This editorial blog post is sponsored by Sniffspot! Sniffspot is like an AirBnb for dogs! Find a Sniffspot near you or find out how you can become a host and earn extra money with your yard or private space! Use code 2TD and earn an extra $15 when you sign up to be a host. Find out more at www.sniffspot.com
It didn’t happen overnight. When we adopted Digby Pancake from our local shelter, he was scared. Scared of loud noises. Scared of the car. Scared of new places. Scared that dinner would be late.
Adopting dogs was new to me. We never dealt with anxiety issues before Brickle and Digby. I was unprepared, and my first instinct was to just not expose Digby to anything that might make him uncomfortable. At the time, we both worked full time outside the home. We didn’t feel comfortable leaving Brickle and Digby home alone for extended periods. And I found myself researching daycares. But one thing stood in the way of this plan. Digby would have to ride in a car. It seems so crazy now that we live in an RV!
I decided to do a “test drive” with Brickle and Digby the night before their first day of play. As expected, they didn’t want to get in the car. And halfway around the block, Digby threw up. I second and third guessed my decision to expose them to more car rides, activities and people. But as I often do, I did research. Books, online tutorials for rescuing dogs with behavior issues all suggested exposing them to new places, new people, new experiences on a repeated basis. Why? Confidence. Building their confidence.
I think that this is often overlooked by dog parents. We want our dogs to be happy, but sometimes, happiness has to be worked for. Digby was a hunting dog and scared of loud noises. Actually, he still jumps nine years later, at the sounds of gunshots or cars backfiring. But his reactions have gotten better! Why? He’s been working on his confidence.
When we learned of a new, innovative app and website called Sniffspot, I immediately knew this was a game changer.
Brickle and Digby had issues with triggers such as noises, cars and crowds. But some dogs have issues with other dogs, other people, anxiety and more. Sniffspot could be, and in our opinion is, a way to build a dog’s confidence safely in rented, private playspaces. Some are backyards, some are acres of land, some are indoor spaces. But why is confidence key for a dog’s happiness and how can Sniffspot help?
1. Exposure Management
This is when we start associating things our dogs are fearful of with new, pleasant experiences! Sniffspot’s network of different spaces to rent by the hour are all different. Find a spot that fits your dog’s needs!
Blackpond Farm, Snohomish, Washington USA
2. Find An Environment That Proves Your Dog Is A Success!
Sitting at home with your dog, thinking of all that can go wrong in the outside world only causes more fear. Find a small yard or space that your dog can feel confident in. Try playing their favorite game or activity in a new space!
3. Introduce New People And Dogs
As your dog’s confidence grows, try introductions on neutral grounds! Sniffspot hosts may sometimes have the option of their dogs as playmates. Take advantage of this great opportunity!
Brockel Dog Ranch, Cheyenne, Wyoming
Building a dog’s confidence will take time and patience.
But part of that journey, and how successful they will be is dependent on our attitude. And Sniffspot can help us too. With a growing community of dog parents who are hosts and guests on Sniffspot, the opportunity for support is endless. Be a part of this growing community and find out more at www.sniffspot.com
124 Acre Conservation Farm, Shelton, WA
Sniffspot is like an AirBnb for dogs! Download the app or go to their website for more information!
Sign up to be a host and earn money with your yard!
Use code 2TD when signing up and get an extra $15 after your first review!
When I think of how far we have come together I am proud.
No. Not proud of myself. But proud that the “issues” I thought Brickle and Digby had were manageable because we believed in each other.
It wasn’t easy, and I never could have imagined the paths we would take. I wish that Sniffspot would have been available to us then. No matter if your dog is young, or just young at heart, let Sniffspot help you both grow your confidence. Together! You can do it!
–Rachael Johnson. Founder of 2 Traveling Dogs and Your Dog’s Diner
Although this blog post is sponsored, all opinions are our own.
