MAN’S BEST FRIEND? ASSESSING THE DOG

Are you a postman, a housesitter or a gardener? Ever had a dog problem?

When you meet a dog for the first time, it’s essential that you and the dog make an accurate assessment of each other. You need to know that the dog is friendly; the dog needs to know if you’re friendly, and how you relate to the pack hierarchy.

Over 27 years, Homesitters Ltd has found some conflicting ideas, so to aid their sitters when they’re first visiting new clients – and their owners – the company has produced a summary of the consensus view:

First – the breed.  There’s a tendency to assume that a particular breed will have particular characteristics.  Of course, some types of dog have had a bad press, but this is not necessarily deserved.  German Shepherds, for example, have been categorised as “Guard Dogs” but many are so soft and gentle that they could audition for Nana in Peter Pan.

Second – the territory.  The home is the dog’s territory.  He knows who lives there, and who visits, and whether or not they are welcome.  Life is fairly predictable.  If a stranger comes onto the territory, protocols have to be observed and new information absorbed until the territory returns to normal – albeit, perhaps, a “new” normal.  (A generalisation – dogs need two days to become used to a new situation.)

Here are some procedures which we suggest you follow.  If the owner asks you to follow different procedures, probably they know best…

When you first meet the dog, immediately sum up his body language; it will be

(Let’s assume that the dog is not instantly attacking you.  If he is, try not to hurt his feelings…)

 We recommend not going to the dog.

 First, make sure you’re not carrying anything or wearing anything which may appear to the dog as unusual or threatening; hats, flappy coats, bags, umbrellas can all be a problem; and some dogs are not happy with sunglasses (no, on you, silly!).

Then

• Always ask the owner if they are happy for you to “say hello” to their dog.
• Bend down, or crouch – so that you don’t loom over the dog – but make sure you have good balance and can stand up again readily.
• Let the dog come to you; slowly hold out your hand (as a gently clenched fist), so that the dog can sniff you.
• Try not to stare at the dog’s face; keep an eye on him, but indirectly.
• If he looks relaxed, and cautiously friendly, say hello to him in a calm, gentle voice. Avoid being too enthusiastic, and avoid any fast movement.
• If you’re armed with a biscuit – a good plan – ask the owner if it’s allowed, and let the dog take it off your palm; don’t risk finger and thumb until you know the dog well.
• [If he is unwelcoming – growls, hackles up – stand up slowly, still facing him; if the owner hasn’t taken charge, back away slowly. Don’t turn your back on the dog. Make your excuses and put something substantial – a door, say, or several miles – between you and the dog.]
• All being well, find out from the owner if there is anything particular to avoid – things which the dog doesn’t like or which make him nervous.
• Ask the client to teach you any hand gestures/commands which they use regularly; dogs like continuity and will ultimately behave better!

These guidelines form part of a comprehensive package of instructions and assistance with which Homesitters Ltd supports its employees.  With 900+ sitters nationwide, the company can concentrate on matching the abilities and experience of the sitters to the needs and situations of the clients, allowing pets to remain in their familiar surroundings, following their normal routines.

For further information please contact Adèle Barclay - 01296 630 730. adele.barclay@homesitters.co.uk

07.02.2008. 15:56