Building trust – It goes both ways!

“We’ve planned on getting Miss Odelouca for months now.” Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA) have been thwarted at every turn. Jenny Clarke, president of APAA, explains: “Logistics, planning, all goes out of the window. Now we have to watch, wait and learn.” Miss Odelouca’s behaviour patterns having been studied at great length and hopefully will pay off.

“Dogs are used to patterns, structure, working within a framework. When that goes awry, then all the patterns and planning have to be rethought!” Indeed.

When a human is confronted with a change, it has ‘adaptation circuits’ enabling it to make new strategies and plans. Our furry, canine friends follow a more historic genetic pathway. Instinct. Habit. Routine. Taken away from one structured environment and ‘plonked’ into another, without any warning, is a huge problem.

If, for instance, the dog has been abandoned, it will have been used to a form of structured living – whatever that may have been – and now has to adapt to a new unexpectedly dangerous environment, where there are no rules.

When, hopefully, Miss Odelouca is salvaged, checked out by the vet and re-homed, she is going to have to re-learn everything. “Even after being jettisoned onto the roadside and roughing it, some of her past with a family may still be there. When she’s re-homed, then some of that ‘old’ familiar structure will return.”

Jenny is hopeful. “Building trust is the only way that a compromise can be reached before any long-term expectations are achieved.” That goes two ways. Canine and human. Tall orders. “Low expectation levels. Lots of patience is required and then you have a platform to work on.” Structure, routine, rewards. Occasional scolding may be necessary, but in a relaxed positive manner.

“Waving hands, shouting and beating the dog is not the way.” Firm, positive and still friendly? Absolutely. “Get the dog’s trust first, meals on time … Your rewards made obvious. Playing ball as the saying goes!” Then the fitting in stuff starts.

Signs of distress? ‘Whale eyes’, constant lip-licking and yawning, stiffened stance… Can be confusing to us humans. Discovering the dog inside that furry, four-pawed, friendly friend is a huge reward. Remember to ‘trust’ both your instincts and your dog’s messaging.

Visit APAA charity shops

Alvor: Dunas de Alvor: Mon-Sat, 10.30am-2pm

Silves: Rua Elias Garcia 20, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm (Sat 1pm)

Real bargains! Books, gifts, handmade jewellery, ornaments, homemade chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies. Glassware, dinner services, cutlery. Everything you need for your home or rental. Spoil yourself! All proceeds raised for SNiP (animal sterilisation) and abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Think APAA.

Jackie’s lunches & all events: [email protected]

Pets: [email protected]

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