Update on Jasper

Since posting my last entry, I've heard from many of you about Jasper and other similar events. Jane, Jasper's owner also emailed. Thanks, Jane! I am including a follow up video about Jasper's progress. It starts with the media report of the event, but watch till the end to see amazing photos of Jasper's improving health. I am also including some information I sent out to those on my dog daycare newsletter.

This information is geared toward owners of businesses that operate dog daycares or run playgroups. However, it's important for dog owners to know about these things too if they are going to let their dog play off leash with other dogs. Playgroups have huge benefits when they are done right, but it's important to understand some of the things that can happen when they are not handled properly.

1) Pack mentality is a real thing! Dogs act differently when they are in a group. I equate it to teenagers. My daughter, when she is alone, is pretty reasonable. Put her with a group of other girls and they often do some crazy stunts! There is power in a group.

2) Predatory Drift is something you should understand. High pitched yelping and fast moving objects can stir a predatory behavior in dogs that can result in deadly fights. This is most likely to happen when large and small dogs are grouped together which is one of the main reasons I recommend separating dogs by size in addition to temperament and playstyle.

3) Staff members should supervise the dogs and should be trained to predict dog behavior. IT IS possible. Read Off-Leash Dog Play. If you don't think behavior is predictable, I'd also recommend reading The Gift of Fear by Gavin De Becker. It's not a dog book, but it will give you great insight into just how predictable things can be. Dog behavior can be predicted by those who understand it and observe it enough. That should be the goal of any daycare owner!

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Comments

[d.w.]

Iam so sorry to see this.May God be with Jasper and the family.If you are ever in Florence look me up I would love to give Jasper a free grooming when he is better.He will be babied and pampered.Take care. I see he is doing good...My shoppe is Animal hearts grooming shoppe.