DAY 4

HOW DO YOU PREVENT YOUR STRESS FROM AFFECTING YOUR DOG?

Many of you have written in to me telling me how upset or depressed you are with the current situation and that you are worried about your dog picking up on your stress. Here are a few tips to help you out.

1. Know that it is normal to feel the way you do. Rather than staying away from your dog, spend quality time with him.

2. Don’t try to hide your sadness from your dog. They know us well. Instead, make time everyday to play with your dog. It doesn’t need to be a structured game, anything goofy that makes you laugh will also do. So put on your favourite song and dance, sing, jump and have fun!

3. Let your dog be by himself for short periods of time through the day to. It is tempting at this point to be with them constantly, but that can overwhelm many dogs. Quiet downtime can help them de-stress.

4. Make a list of 10 things that make your dog joyful and then try do one at least everyday.

5. Try stimulate your dog’s senses with different smells, sights or even sounds. Just as with us, our dogs’ senses can play a strong role in how they think and feel.Hang up wind chimes, peel an orange… anything where your dog’s senses will work to focus on the new stimulus. And never forget the power of touch – a gentle massage can be soothing for your dog and equally calming for you to give it.

Do be safe, sane and well.