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My Pet World: Proximity training and desensitization can help dogs who chase 'bikes'

Cathy M. Rosenthal, Tribune Content Agency on

I don’t know if this is the culprit with your cat’s IBS, but I would keep receipts away from JulieT and distract her with a catnip toy instead. You can opt for digital receipts if you want to avoid touching them or bringing them home entirely. Thanks for sharing. Dear Cathy,

I recently read your response to a reader asking about calming her dog during fireworks. I agree the Thundershirt works, but you have to help your dog realize this (wrap) is to help him or her feel safe. It’s important that it not be put on in a fearful moment, so the pet doesn’t associate the wearing of it with the loud noises about to happen. Otherwise, it can cause a stress reaction. Pets aren’t stupid after all! I’m sure you agree. — Margaret, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Dear Margaret,

You are right. If you only give a dog a peanut butter treat before or during a storm, a dog may associate the peanut butter with the storm and react as if there was actually a storm going on whenever he is given peanut butter, even if there is not. The same holds true with the Thundershirt. If you only put the wrap on your dog when there is a storm, then the dog will associate the wrap with storms.

When you first get a Thundershirt, dogs should initially wear it during pleasant events, like dog walking or receiving affection from you. Give the dog lots of treats when wearing it. As a dog becomes more adjusted to it, introduce it a few hours before an anxiety-producing event and leave it on for several hours afterward so it’s not connected to the event.

 

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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