Michael Baugh CDBC CPDT-KSA
There is a very good chance that we will have to pick up and do somewhere with our dog at a moment’s notice. This is most likely to occur in hurricane season. But life is full of variables. It could happen at any time. We may have to stay with our dog at a family member’s house, a hotel, or even a shelter. There will be new people there, new dogs, unfamiliar smells, sights and sounds. Dogs who have a successful history navigating novel environments and circumstances will do well. Others will need our help.
I define emotional resilience as the ability to stay calm, pro-social, and behaviorally flexible in a variety of circumstances and settings. Dogs who are emotionally resilient seem to go with the flow. Owners recognize their dogs as being their normal selves, behaving in new settings just as they do at home.
Can we teach this? Yes. Some dogs are just more easy-going than others. Teaching a degree of emotional resilience and behavior flexibility varies depending on the individual dog. Many of our dogs have emotional and behavioral challenges. We’ll need to make special considerations for them.
Here are some things you do to help your dog ahead of time:
Practice being your dog’s go-to. Yes, this means training. Dogs who have a regular positive reinforcement training routine look to their humans for direction and support. We want this. Practice. When in doubt (e.g., when in a new setting), our dog will look to us for guidance. Having us as a reference point can be very calming to our dogs. Be your dog’s emotional support human. The key here is teaching joyfully with positive reinforcement training. Keep it light and help your dog succeed. No dog wants a person barking commands when they’re already stressed out.
Create safe spaces. No matter where you land in an emergency, set up a safe, quiet space for your dog. It would be great if your dog could meet the novel people and animals where you are staying. Even if that’s the case, your dog will eventually want a place to rest. A crate is fine. A room behind a door or baby gate might be even better. Bring familiar bedding and favorite items. Some dogs can’t tolerate being separated, especially in a new space. That’s okay. Create a safe space near you where people and other animals won’t bother them.
Keep a consistent schedule. Feed. Walk. Play. Cuddle. Do your best to maintain the routine you had at home.
Look for new opportunities. When we headed west during Covid, my dogs discovered a new love of hiking. Regardless of where you are, there are enticing adventures awaiting. Most dogs enjoy exploring with their noses. Some might forge new human or canine friendships. Take advantage of those wins. Nothing relieves stress like fun.
We can’t prepare for everything, of course. Do your best. Have a “go bag” with your dog’s medical records, medications, microchip number. Research veterinary care at your point of destination. Plan. But try not to obsess.
As the philosopher once said, shit happens. Somehow, we persevere. Take care of yourself and your family. Don’t be afraid to comfort your dog. It’s why many of us got a dog. We wanted someone to take care of, a friend, someone to be by our side no matter what life throws at us. You’ll be okay. You’ll get through it together.
Michael Baugh teaches dog training in Houston TX. He specializes in aggressive dog training.