As a pet parent, caring for your canine friends can be challenging. Anyone with a dog will know what I mean. They often behave erratically, break things or roll on the floor, so they need to be washed and cleaned.
These problems are common and treatable. But what if your dog has another problem? What if he’s worried about the breakup and can’t handle it?
In this story, we will tell you about a family who found a very interesting way to deal with their dog’s separation anxiety, but not in the way they expected.
It’s not a secret life hack.
Couple with dog celebrating birthday
Meet Mark Peralta, Kirsten Peralta and their dog Shorty. The three spent a happy time together. According to Mark’s wife Kirsten, she first met Shorty 11 years ago at the shelter where she worked and it was love at first sight.
Mark and Shorty have done everything together for years, including working together. As Shorty got older, his health deteriorated and he was no longer able to go anywhere with his owner.
Mark and Kirsten run Vintage Pet Rescue so they are usually very busy. When they are separated, Shorty does not know how to fight and is so upset that the other dogs cannot comfort him.
dog with separation anxiety
Luckily, Kirsten’s mom was visiting one evening and gave us a great idea on how to help her dog. Kirsten said: She was there for the day while Mark was away and saw that Shorty was upset. He went home that evening and ordered a mannequin from a Halloween store. Mom suggested using a dummy to help ease the dog’s anxiety. They covered the doll in clothes like Mark’s and even put tattoo sleeves on Mark’s arms. Kirsten was skeptical at first if it would work and didn’t think much of it.
The dummy was named Fark, as in Fake Marc. The final step was to introduce it to Shorty and see if he was helpful.
Amazing, amazing, it worked.
dog and plastic man
The plan was certainly brilliant. Shorty became much calmer when the doll was placed in the living room.
After 30 minutes he fell asleep and had no problems for the rest of the night. In fact, the idea was so good that it helped other adult dogs at animal shelters, and they still use it today.
The family shared this on Facebook and there were many positive responses to the post. One commenter said: Oh my goodness, Vintage Pet Rescue, I have to say this is the best pet anxiety solution I have ever seen! I knew I had to leave my terrier in a robe and pajamas, but it never occurred to me to buy a pacifier!
Someone else: Oh my gosh, that’s so fun and creative. I need my heart racing right now!
If this situation can teach us anything, it’s that there is always a way to make your dog feel better, even if you think it’s a difficult problem to solve.
