Hi,
My dog (a medium-sized Heinz 57) has a nervous personality. She was rescued and was mistreated in her early years. She’s approximately 4 years old and we’ve had her since last summer.
On Halloween last year she was spooked by there being a lot of people around her, making funny noises on her evening walk, and didn’t want to go out in the dark for the next few nights. We managed it using treats and lots of hugs and encouraging words, but I don’t want a repeat of this this year as it really set back the training my family and the resuce had done to rehabiliate her from her horrid former life. The kids go back to school this week and although she's been fine throughout the summer I'm worried as the nights draw in she will become worried about waling in the dark again.
Do you have any advice as to how I can prevent her being scared in the dark, and how to help her through it if she does freak out again?
Mark Wall, by email
You could try Thundershirt Dog Anxiety Vest. We have had some great feedback from people who have tried them on their dogs for various anxiety issues.
ReplyDeleteThundershirt applies a gentle, constant pressure that has a dramatic and instant calming effect for most dogs. Can be purchased online at http://www.dfordog.co.uk/thundershirt-dog-anxiety-vest.html