What is D.A.P.?
In mammals, all lactating
females release substances called
"appeasing
pheromones",
the function of which are to reassure their offspring.
Canine appeasing pheromones are secreted by the sebaceous
glands of the intermediary sulcus in the lactating bitch.
These pheromones help calm the puppy and provide
reassurance, particularly in unknown environments and
when encountering new experiences.
Research has shown that the
reassuring properties of appeasing pheromones persist as dogs
mature and also provide comfort to dogs of all ages.
D.A.P. is not a drug and as
such it's a safer alternative to the use of calming
drugs when there’s a concern about the liver’s ability to
process drugs such as Xanax or Valium.
D.A.P. is typically much more
effective when it is used in conjunction with other calming
measures by the pet's owner. The aim is to enrich the pet's way
of life by increasing social interaction, increased play, more
toys, extra training etc.
Remember to ignore undesirable
behaviour rather than punishing it and to reward good things
such as sitting, being calm or quiet even if the dog is doing
something that the owner hasn't actually
requested.
Clinical trials in 1999 / 2000
showed a 72% impovement in destructive behaviour and an 85%
reduction in barking and whining whilst using D.A.P.
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