Expert advice on socialising your pooch

Socialising your dog is very important, but how do you do it successfully and safely for your pet, yourself and the community?

Internationally renowned dog behaviour expert Trish McMillan will hold a 90-minute workshop on Thursday (31 October) to provide practical advice on how best to socialise your pet.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said learning the basics of dog socialisation, and reading their body language, can help prevent a range of issues from barking to dog attacks.

“Dogs are a great addition to many people’s lives, but being a great dog owner means taking responsibility for your pet’s behaviour,” he said.

“Imagine if a person ran up to you in the street and starting yelling in your face. It’s uncomfortable.

“It’s the same for our pets if a strange dog runs up and starts yapping at them in the dog park. This workshop will provide practical, hands-on advice on how to socialise your pet the right way.”

McMillan, holds a Masters of Science Degree in animal behaviour, is a certified dog trainer and animal behaviour consultant, and worked with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for eight years, including as the director of animal behaviour at their New York shelter.

She is an internationally sought-after speaker and is in Australia for two industry-leading conferences.

“We are very lucky to have convinced Trish to visit Cairns while she is in the country,” Mayor Manning said.

“This is a great opportunity for local dog owners to benefit from her vast experience and knowledge, for free. If you can’t make it in person, Trish’s presentation and the Q&A session will be live streamed on the Cairns Pets Facebook page.”

During her visit, McMillan will also be providing Council Animal Management Officers training in dog behavior and body language.

This workshop is funded from dog registration fees.

Workshop details