PET OF THE WEEK: Ms. Gray is an 11-year-old female polydactyl cat with soft gray fur, bright green eyes and a youthful spirit. Once comfortable, she’s happy to be both a purring lap cat and a playful companion. Ask for Ms. Gray, ID# A817436. Adoptable pets are available at Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA’s Tom and Annette Lantos Center for Compassion, 1450 Rollins Road, Burlingame. For information, call 650-340-7022 or visit www.phs-spca.org. (Thelma Andree / Peninsula Humane Society)
Dear Miss Behavin’: I recently adopted a shy terrier, “Pongo,” who becomes very nervous if I try to take him for a walk. I think the traffic noise scares him, and he begins to dart on leash. How can I get him to be more relaxed on walks?
Reply: First, make sure you are using a secure, fitted harness when walking him, and also verify that Pongo is microchipped and wears a collar at all times with your contact information. Use a regular, six-foot leash, no flexi-leashes. For a dog that is skittish on walks, these safety precautions are important.
Second, go slowly and avoid walking your shy boy on busy or noisy streets, as it will probably be too overwhelming for him. Instead, aim for quiet residential neighborhoods where you will only see a few cars during the walk. If you live on a busy street, I recommend driving to a quieter area before taking Pongo on a stroll.
You can also try carrying some high-value treats with you, and giving Pongo a little pea-size bite whenever a car or truck goes by. “High value” means a treat that Pongo ordinarily does not receive at home but absolutely loves. Think hot dog, cheese or chicken, something for which he will do cartwheels. You want Pongo to think that vehicles predict good things for him. Over time, this will help him become less afraid.
Remember to remain calm and comforting to Pongo on walks, but don’t become overly emotional and “baby” him. If Pongo thinks that you’re upset for some reason, it might make him more anxious. If he becomes frightened by a car, simply take a few steps away from the street and keep walking forward. Give him attention if he does walk confidently on leash.
This type of training can take time and patience. Don’t expect Pongo to lose his fear of vehicles overnight. It might take weeks before you see improvement. But if you stick to quiet neighborhoods, use good treats and project a calm demeanor, Pongo should eventually start to enjoy your daily walks.
Read more from Miss Behavin’ in the Mercury News.