Keep Calm and Carry on Walking

Just imagine the scenario when you are on your first walk with a new dog, deep in the woods.

The dog in question is doing super well and enjoying herself, yes she is still a little uncertain and overwhelmed at so many new experiences, friends and stimuli.

About 45 minutes into the walk and your furthest point away from the van, and deepest point into the woods, the dog manages to wriggle out of its harness.

It is suddenly naked of all constraints & identification as it is not wearing a collar. The owners have only recently moved to Oslo, and as yet would not have a car to come and help you dog hunt, if there was a runaway.

The dog is standing now about five metres away from you and contemplating it’s next move. Most dogs don’t particularly like putting their harness back on either.

Needless to say this is not an ideal scenario to find yourself in.

So what is the best course of action? Keep Calm and Carry on Walking!

Dogs are pack animals and throughout the first 45 minutes the dog in question had been enjoying herself and social.

Were I to start walking towards the dog she would most likely turn and run.

Any sudden movements, or a raised voice, might also panic the dog.

When situations like this arise I am very glad that I put in place certain pre first walk protocols.

I actually met the dog and the owner for one hour last night. Therefore I am fresh in the dog’s memory.

The dog sat on the Passenger seat, safely secured next to me, on the drive up to the woods.

I have been reassuring and talking to her for the first 45 minutes, encouraging and praising her.

She has no reason to fear me.

And so I pick up her harness and act as if we would just continue the walk as naturally as possible.

She becomes playful and runs after us.

If I try to grab her and put on the harness too quickly, it could be game over for our trust.

And so I continue to praise her as we carry on walking. She is running around happily and only gaining social confidence.

After a few minutes I crouch down and a few of the other dogs come over and start climbing up on my lap. She follows the example, and whilst gently cuddling her I put back on the harness with no resistance or panic.

I do however breathe a big side of relief as she is now secured.

Upon dropping her home I recount the entire adventure to the owner, who assures me that they will buy a new harness from which she is unable to escape.

Happy Weekend

Doggies: Kimba, Lotta, Amazona, Odin and Haraka