[Alexis]

• Did you observe good handling practices when dogs were being leashed and/or walked? Describe your personal observations.
• Describe two examples of how awareness was utilized by a handler.
• Describe two examples of how positioning was utilized by a handler.
• Give two examples of how contact with the dog was used in the handling.

I went to the park today and watched an owner handle leash training while around other people. When a human was approaching, the owner told the dog to stay next to him while the person walked by. The dog started to lean towards the person and the owner gently tugged back on the leash and said “sit”. The dog sat as directed and the owner gave him a treat promptly. The owner/handler was aware that the person was approaching and prepared to have his dog be curious towards the stranger. The stranger passed then the owner had the dog stand on his opposite side away from the foot traffic. Positioning the dog to his other side gave the dog less opportunity to pull away from the owner and to have less distractions. Another person walked by and the dog was walking next to the owner and the owner was saying “good” and giving him treats when he did not veer off the intended goal of walking without being distracted. The owner/handler was aware of his surroundings and objects approaching and was prepared for the dog to react and/or abide by his commands. The owner then had the dog sit first then positioned him to his other side to see if that would be better accepted. contact with the dog was positively reinforcing his behavior was he sat when being told and not being distracted by the second stimulus.

[Alexis]

-What did you learn that was new to you?

I learned to effectively read a dog’s body language before approaching it. I look for offensive /positive behavior such as having the ears forward, tail is relaxed or wagging, and the dog seems comfortable in my presence. I was able to observe a canine massage first hand where the masseuse gently guided the dog to the floor before she started her therapy session. The dog seemed very comfortable and willing to let her massage him.

<em style=”background-color: var(–bb-content-background-color);”>-How did the dog respond to your approach?

The dog responded well, exhibiting positive behavior (no hackles, growling, etc.)

<em style=”background-color: var(–bb-content-background-color);”>-What facial expression, postures or gestures did you notice, and how did you interpret them?

<em style=”background-color: var(–bb-content-background-color);”>There were no visual avoidance, body seemed very relaxed, and the dog was allowing tactile touching without incident.

-If you are experienced in canine behavior and handling, what aspects of the material do you feel are most essential?

Most essential aspects are being able to recognize when an animal is under stress or is uncomfortable. This behavior can cascade into a serious, potentially harmful situation that can be avoided reading body cues.

-Do you have a story about an experience with behavior and handling that exemplifies the importance of proper equipment and handling?

A colleague of mine did not understand the importance of understanding behavioral body cues and was unfortunately bit in the face after she faced a large dog head on, looked him in the eyes, and leaned her face in to say hi to him. He was nervous and holding his ears back and tucking his tail.

-How has knowing how to read dog behavior kept you and the dog(s) safe?

I have worked with animals for 15 years and have only been hurt once because I understand when it is appropriate and inappropriate to approach and handle a dog or cat. Sometimes it is inevitable to avoid a bite or scratch but most of the time you can avoid it by practicing safe judgement.