THE DOG

by natalie

Artwork: JOELLE KHOURY

Joined Apr 2020
Published Books 3

4 TIPS FOR HANDLING DOGS

Tip 1: Handle cooperatively rather than forcefully. We wouldn’t want our children handled forcefully for a medical examination. Animals don’t like to be man-handled either. Such handling can establish negative relationships, which can quickly lead to resistance and defensive behavior by the pet. It’s best to learn more cooperative ways for handling pets (and people too!).

Tip 2: Greet your patient first. It’s disconcerting when a medical professional marches into the room and starts manipulating you before you have been properly greeted. The same behavior with animals can really freak them out too. It’s best for veterinary staff and other petcare professionals to spend a little time greeting animals properly before examining them. That means approaching sideways, moving in a smooth manner and offering something they like, such as a treat. At minimum, give them time to get used to your presence.

Tip 3: Avoid getting angry or shouting. Communicate in a way that puts the patient at ease. You’d probably be pretty shocked if the doctor scolded your child for wiggling during an examination, especially if you knew she was wiggling because the procedure was scary, uncomfortable, or painful. The same demeanor can shock and scare a dog or a cat, or for that matter, a rabbit, bird or horse too. That’s why it’s best to make sure you are handling and communicating with the animal in a way that will put him at ease.

Tip 4: Avoid restraining in a manner that causes fear and panic. Handle in a manner that helps the animal feel comfortable and safe. Some medical professionals resort to using force to hold their young patients down while they are struggling in panic. Those who are more knowledgeable about child behavior can take those same patients and use words to keep them calm and cooperative. The same is true with dogs and cats. It’s best to avoid restraining in a way that causes fear or panic. It’s smarter to put the patient at ease by handling with skill.

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