” Take the dogs for a walk and let them sniff and investigate each other at intervals. Continue with the “happy talk,” food rewards, and simple commands.
One body posture that indicates things are going well is a “play-bow.” One dog will crouch with her front legs on the ground and her hind end in the air. This is an invitation to play, and a posture that usually elicits friendly behavior from the other dog. Watch carefully for body postures that indicate an aggressive response, including hair standing up on one dog’s back, teeth baring, deep growls, a stiff- legged gait, or a prolonged stare. If you see such postures, interrupt the interaction immediately by calmly getting each dog interested in something else. For example, both handlers can call their dogs to them, have them sit or lie down, and reward each with a treat. The dogs’ interest in the treats should prevent the situation from escalating into aggression. Try letting the dogs interact again, but this time for a shorter time period and/or at a greater distance from each other.
When the dogs seem to be tolerating each other ‘s presence without fearful or aggressive responses and the investigative greeting behaviors have tapered off, you can take them home. Whether you choose to take them in the same vehicle will depend on their size, how well they ride in the car, how trouble-free the initial introduction has been, and how many dogs are involved.
If you have more than one resident dog in your household, it may be best to introduce the resident dogs to the new dog one at a time. Two or more resident dogs may have a tendency to gang up on the newcomer.
It is important to support the dominant dog in your household, even if that turns out to be the newcomer. This may mean, for example, allowing the dominant dog to claim a favored sleeping spot as his or to have access to a desirable toy. Trying to impose your preference for which dog should be dominant can confuse the dogs and create further problems.
Puppies usually pester adult dogs unmercifully. Before the age of four months , puppies may not recognize subtle body postures from adult dogs signaling that they’ve had enough . Well-socialized adult dogs with good temperaments may set limits with puppies with a warning growl or snarl. These behaviors are normal and should be allowed. Adult dogs who aren’t well socialized , or who have a history of fighting with other dogs, may attempt to set limits with more aggressive behaviors , such as biting, which could harm the puppy. For this reason, a puppy shouldn’t be left alone with an adult dog until you’re confident the puppy isn’t in any danger. Be sure to give the adult dog some quiet time away from the puppy and some extra individual attention as well.
If the introductions don’t go smoothly, contact a professional animal behaviorist immediately. Dogs can be severely injured in fights , and the longer the problem continues, the harder it can be to resolve. Punishment won’t work and could make things worse. Fortunately, most conflicts between dogs in the same family can be resolved with professional guidance.
For complete tips and advice on pet behavior and other pet care topics, visit www.petsforlife.org.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2000 Dumb Friends League and ©20 0 3 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
EVERYONE NEEDS A LITTLE TIME ALONE NOW AND THEN— unless of course you are a dog who suffers from separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit behavior problems when they’re left alone. Typically, they’ll have a dramatic anxiety response within a short time (20–45 minutes) after their owners leave them. The most common of these behaviors are:
Digging, chewing, and scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to escape and reunite with their owners
Howling, barking, and crying in an attempt to get their owners to return
Urination and defecation (even with housetrained dogs) as a result of distress
Why Do Dogs Suffer from Separation Anxiety?
We don’t fully understand why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and, under similar circumstances, others don’t. It’s important to realize, however, that the destruction and house soiling that often occur with separation anxiety are not the dog’s attempt to punish or seek revenge on his owner for leaving him alone. In reality, they are part of a panic response.
Separation Anxiety Sometimes Occurs:
When a dog accustomed to constant human
companionship is left alone for the first time Following a long interval, such as a vacation, during which the owner and dog are constantly together
After a traumatic event (from the dog’s point of view), such
as a period of time spent at a shelter or boarding kennel After a change in the family’s routine or structure (such as a child leaving for college, a change in work schedule, a move to a new home, or a new pet or person in the home)
How Do I Know If My Dog Has Separation Anxiety?
Because there are many reasons for the behaviors associated with separation anxiety, it’s essential to correctly diagnose the reason for the behavior before proceeding with treatment. If most, or all, of the following statements are true about your dog, he may have a separation anxiety problem:
The behavior occurs exclusively or primarily when he’s left alone. He follows you from room to room whenever you’re home.
He displays effusive, frantic greeting behaviors.
The behavior always occurs when he’s left alone, whether for a short or long period of time. He reacts with excitement, depression, or anxiety to your preparations to leave the house. He dislikes spending time outdoors by himself.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety
For a minor separation anxiety problem, the following techniques may be helpful by themselves. For more severe problems, these techniques should be used along with the desensitization process described in the next section.
Keep arrivals and departures low-key. For example, when you arrive home, ignore your dog for the first few minutes, then calmly pet him. This may be hard for you to do, but it’s important!
Leave your dog with an article of clothing that smells like you—such as an old t-shirt that you’ve slept in recently.
Establish a “safety cue”—a word or action that you use every time you leave that tells your dog you’ll be back. Dogs usually learn to associate certain cues with short absences by their owners. For example, when you take out the garbage, your dog knows you come right back and doesn’t become anxious. Therefore, it’s helpful to associate a safety cue with your short-duration absences.
Some examples of safety cues are a playing radio, a playing television, or a toy (one that doesn’t have dangerous fillings and can’t be torn into pieces). Use your safety cue during practice sessions with your dog. Be sure to avoid presenting your dog with the safety cue when you leave for a period of time longer than he can tolerate; if you do, the value of the safety cue will be lost. Leaving a radio on to provide company for your dog isn’t particularly useful by itself, but a playing radio may work if you’ve used it consistently as a safety cue in your practice sessions. If your dog engages in destructive chewing as part of his separation distress , offering him a chewing item as a safety cue is a good idea. Very hard rubber toys that can be stuffed with treats and Nylabone®-like products are good choices.
Desensitization for More Techniques Severe Cases of Separation Anxiety
The primary treatment for more severe cases of separation anxiety is a systematic process of getting your dog used to being alone . You must teach your dog to remain calm during “practice” departures and short absences. We recommend the following procedure:
Teaching and Down-Stay the Sit-Stay
Another technique for reducing separation anxiety in your dog is practicing the common “sit-stay” or “down-stay” training exercises using positive reinforcement . Your goal is to be able to move briefly out of your dog’s sight while he remains in the “stay” position and thereby teach your dog that he can remain calmly and happily in one place while you go to another. To do this, you gradually increase the distance you move away from your dog. As you progress , you can do this during the course of your normal daily activities. For example, if you’re watching television with your dog by your side and you get up for a snack, tell him to stay, and leave the room. When you come back, give him a treat or praise him quietly Never punish your dog during these training sessions.
