Page 5 - Kind News September/October 2023

Yes! You can show a scared dog that you are
not a threat. “Fearful and stressed dogs are
usually trying to let you know that they don’t
want to be petted,” says Devon Krusko, RedRover’s
field services manager and pet dog trainer. “It’s
our job to listen. If we don’t, they may feel like
they have to use their mouths to communicate
and may snap or bite.”
Stand to the side. Toss treats. Move slowly and
talk softly. “Don't stare or reach your hand out.
Make sure not to stand over the dog or pet the
top of her head. If you give a dog space, she will
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feel more comfortable,” says Krusko.

A happy dog’s body will look relaxed. Her mouth
will be open and her tail will gently wag. “Happy
dogs are sometimes wiggly,” Krusko says. “We call
this loose body language. They usually have squinty
eyes, and their tongues might be out which makes
them look like they’re smiling!”
Whatever mood you think a dog is in, never pet
someone’s dog without permission!

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Sept/Oct 2023 | 5