Telethon Kids Institute’s Post

People with vision impairments face physical, psychological, and social challenges on a regular basis. Guide dogs relieve some of these challenges for vision-impaired adults. However, due to concerns regarding an adolescent's ability to manage a guide dog, they are typically ineligible as handlers. Find out more in "Adapting the traditional guide dog model to enable vision-impaired adolescents to thrive" (Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 24) ✔️ IWDA members, log on to iwdba.org as access to this journal is included in your membership ✔️ read our article on incorporating youth in guide dog programs here: https://lnkd.in/gc4gH2pm #internationalworkingdogs #workingdog #workingdogs #journal #learn #education #science #guidedog #assistancedog #servicedog #policedog #militarydog #dog #youthprogram #youth #vision #igdf

Creativity & Critical Timing Are Key To Puppy Socialization Nothing is more fun than introducing a litter of puppies to the world. Interactive playtime with balls, squeaky toys, climbing obstacles, and games of hide-and-seek helps puppies put their best paw forward on socialization. Add in children and seniors, backyards and basements, carpet and concrete, and puppies will be well on their way. Puppy socialization focuses on that sliver of time to shape puppies toward becoming confident, well-mannered and cooperative adult dogs. “Puppies develop at a fast pace, so there is a small window of opportunity when they are from 5 to 16 weeks old to effect positive development,” says Pat Hastings, co-editor of Another Piece of the Puzzle: Puppy Development. Hastings considers “bounceback,” puppies’ ability to recover from first being afraid, as one of the most valuable behavioral traits. Socialization reduces the number of things in the world that frighten a puppy by continually providing the experience of first being afraid and then recovering. The more things a puppy experiences during critical socialization periods, the less bothered the puppy will be throughout life when confronted by new things. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gAkRWVC7

Children’s Cuddles and Dogs’ Freedom of Choice. 🐶🤗 A study released on December 14, 2023, by researchers from The University of Salford and funded by Dogs Trust considers the dynamics of child-dog interactions and the importance of a dog’s freedom of choice when it comes to physical affection such as cuddling. In the paper published in the CABI Human-Animal Interactions Journal, the team led by PhD candidate Anna Baatz conducted family interviews to analyze the implications of children between the ages of 7 and 12 engaging with family dogs. This research addresses a rise in dog bites within the home and seeks to enhance safe interactions between children and dogs. Researchers discovered that while family dogs may display positive behaviors when they initiate or consent to cuddles, they can react “negatively” (defensively)—through growling, snapping, or showing other signs of distress—when cuddles are forced upon them without their choice. This suggests that, although cuddling with pets is a source of joy for many humans, children must learn that dogs should have the autonomy to engage or withdraw from such interactions. The study’s findings emphasize that the answer is nuanced and dependent on whether dogs are given the choice to participate in the interaction. This research underscores the necessity for families to understand and recognize canine body language and consent, ensuring that children know to invite dogs for cuddles rather than imposing them, which ultimately promotes safer and more enjoyable interactions for both parties. For a kid (and parent!) friendly guide, we recommend The Family Dog’s “Pat, Pet, Pause” protocol. Download the poster here https://lnkd.in/gpffVCK7, and ask us about Family Dog training. Access the full study here: https://lnkd.in/gcpiStzN  AND a run-down from Salford University News here: https://lnkd.in/gJBHuiK4 #UniversityOfSalford #ChildDogSafety #CanineConsent #DogsTrust #HumanAnimalInteractions #FamilyPets #DogCuddles

Kelsey came off a reserve, where, undoubtedly, she used many cognitive skills to stay alive, and thus uses these skills when homed. What does this mean? Well, it means she will continue to do behaviors that kept her alive. Wouldn't you? For example, when walking in an urban area on leash, she hesitates to cross busy streets at crosswalks. Why? Because walking in front of vehicles on roads is a good way to get yourself killed! Her adopter had tried using treats to get her to cross, which only exasperated the issue because she thinks her human has no idea what she is thinking or the importance of staying clear of vehicles. Once we worked together, we harnessed her ability to process, thus allowing her to learn, on her own, that cars stop and that they also remain on the road (she came from a reserve where often vehicles will drive on lawns and there are no sidewalks or defined roadways). Exercises in the home harnessed these processing skills, enhanced decision-making skills, and changed her perception of her human's ability to understand what she is thinking and feeling. We then applied these skills on walks, allowing her to choose, on her own, to cross the street in front of cars stopped at the crosswalk and not "freeze" when cars came up from behind us. By her fourth day in her new home, and her third walk, she was crossing streets and feeling much more comfortable. These exercises also created a bond between her and her adopter, and made integrating into home life smooth and stress-free. Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy by UPWARD Dogology is not just rehabilitation - it is a way of communicating, connecting, bonding, and understanding adolescent and adult dogs. To learn more, please visit the upward dogology website and please sign up for my mailing list to stay updated. Thanks for your interest and for all you do for the animals! #doglover #rescuedogs #shelters #braindevelopment #adolescenthealth #dogtrainer #dogtraining #cognitivebehavioraltherapy #cognitivelearning #brainhealth #caninehealth #dogbehavior #dogbehaviour #animallovers #animalrights #animalwelfare #socialissues #onehealth #onehumanity #humananimalbond #womenempowerment #womenentrepreneurs #innovativesolutions #leadershipcoaching #leadershipskills #bethechange #changemakers #cognitivedevelopment #canine #rescuedog #dogmom #perception #socialimpact

