Our aim, demonstrated in this video, is to begin the socialization process slightly early by providing a plethora of novel scents to predispose the puppies towards being comfortable with novel people as a norm in their world. Much more will be required as they grow and develop, but this is an excellent early start.
Eyes and ears aren’t open yet, so we are taking advantage of the puppy’s isolated sense of smell. Thanks to several wonderful donors, beginning on day 9 we are introducing novel scents on items worn for multiple days by our volunteers. Most are male donors, with some women as well, and we were fortunate to also receive some child and baby scented items.
Yes, it does seem that the puppies may be trying to nurse on the shirt, but they are still smelling it, and even though the scent of mom passes by, they continue to investigate the shirt.
We can’t thank our donors enough for stinking up their stuff and handing it over in sealed bags for our use. Mucho Gracias.