Papillon Kisses

That caregivers cause separation anxiety by loving on the dog too much (and it’s counterpart that you need to break the bond to treat it), is one of the biggest most horrible myths about the condition. Learning history and environment can play a part in whether it’s triggered, but separation anxiety specialists place the greatest weight on genetics - a genetic marker has even been found. Triggers could be things like a traumatic kennel stay, the house being burgled or a bad storm occurring while home alone, a loved one (human or fellow pet) dying, or a change of schedule or living arrangements. Dogs should be gradually taught to be home alone, too. If they have never had any time by themselves and then their humans are suddenly gone for hours on end, that can trigger it in the susceptible. However, breeders and caregivers can do all the right things, the dog may have had no traumatic experiences, and they still develop separation anxiety. And some dogs have had every single thing set against them in life and yet are the picture of behavioural health! I think many forget too that there are millions of ‘velcro’ dogs that don’t have separation distress, and that dogs who are very independent when their person is around can still have separation distress. “Discipline” is often a euphemism for the use of +punishment. The use of aversive training methods impairs learning and risks the development of anxiety and aggression, particularly aggression towards the handler. It also dramatically increases the likelihood of being surrendered and of behavioural euthanasia. I think these ideas are often rooted in misogyny and ableism, but that’s another discussion and I’m not accusing you of either of those things. I have a feeling you’ll enjoy the website below. It has easily digestible science reporting and then you can then click through to see the studies being discussed. https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/p/home.html?m=1

I also worry about DV with these sorts of stories.

I’m sorry to hear about Molly’s separation distress. I hear you with not wanting her to be drowsy etc. The good thing about modern anxiety medications is that you’re less likely to see that, or if you do it is usually a temporary side effect while their body adjusts. The aim is rarely to sedate; we want dogs to be aware, so they can learn that absences aren’t terrifying. Therefore if they’re zonked, or their personality changes for the worse, it’s a sign that it is the wrong medication or dose for the individual. I say change for the worse, as we’re not our true ourselves when riddled with anxiety. From everything I’ve seen not just with Malcolm but also hundreds of dogs in support groups I’ve been part of, treating anxiety enables our dogs personalities to shine. Most people wish they had taken the leap sooner. There are some supplements that have an evidence-base, like Zylkene for example or pheromone therapy with Adaptil. However, be aware that supplements aren’t regulated, so quality control can be an issue and many claim to do things they do not. Some cause side effects, and are contraindicated for dogs with certain conditions or taking certain medications. And when they do help it’s typically for mild to moderate stress, whereas separation anxiety is considered a panic disorder. Your best bet is to see a Behaviour Vet or a GP vet with a special interest in behaviour. They can give her a checkup (being in any sort of pain for example can contribute to the problem), consider her medical history and needs, and together you can decide on the path forward, whether that is a prescription medication/s and/or a specific supplement recommended for her. Alongside this you’re going to want to look at: - Management, ideally suspending all absences while you work on the problem. This can require some creativity but it is important. - A behaviour modification (training) plan to systematically desensitise to absences. - It doesn’t sound like you are but just in case you hear it, there’s no need to withdraw affection or ignore her, including when coming or going, or banishing her from the lounge or bed if you snuggle together etc. That’s outdated advice and can increase anxiety. Just be calm and soothing. I’m going to shower you in links now so I hope that’s ok. If you’re lucky there might be a slot in the All Pets Education & Training Separation Struggles course that starts tomorrow night. https://www.allpetseducationandtraining.com.au/separation-struggles---12-week-virtual-course.html https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02N5uuYT1ie8UgaVPLp1tJUUYcMM6vDGbNC8iMY7S4H9jNvyahHyeEn8JtYbJmESvUl&id=100063582608856&mibextid=qC1gEa Malena DeMartini’s content https://malenademartini.com/separation-anxiety-top-10-list/ https://www.facebook.com/SeparationAnxietyDogs?mibextid=LQQJ4d There are some CSATs in Australia, Jenny Harlow and Dog Charming being two of them. https://www.dogcharming.com.au https://jhdogtraining.com.au/separation-anxiety/ https://www.puppyleaks.com/second-dog-separation-anxiety/ Episode 4 of this podcast, which has things you can do right now while home with Molly. https://www.creativeanimalsolutions.com/abd-podcast.html https://www.anzcvs.org.au/chapters/veterinary+behaviour+chapter https://www.drjensdogblog.com/behavior-medication-first-line-therapy-or-last-resort/ I hope this helps. You’re welcome to message me if you’d like help re choosing a behaviour vet if you go down that path… there is one in Queensland who I would avoid.