Have you ever considered the profound impact that animals can have on a child's development and well-being? Growing up with animals can offer a myriad of benefits for children, shaping their development and enhancing their overall well-being. In this exploration, we'll delve into the significance of this unique experience, shedding light on how interactions with animals can positively impact a child's life.

Back to School Isn’t Just for Kids—Enroll Your Dog in Unlimited Pawsibilities' Canine Enrichment Program! As the kids head back to school, it's the perfect time to consider your dog's learning and development too. At Unlimited Pawsibilities Canine Enrichment Center, our enrichment program is like private school for your canine companion—offering them the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive. **Why Choose Canine Enrichment?** Just like a quality education benefits children, regular enrichment care provides numerous benefits for your dog: - **Enhanced Mental Stimulation:** Keeps your dog’s mind sharp and reduces boredom. - **Improved Physical Health:** Regular activities support a healthy weight and muscle tone. - **Socialization:** Helps your dog develop positive interactions with other dogs and people. - **Behavioral Benefits:** Reduces anxiety and unwanted behaviors at home. **The Ultimate Investment in Your Dog’s Well-Being** Commitment to your dog’s enrichment twice a week is more than just a routine—it’s an investment in their long-term health and happiness. Studies show that dogs who engage in regular mental and physical activities tend to live longer, healthier lives. Our program offers tremendous value by providing the structure and care that busy professionals often find hard to maintain at home. With our enrichment program, you’re not just giving your dog a place to spend the day—you’re providing them with the tools they need to live a fulfilled, enriched life. **Perfect for Busy Lifestyles** Whether you're a busy executive, part of a dual-income family, or living a dual-income no-kid (DINK) lifestyle, our program is designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule. Give your dog the best, even when your time is limited. Enroll today and see how Unlimited Pawsibilities can enhance your dog’s life—one enrichment day at a time. #BusyExecutives #DINKLifestyle #notdoggycare #DogEnrichment #WorkLifeBalance #HealthyDogs #614life #columbusdogs #ProfessionalWomen #ColumbusDogOwners #UnlimitedPawsibilities #InvestInYourDog

⏩Gentle Interaction: Emphasize the gentle and nurturing nature of the interaction between the sheep and the child, showcasing the calming and therapeutic effects of animals.👈 ⏩Safety Considerations: Highlight the importance of supervision and safety measures when children are interacting with animals to ensure a positive experience for both.👈 ⏩Educational Value: Discuss how such interactions can be educational, teaching children about animals, empathy, and responsibility.👈 ⏩Emotional Benefits: Mention the emotional benefits for children, including stress reduction, increased happiness, and development of social skills.👈 ⏩Bonding Experience: Describe how these moments can strengthen the bond between children and animals, fostering a love for nature and wildlife.👈 ⏩Environment Setting: Detail the ideal environment for these interactions, such as a farm, petting zoo, or open fields, ensuring it’s a safe and controlled setting.👈 ⏩Parental Involvement: Encourage parents to be involved in these activities, turning it into a family bonding experience and ensuring the child's comfort and safety.👈 ⏩Capturing Memories: Suggest capturing these moments through photos or videos, creating lasting memories of a special time spent with animals.👈 Fellow: Waseem Akram 💯❤️ #AnimalLovers #KidsAndAnimals #SheepLove #GentlePlay #FarmLife #NatureBonding #PettingZooFun #ChildhoodMemories #AnimalTherapy #FamilyTime

