This page contains a Flash digital edition of a book.
naturalpet


Pooch Protocol Good Manners Make a Dog Welcome


by Sandra Murphy I


t seems dogs travel just about every- where with their humans these days. They’re spotted at home improve- ment stores, happy hours, drive- through restaurants and workplaces, in addition to their usual hangouts. To get Sparky invited into even more people places, he must have good manners. “Just like with kids, not every venue is appropriate for dogs,” advises Eileen Proctor, a pet lifestyle expert in Denver, Colorado. “Some dogs are more introverted and want a quiet spot to relax. Others love a party. Know your dog and socialize him accord- ingly; never force him into an uncom- fortable situation.”


Instead, help him acclimate to new locales gradually, from a distance; stop when he shows signs of stress. A yawn, averted eyes, hiding behind his


32 Hudson County NAHudson.com


owner or nervous pacing are clues that a four-legged pal has had enough. “Good manners at home might not translate to public manners,” Proc- tor notes. “Take practice runs to see how your dog handles distractions.” Day care or play dates with other dogs help hone canine social skills, while basic obedience—leave it, sit, stay, down, off, an effective recall and walk- ing nicely on a leash—form the basis for good manners. Reward good be- havior with praise, treats or a favorite activity.


Eating Out


Amy Burkert, the on-the-road owner of GoPetFriendly.com, says, “After a long day at the office or a ‘ruff’ week at work, it’s nice to include your dog when eating out. Pet-friendly restau-


rants with outdoor seating areas where the dog can join you are be- coming more common, but always ask first.


“Dogs in dining areas should lie quietly under your table or by your chair,” she continues. “This is not the time to socialize. Diners may find it unappealing to be ap- proached by your dog while they’re eating. Choose a table where your dog can be out of the way of cus- tomers and the wait staff.” It will take practice. “If he acts up, apolo- gize, leave and know that you’ll do better next time,” says Burkert. A good process for teaching good restaurant manners begins with sitting quietly with the dog when there are few people around, and then moving on. The next time,


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52