Did you know it’s pet preparedness month? We want you and your pup to be ready for anything that’s thrown your way. That’s why we partnered with JUDY, experts in emergency preparedness, to share training tips on how to best prepare for emergency situations as a pet parent. This week we partnered with our resident trainer, Dani Pedraza, talk about how your pup might respond in an emergency situation.
In the event of an emergency, how might a dog react?
In an emergency situation, it’s normal for a dog to start shaking, cowering in a corner, or even finding a spot, such as under a bed or in a closet, to hide. Though a dog’s reaction might differ based on the specific situation, in general, dogs will react according to how you react. Pups feed off our body language, energy, and emotions, so if you are stressed or running around as the pet parent, your pup will respond in a similar manner. This is why it is important to be prepared with a well trained and responsive pup in advance of an emergency so you have tools in place to reduce any stress.
What training do you recommend to keep your dog calm during these situations?
Your body language can be a key tool for keeping your dog calm, similar to how you might act strong around children in an emergency situation. While it can be very difficult given the circumstances, it’s important to try and remain centered and speak in a calm tone so your dog will pick up on that energy. It is crucial to grab your dog’s leash and attach it to their collar (always keep their walking equipment in a place you remember!) so that you have control over them and where they can go. If you need to get them out from a hiding place to reach their collar, put high value treats near their nose and lure them out in order to get full control. Be sure not to give them the treat until they are fully accessible to you. Remember that while you may want to be patient, an emergency is an emergency and if you need to pull them out to leash them you shouldn’t feel badly if it’s for their ultimate safety.
How do you get your dog to come to you with training?
The name game is your friend! Before the emergency situation occurs, you want to practice positive name association so that your pup is responsive to commands and will come to you when called upon. Great ways to practice this is through delivering a reward or reinforcer (food, pets, toys) when they make eye contact and slowly incorporate distractions or distance so that in all different sorts of situations, they are ready to come when called! Additionally, you can set yourself up for success by making sure you block off hiding spots using a baby gate, closing the door, or even keeping your dog tethered if you have advance warning of impending emergency situations so that you don’t have to worry about coaxing your pup out of hiding during the situation. If you can’t do that, find a high value treat (like cheese, deli meat, or steak) and put it directly in front of their nose to lure them out. You can also practice the touch cue or place cue to get them out of their hiding spot.
Some situations might require a shelter in place. Is there a way to train your dog to go to the bathroom in the house in those situations?
I don’t recommend that you train your pup to go to the bathroom inside as they might have a difficult time understanding the difference between an emergency situation and everyday life. If the situation does arise, you can set up a pee pad in a certain spot and give the potty cue so that they understand that one area is where they should use the bathroom if needed.
Click Here to read a trainer’s guide on preparing for an emergency situation with your pup
Want to learn more about pet preparedness for emergency situations? Reach out to us at whatthepup@spotandtango.com
