As we approach the middle of summer, firework season, which for many is better known as dealing-with-terrified-dogs season, is nearing. The tales are common – dogs howling, biting through wire crates, crashing through windows.
One of my own dogs, Angel, hides under us and refuses to go outside when the sky darkens, not even to use the bathroom. I’ve tried desensitization with treats, ignoring her calmly, comforting her, pheromones, and thundershirts. Nothing helps. We may try oral drops that use chamomile and other herbs this year, but if it doesn’t work for my cousin’s dog, we may simply struggle through another summer making sure we get Angel out to potty before the sun sets.
What has helped your dog overcome its anxiety? What hasn’t? I’d love to hear about different ways of reducing this anxiety!
shearini 