meet Hank my new Boxer update post #6

[hikerchick]

My dogs are are puppy mill rescues. These dogs are used to being with other dogs, usually in the same cage. So they get extremely anxious when they are left alone. I didn't realize this until my boxer died; my Pomeranian cried and cried every time I left her alone. I had to get another dog for her. I did get another "retired breeder" which is a euphemism for a puppy mill dog. She was 6 years old. I don't do the puppy thing either; and these dogs deserve a home.

 

[piecemaker]

Yes Hank was kept in an 4x8 foot kennel with the other male boxer. Meds are our next step. DH's old dog was put on them a few months ago. She was starting to have some trouble due to her age. The meds have helped her alot. Vet said we may have to put Hank on them for a short time nothing long term. I just don't want to give up on him he is soo good othere wise.

piecemaker

 

[Jamie_Dog_Trainer]

Quote:
Medications, anti-anxiety to be more specific work well in Separation Anxiety. But the meds ONLY work permanently if you use them in conjunction with training and behavior modification. Otherwise you're just decreasing some of the stress and not addressing the behavior. For his crate escapizm go slowly and work your way up to leaving him for short periods (like just stand outside the door for one minute). You can make him a "binky" toy too. This is a toy you purposely associate with yourselves and all good things in his life then you give it to him while you are gone. It takes time to establish this binky toy routine but once etablished it can work wonders.

Good luck

 

[piecemaker]

Hank has recovered from his spa day (nuetering) at the vet. Only place I could think to leave him when I work is the stock trailer. Figured he couldn't chew his way out of it. He loves it we leave one gate open and he will go in the trailer and chill when we are outside. Finally a place he likes and is happy. Now to get him to like being left in the house. that will take time and will not be rushed

piecemaker