⋱ ― ♱ . TIPS FOR PET REGRESSORS AND THEIR HANDLERS ♱
For this post, handler means the caregiver for a pet regressor. That's the term I like to use to differentiate between agere and petre, however use what term you prefer!
I strongly advise against trying to search for a caregiver on the internet for several reasons. For all ages, but especially for minors. Caregivers / handlers should be people who you are incredibly close to and trust deeply, usually beforehand to establish a good relationship.
Now for the tips:
Learn up about the type of animal being regressed to! It can help the regressor feel more connected and the handler feel more educated!
It's fun to learn tricks! And tricks can also help serve as grounding techniques sometimes. Another great way to use tricks can also be to help with medical trauma. Like teaching animals in captivity to associate check-ups with positive experiences!
Always ensure snack choices are human safe. Lots of foods that animals eat can be safe for human consumption but not all. There's good alternatives out there though so research can be great!
One thing I like would be especially important for regressors who need decompression spaces, is try to help the regressor set up a den or enclosure or sort of a.... 'no touch tank' if that makes sense. An area where they can retreat to decompress and calm down after stressful things or harsh triggers. You can also always attempt to make digital versions of a space like this if that might help too.
Carry around treats! A snack is always nice. Both pet regressors and their handlers might need something to eat, especially if they're on walks or doing any big task or activity. Treats can also be used for tricks and enrichment!
Discuss alternative ways of communication. Some pet regressor might feel their ability to verbalize things decline during regression, similar to some age regressors. Opting instead to communicate with noises (like whining or purring) and touch or motions (pawing at something or nudging with their nose).
Explore ways to modify or customize things either regressor or handler already own for regression! Such as making the bottoms of a cane or crutch look like a paw. Or get a tail that doesn't interfere with wheel chair usage.
Feel free to reblog with your own additions to the tips! These are just a few I thought would be helpful based on my experience as a regressor and caregiver / handler.
