05-04-2017, 02:56 AM
(05-01-2017, 02:27 PM)Catherine Wrote: Watching a dog for signs of strain is good, but it would be better if they planned "dog care" into the schedule. We all need to plan
some self care into our days when we do things for others. Since dogs rely on us for their schedules and their care, it is our responsibility to give the dogs that care.
Yes, true. Even waiting for the first signs of a dog being overloaded may be putting too much strain on it. Usually a dog will give very early signs of slight discomfort....such as shaking its body, yawning, looking at the handler, or licking lips. But of course they are so intent on doing things to please, that some may not show such signs until they are starting to feel real discomfort.
Planning properly is the answer. But of course alll dogs are different. But the handler/human companion has to make sure no dog really enters a stress scenario.
