Brain Games for Dogs: A Day at Pariah Dogs Rescue Shelter
Hello dog people!! Today, we are visiting Pariah Dogs Dog Rescue in Koh Samui, and we have two incredible rescue dogs with us: Betty and Colin. They’ve come a long way from their tough beginnings, and we’re here to share their heartwarming stories. But first, let’s dive into some dog brain games DIY style!
Betty and Colin are going to steal the show with their street smarts and cuteness! 🐾🎥❤️
The Importance of Dog Enrichment Training
Dog enrichment training, also known as brain training, is crucial for dogs living in a shelter. Mental stimulation and physical activity give dogs an outlet for their energy in a rescue shelter, which can be stressful for dogs living with so many other dogs competing for their carers’ attention.
Why Enrichment Training Matters
Enrichment training helps prevent negative behavior patterns such as barking and anxiety. It encourages dogs to express their natural behaviors, making them happier and more balanced.
About Pariah Dog Koh Samui
Pariah Dog Koh Samui is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray dogs on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand. They provide shelter, medical care, and food to dogs in need, as well as work to control the population through spay and neuter programs.
Facilities at the Pariah Dog Shelter and Rescue Center
Pariah Dogs have an amazing set up - dogs have large open-air enclosures where they can run and play in small groups specifically chosen so all dogs have a best friend to keep them company. There are roofed areas, kennels and dog beds for everyone to choose from, and there is an indoor area with smaller pens for dogs who are unwell or need a closer eye kept on them. There is a jungle trail at the back of the shelter for on lead trail walks, and they have a purpose-built dog training and enrichment area, fully fenced to keep the dogs safe while their trainers and carers work with them. Come on Betty and Colin, time to play some brain games for dogs!
Brain Game Challenges are so much fun for dogs!
Betty Takes on the Christmas Box Challenge
The Challenge
Betty, our street dog superstar, is up for a challenge! Can she nail the Christmas box challenge? Let’s find out! High reward treats are hidden in boxes filled with streamers and tinsel. Such a new experience for dogs like Betty, who came to the shelter with a nasty machete wound! Betty has to sniff the treats out - a natural dog behavior that keeps her busy!
Can she learn this new challenge?!
Step-by-Step
Betty Approaches the Box: Betty was once a neglected and abused dog. But now, she’s ready to conquer this festive obstacle. We have hidden high reward dog trats in cardboard boxes filled with streamers an tinsel.
Betty’s Attempt: This is a new trick for Betty, she is not sure what she is supposed to do, but she can smell those doggy dried liver snacks. Will she jump in? Or maybe she’ll surprise us with a clever twist!
Betty Investigates the Box: Betty as to sniff and dig around to find her reward. How many titbits can she find? The suspense is killing us!
Betty’s Triumphant Moment: The treasure is at the bottom of the box and Betty has to root around to get to it. And there she goes! Betty, you’ve aced it!
Encouraging dogs to express their natural behavior through enrichment training activities like this helps prevent negative behavior patterns such as barking.
The Snuffle Mat Puzzle
We hide some tasty treats in the pockets and flaps of this puzzle mat. Can Betty nail the Snuffle mat puzzle? It looks like she remembers this trick from her last brain training session! You are not supposed to watch where we hide them, Betty!
Betty is trying to find the treats!
Benefits of Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is essential for all pets. It keeps dogs engaged, calmer, and they feel less stressed. What is your favorite brain game or enrichment training activity that you enjoy with your dog?
Colin’s Cute New Trick
Introducing Colin
Now, let’s meet Colin, another lovable rescue dog. Colin has been through a lot, but she’s eager to learn something adorable and show off in front of Betty. Colin has seen this tug toy ring before, but today’s new brain game is to ask her to poke her nose through the ring for her favorite food reward. It may seem a simple task, but it is asking Colin to trust us and the toy while she tries to problem solve.
Colin, you are a Super Star street dog!
Step-by-Step
Introducing the Trick: Colin, can you learn a cute new trick? We show her the tug toy ring, and tempt her with a treat to encourage her to move closer.
Training Session: We’ve been working on this special trick. Each time Colin succeed in earning a reward, we make it a little harder for her.
Colin’s Attempt: Look at that concentration! Will she get it right? We repeat this trick several times, but make sure she finishes with a positive feeling of success and achievement.
Colin’s Success: Ta-da! Colin, you’re a star! She has this tirck down pat now, and has to show Betty how it is done.
The Impact of Enrichment Training
While this is a super cute trick for dogs to learn, this enrichment training teaches dogs useful behaviors and makes them more appealing to potential adopters. Both Betty and Colin are working hard on their training so they can find their forever homes!
Why Training Matters
Enrichment training not only helps dogs learn new tricks but also builds their confidence and trust in humans. This makes them more adoptable and ready for their forever homes.
A Happy Ending
Betty and Colin remind us that every dog has a story, and with love, patience, and training, they can overcome anything. Whether it’s a challenge or a cute trick, these activities enrich their lives and prepare them for a brighter future.
Check out the full video starring Betty and Colin, the two street dogs from Thailand, by visiting out You Tube Channel:
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Vet Around The World You Tube channel to be the first to find out if it is Betty or Colin who gets adopted first!
Thank you for joining us on this heartwarming journey at Pariah Dogs Dog Rescue. Stay tuned for more stories and tips on dog enrichment training! 🐶📚✨
