Perfect Pet Sitter cares for every type of
dog - and I love it when we meet smaller
breeds that have been integrated into a world where they’re going to meet many
different – and often much bigger - dogs.
It’s true small dogs can be vulnerable and
understandable owners want to protect them, but there’s a fine line between
protecting and pampering.
When owners interventions go to extremes –
such as picking dogs up the moment another canine appears, or crossing roads to avoid other dogs – this
can result in little dogs becoming fearful, anxious, and end up developing all
sorts of neurosis.
MILLY & CHLOE – Cavoodles
Recently I’ve been living in looking after
two delightful little girls, Cavoodles Milly and Chloe. Looking for all the
world like furry novelty slippers, these tiny girls are up there with the
cutest small dogs I’ve had the pleasure of caring for. But what is extra special about these two, is
they are don’t know they’re little!
Naturally when taking any of my smaller
canine charges I'm highly aware of bigger dogs and avoid ones I don’t like the
look of (or ask owners to keep a distance). But other than that, being able to
take dogs to places where they can greet and sniff others is positive, it’s
what dogs are born to do.
So Lisa & Mark – congratulations. You
have encouraged your sweet little dogs to be dogs and not to be fearful of
doggie encounteres. You deserve an award for knowing that you have full size
dogs – they just happen to be in very small bodies!
LEO the Labradoodle
Leo is one of Perfect Pet Sitters most
regular clients. Since he was just 19
weeks old we’ve minded him numerous occasions, for anything from a few days, to
weeks at a time.
From the moment she brought him home, Leo’s
owner was determined he would be well trained.
Although still a puppy, he’s so good to recall that on our daily walks
(within safe areas) he can be off leash to enjoy running free and playing -
until we go home with him happy and tired.
At a young age I did some heel work
sessions with Leo. He was nervous in some situations, for example when buses
went by, but by persisting he eventually got used to events that at first
worried him.
Between his owner, ongoing positive
training, Perfect Pet Sitter’s unique minding, and doggie playdates, Leo
receives the best possible care.
Leo is only 9 months old yet by ensuring
he’s been exposed to a variety of people, dogs and different situations he
is already a confident, adaptable and
exceptionally well socialised dog. Most
of all, this has been achieved without
him being cossetted or spoilt. Another
dog that has been allowed to be a dog.
So here’s a second congratulations - well done Gina – you’ve put effort in to
his development and got a great dog as a result.
Perfect Pet Sitter recommends:
Introduce new situations to your pup on a
gradual basis. If something spooks or worries them do not make a fuss or
reassure your dog – if you do they will assume there is something to be scared
of!