Being surrounded by disguised faces may cause distress for canine companions
DOGS are scared of face masks, owners have been warned, as experts say you should be wary before taking them on public transport again.
While face masks have come as quite an adjustment for Britons, man’s best friend is also struggling to come to terms with the new addition to their owners’ wardrobe.
Animal behaviourists have warned that everyone suddenly covering their faces could scare dogs.
It is currently mandatory to wear face masks when on public transport, with this expected to be extended to shops and supermarkets in England from July 24.
Those who do not wear masks risk being handed a £100 fine.
But the animal charity Dogs Trust has said the addition of face masks could make our canine pets feel “confused” and “concerned” as they can’t read human facial expressions.
Dogs use facial expressions to tell how humans are feeling, so if face masks become part of their owners’ everyday lives and suddenly people’s faces are covered, dogs can’t see or potentially even hear clearly when spoken to, the charity warned.
Dr Jenna Kiddie, head of behaviour at Dogs Trust, said: “As face masks become an increasingly common sight in our daily lives, we should make sure our dogs are also able to take this in their stride. Without being able to see full faces, a dog is less able to interpret human emotion or our intentions.
“With Government social distancing guidelines firmly in place, it is also useful to be aware of how these apply to our dogs, especially when out on their walks near shops or public transport routes, where they are likely to see people wearing masks. Although
How to train your dog to get used to masks
Step 1 Hold your hand over your face for a moment, then reward your dog.
Step 2 Hold your hand over your face and talk to your dog, then reward it. Step 3 Cover your face with a bandanna or scarf for a little longer. Reward your dog. Step 4 Start to move around the room with
Step 5 Introduce the face mask. Let your dog see you tying it on, talk to your dog and move around. Again, give it a reward. Step 6 Repeat from the beginning for other family members and in different places, such as in the garden. there is no current evidence that dogs can transmit the human coronavirus to humans, like any other surface dogs can carry the virus on their leads, collars or coats.”
As lockdown eases and public transport is being used more frequently, the charity advised against taking pets on journeys as dogs could feel overwhelmed by crowds of people with masks on. They added that dog owners should always check the travel operator’s policy on travelling with pets.
To further avoid crowds, dog owners should also plan their walking times around the busiest periods, so their dog doesn’t have to stand in or pass by lengthy queues outside of shops.
It is also important that dogs aren’t tied by their leads and left outside of shops, as this could cause them to become distressed.