No pics of my miscreants from today: I'm dogsitting. BUT if you have a pet, I'd like you to try to play a game with them. Any species that eats food can play! More below.
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Why this and why now? Because we are always learning and we are usually stressed.
We don't have to be, and neither do our pets. We can start changing our minds and relationships, in or outside of our species, if we relax, reward, repeat.
Take 5 pieces of their food or a "human" food they like and go somewhere in your house they're chill. Kitchen. Bedroom. Reptile room. Anywhere. Stand still, or sit. Breathe into the bottom of your lungs. Relax. This is going to be fun, or funny. Maybe both.
Look at your pet. When they look back, put 1 piece of that food by your foot, and smile at your pet. Say something like "yes", "good", or "thanks". Be calm and cheerful, like Julie Andrews or Brenden Frasier.
We can stay hurt, stressed, worried, angry, & helpless-- there are always reasons why, it's messy out there-- or we can start small, at home, with calm and care, and get our pets who love us, or at least tolerate us, to play.
Disclaimer: results not guaranteed on children, in-laws, or spouses/partners. Rewards WILL vary based on species, individual learners, pantry contents, and energy levels. If attempting with another dog trainer, bring chocolate. Caffeine may also work.
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We don't have to be, and neither do our pets. We can start changing our minds and relationships, in or outside of our species, if we relax, reward, repeat.
If they didn't, why not? What is cooler than you + snacks rn?
Congrats! You just learned 1 thing that will make teaching them easier in the future. Give yourself a snack!