Interim Solutions
Because the treatments described above can take a while, and because a dog with separation anxiety can do serious damage to himself or your home in the interim, consider these suggestions to help you and your dog cope in the short term.
What Won’t Help a Separation Anxiety Problem
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2000 Dumb Friends League and ©2003 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’RE EXPECTING A BABY!
If your family already includes a pet, you’ll need to help that first “baby” adjust to the new one you’ll soon bring home. You can help your pet cope with this big change in much the same way parents help children understand that a new brother or sister will be joining the family. By following the tips below, you can ease your pet’s stress, help her welcome your new baby, and ensure that your pet stays where she belongs—with you and your growing family.
Can I Keep My Cat?
If you’re pregnant, you’ve probably heard of toxoplasmosis because it can cause serious birth defects. However, toxoplasmosis is a rare disease in the United States and one that can easily be avoided. While the disease- causing parasite can be found in the feces of cats who ingest raw meat, birds, mice, or contaminated soil, toxoplasmosis is more commonly found in uncooked or undercooked meat.
If you’re concerned about possible exposure, ask your obstetrician to perform a simple blood test. If the result shows you were exposed to toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, you may be given medication, and your baby may be tested and treated soon after birth. Keep in mind that the odds of contracting toxoplasmosis during pregnancy are extremely low, and even lower for your baby. Being pregnant does not mean you have to give up living with and caring for your beloved cat. Toxoplasmosis is easily avoided by practicing good hygiene and responsible pet care. Just follow these simple steps to reduce the risk:
How Will My Pet React?
No matter how much you plan ahead, the addition of a new family member may be difficult for your pet. Remember, your dog or cat was your first “baby” and is used to being the center of your attention. So it’s understandable that she may experience something akin to sibling rivalry when you introduce a new human baby into your household.
You can minimize this feeling by working with her before you bring home your baby. For example, because your new baby will demand a lot of your time and energy, gradually accustom your pet to spending less time with you. Drastically decreasing attention and frequently scolding, ignoring, or isolating your pet after the baby comes home will likely make your pet feel stressed. If your pet is particularly attached to the mother-to-be, another family member should develop a closer relationship with the animal. That way, your pet can still feel loved and provided for while mom is busy with the baby.
How Can I Prepare My Pet?
Below are several suggestions to make introducing your pet and baby safer and smoother for all. Be sure to carry out these changes months before the baby’s arrival to best prepare your pet.
Your Pregnancy and Your Cat
What Do We Do after Our Baby Is Born?
Welcoming a new baby is exciting for your family. Remember when you first brought home your dog or cat? But before you bring your baby home from the hospital , have your partner or friend take home something with the baby’s scent (such as a blanket) for your pet to investigate.
When you return from the hospital, your pet may be eager to greet you and receive your attention . Have someone else take the baby into another room while you give your pet a warm, but calm, welcome . Keep some treats handy so you can distract your pet.
After the initial greeting, you can bring your pet with you to sit next to the baby; reward your pet with treats for appropriate behavior . Remember, you want your pet to view associating with the baby as a positive experience . To prevent anxiety or injury, never force your pet to get near the baby, and always supervise any interaction .
Life will no doubt be hectic caring for your new baby, but try to maintain regular routines as much as possible to help your pet adjust. And be sure to spend one-on-one quality time with your pet each day-it may help relax you , too . With proper training, supervision , and adjustments, you , your new baby, and your pet should be able to live together safely and happily as one (now larger) family.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2000 Dumb Friends League and ©2003 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
Definition: “Stay where you are until I return and release you.”
Practical uses: Stays are useful when you need your dog to be still while you do something else. They can also help to teach your dog self-control and independence.
How to teach:
Start in a low-distraction area that is familiar to your dog, and have your dog on leash. You can stand on the end of your leash or tether him to something heavy if you want to have your hands free. Wait for the dog to sit, and when he does, click and treat (C/T). In this case, it is best to throw the treat on the floor so that the dog has to stand up to get the treat (make sure he sees it). Wait again for the dog to sit, and C/T when he does.
Adding the cue:
Start in a quiet place with few or no distractions. “Stay” begins as an extended sit (see “Teaching Your Dog to ‘Sit'”). Stand directly in front of your dog and give the sit cue; gradually increase the time before you click and treat (C/T). Throw the treat so that the dog must get up to retrieve it. Do not step away from your dog — stay within a foot of your dog until he can remain in the stay position for at least 30 seconds at least nine out of ten times that you ask him to.
Adding the Cue and Moving On:
Begin using the cue word “stay” right after you say “sit.” Take one step away from the dog (remain facing him) and after two seconds step back to your original position and C/T (always throw the treat so that the click also acts as a “release,” giving permission to the dog to get up out of the stay). Again gradually increase the time before you C/T to 30 seconds, never moving more than one step from your dog. You should also begin using a release word, like “okay” or “free” as you throw the treat.
If the dog breaks his stay, gently return him to the original spot, then C/T for a shorter stay (i.e, if he broke at ten seconds, be sure to C/T at six or seven seconds this time). Make sure he “succeeds” (doesn’t break his stay) at least five more times before you begin increasing the time again. The idea is to have lots of successful stays that can be rewarded and few breaks, which are not rewarded.
Tips:
Adding Distractions:
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2010 Dumb Friends League
Definition: “Sit where you are.”
Practical uses: Have your dog sit before you set down his food dish, put on his leash, let him out the door, pet him, etc. This concept is called “say please” and can help to prevent many common problems such as door-darting, jumping up on people, and pestering for attention. It also helps him learn that doing what you ask is always the best choice and the fastest way of getting what he wants. When in doubt, SIT! This stops whatever inappropriate behavior he may be engaged in.
How to teach:
Start in a low-distraction area that is familiar to your dog, and have your dog on leash. You can stand on the end of your leash or tether him to something heavy if you want to have your hands free. Wait for the dog to sit, and when he does, click and treat (C/T). In this case, it is best to throw the treat on the floor so that the dog has to stand up to get the treat (make sure he sees it). Wait again for the dog to sit, and C/T when he does.
