Overcoming Trauma: What Causes Dogs' Psychological Shad
The first and most devastating event for a dog is abandonment, which has the most profound impact on them. If a dog, having experienced family life, is cruelly discarded, it not only affects their mental health but also their physical wellbeing. On one hand, after being abandoned, the dog is left to wander in a world vastly different from the comfort of their former home; on the other hand, dogs have a strong sense of loyalty to their owners, and even after being abandoned, they foolishly believe that their owner will return. We often see stray dogs lingering in one place, and it's likely they are waiting for their owner to come back. Even if an abandoned dog is later adopted by kindhearted individuals, they may still harbor feelings of resistance and fear. No matter how much love the new owner showers upon them, it may take time, if not impossible, to heal these emotional wounds. In severe cases, the dog might resist going out with their new owner, becoming melancholic or even irritable.
Some pet owners may resort to physical punishment or harsh words when their dogs misbehave, but excessive discipline can leave lasting psychological scars. While it's appropriate to correct a dog's misbehavior or mistakes, pet owners should choose their methods wisely. Constant hitting or shouting not only fails to achieve the educational goal but can also have the opposite effect. Particularly for mischievous dogs, excessive punishment can foster a sense of rebellion and fear towards their owners, which can severely impact their growth and health. Education should always be about gentle persuasion, and pet owners must keep this in mind.
Dogs are deeply emotional creatures, perhaps not as sensitive as humans, but they can perceive who treats them well and recognize the members of their family. They can also sense the absence of a loved one, even if they cannot fully grasp the concept of death. This "loved one" could be the owner's relative, the dog's own relative, or even other animals they live with. If a family member is absent for a long time, the dog will pick up on the emotions of others. While they may not experience death as humans do, they can certainly feel the sadness of those around them. Especially when the owner passes away, dogs seem to sense something amiss early on, becoming restless and searching for their owner until they come to terms with the loss. They then may fall into a cycle of endless, repetitive sadness, much like humans. These experiences can leave deep psychological scars, so it's crucial to comfort a dog during such times, ensuring they feel supported and not alone in their grief.
In addition to these emotional trials, witnessing a fellow dog in pain or experiencing injury themselves can also leave a psychological mark on a dog. While we cannot control these unexpected events, we must not neglect our care and concern for our pets. After all, once a dog becomes part of a family, they consider every member to be of great importance. Should you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.