Non paywall version https://citynews.com.au/2023/unregistered-vet-raided-in-hall/

You can change it within the upload settings, or at least I can. Click where it says show selected and the size, and it will give you size options.

We’ll be thinking of you both.

The English Bulldog is an interesting side by side with those two individuals. The body of the first looks splayed out like a spider which I associate more with those horrifically bred American ”exotic bullies”.

Try adding vinegar to the slot where one would put fabric softener. Vinegar deodorises.

Irresponsible, indiscriminate breeding during the pandemic by people wanting to make a quick buck and fill an unprecedented demand is absolutely part of the problem. Behaviour has a genetic component. It’s not all in how you raise them. And if you don’t think covid contributed to the problem you are misguided. Dogs did not get the positive exposures to life that they would ordinarily get during their critical socialisation period. There were ways to mitigate this but it‘s beyond general dog owner knowledge let alone someone getting a dog for the first time. Yes there is a dog owner factor. The trainers I know put a hell of a lot of a work into shifting to online consults and courses during lockdown, groups like Pet Professional Guild Australia got press coverage about how important it was, but these weren’t universally taken up by dog owners. People either thought puppy classes weren’t on or that online was pointless (it’s not and can actually be better depending on instructor and course content). Regarding the two professionals quoted. Eve McKenzie is a highly experienced, qualified dog trainer. List of her qualifications here: https://www.ppgaustralia.net.au/Sys/PublicProfile/28134445 Yes the dog training industry is unregulated and there are a lot of so-called ‘trainers’ and ‘behaviourists’ harming dogs. But Eve isn’t one of those and I wouldn’t fail to recommend her to people in Newcastle area. Dr Kersti Seksel is a veterinary behaviour specialist at Sydney Animal Behaviour Service. That requires a standard veterinary degree then a tonne of further study and examinations in veterinary behaviour medicine. While there are other Behaviour Vets (aka Veterinary behaviourists) I’d refer to first, she absolutely knows her stuff when it comes to diagnosing and treating anxiety and other behavioural illnesses in dogs. She’s highly regarded in the vet industry. Honestly it’s a relief to see quotes from qualified professionals who know what they’re on about instead of the usual idiots who use harmful methods based on long debunked myths.

Seconding Powerlegs about looking at online stores like Budget Pet Products. Some of the big box stores also price match. I’d also suggest calling your vet. They know your dog’s medical history, can consider any lifestyle factors, tell you what products are working well in your area at different price points, and what frequency they recommend. You don’t have to buy from them, but it’s a good idea to get an individual recommendation. The vet nurse can probably help you over the phone.

Posted by UQ Veterinary Hospital on their Facebook page: LOW TO NO tick antiserum Australia wide This means if your furry family member gets a tick and isn’t on a preventive it will now be even more difficult for your vet to currently treat. The best thing we can do for our pets to avoid even needing to see a vet for treatment due to tick envenomation is to make sure they are on a well-rounded preventative and to triple check your current preventive NOW to make sure it also covers paralysis ticks! Steps to follow to keep your loved fur-members safer and to avoid seeing a vet due to tick envenomation include: • Providing your pet with a preventative • Ensuring preventatives are taken as frequently as the box recommends • Set a calendar reminder for when preventatives are due • Checking your pet DAILY for ticks • Keeping your grass short Unfortunately, we are seeing high numbers of tick cases this year, but the good news is there are easy at home steps you can take to keep your pets from experiencing life-threating tick envenomation. We are so lucky to have tick prevention products available for our pets so it’s important we are giving this to them. Even with the treatment shortages, there are still ways we can help your pets. If you find a tick on your fur-member the safest thing to do is contact your vet. If they are on a preventative and you are worried please still call your vet.

Poor little ones. It must be incredibly hard but you know what the limits of your house etc are. I hope the rescue is considering anxiety medication as they sound like prime candidates.

This is terribly sad. And I am sick of irresponsible cat owners and the councils and state governments that pander to them. However, I do think it taking place in an unfenced front yard makes both parties irresponsible. I think a dangerous dog order should be imposed to compel the dog owner to keep them leashed and muzzled when not contained. And I hope the cat owner will keep any future cats on leash or in an catio when outside.

Unfortunately that is an example of a diet that is not even remotely balanced for a dog.

