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SOME HELPFUL HINTS FOR YOU AND YOUR PET!
1. Avoid getting your pet into the habit of begging by always placing
all treats as well as
meals in the dish.
This helps to reinforce in their minds that any food they receive will
be found in that place.
2. Get your pet accustomed to riding in the car.
Start off with short trips and gradually work up to longer ones. This
will also relieve some of the anxiety pets feel on the way to the Veterinarian's
office by teaching them that car rides don't always mean a trip to the
doctor!
Note: It is a good idea, especially with very young animals, to plan the
ride a few hours after their last meal to avoid upset stomachs!
3. Young animals should not spend any long amounts of time outside
until they are fully vaccinated.
New experiences can be created for puppies by erecting barriers, tunnels,
etc. This is an excellent way to give quality playtime and exercise to
a virtually housebound animal, as well as helping to stimulate mental
growth and development. Give your pet a treat when he successfully completes
a barrier or tunnel.
4. When disciplining your pet, NEVER call him to you to be punished.
Get up and go over to him. He will be much more willing to respond to
the "come" command if he associates it with affection, treats,
or a trip in the car.
5. Pets should not be given any type of cloth toys, articles of clothing
or shoes to play with.
It is a very difficult for them to distinguish between these "toys"
and actual articles of the family's clothes.
6. Never play aggressive or "equal basis" games with your
pet, especially a dominant puppy.
Even during playtime, it should be made clear to your pet that you are
the pack leader at all times. It is possible to have lots of fun with
your pet without losing your image as the authority figure. Avoid playing
fighting, tug-of-war, etc.
7. To help your pet adjust to his or her den, play with your pet on
a rag or blanket and then use it in the den. This playing with the
rag will help the pet to associate it with good feelings and pleasant
activities.
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