Adding the cue:
When the dog is offering the behavior (sitting and looking to you in anticipation of the C/T), begin saying the cue word “sit” as she sits, so the dog associates the behavior with the word. Do this about 20 times over two different training sessions.
In your next training session, start by saying the cue word as the dog sits. After a few repetitions, say the cue word before she sits. Now you have a cue!
Moving On:
Tips:
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
Definition: “Leave whatever you are doing and look at me.”
Practical uses: “Leave it” is useful when you want your dog to stop doing something, whether that is sniffing at someone or something, barking or licking. The dog should immediately stop whatever she is doing and look to you for a reward.
How to teach:
Put a treat in your closed hand, making sure she sees the treat; then put your closed fist near her. She will sniff and lick your hand. Keep your hand still, and do not pull your hand away from the dog. As soon as she pulls her nose back, click and treat (C/T), giving her a treat from your other hand. The value of the treat you give the dog should be equal to or higher than the treat you are holding in your fist.
Adding the cue:
When the dog starts offering the behavior – i.e., when presented with your closed fist, she pulls her head back, or does not sniff at your hand — you can begin to use a cue word like “leave it” so that the dog associates the behavior with the word. Do this about 20 times over two different training sessions.
In your next training session, start by saying the cue word as you offer your closed fist. Now you have a cue!
Moving On:
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2010 Dumb Friends League
Definition: “Drop whatever is in your mouth, and I’ll give you something even better!”
Practical uses: “Drop it” is useful when your dog picks up something in his mouth that he shouldn’t have – your shoe, your child’s favorite toy, or a chicken bone, for example. It’s also useful for those dogs that grab the leash in their mouths when being walked and for those mouthy dogs that want to grab at your hands, arms and clothing in play.
Many dogs learn that when their owner is yelling “drop it” they are going to be deprived of the goodie they have in their mouths, so they will gulp it down faster. It is imperative that, to your dog, this command means he has a chance to get something even better, so he will willingly let go of the forbidden object. This could even mean the difference between life and death for your dog.
How to teach:
Give your dog a toy or chewie. You want to start with something your dog is interested in having in his mouth, but not a really high-value item that he is not going to want to give up. Wait for him to drop the item and, when he does, click and treat (C/T), and pick up the item. You may want to throw the treat a few feet away so he is busy getting the treat and doesn’t try to grab for the item at the same time you do. Give the item back to the dog and repeat 10-12 times.
Adding the cue:
Begin saying your cue word, “drop it,” as the dog drops the toy. Continue for two to three more sessions of 10-12 C/Ts. In your next session, use the “drop it” cue just before the dog drops the item. C/T when the dog drops the item.
Moving On:
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2010 Dumb Friends League
Definition: Rather than teach the dog to “not” do something, we will ask him to do something he knows how to do that is incompatible with jumping up on you or someone else. You may use “sit” or “touch” or some other behavior as your alternate incompatible behavior. Your dog must have the alternate behavior on cue in order to do this.
Practical uses: Use when your dog is jumping up on you or on someone else.
How to teach:
Moving on:
Tips
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2010 Dumb Friends League
Puppies explore their world by putting things in their mouths. In addition, puppies are teething until they’re about 6 months old, which usually causes them some discomfort. Chewing not only facilitates teething, but also makes sore gums feel better. While it is perfectly normal for puppies to chew on furniture, shoes, and shrubbery, these behaviors can be a problem for you and your puppy will not magically “outgrow” this behavior as he matures. However, by shaping your puppy’s behavior and teaching him which objects are acceptable chew toys and which are not, you are able to minimize chewing problems past 6 months of age.
Discouraging Unacceptable Behavior
It is virtually inevitable that your puppy will, at some point, chew up something you value. This is part of raising a puppy! You can, however, prevent most problems by taking the following precautions:
Encouraging Acceptable Behavior
What Not To Do
Never discipline or punish your puppy after-the-fact. If you discover a chewed item even minutes after he’s chewed it, you’re too late to administer a correction. Animals associate punishment with what they’re doing at the time they’re being punished. Dog and puppies cannot reason that, “I tore up those shoes an hour ago and that’s why I’m being scolded now.” Some people believe this is what a puppy is thinking because he runs and hides or because he “looks guilty.” Guilty looks are canine appeasing postures that dogs show when they feel threatened. When you’re angry and upset, the puppy feels threatened by your tone of voice, body postures, and/or facial expressions, so he may hide or show appeasing postures. Punishment after-the-fact will not only fail to eliminate the undesirable behavior, but could provoke other undesirable behaviors, such as aggression or fear.
Other Reasons for Destructive Behavior
Although most destructive chewing by puppies is normal behavior, some puppies may exhibit destructive behavior for the same reasons as adult dogs. Examples include separation anxiety, fear-related behaviors, and attention-getting behavior. Visit our website at www.BrevardSheriff.com for more resources.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
Housetraining a puppy requires time, vigilance, patience and commitment. By following the procedures outlined below, you can minimize house soiling incidents, but virtually every puppy will have an accident in the house (more likely several). This is part of raising a puppy and should be expected. The more consistent you are in following the basic housetraining procedures, the faster your puppy will learn acceptable behavior. It may take several weeks to housetrain your puppy and with some of the smaller breeds it might take longer. A puppy can usually be considered reliably housetrained when it has not had any accidents for two to three months.
Establish a Routine
Supervise, Supervise, Supervise
Don’t give your puppy an opportunity to soil in the house. He should be watched at all times when he is indoors. You can tether him to you with a leash or use baby gates to keep him in your view. Watch for signs that he needs to eliminate, like sniffing around or circling. When you see these signs, immediately take him outside, on a leash, to his bathroom spot. If he eliminates, praise him lavishly and reward him with a treat.
Confinement
When you’re unable to watch your puppy closely, he should be confined to an area small enough that he won’t want to eliminate there. It should be just big enough for him to comfortably stand, lie down, and turn around. This area could be a portion of a bathroom or laundry room, blocked off with boxes or baby gates. Or you may want to crate train your puppy and use the crate to confine him (see our handout: “Crate Training Your Dog”). If your puppy has spent several hours in confinement, make sure to take him out directly to his bathroom spot before doing anything else.
