(Rehab - Kennel Syndrome, 2012. [user generated content Youtube] Shelter Revolution. 9th May 2012. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKSHhwfK8yQ [Accessed 28th November 2014].)
VIDEO DESCRIPTION:
" Fear aggression, kennel syndrome, barrier aggression - typically, these are misused terms for dogs who are simply anxious due to their surroundings. This is especially true for shelter dogs locked in a prison cell. Dogs "puff up" and scream hoping to make the "bad stuff" go away.The key to reducing this "puffed up" reaction is mild and patient desensitization by gentle exposure to the irritants. A little at a time works well. Stay calm and be a calming influence. Progress will be dramatic at first, but expect minor setbacks. "
QUOTATIONS FROM THE VIDEO CLIP:
0.35:
" In reality this is just the dog saying, "I'm nervous and don't want you here. Go away!" "
2.06:
" Other dogs trigger this kid's screaming act. The first step in desensitizing this dog is brief and repetitive exposure to calm dogs "
3.06:
" The key to rehab is patience and repetition. The rehabber must help the dog become comfortable with that which makes him nervous or angry "
EVALUATIVE THOUGHTS
When watching this clip, it becomes apparent that the dog in question becomes extremely anxious when an intrusive visitor gets too close. As the caged kennels effectively 'trap' the dog and does not allow a means of escape, the dog is reacting on its reflex of survival and protecting itself by barking, warning them off. Once removed from the kennel, the dog quietens excessively and levels of aggression diminish. This is a crucial example of how the unnatural environment of a noisy shelter can initially make a friendly dog appear "scary" and somewhat barbaric.