How to Have One's Small Animal Make Friends

Socialization is healthy for your pets and makes pet ownership easier for you. The training process for dogs, cats and other small animals isn't difficult, but it requires an abundance of commitment and patience. The rewards of a well-behaved animal are more than worth it. Here is how to help your furry friend make his own friends.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase basic training supplies like a lead, treats and a whistle and learn how to use them properly. Ask a trainer or veterinarian what methods work best for your animal. For instance, owners sometimes punish cats by misting them with water from a sprayer.

2. Take your pet into public regularly. Go for walks, visit a park or engage in any activity where the two of you will encounter other people and animals. Always restrain your pet on a leash or in a sturdy and comfortable carrier.

3. Invite people to your home so your pet grows accustomed to new people in its territory. Teach it not to jump up on people, to stay off the couch and other desirable behaviors.

4. Sign up for obedience classes. Your dog, cat or other pet can learn good manners while it socializes with other animals.

5. Join pet-fancier clubs. Groups of people in a community meet to discuss and socialize their pets. Almost every species and breed of animal has its own club.

6. Go to a library or bookstore and read all you can about your pet. The more you know about the idiosyncrasies of your type of animal, the better prepared you are to train it.

7. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog or cat's ongoing behavioral problems. They may have medical causes.