Social introductions with pets are interesting experiences. Animals are usually social beings albeit with some differences. Their emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing is dependent on their right to socialize, not just with other animals, but also with humans.
Some of my introductions have been wonderous and some stories never fail to amaze me!
Canine Crazies:
Pepper was 5 months old when I fostered him. Cute as a button, but very timid and emotionally scarred due to abandonment memories. At our first meeting, he was wary and stared with eyes that said ‘I’m being punished. I was abandoned, and you’re going to leave me too’. It was heart-breaking to see this, and I ensured he was always around me. He licked me a little after some hours and then hid under the cupboard, always keeping an eye on me. Over the week he became more friendly and trusting.
Chikoo, on the other hand was so excited to meet me and came running to the door, but then stopped dead in his tracks! Confusing as crazy it was to see this behaviour. I tried to speak to him gently and call him holding out my hand, but no! He backtracked and barked and wagged his tail from a distance. It took him 2 days to get comfortable.
Dogs rely a lot on smell, sound, and touch especially, during introductions. A good way to introduce your dog to others is to allow a neutral or comfortable place to avoid territorial stress. Carrying their favourite toy, or comfort item also can help.
Gracey, Happy, Peppy and Joy busy on a playdate
Feline Frolicking:
“My friend came to visit me after years and had never met my cats before. As he waited for me, there was a comical story going on behind the scenes!” Gautam, parent to 5 cats recites this hilarious introduction episode with his cats. “While catching up he asked to meet my cats. Since he was carrying some fresh fish from the market, he suggested we should cook some. As he reached to grab the bag from behind him, the only thing left were the handles! My cats had stealthily cut open the bottom and were each relishing the fish in their corner!” They had a big laugh over it, and the cats never bothered to introduce themselves, but it gave them both a great memory. He adds, “Cats are elusive and take time to warm up to new people. It’s important to give them space and let them come to you. They will assess from a distance and if comfortable, may come and brush themselves against you. This indicates they are ready to socialize.” Gautam says, “I usually take them in their carrier basket when travelling with them. This gives them a sense of security, and if they feel threatened, they can go back and hide inside their basket.”
I got my first-hand experience of cat fostering when a friend dropped off his cat for 2 days. Popo was very cautious in interacting and hid under the sofa until he felt confident. Having his litter crate/sandpit helped because he could smell himself and I it gave him some comfort. At night he finally warmed up and walked all over me as I lay asleep, licked my mouth, and gave me a head-butting! Yay! I was considered as part of his tribe.
Phoebe pampering her little Guinea Pig siblings, Chiku & Chinu
Caw Caws, Grunts, Grinding and more:
People are exploring with rabbits, guinea pigs, parakeets, and other animals as pets. Rabbits can become very territorial, aggressive, and emotionally scarred if an introduction goes bad. Therefore, learning how to gently slide them into an interaction is very important.
An acquaintance I knew had a parakeet who loved calling out newly learned words while bobbing his head at every new person he met. He was amiable and social, but all birds may not be the same. Every animal has its’ unique personality which must be understood and accepted.
Know your pet, their comfort and discomfort. This aids in making social introductions a fun activity and deepening your bond. Create a safe environment for them to explore a world beyond you and leave them be if they are not in the mood to. Try again another day.
Peggy and bud, Leo chilling on a Sunday afternoon
Networking 101:
- Start in the early years.
- Carry treats or their comfort toys when socializing outside the house.
- Dog walkers and pet parks are a great way your pet can make new friends. Consider exploring these and handhold your pet the initial few times.
- Your pet will always tell you how any particular activity is making them feel through their body language, observe.
- Make social interactions a regular activity.
- Give your pet space and comfort if they are not in the mood to socialize.
- Check with your vet for any peculiar traits or behaviours that show up during an introduction activity.
How do you keep special memories of your pets’ first interactions? Pictures, videos, or journals? Do share a funny story of your pet with us.