Hiring a Pet Sitter vs Family Care: Dog Plans for When You’re at the Hospital

Bringing a new life into your home, whether it’s a baby or a rescue dog, or facing a personal health challenge like a hospital stay, fundamentally shifts your world. For dog owners, these transitions bring a unique set of responsibilities and considerations concerning their beloved canine companions. Ensuring your dog’s well-being and safety, as well as the safety of your family, requires proactive planning, thoughtful preparation, and consistent effort.

This comprehensive guide delves into two critical aspects of dog ownership during such pivotal times: first, how to plan for your dog’s care when you need to be at the hospital, comparing professional pet sitting services with family care; and second, the delicate yet crucial process of introducing your baby or child to your dog, fostering a harmonious and safe co-existence. By addressing these topics in depth, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and strategies to navigate these transitions smoothly, ensuring peace of mind for you and continued happiness for your furry family member.

Part 1: Dog Plans for When You’re at the Hospital: Hiring a Pet Sitter vs. Family Care

Facing a hospital stay, whether it’s a planned surgery, an unexpected emergency, or the joyous occasion of childbirth, introduces a unique challenge for dog owners: who will care for your canine companion? The thought of leaving your dog alone, or entrusting their care to someone unprepared, can add significant stress during an already fraught time. Proactive planning is not just recommended; it’s essential for your peace of mind and your dog’s well-being. This section will explore the two primary options for dog care during your absence – professional pet sitters/boarding facilities and family/friends care – offering an in-depth analysis of their pros, cons, and crucial considerations for making the best decision for your unique situation.

Understanding the Hospital Stay Scenario

Before diving into care options, consider the nature of your anticipated hospital stay:

• Planned vs. Emergency: A planned stay (e.g., scheduled surgery, induced labor) allows ample time for preparation. An emergency requires an immediate, pre-established backup plan.
• Duration: A short, overnight stay might be managed differently than a week-long recovery period or an extended, indefinite admission.
• Your Condition: Will you be able to communicate effectively from the hospital? Will you be mobile enough to handle any potential issues upon return?
• Dog’s Needs: Does your dog have special medical needs, separation anxiety, specific dietary requirements, or behavioral quirks that demand particular attention?

These factors will heavily influence which care option is most suitable and how you prepare for it.

Option 1: Professional Pet Sitter/Boarding Facility

Professional care involves entrusting your dog to individuals or businesses specifically trained and equipped to provide animal care services. This category includes in-home pet sitters, dog walkers who offer extended stays, pet hotels, and veterinary boarding facilities.

Pros of Professional Pet Sitter/Boarding

1. Professionalism and Expertise:
   • Experience: Professional sitters and facilities handle a variety of breeds, temperaments, and needs daily. They often have experience with anxious dogs, senior dogs, or those requiring medication.
   • Training: Many are certified in pet first aid and CPR, have animal behavior knowledge, and understand canine body language.
   • Structured Routine: Boarding facilities often maintain consistent schedules for feeding, walks, and playtime, which can be comforting for dogs. In-home sitters can adhere closely to your dog’s existing routine.
2. Reliability and Accountability:
   • Insured and Bonded: Reputable professionals carry liability insurance (protecting you if something happens to your dog or your property) and are bonded (protecting you against theft).
   • Contracts and Agreements: Clear expectations regarding services, responsibilities, and emergency protocols are usually outlined in a written contract.
   • Backup Plans: Established services often have backup sitters or staff in case the primary caregiver falls ill or has an emergency.
3. Dedicated Care and Specialized Services:
   • Eliminates Imposition: You don’t have to burden friends or family, especially during your vulnerable time.
   • Medication Administration: Professionals are typically adept at administering oral, topical, or injectable medications.
   • Emergency Protocols: They have pre-established procedures for veterinary emergencies, including transportation and communication with your chosen vet.
   • In-Home Benefits (for pet sitters): Your dog remains in its familiar environment, reducing stress from new surroundings. They also provide light home security (mail collection, light rotation).
   • Socialization (for boarding): For social dogs, boarding can offer supervised interaction with other dogs.
4. Peace of Mind: Knowing your dog is in capable hands allows you to focus solely on your recovery.

