One part of understanding the human-canine bond is to understand the dog’s nature. Equally important in building better people-pet connections come in analyzing people’s emotions. Keep in mind that guilt is double-sided emotion: it can bring out the best and highlight the worst. Dog experts view guilt as a great motivator when it’s used to keep us doing what we know is right and when it helps us stay responsible to ourselves, loved ones and pets.
(Check out Lessons from Dog and Kids)
“If guilt prompts people to consistently care for their dogs by providing them with adequate nutritional, medical, social, and exercise needs, then guilt is good,” says one particular dog expert.
Spending quality time with your dog.
A little guilt also works effectively in building pet responsibility in kids. Experts urge parents to instill empathy for pets in their kids so they can understand their dogs’ needs. Remind your kid that when s/he is sick, you’re there to wipe away the tears and provide relief. The kid can give the same care and comfort to the family dog.
Tell your kid that just like them, the dog has fears, and feels lonely at times. That dogs need exercise, fresh water, fresh food, obedience, and regular walks. They rely on everyone in the family to feel happy, content, and secure. In short, the whole family, including the kids, are the dog’s guardians.
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