PetHealth

red kelpie roams the outback, blending into the dust. Often on his own for long periods of time,

experiences. This can be in the shape of training, playtime or downtime. When training, working together towards a common goal fosters a sense of partnership. You can incorporate praise and treats as rewards to practise positive training. Not only does this help their progress, but it also adds to the positive association your pet is emotional connection with your pet, as well as your physical and mental health. It can be as light as a 10-minute tug-of war game with your dog, or a more intense activity like agility training or a trail run. Cat playtime might involve wands or fishing-rod toys to get them up and about – just make sure the game always ends with them catching their prey. How you play matters. Put away your phone, because it’s important that playtime is intentional and you are making eye contact with your pet – especially if you have a dog. Studies have shown that eye contact increases oxytocin in both humans and dogs, despite it being interpreted as a sign of hostility in many other species. Dogs are adventurous by nature. Tweaking their training or playtime schedule will keep them engaged. Small surprises like a different type of treat as a reward, a new toy or an alternative running route or dog park will stimulate them, keeping them interested. “Many dogs are eager to please humans within their household,” Ivory Coat vet Dr Angus Hayes says. “However, they will all respond to different building with you. Play improves your

rewards. It can be food or treat rewards, or even just a pat and positive words. Exercise and games are great ways of rewarding your pet and can lead to strong bonds.” Cats, in comparison, are creatures of habit. They take comfort in consistency. In cats, attachment to owners is a source of safety and security. For major life changes, be patient and introduce those changes slowly and incrementally. “Cats may be more difficult to bribe with food and exercise,” says Dr Hayes, “but you can generally find something that appeals to them. Games with lasers or toys on a string can provide great entertainment to form a bond, and even providing them with a nice warm cushion and a pat in front of the fire can be highly desirable.” BONDING AGENTS Every individual pet will have their own personality traits and will form a bond in different ways with other household pets and their owners. But there is one common denominator; bonds are boosted when you show your importance to one another and know how to reinforce this connection. The more you put in, the more you and your pet will get out of it.

he sometimes hitches a ride up Pilbara way with community members.

having an active pet also helps you stay active and improves your physical health. Other research shows the bond between pet and owner has positive effects on emotional health. Oxytocin, known as ‘the bonding hormone’, keeps us in a positive feedback loop of attentiveness and attachment. In a human–pet relationship, oxytocin is increased through petting and even mutual gazing. TALK THE TALK Multiple studies and insights from animal behaviourists show that talking to your pet improves your relationship. By using a soft, calm voice, you can show them you care. Communicating in a high-pitched and emotional voice will grab their attention. Look out for how they ‘talk back’ by focusing on your pet’s barks or meows. By learning to pick up on how they sound when they’re happy, agitated or sick, you can meet their needs more easily. SHARED EXPERIENCES Your emotional connection with your pet is reinforced by shared

For much of his life, Red – of Red Dog movie fame – was a dog for all and no one in particular. That was, of course, until he met his chosen owner, John. Theirs was an inseparable bond. Based on a true story, Red and John reflect our own daily experiences of human–pet connection. That excited rumble up the hall to greet you. Your cat ‘bunting’ – yes, that’s the word – their forehead against yours. These are signs of not only a healthy human–pet relationship, but a special bond. The stronger the connection, the better the mental, emotional and physical health benefits for you both. If the pet doesn’t care about the human, their behaviour will reflect this, leading to behavioural problems and limiting what control you have over your pets. HUMAN INTEREST Studies have shown that pets can reduce feelings of loneliness and boost moods. Research fromWashington State University found that just 10 minutes together with your pet decreases cortisol, a stress-related hormone. Of course,

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