Jentling, derived from the verb “jentle,” refers to the act of progressively calming or soothing an animal, typically one that is frightened, excited, or agitated. It involves the use of gentle and patient techniques to establish trust, reduce fear or stress, and help the animal relax in various situations. Jentling is commonly practiced with domesticated animals such as cats, dogs, and horses, although it can be applied to other animals too.
The process of jentling involves delicate and careful handling, reassuring touch, and positive reinforcement to alleviate an animal's apprehensions. This may include slow and deliberate movements, soft voice tones, and building a connection by establishing eye contact, allowing the animal to become acquainted with the handler. Jentling often involves providing a sense of security and safety to the animal through consistent and gentle interactions to help them adapt to new environments, overcome anxiety, or recover from traumatic experiences.
Jentling emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding an animal's needs and responses. It requires reading their body language, recognizing signs of distress or discomfort, and adjusting one's approach accordingly. The objective of jentling is to gradually build trust and create a calm and harmonious environment while respecting an animal's boundaries.
Overall, jentling is a compassionate and patient approach that promotes the emotional well-being and rapport between humans and animals, allowing them to develop a mutually beneficial relationship based on trust and understanding.
