#120 - Why Your Pet Needs a Safe Space (and How to Make One)

Whether your pet is overwhelmed by the doorbell, a new houseguest, or the invisible ghosts that apparently live in the laundry room, having a safe space can make a world of difference. In this episode of Enrichment for the Real World, Emily and Ellen break down why safe spaces aren’t just cozy corners—they’re essential tools for helping our pets (and us!) navigate stress in all its forms: tolerable, chronic, and toxic.

You'll learn what makes a safe space effective, why avoiding stress isn't the goal, and how breaking this concept down into smaller teachable skills can help your pet learn to self-soothe. Plus, you’ll get actionable tips on using your pet’s senses to create the ultimate comfort zone for them. 

Join Ellen for a 5-week safe space deep dive! Learn how to implement all the skills in this episode and more in At Ease: Safe Spaces for Home and On-The-Go!

TLDL (too long, didn’t listen): 
1️⃣ Stress Happens, Let’s Plan for It
We can’t eliminate stress, but we can give our pets the tools to handle it better, starting with a safe space.

2️⃣ Safe Spaces = A Combo of Skills
An effective safe space is more than a dog bed in a quiet room—it’s the result of layered training, observation, and support.

3️⃣ Customize It to Your Pet
From preferred relaxation spots to sound and texture preferences, your pet’s unique needs should shape their sanctuary.

Links & Resources from the Episode
🧾 For full episode transcripts: Arial l OpenDyslexic

✅ At Ease: Safe Spaces for Home and On-The-Go - Join Ellen for a 5-week safe space deep dive! Learn how to implement all the skills in this episode and more!

🌐 Find the full episode show notes here

🎧 #42 - Dr. Kristina Spaulding: The Stress Factor in Dogs 

🎧 #5 - Creating a Restful Environment for Our Animals 

🎧 #106 - Dr. Kelly Ballantyne: Combating Caregiver Burden 

🎧 #81 - How to do a Sound Preference Test 

📚 14 Categories of Enrichment Poster 

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