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As territorial creatures, cats and dogs do not always like having new people come into their homes. Whether you are hosting family for the holidays or want to introduce your pets to unfamiliar friends and relatives, use tips veterinarians regularly share to ensure the meetings go well. Below are a few ways to prepare your pets for guests.

Do:

Stay calm and collected.

Maintain a calm demeanor as you prepare your home for company. If you are nervous or overexcited, your pet will be, too; animals are sensitive to their human companions’ emotions.

Understand the signs of a scared animal.

Upset or scared cats often make low, growl-like sounds, puff their tails, arch their backs, and flatten their ears. Dogs may tremble, drool, lose control of their bodily functions, tuck their tails, and avoid eye contact when they get scared. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms around new people, place the animal in a closed-off room.

Use a soothing tone.

Use a soothing tone when you are introducing your four-legged friend to a new human, so your pet knows everything is okay. Even if the cat or dog is nervous or does not want to be handled at the moment, it will eventually calm down with a bit of soothing.

Don’t:

Let them growl or show other signs of aggression.

veterinarianNever allow your pet to show aggression to a new person, as doing so tells the animal that its behavior is acceptable. Instead of creating negative patterns, use a stern tone and remove the animal from the room. Do not pick up cats or small dogs who are misbehaving because they will take your actions as a reward instead of a punishment.

Force your pet.

Let your pet approach new people on its terms. Encourage your friends or family members to put their hands out for the pet to sniff instead of trying to stroke the animal’s head. Dogs particularly appreciate this slow approach as they often see a pat on the head to be a threat.

Forget to use praise and treats.

Praise your pet when they do well with new people. Provide treats for good behavior or give your friends and family treats to bestow while you continue to use an encouraging tone. Again, it may take time for your pet to approach new people, but as long as you are patient, they will learn your visitors are not threats.

 

The veterinarians at Countryside Veterinary Service routinely provide their clients with animal behavioral tips to help their furry patients live their happiest, healthiest lives. As multi-location practice, veterinarians at each animal hospital offer a wide range of services, including emergency pet care and surgery. Call any of the five locations throughout Northeastern Ohio and Northwestern Pennsylvania below for the best in veterinary care, and like the veterinarians on Facebook for the latest news and tips.

 

Countryside Veterinary Service – Garrettsville

Countryside Veterinary Service – Kinsman

Countryside Veterinary Service – Middlefield

Countryside Veterinary Service – Champion

Countryside Veterinary Service – Jamestown

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