Oops!
Expect your puppy to have an accident in the house – it’s a normal part of housetraining.
It’s extremely important that you use the supervision and confinement procedures outlined above to minimize the number of accidents. If you allow your puppy to eliminate frequently in the house, he’ll get confused about where he’s supposed to eliminate, which will prolong the housetraining process.
Paper Training
A puppy under 6 months of age cannot be expected to control his bladder for more than a few hours at a time. If you have to be away from home for more than four or five hours a day, this may not be the best time for you to get a puppy. If you’re already committed to having a puppy and have to be away from home for long periods of time, you’ll need to train your puppy to eliminate in a specific place indoors. Be aware, however that doing so can prolong the process of teaching him to eliminate outdoors. Teaching your puppy to eliminate on newspaper may create a life-long surface preference, meaning that he may, even in adulthood, eliminate on any newspaper he finds lying around the house.
When your puppy must be left alone for long periods of time, confine him to an area with enough room for a sleeping space, a playing space, and a separate place to eliminate. In the area designated as the elimination place, you can either use newspapers, a sod box, or litter. To make a sod box, place sod in a container, like a child’s small, plastic swimming pool. You can also find dog litter products at pet supply stores. If you clean up an accident in the house, take the soiled rags or paper towels, and put them in the designated elimination place. The smell with help your puppy recognize the area as the place where he is supposed to eliminate.
Other Types of Housesoiling Problems
If you’ve consistently followed the housetraining procedures and your puppy continues to eliminate in the house, there may be another reason for his behavior.
Visit our website at www.BrevardSheriff.com for more resources.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
FOR SOME PEOPLE, the phrase “top dog” isn’t just a saying. It actually describes their dogs. If you’ve got a dog who likes to boss you (or others) around, chances are you’ve got a dominance aggression problem in your household—a problem that could endanger you, your family, and others.
Most dogs assume a neutral or submissive role toward people, but some dogs will challenge their owners for dominance. A dominant dog may stare, bark, growl, snap, or even bite when you give him a command or ask him to give up a toy, treat, or resting place. Sometimes even hugging, petting, or grooming can be interpreted as gestures of dominance and, therefore, provoke a growl or snap—and this is true even though your dog may still be very affectionate and often solicit petting and attention from you.
To understand why your dog behaves in these ways, it’s important to know some things about canine social systems. Animals who live in social groups, including wolves and domestic dogs, establish a social structure called a dominance hierarchy within their group. This hierarchy serves to maintain order, reduce conflict, and promote cooperation among group members. A position within the dominance hierarchy is established by each member of the group, based on the outcomes of interactions between themselves and the other pack members. The more dominant animals can control access to valued items such as food, den sites, and mates. For domestic dogs, valued items might be food, toys, sleeping or resting places, and attention from their owners.
For your home to be a safe and happy place for pets and people, it’s best that the humans in the household assume the highest positions in the dominance hierarchy, particularly with dominant dogs.
Is Your Dog Dominant?
You may have a dominance issue with your dog if he:
Resists obeying well-known commands.
Won’t move out of your way when required.
Nudges your hand, mouths your arm, or insists on being petted or played with—in other words, he “orders” you to obey.
Defends food, toys, or other objects from you.
Growls or bares teeth under any circumstances.
Resists handling by you, the veterinarian, or the groomer.
Gets up on furniture without permission and won’t get down.
Snaps at you.
What to Do If You Recognize Signs of Dominance in Your Dog
If you recognize the beginning signs of dominance aggression in your dog, consult an animal-behavior specialist immediately. Avoid using any form of physical punishment on your dog. Getting physical with a dominant dog may cause the dog to intensify his aggression, posing the risk of injury to you.
If your dog has shown signs of dominance aggression, take the following precautions to ensure the safety of your family and others who may encounter your dog:
Dominance aggression problems are unlikely to go away without your taking steps to resolve them . Because dominant-aggressive dogs can be potentially dangerous, treatment of dominance aggression problems should always be supervised by an animal behavior specialist.
Becoming the Leader of the Pack
Use the following techniques-none of which requires a physical confrontation with your dog-to help you gain some control over your dog and establish yourself as the “pack leader “:
(For complete guidance on this technique, see “Nothing in Life Is Free: A Training Technique for Dogs.“) You may need to seek professional help if, after two or three weeks of working on a command , your dog does not obey each time you ask
A Note about Children and Dogs
From your dog ‘s point of view, children , too , have a place in the dominance hierarchy. Because children are smaller and get down on the dog ‘s level to play, dogs often consider them to be playmates rather than superiors. Small children and dogs should never be left alone together without adult supervision. Older children should be taught how to play and interact appropriately and safely with dogs. Under no circumstances , however , should a child be left alone with a dog who has displayed signs of aggression .
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2000 Dumb Friends League and ©2003 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
It’s normal for cats to scratch objects in their environment for many reasons:
Because scratching is a normal behavior, the goal in resolving scratching problems is to direct the scratching onto acceptable objects and provide appropriate outlets.
Training Your Cat to Scratch Acceptable Objects
The answers to the following questions will help you understand your cat’s scratching preferences:
Should I Punish My Cat For Scratching?
NO! Punishment won’t change the behavior and may cause her to be afraid of you or the environment and may elicit defensive aggression. Used by itself, punishment won’t resolve scratching problems because it doesn’t teach your cat where to scratch instead. Rather, she’ll learn to refrain from scratching in your presence but will continue to scratch when you’re not around.
How Do I Trim My Cat’s Claws?
To help keep them sharp, cats keep their claws retracted except when they’re needed. As the claws grow too long and become curved, they can’t be retracted completely. You should clip off the sharp tips of your cat’s claws on all four feet every week or so. There are several types of claw trimmers designed especially for pets. Clipping your cat’s claws will also help prevent them from becoming snagged in carpets, fabrics, and skin. When trimming, only cut off the sharp tips, making sure to not cut into the pink portion of the cat’s nail, as it will bleed and be painful for your cat.
If your cat is sensitive to having her nails trimmed, work on making good associations to having her feet messed with, by gently petting her legs and paws while giving her a treat. Build up to her tolerating her paws being handled. From there you can start to trim her nails, doing one nail at a time and then giving her a treat. Build up to doing all her nails on one foot and then all four feet. Don’t push to do all four at once or you’ll both have only negative memories of claw clippers. If at any time she does have an issue with her nails being trimmed, you have gone too fast.