Cons of Professional Pet Sitter/Boarding

1. Cost: This is typically the most significant drawback. Services can range from $30-$100+ per day, depending on location, type of service, and the dog’s needs. Extended stays can become very expensive.
2. Less Personal Connection (Potentially): While professional, the bond might not be as deep as with a family member, though many sitters develop strong relationships with their clients’ pets.
3. Stress of New Environment (for boarding): Some dogs find boarding kennels or pet hotels stressful due to noise, new smells, and confinement, regardless of how well-run they are.
4. Finding the Right Match: It takes time and effort to research, interview, and vet a reliable professional.
5. Availability: Popular sitters and facilities can book up quickly, especially during holidays or peak seasons, necessitating early booking.

Types of Professional Care

• In-Home Pet Sitter: Stays at your home, providing continuous care in your dog’s familiar environment. Ideal for dogs with separation anxiety or those who don’t do well in kennels.
• Drop-In Pet Sitter/Dog Walker: Visits your home multiple times a day for feeding, walks, and playtime. Less continuous presence than an in-home sitter.
• Pet Hotel/Boarding Kennel: Your dog stays at a dedicated facility. Offers various amenities, from basic kennels to luxury suites with webcams and structured playgroups.
• Veterinary Office Boarding: Often chosen for dogs with complex medical needs, as veterinary staff are readily available. Can be more clinical than a pet hotel.

How to Choose and Vet a Professional

1. Start Early: Begin your search weeks or months in advance, especially for planned stays.
2. Seek Referrals: Ask your vet, friends, trainers, or local pet supply stores for recommendations. Online reviews (Google, Yelp, Rover, Wag!) are also helpful.
3. Interview Several Candidates:
   • Experience: How long have they been pet sitting? What breeds/temperaments are they familiar with?
   • Certifications: Do they have pet first aid/CPR certification? Are they members of professional organizations (e.g., PSI, NAPPS)?
   • Insurance & Bonding: Crucial for your protection. Ask for proof.
   • References: Contact past clients.
   • Emergency Plan: What is their protocol for vet emergencies? How do they communicate?
   • Services & Rates: Get a clear breakdown of what’s included and the cost.
   • Trial Run: Arrange a meet-and-greet in your home with your dog. Observe their interaction. For boarding, schedule a short daycare stay or an overnight trial.
4. Check Background: While many professionals are trustworthy, a quick online search can provide peace of mind.
5. Contracts: Insist on a written contract outlining services, dates, costs, emergency contacts, and cancellation policies.

Option 2: Family/Friends Care

Entrusting your dog to a trusted family member or close friend is often the first thought for many owners. This can involve them moving into your home, visiting daily, or your dog staying at their residence.

Pros of Family/Friends Care

1. Familiarity and Trust:
   • Known Person: Your dog likely already knows and trusts the caregiver, reducing anxiety.
   • Established Relationship: You have a pre-existing relationship with the caregiver, fostering trust and easier communication.
   • Personal Touch: A family member or friend is more likely to provide individualized attention and affection.
2. Cost-Effective: This option is often free or involves only covering expenses (e.g., food, gas), making it budget-friendly.
3. Familiar Environment (if they move in): Your dog remains in its own home, maintaining its routine and comfort.
4. Flexibility: Family and friends might be more accommodating to last-minute changes or extended stays, depending on their availability and willingness.

Cons of Family/Friends Care

1. Imposition and Burden: Asking someone to care for your dog can be a significant imposition, especially if they have their own busy lives or no prior pet care experience. This can strain relationships.
2. Lack of Professional Expertise:
   • Limited Experience: They might not have experience with complex dog behaviors, medication administration, or emergency situations.
   • No Formal Training: Unlike professionals, they typically lack pet first aid/CPR training or knowledge of canine behavior.
   • Accountability Issues: There’s usually no formal contract, making accountability less direct if issues arise.
3. Potential for Inconsistent Care: Despite best intentions, a non-professional might not adhere strictly to your dog’s routine or understand specific needs (e.g., “don’t feed table scraps”).
4. What if They Get Sick? If your caregiver becomes ill, you’re left scrambling for a backup solution while you’re in the hospital.
5. Dog’s Adjustment (if dog goes to their home): While a familiar person is good, a new environment can still be stressful for some dogs, especially if there are other pets or children.
6. Uncomfortable Discussions: It can be awkward to discuss expectations, payment (even for expenses), or address concerns about their care.

