Dear Dr. Diane: I have a 7-year-old rescue, who has gone with me to rescue fundraisers, and adoptathons.. and never had a problem with people.. He gladly greats everyone…except men with hats. He will get between me and that person and growl. If I say it’s OK and introduce them, and they take off their hat, he’s OK with them and will be their best friend from then on. He’s a rat terrier, but looks like a pit bull because he’s so chunky.
I am moving overseas, and will be taking him with me. My worry is that the people at the airport are usually men with hats..
Do I worry?? Do I post something on his cage? I will Ziptie everything for extra security… But I am still worried… I know he would be safe with family In the States, But my boys will be going off to school next year, and I want him with me. What do I do to ensure his safety and mental health for the flight?
It is amazing to me how common this seemingly unusual problem is regarding the fear rescue dogs have not only of men wearing hats, but tall and large men and men with deep, loud voices. Almost all of my twenty-two rescue dogs are frightened (some even terrified) by men wearing hats or caps. I truly attribute this to abuse they have experienced by men wearing hats or caps before they have been rescued. For the most part (sorry, Guys!), I do believe that males far outnumber female abusers.
I would not consider leaving your beloved pet behind. I would, however, on his travel crate, write clearly and boldly your dog’s pertinent information, name, phone number, age id, etc. and that your dog is a rescue dog who is terrified of men wearing hats.
Long before leaving, I would consult with your vet regarding appropriate sedative use and other considerations before traveling with your pet to ensure his comfort and safety. I would contact the airlines well in advance of your trip and seek their advice as to how best to accommodate your pet under these circumstances.
Find your dog the most comfortable and sturdy of travel kennels, and make special provisions for his care, comfort and well-being. In his travel kennel, place many familiar and favorite and familiar toys, blanket and other familiar items. Absolutely put signage on the top and specific information about your pet as well as along sides of the crate so that everyone he encounters KNOWS his identity, fears, phobias, and personality traits, etc. In the scheme of things, the trip is short-term. You, spending the rest of your lives together in your new home, is vitally important for you and your baby.
Dr. Pomerance is an animal behavior specialist and an expert on topics such as deciding which puppy is best for your family, how to pick out a rescue, and on healing from the loss of a pet.
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