WHEN YOUR DOG NEEDS A THERAPIST TOO

We live in a time when visiting a psychologist or psychotherapist is a common part of life for many of us. An aching soul can weigh not only on people, but also on pets. At such a moment, you can call a dog therapist for help, who has the "key" to the dog's soul in his pocket and will help unravel the cause of the psychological problem.

WITHOUT CHAIR AND HANDKERCHIEFS

A comfortable mattress prepared for the canine patient, a pack of tissues and an hourglass on the therapist's desk. No, this is definitely not what a visit to a dog therapist looks like. In fact, the work of a dog therapist is very different from the work of a psychotherapist that you or your friend or relative see. Dog therapist most often he will come directly to your home , listen to what is bothering the dog, and of course get to know the four-legged patient. The main goal of a dog therapist is to unravel the cause of inappropriate dog behavior, or to help the dog from separation anxiety and other psychological problems. Unfortunately, animals can't talk, so be prepared for that you will take over the role of spokesperson . It is likely that the dog therapist will ask questions not only about the dog's past and behavior in certain situations, but also about your training methods or reaction in tense situations. Thanks to an in-depth interview, the therapist understands what is going on in the dog's soul and advises how to help the dog.

WHEN TO SEE A THERAPIST?

Time magazine reports that "only" 10% of dogs in the world suffer from mental disorders. But the truth remains that the help of a dog therapist is not only sought by owners who have noticed anxiety or depression in their dog. People who don't know how to do things also ask for help problem behavior a dog or they perceive that a dog has a problem with one specific action , for example walking on a leash or chasing cyclists or cars. Dogs who struggle with separation anxiety, or who have experienced abuse or other rough treatment in the past, also deserve a therapist. The good news is that experienced dog therapist can relatively quickly recognize what is troubling the dog and give you advice on how to help the pet with the same speed. By default, the dog therapist will only visit you once or twice. In the case of large and persistent difficulties, the duration of therapy will be extended.

GENTLEMAN THERAPIST

Maybe you hesitate to contact a therapist, maybe the therapist will come to you in two months. But until then, you don't have to sit idly by. On the contrary, there is nothing easier than to leave the role of master for a while, and look at your dog's problem from a neutral position . Put yourself in the dog's shoes and try to really listen to him. Perhaps you will understand why he behaves the way he does in a given situation. Or, on the contrary, you will realize that in at certain moments you transfer your own fear and stress to him . It also often happens that the dog is troubled by our "disconnection". He feels alone because we do not pay enough attention to him and prefer to look at the display of mobile devices. At such a moment, there is nothing left but to show the dog that you care about him and that you want to spend time with him. And if you haven't figured out the problem, don't despair. This is just a clear sign that your pooch needs a real dog therapist.