My dog, Madi, has had two TPLO surgeries on her back legs. While she’s been incredibly agile in her older age, I knew this would impact her comfort in the long run. Over time, we noticed more stress signals out on walks: frequent panting and drooling, shake offs, and issues squatting. Madi also needed more frequent breaks laying under shady trees. Yet, she just wanted to keep going! So we followed her lead, thinking she would stop if she really wanted to. What we didn’t realize was that while walking and exploring smells fulfilled Madi, it was also causing discomfort. We were left wondering, “Is there something we’re missing to provide fulfillment while also prioritizing comfort?”
Sniffaris For the Win!
That’s when I heard about “sniff-aris”: a whole space dedicated to novel objects and smells for dogs to explore freely! The whole concept of Sensory Explorers was incredibly intriguing to me. I’ve always loved watching dogs engage their nose, especially in Scent Work. Being able to give Madi the opportunity to sniff like the wind was exciting for both her and myself! Better yet, this scratched the sniffing itch but also highly prioritized comfort and gentle movement.
Enter: Monica Allaire-McMahon and her Sensory Explorers event. When BlueDog had the opportunity to host Monica, I knew I had to get my spot in with Madi. Watching Monica’s webinar before the in person private sessions really painted the big picture that is Dogs. From a holistic perspective, there was so much more I could do for Madi and her quality of life. I felt prepared for our in person session, as well as more compassionate for our doggy best friends.
How Our Session Went
At our private session with Monica, Madi got to sniff and I got to learn. Through careful observation, Monica was able to pin-point important areas to focus efforts on. For Madi, this included her gait, body language when exploring a new environment, and her arousal levels. My perspective was completely changed as I started to understand what she could “tolerate” versus actually thrive with. My family and I have a new lens in which we see Madi’s everyday activities and behaviors!
Monica’s insight gave us more empowerment around the narrative of Madi’s surgeries and lasting effects. By shifting our routines and mindset, we collaborated on a more-frequent yet less-intensive plan for Madi’s exercise and enrichment. The arousal that Monica noted in Madi had once been brushed off as excitement. Hearing it explained as a side effect of some physical discomfort was a complete game changer in how we managed. We were able to make a plan for shorter, more frequent walks or activities so as to not over-load Madi. Higher frequency helped with her stiffness, while lower intensity prioritized fulfillment over draining.
Lasting Effects of Monica’s Teachings
Thanks to Monica’s observations and findings, we started chiropractic care with Madi and have our new favorite harness. None of these changes could have happened without the information being presented in such a digestible and empowering way. Sometimes you’re not even sure what you’re looking for, and that’s where Monica comes in.
Sensory Explorers can help you find out exactly how to better provide for your dog and ultimately your relationship! Madi is a great example of an older dog benefitting from this event, but even proactive exposure and knowledge can help young puppies and dogs as they age. This event targets proper socialization, senior care, regulation for reactive dogs, and comfort for adolescent dogs. We only have 3 spots left, so don’t miss out! Sign up today, or reach out to us at hello@bluedogpetcare.com or 978-208-7933 for more information. We can’t wait to hear how Monica helped you and your pup!