![Puppy and Kitten cuddling for socializing your pet article.](https://ultra-pet.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/socialising-800x630.jpg)
Socialization means learning to be part of society. When we talk about socializing pets , it means helping them learn to be comfortable as a pet within human society – a society that includes many different types of people, environments, buildings, sights, noises, smells, animals and other pets.
The critical period for socialisation for a puppy is at 3-14 weeks of age and 3-9 weeks of age for kittens. During this period a puppy/kitten needs to be slowly introduced to all the different things that he may encounter in life.
Why is socialization important?
- Builds confidence.
- Mental stimulation.
- Makes life changes easier: death of a loved one, arriving of a baby, moving house etc.
- Makes vet visits easier.
- Travelling in a car with pets is made easier.
Socializing a puppy
- Look for a puppy school with a well-experienced teacher that will aid in socialization in a safe environment. NEVER choose a puppy school that uses punishment as a training method.
- Take your puppy to the vet for visits or even just to socialize.
- Take your puppy to friends to visit their pets, different people and experience a car ride.
- Once your pup had all their vaccines take them for a walk around the neighbourhood or to a doggy park.
- Host a puppy party! Invite friends and family over, play some music, toss some streamers, and pass your pup around.
- Take your pup on car rides through different neighborhoods, drive-thrus, car washes, and out into the country where he’ll see and smell a variety of farm animals.
- Arrange play sessions with other puppies and adult dogs who you know are healthy and friendly.
Socializing a kitten
- Keep kittens initially confined in a small room.
- Frequent soft touch.
- Talk often to your kitten.
- Let them get used to a cat carrier. Reward good behaviour.
- Let them visit the vet.
- Let friends visit you to meet your kitten.
- Introduce your kitten slowly to all pets in the household.
- When you socialize your pet enjoy the experience!!! Be patient and do it at your own pace. Contact a veterinary behaviourist if you struggle.
Watch our in-house animal nutritionist, Dr Carra Walters, as she discusses ways to keep your pet friendly and fear free in her Paws & Effect podcast.