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Senior 11 year-old Labradoodle type rescue with separation anxiety
I talked to a client today. I told her I would get back with her. So I don’t have a lot of information on this dog. She said she got the rescue dog 11 year-old senior in October. She lives in an apartment. The dog follows her around everywhere. Sleeps on the floor next to her bed. Howls When she’s leaving for work. I have not got to evaluate the dog yet, but I was just wondering if anybody has any good suggestions to help with the Dogs separation anxiety and the fact that he’s a rescue. She takes the dog for walks every day. 2 to 3 days a week she takes her lunch break to go let the dog out. The client has only lived in Dallas Fort Worth area for a little under a year. She also said the senior dog is in good shape and he really loves to go on walks. Thanks everyone for any suggestions I’ll be meeting with her this weekend or next weekend.
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10 Replies
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Awww poor ol man. Of course he’s worried!
Without doing a full workup, and if she’s got the money to spend on “trying” things – I’d walk in with a DAP collar or diffuser – it’s magical for some dogs. And a thundershirt – also magical for some dogs. We used both in the shelter with quick success very often. Because of that doodle coat though… it’s complicated. Talk about coat care/keeping it short and brushing with a comb through to the skin or with the jacket it will be a miserable (and painful) mess.
Next up – vet check for hidden discomfort.
Those are my quick ideas. Good luck with her, @Denise !
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Thank you for you great information.
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@Denise , do you know how long the dog howls after she leaves the house? Are neighbors complaining?
It would be very, very helpful to have a camera on the dog to confirm exactly what he does and for how long when left alone.
Also, how is the dog when she returns home at a lunch break and at the end of the work day? Does she hear any sounds of anxiety before entering or see any ‘evidence’ of the dog’s agitation when alone?
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Thank you for the information and yes, When I get back in town, I will be sure. I ask all the great questions. Thank you very much. I will give you all an update soon.
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The client is going to work on getting me a video of the dog before she leaves and after she leaves. I gave her that as her homework before I evaluate the dog.
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Just a quickie reply here…have her find a good professional pet sitter! Check out Pet Sitters International or NAPPS websites for the pet sitter locator. She can also check her Facebook community for help finding a reputable one.
I have been a pet sitter and dog walker for years and a trainer now for 5. I recommend having someone new come into the dog’s life where they can provide walks and entertainment/play with the dog and build a BFF type relationship with the person!
You can suggest a period of shadowing, where the pet sitter comes while the person is there to take the dog out for walks and that way, the dog isn’t coming home to an empty home at first. Gradually she can wean herself (owner) out of the mix. I love to see my doggie friends every day! It’s wonderful to see them grow through the years.
My first dog walking client was a 13 year Golden Retriever who needed a companion and extra potty midday. I only knew her for a few months before she passed. I’ll always remember her. ????
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That’s a great idea. I will bring your suggestion up to her also. I’ll keep y’all updated. Thank you very much.
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Thanks for the great suggestions
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My client had to reschedule for next weekend so I will be training the dog for the separation anxiety. I reviewed a great book that my mentor had suggested to me when I was learning from. CATCH. I will keep you all updated. I have some great interview questions for the dog. But it sounds like he has mild to moderate separation anxiety and not severe. Which is great.
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