Humane Society of West Michigan
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Always Ask Campaign


Humane Society of West Michigan’s Always Ask Campaign

Always Ask the owner (or handler) if it’s okay to approach and meet their dog. Dogs have boundaries too, just like humans. Some dogs need their space or don't want to interact: and this is okay! This campaign is to respect the dog's need, not our own.

Avoid eye contact - for humans eye contact gains trust but in a dog's world, that can signal aggression.

Side up to the dog if the owner says it's okay. This is better than facing the animal. Side by side mimics dogs behavior with one another. This movement will make the dog feel safer with you.

Don't crouch over the dog – that can feel threatening to them. Squat, or stand up straight. Let the dog come to you. Walking straight toward a dog can look like an threat for a dog.

Don't pat the dog's head or back end right away. If the dog is open to touching, touch the dog with your open hand on his shoulder, neck or chest. Stop when the dog wants to stop. The dog will let you know by changing his position.

Video of Always Ask demonstration
Humane Society of West Michigan
3077 Wilson Dr. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
616.453.8900
adoptions@hswestmi.org



Photos By: AGL Photography, Sara Cozolino Photography, and Tailwagger Dog Photography
  • Home
    • About
    • Contact & Hours
    • Job Opportunities
    • Staff & Board of Directors
    • Bunny's Blog
  • Adopt
    • Adoptable Animals >
      • Adoptable Cats
      • Adoptable Dogs
      • Adoptable Small Animals
    • Adoption Fees
    • Off-Site Locations
    • Post Adoption Resources
    • Working Cat Program
    • FAQ
  • Donate
  • Events
    • Paws, Claws & Corks
    • Bark in the Dark
    • HSWM's Birthday Party
    • Third Party Events >
      • Stocking Sponsors
    • Space Rental
    • Mission Merch
  • Foster
    • About Fostering
    • Animals in Foster
    • Join Our Foster Family
    • Foster FAQS
    • Foster Resources >
      • Foster Protocols
      • Foster Manuals
      • Appointment Scheduling
  • Get Involved
    • Do-It-Yourself Service Projects
    • Dog's Day Out
    • Group Volunteer
    • Junior Board
    • Regularly Scheduled Volunteer
    • Shelter Wish List
  • Resources
    • Animal Admitting
    • Community Clinics
    • Pet Food Assistance
    • Pet Health Emergencies
    • Pet Microchipping
    • Low-Cost Euthanasia
    • Lost and Found Animals
    • Emergency Foster Program
    • Obedience & Behavior >
      • Argus Alliance Program
      • Behavior Consultations
      • Canine Behavior Resources
      • Feline Behavior Resources
      • Obedience Classes
      • Seminars
  • Youth Programs
    • Classroom Visits
    • Kids Night Out
    • Youth Camps
    • Summer Camps
    • Reading Program
    • Youth and Family Volunteering