How to Prepare Family/Friends

If you choose this option, meticulous preparation is paramount to ensure the best possible care:

1. Detailed Instructions (The “Dog Manual”): Create a comprehensive guide for your dog’s care.
   • Routine: Feeding schedule (type, amount), walking schedule (duration, route, potty habits), medication (dosage, timing, how to administer).
   • Behavioral Notes: Quirks, fears (e.g., thunderstorms), favorite toys, enrichment activities, basic commands your dog knows.
   • Emergency Contacts: Your vet’s name, number, address. Emergency vet (24/7) contact. Your emergency contact person (if not the caregiver).
   • Medical History: Allergies, past illnesses, vaccination records location.
   • Specific Needs: Does your dog escape? Chew furniture? Dig?
   • House Rules: Where are they allowed/not allowed? Any specific commands unique to your dog?
2. The “Go Bag”: Pack everything your dog will need.
   • Food (enough for the stay + extra), treats, favorite toys, comfort blanket/bed.
   • Leash, collar/harness, poop bags.
   • Medications (clearly labeled).
   • Vaccination records and vet medical summary.
   • Copy of the “Dog Manual.”
   • Proof of payment for professional vet care (e.g., credit card, emergency funds, or explicit agreement on who covers costs).
3. Trial Run: Have your friend/family member care for your dog for a weekend prior to your hospitalization. This allows them to practice, identify potential issues, and for your dog to get used to the arrangement.
4. Financial Offer: While they may decline, offer to cover their gas, dog food, or a small stipend for their time, especially if the stay is long. This shows appreciation and acknowledges their effort.
5. Clear Communication: Discuss expectations openly. How often do you want updates? What constitutes an emergency? What if something breaks or goes wrong in your home?

Key Considerations for Any Option

Regardless of whether you choose professional or informal care, several universal factors must be addressed to ensure a smooth transition and your dog’s safety.

1. Emergency Plan & Contact Information:
   • Veterinarian: Provide your regular vet’s contact info and, crucially, a 24-hour emergency vet clinic nearby.
   • Medical Consent: Give written authorization for your caregiver to approve medical treatment for your dog in your absence, up to a certain financial limit.
   • Medical History: Ensure your caregiver has access to your dog’s important medical records, vaccination history, and current medications.
   • Emergency Funds: Designate funds or a credit card specifically for your dog’s emergency vet care.
2. Logistics:
   • Supplies: Ensure an ample supply of food, treats, medications, and any specific products your dog needs. Label everything clearly.
   • Access: Provide clear instructions for house keys, alarm codes, and gate access.
   • Transportation: If the dog needs to go to the vet, does the caregiver have a vehicle suitable for transporting your dog?
3. Communication During Your Stay:
   • Updates: Agree on how often you’d like updates – daily texts, photos, or only if there’s an issue. Be realistic about your ability to respond from the hospital.
   • Emergency Contact: Provide another emergency contact person (not the caregiver) who can make decisions if you are incapacitated.
4. Your Dog’s Personality:
   • Anxiety Levels: Does your dog suffer from separation anxiety? An in-home sitter or family member might be better than boarding.
   • Socialization: Is your dog comfortable with other dogs (boarding) or strangers (new sitter)?
   • Health: Older dogs or those with chronic conditions often benefit from professional medical oversight or a very experienced caregiver.
5. Your Budget: Cost is a significant factor. While professional care has upfront costs, remember potential hidden costs with family care (e.g., unexpected vet bills, replacing damaged items).

Making the Decision

The “best” option is highly individual. Consider these questions:

• What is your dog’s temperament and specific needs? An anxious dog might prefer an in-home sitter or trusted family member. A highly social dog might thrive in a good boarding facility.
• What is the duration and nature of your hospital stay?
• What is your budget?
• How reliable are your potential caregivers (professional or informal)?
• What gives you the most peace of mind? This is often the deciding factor.

Create a pros and cons list tailored to your situation and specific dog. Don’t hesitate to explore both options and even have a primary and backup plan ready.

