Teddy's off for a week of summer camp. He'll have a fun week in completely different surroundings – new people, new house, new dogs. Service dogs not only need to be very well-behaved, they also need to be pretty darn flexible. It's important that Teddy learns that change isn't something to fear, in fact change can be fun!
To that end, since Teddy came to live with us he's spent one night a week back at the service dog agency. There are some kids, some dogs, and some cats. And most importantly, different surroundings. Different noises. Different surfaces. Different schedules. Different toys. All fun and all different. He's done really well with his one-night stays, so now it's time to give him a little more time away and visiting others.
Introducing a young pup to change is helpful even if a career in service work isn't in his future. All pups benefit from spending a night somewhere else, with someone different.
Pups that are exposed to different circumstances when they're young usually adapt readily to their environment, no matter where they are. It's nice to have a dog who feels at home no matter where you take him. Adaptable dogs are a pleasure to travel and live with, as they're comfortable no matter their surroundings.
So while Teddy's off galavanting around from house to house this week, our three permanent dogs will enjoy their break from the exuberance and puppy-ness that drips from that precocious puppy!
Interesting concept. Once I was triggered about the questions “what have you planned/prepared for your dog would you not be here anymore”. This sounds like a very good idea, and should be part of socialization of every dog.
yea! great idea!
Teddy your sleep overs sound so fun. By the way, i’m jealous you get to go to summer camp. Have fun, I can’t wait to hear all about it.
Hmmmm! I was pretty creative about initial socialization with Honey but I never planned a sleepover. Great idea!
You’re spot on about encouraging flexibility. Since I take Honey to work, I was afraid that when I had to leave her at home she’d be anxious. Instead, the variety of the day at work and the different people she met made her very confident. Adaptable.
When I leave her at home alone, it’s just one more experience among many. No better, no worse.
Recently Honey was in the hospital for 4 days following surgery to remove an squeaker she swallowed 4 months ago ?!!! When I talked about visiting her at the hospital, the doctor said she was afraid my presence would simply cause Honey to be more upset when I left. I assured her that wasn’t the case and I think they were pleased to see she was as happy in the ICU surrounded by smiling faces as she was to go home with me at the end.
I was awfully proud of her and pleased that the early socialization let her be comfortable with even a not-so- fun sleepover.