Owner Realized Her Dog Wanted To Be Followed Into The Woods Only To Be Surprised By What She Saw

In all of my years of being surrounded by dogs, I’ve found that therapy dogs are just the sweetest and most emphatic dogs.

All of them are trained to comfort humans in need, but their kindness does not extend to just us. More often than not, you will see one of them trying to help other animals and provide support.

In this story, we will talk about a brave therapy dog who found something rather interesting in the woods and left his owner surprised.

Banner, The Super Dog

For most of his life, Banner was a therapy dog from Georgia who provided help to the people who needed it the most. 

He has been with his owner, Whitney Braley, for a long time and has helped her immensely during her PTSD episodes and anxiety attacks.

She knew right away that he was a very gentle soul who only wanted to be with his best friend.

On one fateful day, Banner was just taking a stroll in the woods near his house. During his walk, he noticed something strange and immediately rushed back to Whitney.

She was unsure what he wanted, but it seemed to her like he was pleading with her to follow him.

They went together into the forest where the dog saw a plastic, sealed box and it looked like something was inside.

A Big Surprise For Whitney

When she opened the box, she saw seven newborn kittens just stuck there and abandoned in the middle of the forest.

Whitney knew she couldn’t just leave them, so the duo took them home where they nursed them back to health.

Banner acted like a mom to these kittens, and he was watching over them the whole time to make sure they were okay.

It took a good while, but they managed to recover just fine, thanks to the help of this amazing duo.

Now that they were finally okay, Whitney realized that she had to sign them all up for adoption, so they could find a more permanent home somewhere in Georgia.

Even though we don’t really know what happened to the kittens, I think it’s safe to assume that all of them found their new families.

If you’ve ever wondered why your furry friend seems to have a never-ending licking habit, you’re not alone. Dogs have a unique way of communicating with us, and licking is one of their primary methods. It’s more than just a simple behavior; it’s a form of expression that can convey a range of emotions and needs. From showing affection to seeking attention, your dog’s licking behavior can tell you a lot about what’s going on in their world.

As a seasoned dog trainer, I’ve encountered countless pet parents puzzled by their dog’s excessive licking. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior is key to strengthening the bond with your canine companion. So, the next time your dog showers you with slobbery kisses, remember, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Let’s unravel the mystery behind why dogs lick so much and what it might reveal about their feelings and desires.

Understanding Your Dog’s Licking Behavior

Exploring the Natural Instincts

Dogs licking is a natural behavior ingrained in their instincts. It dates back to their puppyhood when licking their mother’s face was a way of seeking nourishment and care. As they grow, licking continues to be a means of exploration and communication for them. Your furry friend might lick you to show affection, seek attention, or even as a way of bonding. Understanding this primal behavior can help you connect better with your dog.

Communication Through Licking

When your dog licks you, it’s their way of expressing various feelings and needs. It can signal happiness, submission, excitement, or anxiety. By observing the context in which your dog licks you, such as after you return home or during playtime, you can decipher their emotions. Pay attention to your dog’s body language and the accompanying sounds to understand the message they are trying to convey through their licks. It’s a unique form of communication that strengthens the bond between you and your canine companion.

Common Reasons Dogs Lick

Affection and Bonding

Dogs use licking as a way to show affection and strengthen their bond with you. When your dog licks you, it’s their way of displaying love and closeness. This behavior releases feel-good hormones for both you and your furry friend, reinforcing the emotional connection between you two.

Grooming and Hygiene

Licking is a part of your dog’s grooming routine. They lick themselves to keep clean, remove dirt or debris, and maintain their fur. Similarly, when they lick you, they may be trying to groom you as a way of showing care and ensuring your cleanliness. It’s a natural instinct for dogs to engage in grooming behaviors.

Seeking Attention

If your dog licks you persistently, it could be their way of seeking attention. Dogs crave interaction and affection from their owners, and licking is a way for them to communicate this desire. By licking you, they are looking for acknowledgment, playtime, or simply your company. Responding to their licks positively can reinforce their behavior.

Tasting and Exploring

Dogs explore the world around them through their senses, including taste. Licking helps them gather information about objects, people, and even other animals. When your dog licks you, they are not only tasting your skin but also exploring your scent and the taste of the substances on your skin. It’s a way for them to learn about their environment and the individuals in their lives.