Final Checklist for Hospital Dog Care Preparation

• Identify Primary Caregiver: Professional pet sitter, boarding facility, or trusted family/friend.
• Identify Backup Caregiver: Essential for emergencies.
• “Dog Manual” Created: Detailed instructions for routine, habits, and personality.
• Emergency Contacts: Vet, 24/7 emergency vet, personal emergency contact.
• Medical Consent Form: Signed authorization for vet treatment.
• Emergency Funds: Designated for vet bills.
• All Supplies Readily Available: Food, meds (labeled), leash, toys, bed.
• House Access: Keys, codes, clear instructions.
• Communication Plan: Agreed-upon update frequency.
• Trial Run Completed: For chosen caregiver, especially for longer stays.
• Introduction: Ensure dog has met the caregiver in advance.
• Update Microchip Info: Ensure it’s current with your emergency contacts.
• Leave Your Contact Info: For caregivers to reach you (if possible) or your emergency contact.

By meticulously planning and preparing, you can ensure your dog is safe, comfortable, and well-cared for while you focus on your health and recovery.

Part 2: Introducing Your Baby/Child To Your Dog

The arrival of a new baby or child into a home with a dog is a joyous, yet potentially complex, transition. For many dog owners, their canine companion is their “first child,” and the thought of introducing them to a newborn or an older child can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety. While most dogs readily accept new family members, it’s crucial to approach this introduction thoughtfully, proactively, and with safety as the paramount concern. This section provides an elaborate guide on how to prepare your dog for a new child, manage initial introductions, and foster a lifelong bond built on respect and understanding.

Why This Is Crucial: Safety and Harmony

Dogs are animals, driven by instinct, and their behavior can be unpredictable, especially when faced with novel stimuli or perceived threats. A baby cries, moves erratically, and smells foreign. A toddler can be grabby, loud, and lack impulse control. Even the most docile dog can snap if pushed past its limits, feels threatened, or is in pain. The goal is to:

• Ensure Safety: Prevent bites or any harm to the child.
• Minimize Stress: For both the dog and the new family members.
• Build Positive Associations: Help the dog view the child as a positive addition, not a threat or a nuisance.
• Foster a Harmonious Home: Create an environment where everyone feels secure and loved.

Phase 1: Preparation During Pregnancy (or Before Child’s Arrival)

Preparation should begin months before the child’s arrival. This proactive approach allows for gradual adjustments and prevents the dog from associating the child directly with negative changes.

1. Behavioral Assessment & Training Refresher

• Address Existing Issues: Any problematic behaviors – jumping, incessant barking, resource guarding, leash pulling, aggression towards strangers or other animals – must be addressed and resolved before the child arrives. These issues will only be exacerbated by the stress of a new baby. Consider engaging a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT) or a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) for serious issues.
• Basic Obedience Reinforcement: Ensure your dog is solid on fundamental commands:
  • “Sit,” “Stay,” “Down”: Useful for maintaining control and calm.
  • “Leave It”: Invaluable for preventing the dog from mouthing or picking up baby items.
  • “Go to Your Bed/Place”: Teaches the dog to retreat to a designated safe zone.
  • Loose Leash Walking: Essential for walks with a stroller.
  • Recall (“Come”): Crucial for quick retrieval if needed.
• Teach “Gentle”: Practice taking treats gently from your hand, preparing for delicate interactions.

2. Desensitization & Counter-Conditioning

This involves gradually exposing your dog to stimuli associated with a baby and creating positive associations.

• Sounds:
  • Practice with Baby Sounds: Play recordings of baby cries, coos, and gurgles at low volumes, gradually increasing the volume over weeks.
  • Counter-Condition: During these sounds, reward your dog with high-value treats and praise for calm behavior. The goal is for the dog to associate baby sounds with positive experiences.
• Sights:
  • Baby Gear: Set up the crib, stroller, car seat, swing, and changing table well in advance. Let your dog sniff them under supervision.
  • Counter-Condition: When the dog is calm around these items, reward them. If they seem anxious, back off and reintroduce more gradually.
• Smells:
  • Baby Products: Introduce baby lotion, powder, wipes, and diaper smells gradually. Put a dab on your hands or a cloth and let your dog sniff.
  • Counter-Condition: Reward for calm sniffing. These new scents can be overwhelming if introduced suddenly.
• Handling & Movement:
  • Simulate Interactions: Gently poke, prod, or tug (very gently!) on your dog’s ears or tail in a controlled, positive way, mimicking potential toddler behavior. Immediately follow with a treat and praise for calm acceptance. Crucial: This is about desensitization, not abuse. Stop if the dog shows any discomfort.
  • Sudden Movements: Practice having friends act like children, making sudden movements or running around, while you supervise and reward your dog for remaining calm.

