What IS it with Americans and their dogs?

Below is a picture of “Roxie”, Sheila’s dog

If you find that you are having trouble getting used to the furry, four legged friend in your home, you are not alone.  Many international students are not accustomed to the “family member status” given to pets, and some aren’t even used to seeing dogs inside a home at all.

Your host family will probably be eager to help you learn how to interact with their pets.  It is a good idea to listen to their advice about how to approach the dog or cat and when to leave them alone.  Perhaps you would prefer to always leave them alone!  This is ok, as long as you understand that the host family loves their pet and will expect that you treat the animal with respect.

Here are some examples of ways you will need to be sensitive.  If the pet gets sick, you can expect the host family to be very worried and upset.  If the pet dies, you can expect them to go through a period of sadness and mourning.  It will be important for you to let them know how sorry you are for their worry or loss.

Here are some examples of ways your host family will need to be respectful of your wishes regarding their pets.  If you prefer that the pets do not enter your room, you should tell the family.  They should try to keep the pets out of your bedroom at all times.  It may also bother you when the dog sits very, very close to you at dinner, hoping for your food to fall into his mouth.  Please tell the family that this makes you nervous and uncomfortable.  They should make some small changes to ensure that you can have some peace and quiet while eating.

If you are having an ongoing problem with the pets in your host family, please let Sheila know so that you can work on the situation together.  And finally, try to approach the pets in your host family as you approach the family itself: with an open mind and heart, and a desire to experience new things in life.

Understanding my new environment

Uncovering the layers of a new culture takes time and can be frustrating.  You may find that it is becoming more and more difficult to understand how Americans think and behave.  The information you were given about this country before coming here may now seem incorrect, or overly simple.  You may find that you don’t understand the unspoken rules of making friends, solving academic problems, and of course, sharing a house with an American family.

The team of staff members at your school is going to be one of your best resources.  You should go to them with questions about confusing situations.  For any question or problem that relates to your host family housing, please contact Sheila at SheilaDobbyn@gmail.com .  You can make an appointment to meet with her so that she can help you sort through any confusion due to cultural differences or other issues.

You will find that your host family will be a valuable resource for answering questions about American culture.  They may be able to explain some things that you have been wondering about.  This will give you a chance to share about your own culture.  This exchange is why the host family program exists.  We hope you take advantage of it.