This policy outlines our approach to managing and addressing abnormal behaviors such as aggression, nervousness, or other atypical behaviors in dogs under our care. Ensuring the safety and well-being of all dogs and staff is paramount.
Managing abnormal behavior in dogs is crucial for maintaining a safe and harmonious environment for all animals and staff. By addressing these behaviors promptly and effectively, we enhance the well-being of the dogs and ensure that all animals in our care are given the opportunity to exhibit normal, healthy behaviors.
This policy not only protects the dogs but also maintains the integrity and reputation of our breeding program.
Guidance on Handling Abnormal Behaviors:
Routine Procedures for Behavioral Issues:
- Identification: Monitor dogs regularly to identify any signs of abnormal behavior early. Observations should occur during routine activities and structured playtimes, with staff trained to recognise signs of distress or aggression.
- Immediate Response: If abnormal behavior is observed, remove the dog from the group setting to prevent escalation and ensure the safety of other dogs and handlers.
- Assessment and Isolation: Place the dog in a calm, isolated environment where they can be safely monitored and further assessed without causing additional stress to the dog or its peers.
Detailed Considerations:
- Monitoring Schedule: Clearly define when and how frequently the dogs are monitored. This should include both scheduled observation times and ad-hoc checks.
- Supervision During Play: Ensure that playtimes are supervised by trained staff who can intervene if abnormal behavior is detected. Describe the method of supervision and intervention strategies.
- Initial Response to Abnormal Behaviour: Specify the steps taken once abnormal behavior is noticed. This includes how to safely extract the dog from its current environment and the immediate measures to calm the dog.
- Re-introduction Strategy: Outline a plan for gradually reintroducing the dog to communal areas or other dogs, detailing controlled and supervised interactions to assess the dog’s progress.
- Behavioral Improvement Plans: Describe the techniques used to correct or manage abnormal behaviors, such as positive reinforcement, behavior modification training, and, if necessary, consultation with a professional animal behaviorist.
- Handling Persistent Issues: If no improvement is seen, detail the steps for more intensive interventions, such as specialised training, behavioral therapy, or potentially re-homing the dog in a more suitable environment. Discuss criteria for breeding suitability, including the decision process around breeding a dog with persistent behavioral issues.
- Professional Consultation and Referral: State the conditions under which an external behaviorist would be consulted, and outline the process for referring a dog to specialist care if behavioral issues persist.