Getting Used to Face Masks
Bilton Veterinary Centre • July 3, 2020
We know why wearing face masks in public is so important, but our dogs aren’t so sure...
Is your dog a little uneasy at the sight of people wearing face masks? Follow our step-by-step guide to getting them used to it.
Buy (or make) a face covering of your own
To turn face masks into something your dog will be familiar with, there’s no better place to start than at home.
Show your new mask to your dog
You don’t need to wear it – in fact, just holding the mask in your hand and simply showing it to your dog is a great start. Let them give it a closer look and a good old sniff, then reward them with a treat – this will help them associate the mask positively.
Put on your mask
Next, put on the mask in front of your dog. Wear it for just a few seconds first time round, and don’t do anything to spook your dog while you’re wearing it. Speak in an upbeat voice, and continue to reward your dog with treats.
Repeat this process
Assuming your dog is all okay with the above, continue to put on your mask in front of them – like it’s the most natural thing in the world. Begin to increase the amount of time you wear it. You’ll also want to increase your dog’s exposure by wearing your mask at different times of the day, and asking your family/household to do the same.
Remember to increase exposure gradually – don’t worry about going back a step if your dog is uncomfortable.
Remember to increase exposure gradually – don’t worry about going back a step if your dog is uncomfortable.
Walk into rooms while wearing your mask
Again, act casual as you do this. Once your dog registers you wearing your mask, reward them with a treat. As they get comfortable with this stage, begin leaving the house and then arriving home again while wearing your mask.
Seeing other people in masks
Now that your dog is completely comfortable seeing you and your family/household in a mask, you can be more confident while you’re out walking.
If you’re concerned, try bringing treats with you on your walks. Every time you encounter someone wearing a mask, provide your dog with a tasty snack – this will help them to continue their positive associations.
If you’re concerned, try bringing treats with you on your walks. Every time you encounter someone wearing a mask, provide your dog with a tasty snack – this will help them to continue their positive associations.
Practise makes perfect
Remember to take your time. You can always go back a step! If you’re especially worried about your dog, please do contact us today!
The law is changing later this year to ensure that all cats are microchipped by 10th June 2024. To help cat owners out, we are doing microchipping at a discounted rate of £18 for cats until this date.
The recent government announcement abut the changes in legislation regarding XL Bully Dogs (American Bulldog XL) has naturally got people quite concerned. Here we have tried to clarify what the implications of this mean.
Heat stroke can be fatal if not managed properly. There is a lot of incorrect advice online about how to manage this condition, so this month's blog sets the record straight. How to prevent and what to do in an emergency.
With all the fun of the festive period - please be aware that we usually see a massive increase in problems caused by our pets indulging in food/treats that are not suitable for them and can make them very unwell.
In the second of her series looking at the role of animals in war, vet nurse Meg Gardner looks at life in the
trenches for the men and dogs of Twenty-two Company King’s Fusiliers. An uncompromising tale of life on the front line in 1916, as told from the perspective of the dogs who lived and worked alongside the soldiers of the British Forces. A tale of loyalty and friendship, hardship and loss. As both men and dogs face the horrors of warfare, an unexpected arrival in the trenches shows both dogs and men the value of compassion.
Animals coming to the vets can often be very stressed and anxious and this can have a negative effect on the pet, the veterinary team and the pet's owners. Trying to reduce this fear can lead to a better outcome for everybody involved and medication often forms part of this process.
Nowadays, there is some uncertainty with owners of some dogs with behaviour issues, as to whether neutering is the right option for them. There is a temporary option available with these animals to "test the water". Read more to learn about how this approach may help you.
As November incorporates Remembrance Sunday, Nurse Meg Gardner reflects on the role that animals have played in prevoius conflicts - especially World War I.
Why we are running a COVID Catch-up vaccination clinic. How it will benefit you, your pet and our practice as well!
Pets owners are being made aware of a scam from a pet microchip database company that isn't on the UK Government list of approved providers. Please read on to find out more...
