Settling & Rest Skills
Part of: Training & behaviour readiness
Builds the ability to relax and rest during travel.
Readiness checks
What must be in place
● Can settle in a defined resting space
● Comfortable in confined areas (crate, berth, vehicle space)
● Can rest during motion or vibration
● Calm when activity happens nearby
● No constant pacing when inactive
● Recovers to calm after stimulation
● Can rest without constant handler contact
● Comfortable resting in different locations
What can go wrong if not in place
● Anxiety during travel
● Exhaustion from lack of sleep
● Destructive behaviour in confined spaces
● Vocalising or agitation
● Unsafe movement during handler tasks
What new pressures training may create
● Over-reliance on one resting location
● Reduced independence if too handler-focused
● Excess confinement reducing exercise tolerance
