Face mask advice for dog owners

Dogs Trust is urging dog owners to get their dogs used to seeing face coverings as part of daily life, as many travel operators ask the public to wear face masks when using public transportation.
Gabby at Dogs Trust gets one of the dogs used to face coveringGabby at Dogs Trust gets one of the dogs used to face covering
Gabby at Dogs Trust gets one of the dogs used to face covering

The dog welfare charity points out that with the Government endorsing the use of face masks, and countless people heading back to work, this will be a big adjustment for the masses, as well as our canine friends, if they are unable to see or read human facial expressions. Dogs Trust has come up with some helpful tips for introducing dogs to people wearing face masks...

Before starting, remember to take it slow, make sure your dog is always relaxed and reward them with treats.

Step 1: Hold your hand over your face for a moment, then reward your dog.

Step 2: Hold your hand over your face and talk to your dog, then reward them.

Step 3: Cover your face with a scarf or bandana for a little longer. Reward your dog.

Step 4: Start to move around the room with your face covered. Reward your dog.

Step 5: Introduce the face masks. Let your dog see you tying it on, talk to them and move around. Don’t forget to reward them.

Step 6: Repeat from the beginning for other family members and in different places, like outside in the garden.

Dogs Trust also points out that when getting your dog used to children wearing masks, an adult should always supervise and be responsible for rewarding the dog. They should also ensure the environment is safe, either by putting their dog on a lead or by separating them using a baby gate.

With shops on the high street beginning to open again and public transport also being used more frequently, the temptation may be there to take your dog with you on these journeys. Dogs Trust recommends that before making this journey, dog owners give serious consideration to how essential it is their pet accompany them, while checking the travel operator’s latest policy on travelling with pets.

Dr Jenna Kiddie, Head of Behaviour at Dogs Trust said: “We urge people to consider whether their dog really needs to go on public transport with them. Getting dogs used to being on public transportation with people wearing masks, whilst not interacting as much, is a lot for our canine companions to take in. If they haven’t fully adjusted to this, it can be frustrating for them to suddenly receive less attention from people when out with their household, as these individuals try to adhere to social distancing guidelines.”

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