\u201cI work with so many dogs, and their guardians often ask for advice for behavioural issues or problems they are struggling with and I realised that most of the \u201cproblems\u201d people encounter come from not really understanding dogs,\u201d Rebeca said.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany people think their dogs are being naughty or spiteful when really they are just displaying completely normal dog behaviours, which are instinctive and were inherited from their wild ancestors because those particular behaviours increased their chance of survival in the wild.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rebeca said she hoped better understanding would lead to dogs not being punished for being dogs, and instead guardians would provide their dogs with opportunities to fulfil their innate needs in a safe and appropriate manner.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy hope is that this will lead to less dogs being surrendered and ending up in shelters because their owners don\u2019t know how to manage their behaviours, and ensuring that most dogs live happier lives where they are loved and cherished for the unique and amazing animals they are,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The book covers The History of Dogs, Breed Specific Traits, Raising a Happy & Confident Puppy, Caring for your Senior Dog, Strengthening the Canine Human Bond, Canine Play Techniques, using Canine Enrichment to fulfil your dog\u2019s innate needs, and more.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne example is that many people feel impatient when they are on walks and their dog keeps stopping to sniff everything,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut sniffing is also an innate need for dogs, and it is so beneficial to a dog\u2019s mental health to be allowed to sniff.<\/p>\n
\u201cDogs learn about their world and environment by scent and sniffing also lowers the heart rate and helps reduce cortisol build up from stressful events.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo I encourage Sniffaris (sniffing safaris) and helping people to understand that a 10 minute sniffy walk is much more beneficial to a dog than an hour long power walk.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rebeca said enrichment activities such as scatter feeding, treat puzzles and other games that mimic a dog\u2019s innate behavioural needs also helped to build confidence and resilience in fearful and anxious dogs, and make all dogs feel happier in general.<\/p>\n
With more than 25 years of experience in the Animal Care Industry, Rebeca started her career as a veterinary nurse straight after high school, then worked as a wildlife officer and koala keeper and researcher, before commencing her studies in canine psychology and behaviour in 2015.<\/p>\n
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