25/12/2024
A Lesson in Dog Ownership: A Cautionary Tale from Yesterday
Yesterday, an incident at a family gathering served as a powerful reminder about the responsibilities we have as dog owners, especially in unpredictable environments.
A family member brought an untrained dog into a chaotic setting—kids running around, unfamiliar faces, and heightened energy. The dog, naturally overwhelmed, displayed stress and reactive behavior, which led to a tense and potentially unsafe moment involving a child.
No one stepped in to guide or redirect the dog until I had to intervene, which, unfortunately, caused tension between myself and my family member. While emotions ran high, the incident highlighted a few key lessons:
1. Even the best dogs can have bad days. Dogs are living beings, and stressful environments can bring out unexpected behaviors, even in the most well-behaved pets.
2. Training is not optional—it’s essential. Proper training, appropriate tools (no flexi leashes in hectic settings!), and consistent handling are non-negotiables for safety and peace of mind.
3. Advocating for safety is not disrespect. Addressing a situation in the moment is about protecting everyone—both the dog and the people involved.
To all dog owners: Please be mindful of the environments you bring your pets into and recognize their limits. It’s our responsibility as handlers to act as their leaders and advocates, ensuring they’re set up for success.
To my family: I share this not out of criticism, but to stress the importance of responsible pet ownership. Moments like these remind us all of the work we need to do to ensure harmony between our pets and our loved ones.
Let’s commit to creating safe and respectful spaces for both our dogs and our families.
Happy Holiday’s from our pack to yours.
