Tips for socializing your pet
Welcoming a new pet into a household involves introducing the animal to your lifestyle and helping it grow accustomed to your schedule. This process also involves acquainting the pet with the people who visit your home on a regular basis.
One of the most important skills pets can learn is to be disciplined around strangers. Prospective visitors to your home will not necessarily share your enthusiasm for animals, so well-behaved pets can make such visits much more enjoyable for everyone.
Pets that are not socialized may be more anxious, timid or prone to lashing out with aggressive behavior. Socialization of both cats and dogs — or any pet that is allowed to roam freely in your home — is recommended. Here are some guidelines for success.
Cats
Cats that are socialized are more likely to be trusting, affectionate, well-behaved, and calm. According to Catster, an online resource for cat owners, the socialization process will be influenced by the cat's disposition and when the animal was received.
Begin by handling the cat in short sessions of around 10 to 15 minutes per day. The more you handle the cat, the more at ease the animal will become around people. The cat will slowly realize that it can feel comfortable and secure in the company of humans.
Once the cat is acclimated to general petting, begin to touch other areas of its body, including its ears, feet, mouth, etc. Give a treat when he or she behaves well. When you feel secure that the cat is receptive to your touch, begin to have other people stroke or hold the cat, so that he or she grows accustomed to other people as well.
The ASPCA notes that cats like to observe behaviors and then invite themselves to participate at their own pace. A cage or cattery can provide cats with unobstructed, comfortable and secure views to observe their homes. Perform calm activities in front of the cage so the cat can watch. Keep treats nearby so that if your pet engages socially, you can reward it for positive behavior.
Dogs
Many people view dogs as more social animals than cats, but that's not always the case. Puppies that do not receive adequate opportunities for early socialization with humans or other animals may be fearful of strangers and other animals and prefer to hide instead of coming out and greeting new people and other animals.
According to canine behavioral expert Cesar Millan, the best window of time to socialize a dog is until it reaches 12 weeks of age. Afterward, the dog is less likely to accept anything new or unfamiliar.
Dog walking is one of the best ways to socialize new puppies, but only after the dog has received its required immunizations. During walks, the dog will be introduced to plenty of new sounds and people who will be excited to come up and say hello. This activity also works with older dogs. However, if your older dog exhibits
aggressive behavior, try a muzzle to staunch barking and nipping and a secure lead to help others feel comfortable.
Socialized puppies need to have socialization reinforced into adulthood. In her book, "The Other End of the Leash," applied animal behaviorist Dr. Patricia McConnell mentions that dogs may go through a period in adolescence when they become more cautious and perhaps aggressive toward people and animals who are unfamiliar to them. Continued exposure to new experiences can help, as can recognizing and addressing any situations that make your dog weary.
The Humane Society of the United States says that dogs should learn to act politely and quietly when encountering other dogs. Many adult dogs do not enjoy socializing with multiple dogs at once, and dogs should not be forced to meet every new dog they come across during walks. Social time with other dogs can come by way of walks and gentle introductions to another dog with loose leashes, but only if both pets feel comfortable.
Dogs and cats should be taught that being friendly with people and other pets is acceptable behavior. Start slowly and reinforce lessons frequently.
