Emma Barton is joined by her dance-partner-in-crime, Anton Du Beke, and Blue Cross Animal Behaviourist, Leigh-Ann Reed, to discuss how pet owners can best manage their pets in social situations – especially over the busy summer period.

Whether you’re at your local park, dropping by a friend’s house, or away on staycation, socialising your pet – with both humans and other pets - can come with its challenges. In this episode, Emma, Anton, and Leigh-Ann, share some tips and advice on how to keep your pet safe, happy, and relaxed in such social situations.

Leigh-Ann also shares her expertise on what signs of stress and anxiety to be aware of in your pets whilst you are out and about, so that pet owners can feel confident managing this type of behaviour:

“Try to avoid forcing [your dog’s] into situations, so if they seem reluctant that is probably your first sign that they are struggling a little. But really, as they are all so individual, different things can frighten different pets. So, it is the case of watching your dog, learning to read their body language and what they are trying to tell you and then responding appropriately.”

Useful links on how to socialise your pets this summer

• Walking your dog in a group with other four-legged friends can be lots of fun but requires preparation and focused training. Before you em-bark on this journey read Blue Cross’s guide on group walking with your dog: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/group-walking-with-your-dog 

• Some dogs have never seen a horse before, and if they are scared or nervous they may react by chasing the horse. This can cause problems for the horse, the rider, other members of the public and the dog. Blue Cross has teamed up with the British Horse Society and the National Police Chiefs' Council to offer advice on how to avoid this troublesome situation: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/keep-dogs-and-horses-safe-around-each-other 

• Deciding if you want to take your pet on holiday with you? Read Blue Cross’s pet-friendly holidays guide: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/petholiday 

• Children and cats can be best friends for life, but first impressions count. Blue Cross’s tips will help get their relationship off to the best start: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/introducing-your-kitten-to-your-children 

• Dogs are part of the family and while your dog will be well used to the family unit they live in, they will be less familiar with people who visit your home. So, whether you’re hosting a schoolmate play date, looking after the grandchildren, or have friends and family round for a summer BBQ, it pays to be prepared: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/keeping-your-family-dog-and-visiting-children-safe 

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