Blog — polyvagal theory
Compression of Space
How Physical Compression Affects Your Dog’s Behavior Physical compression of space often leads to emotional compression—and for many dogs, that can trigger a fight-or-flight response, especially if they feel trapped. Common “compression zones” include: Front doors and narrow hallways Doorways and thresholds Crates and cars Beds, couches, and tight corners Fences, barriers, leashes, and tie-outs These are all environments where a dog’s movement is restricted, and that restriction can directly impact their emotional state. Why This Matters for Dog Behavior When a dog feels physically compressed, their emotional threshold drops. In other words, they have less capacity to handle...
Handler Self-Care Part One: Your Oxygen Mask
We’ve all heard it: put your own oxygen mask on first, then help others. But this idea isn’t just for emergencies—it’s something we should be practicing every day. I’ve noticed that when I let myself get overwhelmed, stressed, and run down, I’m not the kind of caretaker I want to be for my animals. I feel drained, unfocused, and low on energy—and that means I’m not showing up fully for their needs. They don’t get the time, attention, and enrichment they deserve. So let’s change that. Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a responsibility. When you take care of yourself first, you...
How to Tell if Your Dog is Socially Engaged
The Vagus Nerve: A Shared Biology Dogs are like humans in many ways—including their biology. One of the most important systems we share is the 10th cranial nerve, also known as the vagus nerve. This nerve connects the brain to the body and plays a central role in regulating the autonomic nervous system in both humans and dogs. When everything is going well, the ventral vagal system is in charge. In this state, we feel: Safe Comfortable Social and connected Breathing is easy. Movement feels fluid and joyful. We’re in a state of flow—playful, curious, and open to interaction. But...