Posted by Kelly Harding on May 22, 2013
Respecting a Dog’s Space – Continued
I walk at odd hours, early morning, late at night, in the middle of the afternoon when I think most will be busy and not walking on my path. I go to parks where there are signs “dogs must be leashed” and hope that owners follow these rules. I walk in open fields and large spaces so I can see all around me. I look ahead of me, behind me, around each corner before I get to it. I cross streets when I see you coming, sometimes go up driveways, into parking lots or behind a building to avoid you. I buy a treadmill, but it is not for me. I once had a nice garden with lovely green grass, now it’s a makeshift obstacle course with many toys and items to amuse and keep the mind active. Am I being “anti-social”? No. Is it because I’m a bad dog or dog owner. No. I’m being proactive. I’m doing everything I can to keep my friend safe, confident, exercised and stimulated because my friend is a dog who is elderly, recovering from surgery, is blind and/or deaf, is in training, or is frightened of things; you, your dog, small children or maybe that large bag your carrying. I am a dog that needs its space. I am a DINOS. There are so many reasons why dogs are frightened or need to be left alone to have their own space, and there are many ways these dogs might show their fright when put into situations that make them uncomfortable. They might growl, bark, raise their hackles, hide behind their owner, they might even lunge. They are not mean dogs, they are just trying to protect themselves or distance themselves from a situation the best way they know how in their own “dog” language. As an owner you might think you’re alone, that there are no other dogs or owners out there with the same issue, but your wrong, and once you realize this you can take comfort in the support and knowledge these fellow owners can offer you. One such place that explains, helps you to understand and gives you the comfort to know you are not alone is Dogs in Need of Space, (created by Jessica Dolce) or as you will get to know it DINOS. DINOS is a...
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