Crates Are Okay

Since Wednesday, Binder has been crated during the day while I am away at work and has not had any trouble or complaints about it.

Whenever I crate and/or leave, everyone gets a treat - usually something that will keep them busy for a while - so crating and being left behind aren't negative experiences. Also, even though there are physical barriers between the dogs (they're in a relatively small space and we want to be safe while they're unsupervised), they are all together so no one is lonely.

As far as I know, Binder was an only dog during the year he spent with another family. I have not heard of any issues or anxiety related to his being an "only." But I think being able to take cues from another Greyhound makes any adjustment easier if there is the potential for trouble.

To be sure, Binder is glad to see me when I arrive home and is ready to get out of the crate. But it's good to know that he is comfortable in a crate - that way he'll be safe and sound in the event that his future adopter is in the all-too-common predicament of having to leave the house to earn a paycheck!