Health-Related Causes of Excessive Licking

Allergies and Skin Conditions

If your dog is constantly licking a particular area, it could be due to allergies or skin conditions. Just like humans, dogs can have allergic reactions to certain foods, plants, or environmental factors. Skin irritations and infections can also lead to excessive licking as your dog tries to soothe the discomfort. It’s essential to consult with a vet to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment to relieve your dog’s itching and licking.

Pain and Discomfort

Dogs may lick excessively when they are in pain or experiencing discomfort. It’s their way of trying to alleviate the pain or discomfort they are feeling. Pain can result from various issues such as arthritis, injuries, dental problems, or even internal illnesses. Observing your dog’s licking behavior and accompanying signs like limping or changes in appetite can help you determine if pain could be the cause. Consulting with a veterinarian will help pinpoint the source of pain and provide the necessary relief for your furry friend.

Anxiety and Stress-Related Licking

Anxiety and stress can trigger excessive licking in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety due to changes in their environment, separation from their owners, loud noises, or unfamiliar situations. Licking releases endorphins, which can help soothe a dog’s nerves in stressful situations. However, constant licking can lead to skin irritation and other health issues. Understanding what triggers your dog’s anxiety and using calming techniques or seeking guidance from a professional can help reduce stress-related licking behavior.

When Licking Becomes a Problem

Recognizing Obsessive Licking

If your dog obsessively licks itself in the same spot, causing hair loss or skin irritation, this could signal a problem. Constant licking, to the extent of forming hot spots or wounds, indicates discomfort or an underlying issue. It’s essential to observe your dog’s licking patterns and seek professional advice if it seems excessive or harmful.

The Impact on Human Health

Excessive dog licking can have implications for human health, especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin. Saliva can contain bacteria and allergens, leading to skin irritation or allergic reactions upon contact. In some cases, excessive licking from your dog can result in redness, itching, or even infection on your skin. Monitoring your dog’s licking behavior can help protect both your pet and yourself from potential health risks.

Managing Your Dog’s Licking

Training and Positive Reinforcement

To manage your dog’s excessive licking, start with training and positive reinforcement. When your dog licks excessively, calmly redirect their behavior by offering a chew toy or engaging them in play. Reward them when they stop licking with a treat or verbal praise. Consistency is key in training your dog to curb their licking habit. By redirecting their focus and rewarding positive behavior, you can help them learn alternative ways to communicate and express themselves without excessive licking.

Addressing Underlying Health Issues

If your dog’s licking persists despite training efforts, it’s essential to address any underlying health issues that may be causing this behavior. Schedule a visit to the veterinarian to rule out any medical reasons for excessive licking, such as allergies, skin conditions, pain, or anxiety. Your vet can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment, whether it’s medication for allergies or behavior modification techniques to reduce stress. Taking proactive steps to address your dog’s health issues can help alleviate their excessive licking and improve their overall well-being.

Providing Alternatives and Stimulation

To decrease your dog’s licking behavior, provide them with alternatives and stimulation. Offer interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or chew toys to keep them mentally and physically engaged. Regular exercise and playtime can also help reduce stress and boredom, which are common triggers for excessive licking. Additionally, consider creating a safe and comfortable environment for your dog, ensuring they have a cozy bed, sufficient water, and appropriate rest areas. By offering alternatives and stimulation, you can redirect your dog’s focus away from licking and towards more enriching activities, promoting a healthier and happier lifestyle for your furry companion.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – your furry friend’s licking habits are more than just a quirky behavior. From showing love to addressing health concerns, licking plays a vital role in your dog’s life. Remember, excessive licking could signal an underlying issue that needs attention from a vet. By understanding the reasons behind your dog’s licking and implementing positive training methods, you can help them lead a healthier and happier life. So next time your pup showers you with licks, appreciate the gesture and show them some love back!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs lick?

Dogs lick for various reasons, including showing affection, grooming themselves, communicating with humans, exploring their environment, and even soothing themselves. It’s a natural behavior that serves multiple functions in their daily lives.

Is excessive licking a cause for concern?

Yes, excessive licking can indicate underlying health issues like allergies, skin conditions, pain, discomfort, anxiety, or stress. It can lead to skin irritation, hair loss, and pose risks to both the dog’s and human’s well-being, highlighting the importance of addressing the behavior promptly.

How can I manage my dog’s excessive licking?

Managing excessive licking involves training, positive reinforcement, addressing any health issues with veterinary guidance, providing alternative activities or toys for stimulation, and creating a comfortable environment that reduces stress levels. These strategies aim to redirect the dog’s focus and promote a healthier lifestyle for your pet.

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