Dogs

[kwicky]

Do dogs have a long term memory? The reason for asking is my relative left his dog with another relative while he went on holiday. He pined and pined! That was over 1 year ago. This year he was left again. Would he remember the last episode?

[kaylamay]

why not. My dogs always remember their previous vet visits and start quivering before we even get through the office door. An abused dog doesn't recover it's fear over night, or if ever, because they must remember being abused. I would take the dog over there a few or more times so they dont just feel dumped and abandoned. Leave with the dog an unwashed sweater or sweatshirt or any article of clothing of the person he is most close to so he can smell your scent. Take his toys and blankies and bowls so he has familiar things with him and try and have the sitters keep as close to his schedule for walkies and such as if he was home. Of course they will pine, they have feelings too and miss us as we would miss them.
Mikala

[paddywak]

The first time I left Max my GSD at the kennels he apparently pined badly but the kennel maids where really good and he soon got over it and now when I leave him he trots off with the girls as happy as anything. However even after 5 years when ever I turn onto the road to the kennels, which I only use 2-3 times a year he stars to starts to wimper. I'm sure he only does it to make me feel guilty