3. Environmental Changes & Boundaries

• Designated Dog Space: Reinforce or establish a “safe zone” for your dog (crate, bed in a quiet room) where they can retreat and not be disturbed. This space should be sacred, especially from the child.
• Baby Gates: Install baby gates to create physical barriers between the dog and baby areas, especially in the nursery. This is not punitive but prevents unwanted interactions and offers supervision.
• Crate Training: If not already crate trained, consider introducing it positively as a safe den.
• Dog’s Accessibility: Determine which areas of the house will be off-limits to the dog when the baby is present, and practice these boundaries.

4. Routine Adjustments

• Gradual Changes: If your dog’s routine will change significantly after the baby arrives (e.g., walk times, feeding times, less direct attention), implement these changes gradually before the baby comes. This helps prevent the dog from associating the baby with negative changes.
• Reduce Attention: Slowly start to reduce the amount of direct, undivided attention your dog receives before the baby, without neglecting their needs. This helps them adjust to potentially less one-on-one time and prevents them from associating the baby’s arrival with a sudden drop in affection. Ensure they still get plenty of exercise and enrichment.

Phase 2: Bringing Baby Home (First Introductions)

This is the moment many owners anticipate with bated breath. The key here is control, calm, and positive reinforcement.

1. Pre-Arrival Scent Introduction

• Hospital Blanket: Before the baby comes home from the hospital, have your partner or a friend bring a blanket or item of clothing the baby has worn home.
• Controlled Sniffing: Let your dog sniff the item. Reward calm, curious sniffing with praise and treats. Do not force interaction. This familiarizes the dog with the baby’s scent before the actual meeting.
• No Negative Association: Ensure the dog doesn’t associate the scent with being ignored or reprimanded.

2. The First Meeting (Controlled & Calm)

• Exercise the Dog First: Ensure your dog is calm and tired (a long walk, playtime) before the baby enters the home. A tired dog is a good dog.
• Greet the Other Parent First: When you arrive home, one parent (the one not holding the baby) should enter first and greet the dog alone, showering them with normal affection. This helps the dog feel acknowledged.
• Leashed and Calm: Once the dog is settled, the parent holding the baby can enter. Keep the dog on a leash for control, but do not hold it taut. Have the dog in a “sit” or “down” command, slightly away from the baby.
• Observe from a Distance: Allow the dog to observe the baby from a respectful distance. Reward calm behavior.
• Controlled Sniffing (Optional & Brief): If the dog remains calm, you can slowly allow them to approach for a brief, supervised sniff of the baby’s feet (never the face). Keep the interaction short and positive, rewarding quiet, gentle sniffing.
• Keep it Positive: Shower the dog with praise and treats during these calm interactions.
• No Forcing: Never force the dog to interact with the baby or scold them if they are hesitant.
• Duration: Keep the first few interactions very short, just a few minutes, always ending on a positive note.

3. Ongoing Supervision

• Never, Ever Unsupervised: This is the golden rule. Never leave your dog and baby/child alone together, even for a second, no matter how trustworthy your dog is. Use baby gates, closed doors, or crates to separate them when you cannot actively supervise.
• Positive Associations: Always associate the baby with good things for the dog. When the baby is present, offer treats, praise, or calm petting to the dog. This helps the dog see the baby as a giver of good things, not a rival for attention.
• Maintain Dog’s Routine: Try to keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and playtime routines as consistent as possible. This continuity reduces stress.

Phase 3: Living with Baby & Dog (Growth & Development)

The introduction is just the beginning. The ongoing process involves consistent management, training, and teaching both dog and child boundaries.

1. Maintaining Boundaries and Safe Spaces

• Dog’s Retreat: Continue to respect your dog’s designated safe space. Teach the child (as they grow) that this area is off-limits.
• Baby Gates are Your Friends: Utilize gates to manage proximity and provide controlled separation when needed.
• No Crib Access: Do not allow your dog access to the baby’s crib or bassinet, even if the baby isn’t in it. This prevents the dog from establishing ownership of the baby’s sleeping space.

