GREAT FALLS — For almost a year now, many have had to postpone plans with friends in order to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. But socialization is important for not only us humans, but for our furry friends too. According to the American Kennel Club, the first three months of a puppies life will permanently affect their personality.
The AKC website explains:
The idea behind socialization is that you want to help your puppy become acclimated to all types of sights, sounds, and smells in a positive manner. Proper socialization can prevent a dog from being fearful of children, for example, or of riding in a car, and it will help him develop into a well-mannered, happy companion.
Fetch Pet Boutique in Great Falls is working to help pet parents socialize their young dogs with their Puppy Play events.
“Some of the things we do in Puppy Play is primarily based on socialization so it’s kind of a free space for puppies to get used to not only their peers, you know, dogs their age, and learning appropriate behaviors for playing but to also get used to people being in the room with them,” said Shelby Phillips, a boarding specialist at Fetch.
Puppy Play times are on Saturdays from noon to 1:00 p.m. on days when there are no adoption events.
The event is free to attend and puppies must be under six months old with all required vaccinations.
“There’s nothing like a puppy in the world, in my opinion,” said Shelby Phillips. “Just the happiness and joy they bring to the store is my favorite part. They’re just so happy-go-lucky, care-free, and happy and that’s my favorite thing about it.”
Currently, the event is indoors and with Covid restrictions, they allow a limited number of attendees, but Fetch has plans to expand the Puppy Play event to the outdoors once the weather allows for it.
Fetch is located at 1408 3rd Street NW; click here to visit the website.
