This blog article was originally posted last spring.  Our Licensed Veterinary Technician, Sue Perkins is taking over the class as Dr. Willkom prepares to move back to her hometown in Wisconsin.  We are so going to miss Dr. Willkom but excited (and a little jealous) for Sue as she takes over puppy-duties!

Early socialization helps young pups develop into happy, confident, dogs.
Image source: Ellen Zangla Photography

Ok, ok, so maybe we’re going out on a limb here by saying our lovable but rambunctious young friends will be prim and proper at all times, but early socialization is crucial in developing happy, confident pups.  According to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, the most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life.  As the AVSAB explains (and goes into more depth here), “The first three months are a time when sociability outweighs fear and is the primary window of opportunity for puppies to adapt to new people, animals, or experiences.  Incomplete or improper socialization during this important time can increase the risk of behavioral problems later in life including fear, avoidance, and aggression.” To help bring out the best attitudes and behaviors in our newest patients, LVH’s Licensed Veterinary Technician, Sue Perkins, will be teaching introductory puppy socialization classes on Wednesday nights at 7:00PM in our hospital lobby.  All of the class information is listed below.

For more information or to sign up, contact us here. And in the meantime, Sue has put together a great list of resources for you to check out to help create positive interactions between you and your puppy at home too!

• American Animal Hospital Association
• American Veterinary Medical Association
• The Wagfield Academy
• Positively by Victoria Stilwell
• The Art and Science of Animal Behavior, Dr. Sofia Yin, DVM

And here are a few local trainers who use positive training techniques:

• A Click Above – 540-955-9987
• Joyful Dog – 703-554-2384

You can also research more training options through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.