Declawing?
We strongly discourage cat owners from having their cats declawed. Scratching is a natural behavior and instinct for cats and can be directed to appropriate items, such as a cat scratching post. Without the ability to claw, your cat may develop behavior problems that you have not previously experienced. However, if you feel that you must either declaw or give up your cat, we would rather see your cat stay in your home and be your lifelong companion. If you do decide to have your cat declawed, we suggest you have the surgery done at the same time she’s spayed (or neutered if your cat is a male), that you only declaw the front paws, and that you always keep your cat indoors.
For additional information and resources, visit our website www.BrevardSheriff.com.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
It is normal for dogs to explore the world with their mouths. However, chewing can be directed into appropriate items so your dog is not destroying items you value. Until he has learned what he can and cannot chew, it is your responsibility to manage the situation as much as possible, so he doesn’t have the opportunity to chew on unacceptable objects.
Managing the Situation
Dogs will engage in destructive behavior for a variety of reasons. In order to deal with the behavior, you must first determine why your dog is being destructive.
Play, Boredom, and/or Social Isolation
Normal play behavior can result in destruction, as it may involve digging, chewing, shredding, and/or shaking toy-like objects. Since dogs investigate objects by pawing at them and exploring them with their mouth, they may inadvertently damage items in their environment.
Your dog may be chewing for entertainment if:
Solutions:
Separation Anxiety
Dogs with separation anxiety tend to display behaviors that reflect a strong attachment to their owners. This includes following you from room to room, frantic greetings, and reacting anxiously to your preparation to leave the house.
Factors that can precipitate a separation anxiety problem:
These behaviors are not motivated by spite or revenge, but by anxiety. Punishment will only make the problem worse. Separation anxiety can be resolved by using counter conditioning and desensitization techniques.
Attention-Seeking Behavior
Without realizing it, we often pay more attention to our dogs when they are misbehaving. Dogs who don’t receive much attention and reinforcement for appropriate behavior may engage in destructive behavior when their owners are present as a way to attract attention – even if the attention is “negative”, such as a verbal scolding. From a dog’s point of view, negative attention is better than no attention at all.
Solutions:
Fears and Phobias
Some dogs are afraid of loud noises. Your dog’s destructive behavior may be caused by fear if the destruction occurs when he’s exposed to loud noises, such as thunderstorms, fire crackers, or construction sounds, and if the primary damage is to doors, doorframes, window coverings, screens or walls.
Solutions:
Puppies
Chewing is normal teething and investigative puppy behavior (see our handout: “Dealing with Normal Puppy Behavior – Chewing”)
What Not To Do
Punishment is rarely effective in resolving destructive behavior problems and can even make them worse. Never discipline your dog after-the-fact. If you discover an item your dog has chewed even just a few minutes later, it is too late to administer a correction. Your dog doesn’t understand that, “I chewed those shoes an hour ago and that’s why I’m being scolded now.” People often believe their dog makes this connection because he runs and hides, or “looks guilty”. Dogs don’t feel guilt; rather they display appeasing postures like cowering, running away, or hiding when they feel threatened by an angry tone of voice, body posture, or facial expression. Your dog doesn’t know that he’s done something wrong; he only knows that you’re upset. Punishment after-the-fact will not only fail to eliminate the undesirable behavior, but my also provoke other undesirable behaviors.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
Crate training your dog may take some time and effort, but can be useful in a variety of situations. If you have a new dog or puppy, you can use the crate to limit his access to the house until he learns all the house rules, such as what he can and can’t chew and where he can and can’t eliminate. A crate is also a safe way of transporting your dog in the car, as well as a way of taking him places where he may not be welcome to run freely. If you properly train your dog to use the crate, he will think of it as his safe place and will be happy to spend time there when needed. Always provide water for your dog anytime he is in the crate. Spill proof bowls or bowls that attach to the kennel gate work best.
Selecting A Crate
Crates may be plastic (often called “flight kennels”) or collapsible, metal pens. Collapsible fabric kennels are designed for use when the owner is present and may not contain a dog for long periods while unsupervised. Crates come in different sizes and can be purchased at most pet supply stores. Your dog’s crate should be large enough for him to stand up and turn around in.
The Crate Training Process
Crate training can take days or weeks, depending on your dog’s age, temperament and past experiences. It’s important to keep two things in mind while crate training; one, the crate should always be associated with something pleasant; and two, training should take place in a series of small steps – don’t go too fast.
Step 1: Introducing Your Dog To The Crate
Step 2: Feeding Your Dog His Meals In The Crate
Step 3: Conditioning Your Dog To The Crate For Longer Time Periods
Step 4:
Part A – Crating Your Dog When Left Alone
After your dog is spending about 30 minutes in the crate without becoming anxious or afraid, you can begin leaving him crated for short periods when you leave the house. Put him in the crate using your regular command and a treat. You might also want to leave him with a few safe toys in the crate. You’ll want to vary at what point in your “getting ready to leave” routine you put your dog in the crate. Although he shouldn’t be crated for a long time before you leave, you can crate him anywhere from five to 20 minutes prior to leaving. Don’t make your departures emotional and prolonged, but matter-of-fact. Praise your dog briefly, give him a treat for entering the crate and then leave quietly. When you return home, don’t reward your dog for excited behavior by responding to him in an excited, enthusiastic way. Keep arrivals low key. Continue to crate your dog for short periods from time to time when you’re home so he doesn’t associate crating with being left alone.
Part B – Crating Your Dog At Night
Put your dog in the crate using your regular command and a treat. Initially, it may be a good idea to put the crate in your bedroom or nearby in a hallway, especially if you have a puppy. Puppies often need to go outside to eliminate during the night, and you’ll want to be able to hear your puppy when he whines to be let outside. Older dogs, too, should initially be kept nearby so that crating doesn’t become associated with social isolation. Once your dog is sleeping comfortably through the night with his crate near you, you can begin to gradually move it to the location you prefer. Puppies that are healthy can have their water taken from them a few hours before bedtime to help decrease the frequency of potty trips they need to make during the night.
