Human beings are taking the brunt of the COVID-19 crisis, but pets are feeling the strain as well. Canine behaviorist Chris Onthank will discuss the implications of the shutdown for our dogs when he presents an interactive webinar, Thursday, May 7 at 7 PM EST. Those who plan to join the webinar may register online, https://newcanaanlibrary.org/calendar/. By selecting the event on the calendar and registering, attendees will receive Zoom sign in information.

As the owner and founder of Dog Gone Smart Canine Center, Onthank will discuss what dogs are experiencing right now and offer help with how to best address the issues. Prior to taking specific questions from the audience, Onthank will discuss the importance of safely exercising with dogs during the shutdown, giving them adequate social and mental stimulation, addressing changes/disruptions to routines, preventing negative associations and fear due to social distancing, and—post-pandemic—preventing separation anxiety.

Chris Onthank, creator of the Dog Gone Smart Training Philosophy and Technique, has been working with animals for over 25 years. An aggression specialist and head behaviorist at many rescue organizations, Chris is often the last hope for many dogs. His positive and structured training method creates a harmonious household and has made him a leading animal handler for film and television. For over 50 years his family has been breeding and training dogs in Greenwich, Connecticut, where Chris honed his skills raising a variety of species, and additionally studied positive motivational techniques working with marine mammals and parrots. His podcasts and articles (caninemaster.com) provide in-depth coverage of dog-related topics including training, health, innovative pet products, and general information on how to keep dogs happy, healthy and safe.