Cactus showed his refusal to take the car by sneaking into the closet, his owner got down to his level to calm him down and make him come to his senses. Coming from a shelter, Cactus is a timid dog who fears change. That time, as he was getting ready to get in the car, he probably thought that something frightening was waiting for him. His owner, using patience and a lot of understanding, managed to reassure him.
A video shared on the account Instagram “ @cactustherescue » allows us to take the full measure of the anxiety of Cactuswho has a complicated life story behind him. Very close to his owner since the beginning, he knows that he will always find comfort in the latter's arms, Michael Henry. Since his arrival, the dog has not boarded a car. This time, even though his owner prepared him, he didn't want to go any further, and took advantage of the small opening in the cupboard to hide.
@cactustherescue / Instagram
A clear fear
Internet users, who commented on the video relayed by Dog Timehighlighted the intelligence of the dog, who knows perfectly well how to show what he does not want. By slipping into the bedroom closet, he seems to be telling his owner that his anxiety is far too overwhelming to embark on this new stage.
Its owner hears it, and shows very touching kindness.
@cactustherescue / Instagram
Physical contact that reassures
The owner first places himself at eye level with his dog, to show him his support and compassion. Cactus doesn't come out of the closet. Michael ends up lying down on the ground, and that's when the dog settles on his chest, as if relieved.
From there, the owner promised to give the dog time to get his bearings, and to proceed step by step.
How to best prepare your dog for a car trip?
A car trip is not trivial for the dog who is not used to it. To ensure that the journey goes as smoothly as possible, here are our tips:
- Proceed gradually, introducing the smells of the car for the first time, then remaining in the car while it is stationary.
- Avoid feeding the dog before the trip to ensure digestive comfort
- Install it in a cage securely attached to the chair, or using a safety harness
- Give him the opportunity to stretch his legs, ideally every 2 hours