Potential Problems
Too Much Time In The Crate
A crate isn’t a magical solution. If not used correctly, a dog can feel trapped and frustrated. For example, if your dog is crated all day while you’re at work and then crated again all night, he’s spending too much time in too small a space. Other arrangements should be made to accommodate his physical and emotional needs. Also, remember that puppies under 6 months of age shouldn’t stay in a crate for more than three or four hours at a time. They can’t control their bladders and bowels for longer periods.
Whining
If your dog whines or cries while in the crate at night, it may be difficult to decide whether he’s whining to be let out of the crate, or whether he needs to be let outside to eliminate. If you followed the training procedures outlined above, your dog hasn’t been rewarded for whining in the past by being released from his crate. Try to ignore the whining. If your dog is just testing you, he’ll probably stop whining soon. Yelling at him or pounding on the crate will only make things worse. If the whining continues after you’ve ignored him for several minutes, use the phrase he associates with going outside to eliminate. If he responds and becomes excited, take him outside. This should be a trip with a purpose, not play time. If you’re convinced that your dog doesn’t need to eliminate, the best response is to ignore him until he stops whining. Do not give in, otherwise you’ll teach your dog to whine loud and long to get what he wants. If you’ve progressed gradually through the training steps and haven’t done too much too fast, you will be less likely to encounter this problem. If the problem becomes unmanageable, you may need to start the crate training process over again.
Separation Anxiety
Attempting to use the crate as a remedy for separation anxiety will not solve the problem. A crate may prevent your dog from being destructive, but he may injure himself in an attempt to escape from the crate. Separation anxiety problems can only be resolved with counter-conditioning and desensitization procedures.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2003-2006 Dumb Friends League
Living with a dog can be beneficial to children. Dogs can enhance children’s self-esteem, teach them responsibility and help them to learn empathy. However, children and dogs may not always automatically start off with a wonderful relationship. Parents must be willing to teach the dog and the child acceptable limits of behavior in order to make their interactions pleasant and safe.
Selecting A Dog
What age is best? Many people have a warm and fuzzy image of a puppy and a child growing up together. If you have a young child and are thinking of adopting a puppy (less than 1 year old), there are a few things you need to consider:
As a general rule, if your child is under 6 years old, it’s best to adopt a dog that’s over 2 years old. Although puppies can be a lot of fun, and it’s exciting and rewarding to help them grow into wonderful companions, they do require significantly more time to train and supervise than an adult dog.
What breed is best?
Who will care for the dog?
It’s unrealistic to expect a child, regardless of age, to have sole responsibility of caring for a dog. Dogs need basic things like food, water and shelter, but they also need to be played with, exercised and trained on a consistent basis. Teaching a dog the rules of the house and helping him become a good companion is too overwhelming for a young child. While responsible teenagers may be up to the task, they may not be willing to spend an adequate amount of time with the dog, as their desire to be with their friends usually takes over at this age. If you’re adopting a dog “for the kids,” you must be prepared and willing to be the dog’s primary caretaker.
Starting Off Right
Below are some guidelines to help you start off on the right foot. Remember, children should never be left alone with a dog or puppy without adult supervision.
Holding:
Petting and giving affection: Children often want to hug dogs around the neck. Your dog may view this as a threatening gesture, rather than an affectionate one, and may react with a growl, snap or bite. You should teach your child to pet your dog from underneath the dog’s chin, rather than hugging him or reaching over his head. You should also teach your child to avoid staring at, or looking directly into, your dog’s eyes.
Giving Treats:
Children tend to become somewhat fearful and anxious when a dog tries to take a treat from their hand. This causes them to jerk their hand away at the last second. The dog may then jump up or lunge to get the treat, which may result in the child being knocked down. Have your child place the treat in an open palm, rather than holding it in his fingers. You may want to place a hand underneath your child’s hand to help guide him.
Supervising Play:
Children run with quick, jerky movements and have high-pitched voices. These actions are highly stimulating to a dog. Consequently, your dog may respond by chasing or jumping up on your child. Encourage your child to play quietly around the new dog until both become more comfortable with each other. Your dog also needs to learn which behaviors are appropriate and which are not. It’s helpful to teach your dog a “leave it” command that you can use when play gets too rough. Taking an obedience class together is a good way to teach your dog to respond to commands. Punishing your dog for inappropriate behavior will not help. If he learns that being around children always results in “bad things” happening to him, he may become defensive in their presence.
Possessions:
Your dog won’t know the difference between his toys and your child’s toys until you teach him.
If your dog is growling or snapping at your child for any reason, the situation needs IMMEDIATE attention.
Punishing your dog is likely to make matters worse.
For additional information and resources, visit our website www.BrevardSheriff.com.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2003 Dumb Friends League
DOES YOUR DOG’S ability to escape from the back yard have you convinced that he’s nothing less than a “Hairy Houdini”? Your never-ending attempts to keep your pet confined to your yard may seem comical at times, but every escape opens up the possibility of tragic consequences. If your dog is running loose, he’s in danger of being hit by a car, injured in a fight with another dog, or hurt in any number of other ways. You’re also liable for any damage or injury your dog may cause, and you may be required to pay a fine if he’s picked up by an animal control agency. To prevent escapes, you’ll need to find out how your dog is getting out of the yard and, more importantly, why he’s so determined to get out.
Social Isolation/Frustration
Your dog may be escaping because he’s bored and lonely, especially if:
We recommend expanding your dog’s world and increasing his “people time” in the following ways:
If you must be away from home for extended periods of time, take your dog to work with you or to a “doggie day care center,” or ask a friend or neighbor to walk your dog.
Dogs become sexually mature at around six months of age. Like a teenager first feeling the surge of hormones, an intact male dog has a strong, natural drive to seek out females. As you can imagine, it can be difficult to prevent an intact dog from escaping when his motivation to do so is very high.
Have your male dog neutered. Studies show that neutering will decrease sexual roaming in about 90 percent of cases. If an intact male has established a pattern of escaping, he may continue to do so even after he’s neutered, which is even more reason to have him neutered as soon as possible.
Have your female dog spayed. If your intact female dog escapes your yard while she’s in heat, she’ll probably get pregnant (and she could be impregnated even if she stays in your yard). Millions of unwanted pets are euthanized every year. Please don’t contribute to the pet overpopulation problem by allowing your female dog to breed indiscriminately.
