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/

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