Dear Dr. Forsythe: My dog was evaluated to go to the local doggy day camp but was rejected for admission because she was too “nervous.” Apparently, during her evaluation, she missed me so much that she just waited by the window and cried for me to come back and get her. Needless to say, I am unhappy that she can’t go to the day camp. Don’t you agree that dogs that really need the care should get in? It seems like my shepherd needs the attention more than the other pets that got in.
Upset and annoyed owner
Dear Upset: First of all, you should NOT be upset that your pet was not admitted to the camp. The evaluation process is designed to make sure that only pets that are compatible with other pets, and will adjust safely and happily to the camp situation, are placed. The facility does not choose campers based on “behavioral need” or potential help that can be provided to a dog that has a behavioral deficit such as separation anxiety. It is up to you to seek a dog trainer/behavior specialist and work on those individual challenges separately. I know the couple that owns the dog camp, and they do an excellent job of screening incoming dogs to make sure all campers will interact well together so that there are no fights between dogs. You wouldn’t want your human child to get bitten in kindergarten, would you? It’s no different leaving a precious dog at the dog camp either, and the best and only way to try to ensure safety is through a thorough evaluation system. Since your shepherd showed signs of being nervous or acted anxious, it was a good decision not to participate at that time, at least until you work with your pet on the challenges that make her an unsuitable camper.
You may be interested to know my own bulldog, Wadsworth, was the first official “reject” of the camp evaluation process. He just got too excited and was quite simply “inappropriate” in every way. He may not have made the grade for dog camp, but he is still a good pet who needed more one-on-one time than a group situation could provide. I managed to remove my personal feelings from that evaluation and still see the dog camp for what it is: a fantastic opportunity for healthy, happy dogs to go play, interact and safely release energy during the day.
Dr. F
Dear Dr. Forsythe: Everyone seems to have an idea about what kind of dog the new president-elect should get. I’m assuming you have some opinions on the subject. Are you planning on sending your recommendations to the White House?
Voter on Broadway
Dear Voter: It is really hard to recommend a new pet for the new president-elect, since there are so many to choose from. If they asked for my input, I think a black-and-white border collie would be a good choice. It may be nice for them to adopt one from a shelter since this would show the ability to rescue a pet in need. This breed is very smart, very capable and very endearing. I see many border collies, and when I interact with them, I am often amazed at their ability to comprehend and relay unspoken messages through a gaze. They often have wonderful smiles and terrific positive energy. These qualities alone may be reason enough to bring one to our new commander-in-chief. Thanks for a great question.
Dr. F
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