Your dog may be escaping out of fear, especially if he’s exposed to loud noises, such as thunderstorms, firecrackers, or construction sounds.
Recommendations
Identify what is frightening your dog and desensitize him to it. You may need to seek out the help of a professional trainer, or talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications that might help your dog while you work on behavior modification.
Keep your dog indoors if there’s any chance he may encounter the fear stimulus outside. You can even mute outside noises by creating a comfortable spot in a basement or windowless bathroom and turning on a television, radio, or loud fan.
Provide a “safe place” for your dog. Observe where he likes to go when he feels anxious, then allow access to that space, or create a similar space for him to use when the fear stimulus is present.
Your dog may be trying to escape due to “separation anxiety” if:
Factors That Can Precipitate a Separation-Anxiety Problem
Your family’s schedule has changed, and that has resulted in your dog being left alone more often.
Your family has recently moved to a new house.
Your family has experienced the death or loss of a family member or another family pet.
Your dog has recently spent time at an animal shelter or boarding kennel.
Recommendations
Assuming your dog has been correctly diagnosed as suffering from separation anxiety, the problem can be resolved using counterconditioning and desensitization techniques.
Some dogs jump fences, but most actually climb them, using some part of the fence to push off from. A dog may also dig under the fence, chew through the fence, learn to open a gate, or use any combination of these methods to get out of the yard. Knowing how your dog gets out will help you to modify your yard. But until you know why your dog wants to escape and you can decrease his motivation for doing so, the recommendations below won’t be nearly as effective.
Recommendations for Preventing Escape
For climbing/jumping dogs: Add an extension to your fence. It’s not so important that the extension make the fence much higher, as long as it tilts inward at about a 45-degree angle. Be certain there are no structures placed near the fence, such as a table or chair or dog house, that your dog could use as a springboard to jump over the fence .
For digging dogs: Bury chicken wire at the base of your fence (with the sharp edges rolled inward), place large rocks at the base, or lay chain-link fencing on the ground.
Never chain or otherwise tether your dog to a stationary object as a means of keeping him confined. Tethering is not only cruel, but it also leads to aggressive behavior in dogs.
Never correct your dog after he’s already left the yard. Dogs associate punishment with what they’re doing at the time they’re punished. Punishing your dog after the fact won’t eliminate the escaping behavior, but will probably make him afraid to come to you.
Never correct your dog if the escaping is related to fear or is due to separation anxiety. Punishing a fearful response will only make your dog more afraid and make the problem worse. In addition, avoid inadvertently reinforcing a fearful behavior such as by petting a frightened dog and saying, “It’s okay.”
Only correct your dog if you can administer correction at the moment your dog is escaping and only if he doesn’t associate the correction with you. If you can squirt him with a hose or make a loud noise as he is going over, under, or through the fence , it might be unpleasant enough that he won’t want to do it again. If he realizes that you made the noise or squirted the water, however, he’ll simply refrain from escaping when you’re around. This type of correction is difficult to administer effectively and won’t resolve the problem if used by itself
You must also give your dog less reason to escape and make it more difficult for him to do so. Ultimately, that is how you’ll put a permanent stop to that “Hairy Houdini” act.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2000 Dumb Friends League and ©2003 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
IF YOU EVER WONDER if your dog’s bark is worse than his proverbial bite, the answer may lie no further than your next-door neighbor. Some canine behavior problems, such as house soiling, affect only a dog’s family. But problems such as escaping and excessive barking can result in neighborhood disputes and violations of animal control ordinances, and that means problems with your pet can soon become “people problems.”
Learn Why Your Dog Barks
If your dog’s “talkative nature” has created tension with your neighbors, then it’s a good idea to discuss the problem with them. It’s perfectly normal and reasonable for dogs to bark from time to time, just as children make noise when they play outside. But continual barking for long periods of time is a symptom of a problem that needs addressing—from the perspectives of your neighbors and your dog.
First, determine when and for how long your dog barks and what causes him to bark. You may need to do some clever detective work to obtain this information, especially if the barking occurs when you’re not home. Ask your neighbors what they see and hear, drive or walk around the block and watch and listen for a while, or start a tape recorder or video camera when you leave for work. With a little effort you should be able to find out which of the common problems discussed below is the cause of your dog’s barking.
Social Isolation/Frustration/Attention-Seeking
Your dog may be barking out of boredom and loneliness if:
He’s left alone for long periods of time without opportunities to interact with you.
His environment is relatively barren, without companions or toys.
He’s a puppy or adolescent (under three years old) and doesn’t have other outlets for his energy.
He’s a particularly active type of dog (like the herding or sporting breeds) who needs to be occupied to be happy.
Recommendations
Expand your dog’s world and increase his “people time” in the following ways:
Walk your dog at least twice daily—it’s good exercise, both mentally and physically. Walks should be more than just “potty breaks.”
Teach your dog to fetch a ball or Frisbee® and practice with him as often as possible.
Teach your dog a few commands or tricks and practice them every day for five to 10 minutes.
Take a dog training class with your dog. This allows you and your dog to work together toward a common goal.
To help fill the hours that you’re not home, provide safe, interesting toys to keep your dog busy, such as Kong®-type toys filled with treats or busy-box toys. Rotating the toys will make them seem new and interesting.
If your dog is barking to get your attention, make sure he has sufficient time with you on a daily basis (petting, grooming, playing, exercising).
Keep your dog inside when you’re unable to supervise him.
Let your neighbors know that you are actively working on the problem.
If your dog is well socialized and you have your employer’s permission, take your dog to work with you every now and then.
When you have to leave your dog for extended periods of time, take him to a “doggie day care center,” hire a pet sitter or dog walker, or have a trusted friend or neighbor walk and play with him.
Territorial/Protective Behavior
Recommendations
Fears and Phobias
Your dog’s barking may be a response to something he’s afraid of if:
Recommendations
Identify what’s frightening your dog and desensitize him to it. You may need professional help with the desensitization process. Talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medication while you work on behavior modification. During thunderstorms or other frightening times, mute noise from outside by leaving your dog in a comfortable area in a basement or windowless bathroom, and turn on a television, radio, or loud fan. Block your dog’s access to outdoor views that might be causing a fear response by closing curtains or doors to certain rooms. Avoid coddling your dog so that he doesn’t think that he is being rewarded for his fearful behavior.
