Survey finds that more than half of pet owners would like training
Students and teachers are now back in the classroom – but what about our furry family members?
A PetFirst survey finds that more than half of pet parents want to send their pets to class as well.
More than 51 percent of respondents said that they would like to go to “doggie school” for help with behavioral issues. Only a third described their pet as well behaved.
“Our goal at PetFirst is for every pet relationship to be successful and healthy,” said Katie Blakeley, CEO of PetFirst pet insurance. “Training can be a key part of that. Not only are well-trained pets more fun to be around, but it’s also easier for them to stay healthy.”
If a dog doesn’t walk well on a leash, for example, it can be difficult to get adequate exercise, Blakeley said. Well-trained pets are also less likely to lunge into traffic or get involved in fights with other pets.
Blakeley noted that in some cases behavior problems can even force some families to rehome their pet. Barking, aggression, lunging – these common types of behaviors can cause problems with neighbors and result in complaints to landlords.
Finally, problematic behaviors can also result in fights – or other dangerous activities that can result in injuries.
When it comes to training, respondents were evenly divided between preferring a short obedience class – or “homeschooling” using online videos or articles. A small minority – 13.5 percent – said they needed to reach Cesar Millan – the famed dog whisperer.
Good news: Of those who have previously sought training, almost 3 in 4 said it worked, though 21 percent said the effects wore off with time.
