8 KEY POINTS OF OBSERVATION
Adapted by : Drh. Mikeu Paujiah, Dipl. Ed. Montessori
1. Overall body posture
Loose and wiggly or tense and stiff? Upright or crouched? Leaning toward or away?
2. Hair coat
Standing on end or lying normally the against body?
3. Eyes
Looking at or away? Pupil size? Eyes wide or squinty? Hard stare or soft gaze?
4. Ears
Tightly tucked or held away? If wagging, stiffly or loosely high/low?
5.Mouth
Open or closed? Loose or tense? Teeth showing? Panting? Lip licking
6. Tails
Tightly tucked or held away? If wagging, stiffly or loosely high/low?
7. Vocalizing
High- or low-pitched bark? Whine?
8. Animal in Context
What’s the situation? Seeking or avoiding contact? Specific stressors?
Source: https://fearfreeshelters.com/resources/
