Once again the turn out at this years 2009 CNY Pet Expo at the New Hartford Recreation center was fantastic. All in attendance seemed to enjoy the obedience demonstrations, the reptile show, and the wonderful selection of rescue pets on display and ready for adoption. Even the human and dog square dancing demo drew quite a crowd. Of course, whenever you have an event of this magnitude with such a large and diverse group of dogs and owners together, some issues are bound to arise. One such altercation occurred directly in front of our booth. While speaking to a spectator regarding their dogs behavior, the last words we heard were " my dog  doesn't bite" as the dog was fully extended at the end of the retractable leash doing his own thing rather than following his leaders .Seconds later, that same dog was involved in a dog fight. After breaking up the fight, calming down both spectators, who  were stunned at the actions of their dogs, we had stressed some very important points that neither of them were aware of that created that situation. We would like to share those with you hoping to prevent future incidents.

First, NEVER make the statement that my dog does not bite. All dogs will bite under the right circumstances. Most bites occur due to highly stressful situations that they are ill equipped to handle.  If you have an unsocial dog  that may be "skittish" or fearful of new surroundings, people, other animals or noise seek the help of a professional before taking him or her into public. Do not attempt to try to socialize yourself.You may have good intentions but how you introduce and handle the situation could either enhance or encourage certain unwanted behaviors.  When a dog is introduced into a high stimuli area high anxiety levels will occur which leads to insecurities, instability and stress. When it feels threatened, it's first reaction is self defense.

Keep your dog close to you when out in a public area !

Your dog will feel more secure by your side knowing that you are in the lead and going to protect him. When your dog is fully extended at the end of a leash to him you are not the leader. If your dog assumes leadership role on his own by separating himself from your pack, now he is in a stressful situation taking charge of something he simply just cannot do.

Always watch your dog !

Your dog may be good with you and other dogs in your home where he feels more secure or  under normal circumstances but consider your surroundings when taking your dog into public places. Ask yourself: Has my dog been exposed to noise,movements, people or children? Does my dog recover well from being startled or does he run, hide , bark or bite?  Is he social with other dogs? Are you positive that the other dogs in this area are social?  Some dogs may  jump in excitement at the sight of another dog  just wanting to play. If that playful pooch jumps a fearful dog, the fearful unsocial dog may react by attacking. Now the playful social dog may become afraid in the future as he was exposed to a negative situation. 

I was asked " How should dogs meet then?" Dogs should never greet one another face to face. Dogs who make direct eye contact prior to proper introductions can lead to possible confrontation.  Dogs should first become aquatinted  through their more prominent sense that of smell. Allow the dogs to use their noses from a safe distance. Watch your dog and the other for signs of aggressive behaviors such as standing hackles, growls or body tension. Should this occur, back your dogs away from each other , do not pacify them to make them feel more secure as you will only be enhancing their insecurities.

Ask before you touch! You should never reach out and pet another persons dog without asking. Never pet a strange dog over the head or lean over the dog. This makes them feel insecure and threatened.  Ask the owner how you should approach their dog. If it's a smaller dog like a Chihuahua get down to their level. If it's a larger dog like a Golden Retriever present yourself as confident. Hold your hands low allowing the dog to sniff the back of your hand and pet beneath the chin. Do not speak to the dog as your body language will say enough. ( this is general information and will NOT work on every dog)

Always present yourself in a calm, confident manner when taking your dog into public areas. Education is the best prevention.

This article was published May 24th, 2009 on page 24 of the Sunday Sentinel