Separation Anxiety
Your dog may be barking due to separation anxiety if:
Recommendations
Some cases of separation anxiety can be resolved using counterconditioning and desensitization techniques. Successful treatment for some cases may also require the use of medication prescribed by your veterinarian. (See our “Separation Anxiety” fact sheet for more information.)
Bark Collars
There are several types of bark collars on the market, and we generally don’t recommend them. The main drawback of any bark collar is that it doesn’t address the underlying cause of the barking . You may be able to eliminate the barking, but symptom substitution may occur and your dog may begin digging or escaping, or become destructive or even aggressive. A bark collar must be used in conjunction with behavior modification that addresses the reason for the barking , as outlined above . You should never use a bark collar on your dog if his barking is due to separation anxiety or fears or phobias because punishment always makes fear and anxiety behaviors worse.
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2000 Dumb Friends League and ©2003 The HSUS. All rights reserved.
It is impossible to estimate how well any particular pair or group of cats will ultimately tolerate each other. Some cats are unusually territorial, and may never adjust to sharing their house, doing best in a one-cat family; while other cats can live well together in a multi-cat family. The factors that determine how well cats will get along are not fully understood. Early experiences for instance can greatly influence a cat’s temperament. A cat that was well-socialized (had pleasant experiences with other cats during kittenhood) is likely to be more sociable than those that haven’t been around many other cats. Also “street cats” that are in the habit of fighting with other cats in order to defend their territory and food resources, may never adjust to living in a multi-cat household. Genetic factors can also influence a cat’s temperament, so friendly parents are probably more likely to produce friendly offspring.
If aggression does occur however, it is important to know that most aggressive problems between cats can be successfully resolved. To do this, you may need help, both from your veterinarian and from an animal behavior specialist who is knowledgeable in cat behavior. Cats with aggression problems may never be best friends, but can often learn to mutually tolerate each other with minimal conflict. Working with aggression problems between family cats will take time and commitment from you. Don’t give up without consulting the appropriate experts.
Common Types of Aggressive Behaviors Between Cats
Territorial Aggression: Cats are very territorial, by nature. Territorial aggression occurs when a cat feels that his territory/survival is threatened. Depending on where your cat spends his time, he may view your whole neighborhood as his territory. The behavior patterns in this type of aggression include chasing and ambushing the intruder, as well as hissing and swatting when contact occurs. Territorial problems often occur when a new cat is brought into a household, when a young kitten reaches maturity, or when a cat encounters neighborhood cats outside. It’s not uncommon for a cat to be territorially aggressive toward one cat in a family, and friendly and tolerant to another.
Intermale Aggression: Intact adult male cats tend to threaten, and sometimes fight with other males. These behaviors can occur as sexual challenges over a female. This type of aggression involves ritualized body posturing, stalking, staring, yowling, and howling. Attacks are usually avoided if one cat “backs down” and walks away. If an attack occurs, the attacker will usually jump forward, directing a bite to the nape of the neck, while the opponent falls to the ground on his back and attempts to bite and scratch the attacker’s belly with his hind legs. The cats may roll around biting and screaming, suddenly stop, resume posturing,
fight again or walk away. Cats don’t usually severely injure one another this way, but you should always check for puncture wounds which are prone to infection.
Defensive Aggression: Defensive aggression occurs when a cat is attempting to protect himself from an attack he believes he cannot escape. This can occur in response to punishment or the threat of punishment from a person, an attack or attempted attack from another cat, or anytime he feels threatened or afraid. Defensive postures include crouching with the legs pulled in under the body, laying the ears back, tucking the tail, and possibly rolling slightly to the side. Continuing to approach a cat that’s in this posture is likely to precipitate an attack.
Redirected Aggression: This type of aggression is directed toward another animal that didn’t initially provoke the behavior. For example, a household cat sitting in the window may see or be threatened by an outdoor cat. Because he can’t respond respectively to the outdoor cat, he may instead turn and attack the other family cat that’s sitting next to him in the window. Redirected aggression can be either offensive or defensive in nature and can occur up to 24 hours after the initial sighting or incident with the outdoor cat.
What You Can Do:
What Not to Do:
Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. ©2014 Dumb Friends League
A: Emergencies are life threatening conditions such as aggressive animals, animals that have bitten someone, injured or sick animals with someone standing by with the animal until we arrive, and animals inside the living area of a dwelling that are of a high risk for rabies, such as bats and raccoons.
If you are experiencing a life threatening situation, please dial 911 so emergency services can be dispatched to you immediately.
A: For non-life threatening situations, please call (321) 633-2024 to speak to a dispatcher.
Provide your name, address, phone number, and directions on how best to get to your location. A description of the animal(s) and the owner address, if known, is also helpful. Providing this information can expedite your call.
A: Yes. However, in doing so, you have to provide an exact address to respond to and provide more information about the circumstances of your call. We will investigate based on information provided. We respond to anonymous calls for the protection of the animal. If it is determined that the initial call is unfounded (has no merit), follow up anonymous calls about the same issue may not be responded to without the caller leaving their name, address, and telephone number.
A: Yes, there are 3 in Brevard County.
A: 4 adult dogs and no limit for puppies under 6 months. Code Enforcement is the agency which enforces this law.
A: The maximum legal length of a leash is 6 feet.
A: No, the same laws apply to dogs and cats as well.
A: For any assistance on nuisance wildlife, please contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
A: We can provide you with a list of retailers near you where you can rent a trap for a small fee. You can purchase traps at places like Lowe’s, Home Depot, etc. In some cities, you can borrow a trap from city hall.
A: Catching cats not confined in some way such as in a room, garage, shed, etc., is difficult. There are many places for a cat to hide or climb, putting them out of reach. Cats may be friendly to a resident but will run from an officer because of all the animal smells on the officer’s uniform. Officer uniforms smell of dogs, raccoons, etc., which are natural enemies to a cat. When a cat smells these odors they instinctively flee to safety. Because of this we do not take cats being held by people. This could cause the person holding the cat to get scratched or bitten, exposing the person to potential rabies. Because of limited resources and the high degree of failure in catching cats out in the open, it has become necessary for residents to trap cats before we can successfully remove them from an area.
If you know of an organization that should be on our links page, please call 321-633-2024.
