SOCIALIZING YOUR PETS.

Socialising Your Pet petshopnigeria 11 July 2011 Hits: 30

All pets benefit from ongoing socialisation to ensure they remain friendly and successful companions. Pets that are well socialised from birth are less likely to develop behaviour problems such as aggression towards people and other animals.
What is Socialisation?

Socialisation is the process whereby an individual learns to adjust to a group and behave in a manner accepted by the group. Socialisation influences the behaviour and actions of young and adult individuals. Socialising your pet involves exposing them to all those things they will regularly encounter as adults, such as people and other animals, in a fun and positive way to ensure they don’t fear these things. Socialising pets also means teaching them to interact acceptably with people and, in some cases, to interact nicely with other members of their own, or different, species.

Why is Socialisation Important?

Socialisation is important because it shapes the personality, temperament and behaviour your pet will develop as an adult. Puppy classes and kitten kinder are a relatively new concept and are designed for puppies and kittens aged 8 to 12 weeks. These classes take advantage of the developmental period is known as the Critical Period for Socialisation which occurs between the ages of 3 and 12 weeks. It is during this time that puppies and kittens benefit most from exploring new places, having new experiences and accepting new situations.

Socialisation is Only Important for Young Pets, Right?

Wrong! There is a common misconception that socialisation is only important for young pets and, while it is true that socialisation for young pets is very important, it is critical that socialisation continues throughout your pet’s life. Many pet owners stop socialising their pet when the pet becomes an adult and this is a mistake. Without continued exposure to other people, animals, places and different situations, some pets may become antisocial. This often leads to behaviour problems including aggression towards people and other animals.

How Often Should I Socialise My Pet?

You should socialise your pet as often as possible. Taking your pet out and about is a great way to socialise them if they enjoy outings. Having guests give your pet treats when they are visiting helps pets to enjoy meeting new people. Remember that socialising your pet is an ongoing process and begins at birth. Providing ongoing and positive socialisation throughout your pet’s life not only helps to reduce the occurrence of behaviour problems but enriches your pet’s life too.