Imagine a world where dog-walking programs in animal shelters or after-school programs involving dog play become the norm, providing children with access to the physical and emotional benefits of spending time with dogs. With two-thirds of children in the U.S. failing to meet national physical activity guidelines, it's clear that we need new and creative approaches to promote healthier lifestyles among our youth. That's where the human-dog bond comes into play. A preliminary study conducted by kinesiologists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that about 20% of children's daily physical activity comes from spending time in close proximity to the family dog. This groundbreaking research not only highlights dogs' potential to promote physical activity in kids but also underscores the profound impact of the human-dog bond on overall well-being. Led by exercise scientist Katie Potter, the UMass Behavioral Medicine Lab is spearheading efforts to better understand the relationship between children and their canine companions. By utilizing ActiGraph accelerometers equipped with Bluetooth technology, researchers can measure the amount of physical activity children engage in while in the presence of their dogs. But this study is just the beginning. Potter and her team are now embarking on a larger research project aimed at including a more diverse population to explore the full potential of the human-dog bond in promoting physical activity among children. So, what does this mean for shelter dogs and impact-driven individuals like us? It means that we have an incredible opportunity to leverage the power of the human-dog connection to create win-win-win scenarios for rescue animals, impact-driven individuals, and human health. By thinking bigger and embracing the transformative potential of the human-dog bond, we can create a brighter future for both animals and humans alike. 🐾 👉 Click and FOLLOW my LinkedIn hashtag #dogsimeet for more Dog Tales and brand marketing tips and advice. #dogs #animalwelfare #collaboration

Meerkats exhibit a fascinating social structure centered around tight-knit family groups called mobs. This particular mob in my post has our newly born pups with their parents exploring the exhibit. In the wild, they employ a cooperative system to protect their vulnerable pups from predators like birds of prey and snakes. When we first released them to the exhibit we observed a similar behavior as the father went out first to check then environment then later returned to call the rest of the mob. When we provided this enrichment, the male was observed to be getting all the hidden superworm for the pups. Meerkats are omnivores, consuming a variety of insects, small mammals, and even plant matter. However, in the wild, foraging is a group effort, enhancing their chances of finding food and minimizing individual risk. This cooperative behavior is crucial for their survival in harsh environments. This Cognitive enrichment managed to provide opportunities for social interaction, group foraging, and such activities can enhance the well-being of captive meerkats. Creating an environment that stimulates their natural instincts fosters both physical and mental health, promoting a more enriching and fulfilling life in captivity. #animalwelfare

At only a year old, Ellie had survived life on the reserve, given birth to pups, gone into foster, and, now, finally adopted by Rena, who offers love, a quiet home, and patience. Ellie is such a sweet and peaceful girl, so why would Rena hire a behaviorist? Rena wants the best for Ellie, who, in her first few days spent a lot of time sleeping on her bed, and was hesitant to eat or receive affection. Well, she needs to "decompress", right? True, but she was in a foster for 2 months, so being in a home is not new and she has used her cognitive skills from a young age, so let's harness those! Within 4 hours, Rena felt more bonded with Ellie. Within 24 hours of applying basic cognitive exercises, Ellie started to play in the yard, did zoomies, played with Rena, and greeted Rena's adult son when he came for a visit! She is comfortable on walks, and chooses to process dogs calmly, instead of reacting out of fear. After only a few days, Rena and Ellie hugged and kissed! Prior to contacting me, Ellie had reacted fearfully to her son's dog. We now have the skills to build up to repairing that relationship so they can all can hang out as a family! Ellie is simply a happier dog because she views Rena as recognizing what is important to her and respecting her intelligence. The UPWARD Dogology integration program is proven effective in preventing and decreasing anxiety in adopted dogs and uncertainty in humans - the uncertainty that often discourages adoption or results in returns to rescues. The program allows us to work at the pace of each dog, seeing changes in commonly 4 days, 10 days, and 3 week intervals, thus eliminating the need for lengthy decompression periods. I am so excited to continue working with Rena and Ellie. When we started, Rena was not sure she was the right fit for Ellie, but only after a short time she feels like she can make a difference in Ellie's life - and hers! And that is what adopting a dog is all about. Interested in learning more ways to address anxiety with holistic, proven methods and approaches? Join this summit (free) where I will speaking along with 14 other experts. https://lnkd.in/gVsXUgDW #doglovers #rescuedog #animalrights #animalwelfare #dogbehavior #anxietyrelief #petproducts #petlove #caninehealth #animallovers #dogtrainer #dogbehaviour #socialentrepreneurs #socialjusticeeducation #consulting #innovation #brainhealth #braindevelopment #rescuedogs