In an ideal scenario we would like to protect our pets from each and every negative, anxious and frightening situation. But the real world is much more diverse and we must help our pets learn how to cope and respond to different people, places, animals and things they might encounter throughout their life. Keeping your pet in a nutshell and limiting the world as he knows it can leave your pet more curious and less adaptive to situations and environments.
Our pets need to be exposed to various situations, environments, animals and people through outdoor activities including taking your pet to obedience training classes, veterinarian appointments, leashed walks and visits to parks. All these activities and repeated exposure will help them develop confidence and ease in such situation. This goes a long way to ensure that you have a happy and well-adjusted pet that interacts well with other animals and people. The company of a pet that is properly socialised will make a good impression on your guests and family members who might visit. And it is also more convenient and relaxing for you as well.
Numerous studies verify the importance of teaching your pets how to socialise and respond to situations in an appropriate and sophisticated manner. However, many pet owners don't know the importance of socialising, and the concept of socialising a pet as a whole. Pets are incredibly sensitive, attentive and love to communicate. They learn a lot in their early developmental weeks about their surroundings and the people that they will be living with for the upcoming years or their entire lives.
During this early period of their life they need to learn about body language, what activities, noises and places are normal, and will create a bond with people and other pets as well. Unsubstantial socialisation is the root cause of behavioural problems and can become make it stressful for you to handle such a pet.
Socialisation First Begins at Home
As discussed before, socialising your pet should begin in the early ages. The suitable age for socialising cats and dogs is between the ranges of three to twelve weeks. Still the outside world is a dangerous place for young pets, so whatever training needs to happen within your home and your backyard. Your pet needs to be in a protected environment as its immunity and reflexes are still weak and not resistant to potentially deadly infections. Starting in the early months is the best to kick-start your pet's socialisation process, however, it is really an on-going process and should continue throughout your pet's lifespan.
Provide a positive and healthy environment for your pet, which will reflect on its personality and behaviour throughout its life. Play with him, speak with him in a soft and friendly voice, touch him, hold him, make sure to give your pet a chance to adjust to guests and that your guests realize you have a pet and tell them what they should expect from your pet when they arrive.
Obedience Training Schools
There are many obedience schools and training institutes for your pets which can help you train and socialise your pet which will make managing your pet much easier and less time consuming. Many studies have shown how beneficial these schools are and have provided amazing results for many pets and pleasantly surprised pet owners. Most of these training schools are for specific pets (like specifically for dogs and cats), but a few are for all kinds of pets. Such schools are a platform for your pet to socialise and have professional trainers and experts that can help you train your pet.
Training and socialising your pet can be a bit of a challenge, but even if it seems like an impossible it is never too late to take your pet to an obedience training school. It requires a little dedication, but the results are outstanding and you will have a stronger bond and deeper trust in your pet and its behaviour.
Other Ideas for Socialising your Pet
Socialising your pet with humans is relatively simple, but socialising with other animals can be challenging. There are many ways to socialise your pet, but they all require time and patience. Below are a few ideas to get you started.
Parks: Local parks can be a good place for you to get your pet socialised with other pets and learn how to behave around other people. Take some treats with you and ask the children at the park to give them to your pet. This way your pet will get familiar people other than you and your family.
Nature Trials: They are a great exercise for you and your pet. Your pet can meet new people and may encounter different kinds of animals too.
Outdoor Events: Don't be afraid to expose your pet to small festivals, youth sporting events and pet shows. This is another excellent way to socialise your pet with its own kind of animals and other pets as well.
Pet Store: Pet stores are another great opportunity for your pet to encounter all kinds of other pets and birds as well. Use caution around other animals' rambunctious behaviour towards your pet.
Downtown Walks: If you live in a city in a nice downtown area, take your dog for a walk or visit the local farmers' market.
Socialising is essential training for your pet and will help determine what kind of personality your pet is going to have. Be careful, though, not to force your pet into any social activity. Also, take note of their body language and behaviour to know if your pet is in the mood or not. Tone down the activity or take a break when your pet seems to be frightened or not enjoying the activity or it will have a negative impact on the learning process. By following these tips and procedures you can make life better for you and your pet for the years to come.