Pet Care
Crate Training
Many people are uncomfortable with
the thought of keeping their pets in a cage. They imagine how they would
feel being "locked up". They honestly believe that their pets would be much
happier if they could have the run of the house instead. But do they? If
your pet is chewing, scratching, barking, digging, or whining the answer is
a resounding NO! Anxiety is the most common root of these and other behavior
problems. If your pet is anxious, he is not happy. So just remember to be
kind and confine.
The Do's and Don'ts of Crate Training
Do socialize your pet to the crate. Take some time when you start crate
training your dog to encourage him to go in and out of the cage on his own.
Give a command such as "Go to your bed!" Use treats along with plenty of
enthusiasm, until he goes in and out happily on your command.
Do keep the crate in a quiet and peaceful place. Strange noises and
distractions could cause your pet to become anxious or overly excited.
Do avoid separation anxiety by ignoring your pet for at least 1/2 hour
before putting him in the crate. Allow time in the beginning of your morning
routine for any pet related activities. Make sure the dog has been fed,
exercised and had the opportunity to urinate or defecate prior to using the
crate for any extended period of time.
Do ignore your pet for a least 1/2 hour after letting him out of the crate.
By all means, let him out to relieve himself, but keep any physical and
emotional contact to a minimum until he has had the opportunity to calm
down.
Do keep a chew toy in the crate with your pet. This will allow your pet a
positive outlet for any stress he may feel during the hours alone.
Don't put your pet in a crate that is too large or too small. The crate
should have enough room for the dog to stand up, turn around and stretch
out.
Don't keep anything in the crate that your pet can destroy. Destructive
chewing will only promote more destruction.
Don't punish your pet by putting him in the crate. This is his home when you
are away from home. The crate should always be a secure, safe, and
comfortable place for the animal to be.
Don't try to make your pet more comfortable by creating an unnatural
environment while you're away. Do not leave things like radios or
televisions playing to keep him company, unless this is the natural state of
your household when you are home.
If you are experiencing difficult behavior with your puppy or adult dog, please contact us. Most problem behaviors can be corrected. We want to help and encourage a happy and healthy relationship for you and your dog for many years to come.
Copyright
© 2005. Logue's
TLC Pet Hospital. All rights reserved.
Site designed and
maintained by
Eversole Design