Pawfect Puppy Party
Your friends at Cara Veterinary Group are very aware of how important early socialisation is.
Although it may be possible to live with a dog who does not like other dogs, it is difficult and potentially dangerous to live with a dog who does not like people, especially if the dog doesn’t like some of your friends and family.
Teaching a new pup how to get along with other dogs and people will be perhaps the most important part of its development and it has to start early to help prevent behavioural problems.
Unfortunately, the vast majority of these behavioural problems are brought about by poor socialisation.
Puppies that have not been properly socialised before 14 weeks of age, can develop fears of anything not previously encountered, as well as anything they have had negative experiences with. These fears can present themselves in different ways. One dog may shy away from a fearful stimulus while another may feel the need to protect himself. On the other hand, dogs that have been exposed numerous times to people or other dogs may become extremely exuberant and rowdy in their greetings.
Proper habituation helps prevent similar problems. For example, imagine a dog that has never encountered thunder of fireworks. The animal could well be sick with fear and anxiety. Also, if a puppy has not been accustomed to separation from its owners during the ‘sensitive developmental period’, it may later exhibit signs of separation anxiety such as barking, whining, loss of toilet control or destructive behaviour whenever it is left alone. Or, for example, if a puppy has never met someone wearing a motorcycle helmet, or a child, and encounters one of these for the first time, it may become extremely fearful.
For puppies, these ‘life experiences’ start from birth and last until about 14 weeks of age. Anything a puppy experiences during this time will become part of its life. After that age, unfamiliar objects and experiences can cause a fearful response.
We understand that it is difficult to socialise a puppy at this important age because they are too young to go into public areas.
The Solution? Attend a Pawfect Puppy Party!
It is for this reason that we offer our clients and their puppies the opportunity to attend our 'Pawfect Puppy Parties' (puppy socialisation & training classes). These parties are run by Jenny Mackey – Cara Veterinary Group’s Head Nurse and experienced Puppy Party tutor.
Puppy Parties provide a great opportunity for puppies to socialise safely with other dogs and their owners in a safe environment during this sensitive development period. They also help educate the whole family – especially children – about responsible dog ownership, including socialisation, habituation, training, nutrition and general healthcare, from clipping nails to cleaning teeth.
Puppy Parties also help your puppy to become familiar with our Veterinary Practice. It gives them wonderful memories of the clinic and they are always the dogs that end up dragging their owners in the door rather than putting their brakes on!
What age does my puppy have to be to attend?
Your pup can attend from one week after the 1st vaccination, for 3 parties in a row. (Please note these parties are subject to demand.)
How much does it cost?
These parties are FREE OF CHARGE to all clients who have their puppy vaccinated with us.
What's included?
At our Pawfect Puppy Parties you and your puppy will enjoy:
- A controlled, off lead puppy play session - giving your puppy the chance to interact with other puppies in a controlled manner and build up vital social skills.
- He/she will enjoy a pleasant experience on the vet’s examination table and the weighing scales to help him/her get used to these for the future.
- You will see demonstrations on how to give a worming tablet and how to brush your dogs teeth effectively.
- There is a talk on all routine puppy care including neutering, feeding, worming, microchipping, oral care, fleas etc.
- You will be given the opportunity to take a tour of our state-of-the-art hospital and see behind the scenes. (out of hours emergencies permitting)
- Your puppy will receive a care pack covering all of the evening's topics and a 'doggy bag' containing puppy treats!
How to get involved
If you and your puppy would like to attend a Pawfect Puppy Party please give us a call on FREEPHONE 1800-CARA-VET (1800 2272 838) and leave your name with reception, and we will call you back with the next available date. Please note these parties are subject to demand.
We look forward to seeing you and your puppy here! You’re sure to have a howl of a time!