The Total Risk Assessment is the culmination of the D.R.A.W. system, bringing together the Damage Threat Level and Red Zone Potential scores to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a dog’s overall risk in a group play environment. This combined score offers a holistic view of the dog’s physical capabilities and behavioral tendencies, enabling you to make informed decisions about their participation in group activities. The Total Risk Assessment is a powerful tool for ensuring the safety, harmony, and well-being of all dogs in the playgroup.
Step 1: Review the Individual Scores
- Reassess the Damage Threat Level:
- Review the calculated Damage Threat Level, which reflects the dog’s physical potential to cause harm. This score is based on the dog’s size, breed characteristics, and jaw strength, providing insight into the level of supervision and management the dog may require.
- Example Damage Threat Level Score: 7
- Reassess the Red Zone Potential:
- Review the calculated Red Zone Potential, which evaluates the dog’s behavioral risk factors. This score takes into account resource guarding, history of aggression, reactivity, energy levels, and maturity, offering a detailed understanding of how the dog might behave in a group setting.
- Example Red Zone Potential Score: 6
Step 2: Calculate the Total Risk Assessment
- Combine the Two Scores:
- Add the Damage Threat Level and Red Zone Potential scores together to determine the Total Risk Assessment score.
- Example Calculation:
- Damage Threat Level Score: 7
- Red Zone Potential Score: 6
- Total Risk Assessment Score: 7 + 6 = 13
- Interpret the Combined Score:
- The Total Risk Assessment score represents the dog’s overall risk profile in a group play environment. This score helps you determine the level of intervention, supervision, and management that may be necessary to ensure a safe and positive experience for all dogs.
- Scoring Interpretation:
- 2-5: Low overall risk. The dog is generally safe for group play with standard supervision and minimal intervention.
- 6-9: Moderate overall risk. The dog can participate in group play but requires regular monitoring and possibly tailored interventions.
- 10-13: High overall risk. The dog needs close supervision, structured play sessions, and possibly specialized management strategies to mitigate risks.
- 14-20: Extreme overall risk. The dog may require exclusion from group play or participation only under strict, controlled conditions with intensive behavioral management.
Step 3: Implement Risk-Based Management Strategies
- Develop a Management Plan:
- Based on the Total Risk Assessment score, create a management plan tailored to the dog’s specific needs. This plan should outline the level of supervision required, any necessary restrictions on play activities, and strategies for addressing identified risks.
- Example Strategies:
- Low Risk: Standard group play participation with routine supervision. No special interventions required.
- Moderate Risk: Participation in smaller or more controlled groups, with regular monitoring to ensure positive interactions.
- High Risk: Limited group play with structured activities designed to minimize conflict. Close supervision and possibly one-on-one play sessions may be necessary.
- Extreme Risk: Exclusion from group play or participation in highly controlled environments with individual attention. Behavioral interventions or training may be recommended.
- Communicate with Staff and Owners:
- Share the Total Risk Assessment and management plan with all relevant staff members to ensure consistency in how the dog is handled during group play. Additionally, communicate with the dog’s owner to explain the assessment and the rationale behind the management strategies.
- Communication Tips:
- Be clear and transparent about the findings of the assessment.
- Emphasize that the goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all dogs, including theirs.
- Provide recommendations for any additional training or behavioral support that may benefit the dog.
- Monitor and Reassess Regularly:
- The Total Risk Assessment is not a static measure; it should be revisited regularly as the dog’s behavior and physical condition may change over time. Continuous monitoring and periodic reassessment ensure that the management plan remains effective and appropriate.
- Reassessment Intervals:
- Low Risk: Every 6-12 months or as needed.
- Moderate Risk: Every 3-6 months or when significant behavioral changes are observed.
- High Risk: Every 1-3 months or after any incidents.
- Extreme Risk: Monthly reassessments or as part of ongoing behavioral interventions.
Step 4: Adjust the Play Environment as Needed
- Modify the Play Setting:
- Based on the Total Risk Assessment, you may need to make adjustments to the play environment to accommodate the dog’s needs and ensure the safety of the entire group. This could involve creating separate play areas, limiting the number of dogs in a session, or providing more structured activities.
- Environmental Adjustments:
- For higher-risk dogs, consider smaller playgroups or individualized playtimes.
- Use barriers or gates to manage interactions and reduce stress for all dogs.
- Implement structured activities that channel the dog’s energy in positive ways and reduce opportunities for conflict.
- Provide Consistent Training and Reinforcement:
- Ensure that all staff members are trained to recognize and respond to the behaviors identified in the Total Risk Assessment. Consistent training and reinforcement of positive behaviors are key to maintaining a safe and enjoyable play environment.
- Training Focus:
- Emphasize calm, controlled behaviors during group play.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate interactions.
- Intervene early if signs of stress, reactivity, or aggression emerge.
Conclusion:
The Total Risk Assessment is the final step in the D.R.A.W. system, combining the Damage Threat Level and Red Zone Potential scores to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a dog’s overall risk in a group play environment. By carefully calculating and interpreting this combined score, you can make informed decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of all dogs involved. The Total Risk Assessment enables you to implement tailored management strategies, adjust the play environment as needed, and ensure that every dog can enjoy a positive and secure group play experience.