2. Teaching Children to Respect Dogs

As your child grows, it’s your responsibility to teach them how to interact respectfully and safely with dogs.

• “Gentle Hands”: Teach your child to pet gently on the shoulders or chest, avoiding the face, tail, or ears.
• “Let Sleeping Dogs Lie”: Teach them never to wake a sleeping dog.
• “No Disturbing While Eating”: Never allow a child near a dog’s food bowl or while the dog is chewing a bone or toy. This is a common trigger for resource guarding.
• “Ask First”: Teach older children to always ask an adult if it’s okay to pet a dog, and how to approach (calmly, let dog sniff hand).
• Reading Dog Body Language: Educate yourself (and eventually your child) on canine stress signals:
  • Subtle Cues: Lip licking, yawning (when not tired), looking away, stiff body, ‘whale eye’ (showing whites of eyes), tail tucked, ears back, freezing.
  • Clearer Warning Signs: Growling, snarling, snapping. These are serious warnings and must be heeded immediately.

3. Continuing Dog Training & Enrichment

• Don’t Neglect the Dog: A bored, under-exercised dog is more likely to develop behavioral problems. Continue regular walks, playtime, and training sessions.
• Mental Stimulation: Use puzzle toys, Kongs, and short training sessions to keep your dog mentally engaged.
• Positive Inclusion: Allow your dog to be present (supervised) during family activities, like story time or playing on the floor, rewarding calm presence. This helps them feel part of the family without being the focus of potentially overwhelming attention.

4. Managing Toddler Interactions (The Trickiest Phase)

Toddlers are unpredictable and lack impulse control. This is often the most challenging stage.

• Constant Vigilance: Your supervision must be absolute.
• Reinforce Rules for Both: Consistently remind your child about gentle hands and personal space. Redirect inappropriate behavior immediately. Simultaneously, reinforce your dog’s “leave it” and “go to your bed” commands.
• Physical Barriers: Utilize gates and doors more frequently during this stage.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Forcing Interactions: Never push your dog or child into interactions they are uncomfortable with.
• Punishing the Dog for Warning Signs: A growl is a warning. Punishing it teaches the dog that warning signs are unacceptable, potentially leading to a bite without warning. Instead, remove the dog from the situation and reassess.
• Neglecting the Dog’s Needs: A dog that feels ignored, bored, or under-exercised is a recipe for behavioral issues.
• Assuming the Dog Will “Just Know”: Dogs don’t automatically understand babies are fragile or what “no” means in a baby context. They need to be taught and managed.
• Allowing Unsupervised Interactions: This cannot be stressed enough – no matter how “good” your dog is.

When to Seek Professional Help

Don’t hesitate to consult a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT) or a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) if you observe any of the following:

• Aggression: Growling, snapping, baring teeth, or biting towards the child or anyone approaching the child.
• Excessive Fear/Anxiety: The dog is constantly hiding, trembling, or showing severe stress signals around the child.
• Obsessive Behavior: The dog fixates on the child, constantly whining, barking, or trying to lick/herd them.
• Resource Guarding: The dog guards toys, food, or personal space from the child.
• Feeling Overwhelmed: If you feel you cannot manage the situation safely or effectively on your own.

Conclusion: Patience, Consistency, and Love

Introducing a baby or child to your dog is a journey that requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of both canine and human behavior. It’s a process of gradual acclimatization, positive reinforcement, and clear boundaries. By preparing thoroughly, supervising diligently, and teaching respect, you can create a safe, loving, and harmonious environment where your dog and child can thrive together, forming a bond that enriches both their lives for years to come. Remember, your vigilance and commitment are the greatest gifts you can give to ensure the safety and happiness of every member of your expanding family.

#DogCare #HospitalDogPlan #PetSitter #DogBoarding #EmergencyPetCare #FamilyPetCare #DogAndBaby #IntroducingPetsAndKids #ChildDogSafety #DogTraining #PetSafety #NewBabyNewDog #DogBehavior #CanineCare #PetParenting #PeaceOfMind #DogLove #FamilyPets #DogTips #PetPlanning #VetCare #DogLife #FurryFamily #BabyProofingForDogs #RespectYourDog #PositiveReinforcement #DogWellness #HealthAndPets #SafeKidsSafePets #DogOwnerLife