My Pet World: Helping reactive and senior dogs thrive

Dear Cathy,

I am desperate for help with my adopted, six-year-old mixed terrier. My dog is extremely reactive to people and dogs, so I cannot trust him except in our house where he is loving and obedient. I have been to a behaviorist, three weeks of daily training as well as one on one with a reputable trainer. Lastly, he got suspended from day care because he never adjusted to playing with other pups. He is taking Sertraline and occasionally Trazadone. He is also a biter, and has bitten several people. I would love your thoughts.

— Margie, Virginia

Dear Margie,

Reactive dogs rarely improve because of one "magic fix." Instead, they usually benefit from the right combination of medication, behavior modification, training, and thoughtful management. Work closely with your veterinarian, a veterinary behaviorist, and trainer, and don't be discouraged as it can take months (not weeks) to find the combination that works best for your dog. Behavior change is rarely quick, but consistent management and training can make a remarkable difference over time.

Also, pay close attention to what triggers your dog's reactions. Is it people approaching head-on, other dogs, bicycles, or crowded places? Learning his triggers and recognizing the early signs that he's becoming uncomfortable, like stiffening, staring, closing his mouth, or refusing treats, allows you to calmly increase the distance before he reacts. The more often you can prevent a reaction, the more opportunities you create for him to practice staying calm.

Just as important is setting your dog up to succeed. Walk him during quieter times of the day (or night), avoid situations that consistently overwhelm him, and look for opportunities where he can remain calm and successful. Every positive experience helps build confidence.

Because your dog has a bite history, I strongly encourage you to train him to comfortably wear a basket muzzle whenever he is around people outside your immediate household. A properly fitted basket muzzle allows a dog to pant, breathe normally, and drink water – and prevent a bite. Introduce it gradually with treats and positive reinforcement so it becomes just another part of going out, much like putting on a leash. Besides protecting others, it protects your dog and gives you greater peace of mind.

Success doesn't necessarily mean having a dog who loves every person or every dog. It means helping him feel safe enough to navigate the world with greater confidence while accepting that you will likely always need to manage some situations. He may never become the social dog you imagined, but he can still be a wonderful companion and enrich your life in countless ways.

Dear Cathy,

Is there anything we can do to help a 15-year-old rescue dog stop urinating all over the house? We are observant and catch her many times, but not 100%. She is a good dog, and we are not considering anything drastic, but hope we can get some help. Our other dog, a Norwich Terrier, about 12 years old, is starting to have accidents in the house, too. She has been exemplary through the years, and we are wondering if she is merely copying the other.

— Greg, Edgewood, New York

Dear Greg,

It sounds like you are a patient person, and I applaud you for that.

For your 15-year-old dog, the first step should be a thorough veterinary exam to rule out medical issues such as a urinary tract infection, kidney disease, diabetes, arthritis that makes it difficult to get outside in time, or canine cognitive dysfunction (the doggie equivalent of dementia). Even if she has been examined recently, new problems can develop quickly in older dogs.

I also would not assume your Norwich Terrier is copying the other dog. At 12 years old, she is entering her senior years as well, so I recommend a veterinary exam for her, too.

While working with your veterinarian, focus on management. Take both dogs out for more frequent potty breaks rather than waiting for them to ask. If either dog is having difficulty holding it overnight, add a late-evening potty trip. Washable waterproof rugs, dog diapers for your females, or plug-in dog-appeasing pheromones may also help. Finally, thoroughly clean all soiled areas with an enzymatic cleaner. Although we humans may not be able to smell residual urine, dogs can, and lingering odors may encourage them to return to the same spot.

I know this can be frustrating but remember that your dogs have spent years trying to do the right thing. When a senior dog begins having accidents, it is usually their way of telling us something has changed, not that they have forgotten their manners.

_____

========

(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.)