[Sunny95]

Ginger is a 3.5 year old yorkie. She has severe anxiety (over excited actually ) issues out in public. At home, she is fine. She attended puppy classes at PetSmart as a puppy and that’s actually when I first saw the beginning of the over excitement. She is not aggressive and I don’t think she is scared either – no shaking anyway. It’s all pure excitement and she doesn’t and I don’t know how to help her control it. The posts below are what I posted last week in another poster’s thread. They had similar issues. I didn’t mean to takeover her old thread and I did get a few replies. I really appreciate those replies and my apologies to those who have already read this saga.

I’m starting my own thread in hopes that more of you experienced owners will see it and give me some advice. Sorry this is so long but I am completely desperate for any advice. I need training ideas so bad.



Last week’s post:

Ginger had a routine vet appt today and she completely freaked out. It started as soon as I opened the car door in the parking lot. Overexcited! She was whining, scream barking, jumping and panting. I stood outside until it was our turn. I had my daughter go in and tell them what the deal was and why I couldn't come in.

Then inside, it was worse with me in the room so they had to take her in the back to do her exam. It was terrible!!!! I'm in tears right now. She has always had some anxiety but this was thru the roof. I can't take her anywhere.

At home she is normal, relaxed and just a good dog. As soon as we leave our house, she is a different dog. She hates the car, scream barks at everyone and everything. I just don't know what to do. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Vet recommended a thunder shirt. I have read mixed reviews but I guess I will give it a try. I'll admit that I'm skeptical. Vet also recommended a couple of dog behaviorists for me to try. I'll call and get some prices on that. I have a feeling it's going to be expensive! Then if none of this works, she recommends medication but I hate to have her on meds when she is fine at home.

I miss having a dog to take everywhere with me. My first yorkie went EVERYWHERE with me so this is so bizarre. It breaks my heart.



Update:

The thundershirt came and she has worn it on her walks. I can't really tell much difference yet. I have thought about going to the Vets office this weekend when they are closed and just get out of the car to see what kind of reaction she has with it on. If she freaks out, what do I do?

When we are walking and she sees someone or something and she freaks out, I just tell her “No” and pull her the opposite direction. I'm pretty much dragging her and she is still freaking out. How do I get her under control? What do I do to get her attention? She just ignores me. I'm stumped.
How do I introduce treats and rewarding calm when I can't get her in to that state? Please someone help me.