Useful Links
Socialization Checklists
Do you have a new puppy or maybe a dog you adopted during COVID when normal socialization was difficult to do? As vaccination allows our lives return to something close to normal, now is a great time to get out there and socialize your dog! (Of course, protect your own health first, and follow all appropriate COVID precautions!)
Fear aggression is a very common behavior problem in dogs, and is mostly caused simply by lack of positive and neutral exposure to a wide range of people, things, and experiences during their early months. Ideally, socialization begins in early puppyhood, but it's never too late to work on it, and sooner is always better than later. Many of our dogs might need a refresher this summer after a year of relative isolation.
Be sure to bring a pocket full of favorite treats on your outings, and ask everyone you meet to give your dog a treat and a pet if they are willing and your dog is eager. Remember, socialization is all about making sure your dog is comfortable, happy, and not fearful. Keep things fun, calm, and happy! If something is scary to your dog, gently and quietly change the scenery and try baby steps next time. If a man on a bike is scary up close, try just hanging out across the street or across the park next time with lots of treats. Over time, with baby steps and lots of treats, nearly all dogs can become accustomed to a wide variety of experiences. If you find yourself stuck and your dog frightened or showing aggressive behavior, don't hesitate to contact us for help!
PARVOVIRUS CAUTION: Before you begin, remember to avoid exposing your puppy to dogs you don't know are well vaccinated or to soil where dogs play or go to the bathroom until your puppy has completed their entire puppy vaccine series and you get the all-clear from the veterinarian. Until then, focus on socializing to people, places and experiences that don't expose your puppy to dog-germs.
Download & print Dr. Sophia Yin's awesome socialization checklists on the icon below, and bring them in to your next appointment, too! Show us the good socialization work you're doing with your dog, and we'll give them a toy or special treat to celebrate their progress!
 Care CreditPayment Plans for Veterinary Care |  ASPCA Poison Control24 hour emergency hotline for pet poison control. $65 per incident. |  Companion Animal Parasite CouncilThe CAPC is an organization that develops standards for controlling parasites in pets. Read here for details on what and why we recommend routine screening and control measures for internal parasites. |
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 Pet Poison Helpline24 hour emergency hotline for pet poison control. $39 fee per incident. |  Pet First Aid AppGet the American Red Cross Pet First Aid App mobile app. Be prepared for everyday emergencies! |  American Heartworm SocietyComprehensive & current information on heartworm prevention, testing and treatment for dogs and cats. The source of our knowledge! |
 Center for Disease ControlThis U.S. government site provides information on human health issues associated with pets. This is a good source to learn about zoonotic diseases (such as parasite infections) that can be transmitted between pets and people. It is also a good site to learn about special precautions for people who are immune compromised (such as those with HIV). |  American Vet. Med. FoundationThe AVMF is a charitable organization that supports disaster preparedness and disaster relief efforts for animals. They accept tax deductible contributions. |  Hills Pet FoodVisit hillspet.com for coupons, videos, and nutritional information about Ideal Balance, Science Diet and (veterinary only) Prescription Diet. |