I’d cut to the chase and see a veterinary dermatologist for a proper work up and treatment plan. Otherwise you can waste a boatload of time and money on different diets and remedies, get no real answers, and limit food unnecessarily which may lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems over time. All the while your dog continues to suffer (and you by extraction!). And to top it off, if you then need to do an elimination diet down the track, say if your dog develops ibd, it can make things much more difficult as you’ve limited the amount of carbohydrates and proteins that are novel to your dog. So see a derm and get a proper work up. If food allergies are diagnosed, or intolerances suspected, the vet can advise on suitable diets.

Some positive Chihuahua and senior dog rescue content for your enjoyment. “It was quiet and sad, and then Gucci brought joy into the house.” https://www.today.com/pets/pets/100-year-old-woman-adopts-senior-dog-rcna48750?fbclid=IwAR1ejSNV9ssM_pH7fFt4aJk6iNsqyW-0YoiCu9vfQXepjhjQQdcsdlEF7UQ

I just want to caution against purchasing two puppies at the same time and age, regardless of progeny. It’s best to wait until the oldest has reached adulthood, well out of teenage years and settled, before getting another puppy. Dog trainers see problems all the time with anxiety and aggression from pups raised too close together in age. The outcome is often needing to rehome or euthanise one of the dogs when problems explode around the time of social maturity. Some people successfully prevent these problems occurring, but they tend to be those already heavily invested and experienced in dog behaviour and training. It is way more than double the work to raise two behaviourally well pups at once. Pups need to be socialised separately, they need to spend time alone from each other as well as from you, among other things. Like Dogsfevr, I also wouldn’t wait 12 weeks. I’d want pup in the home and enrolled in a quality, force free puppy preschool at 8 weeks. Pet Professional Guild Australia and Delta Institute are good places to look. If there is no one suitable near you, I’d do the Polite Paws Sydney online course as the content is excellent. Please read the AVSAB position statement on puppy socialisation as socialisation is likely more than you think it is: https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/ Sorry I don’t have any breeder recommendations, but I wish you the very best with your search.

Suprelorin effects hormones. I know a number of dogs with anxiety disorders for whom it has been used before deciding whether or not to desex. If their condition/behaviour deteriorates the effect is (hopefully) not permanent; if nothing changes or there’s an improvement then you have more confidence going ahead with operating. Sometimes despite best breeding and puppy-raising you can have an anxious dog for whom those hormones are important for behavioural wellness.

Hi Nesa, time to book a vet appointment so they can get to the bottom of it. I hope he feels better soon.

Cobberdog breeders didn’t like the reputation that Labradoodles were getting so they made their own name to try to distinguish themselves. I think they may have added in more breeds, pointer being one. Unless I’m getting mixed up with the “Australian Labradoodle” people. I’m unsure whether they’re working towards ANKC recognition, which requires a unique name (see also: Australasian Bosdog).

Aww she’s gorgeous. Welcome, Frankie.

There is this… https://theconversation.com/amp/chocolate-labradors-die-earlier-than-yellow-or-black-and-have-more-disease-105366 Link to the actual study https://cgejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40575-018-0064-x

Sorry for your loss. He was a special little man.

A couple more thoughts. 1. Check out Sniff Space to see if there are any secure properties you can take her to. 2. Ensure you are providing adequate mental enrichment opportunities. Canine Enrichment FB group has lots of ideas, or use this page as a starting point: http://www.allpetseducationandtraining.com.au/enrichment.html 3. Consider walks on a long line in a more natural area vs street walks. https://www.dogminded.training/blog/2019/5/27/the-life-changing-power-of-decompression-walks?format=amp With those things and seeking help from a force free trainer for things like muzzle training and engage/disengage games, you might decide that your home is a good home after all. Presuming you can’t find her previous people. I think we can get caught up in this idea that dogs need a big backyard or trips to the dog park to be fulfilled, when that’s not necessarily the case. Especially dog parks. Again, just some thoughts. I don’t ever want people to feel bad about needing to relinquish their dog and am not coming from that angle. I don’t think that helps anyone, least of all the dog. And I have tremendous respect for people who break their own hearts to give their dogs a better life. It’s more from a place of curiously and wondering whether with a bit of a rethink about ways to meet her needs and keep everyone safe, whether you may not be the mismatch you think you are.

Seconding Powerleg’s comment about talking to AWLQ. Your feedback about how she has fared in your home combined with what they already know about her will help them find her ideal home.