It sounds like a fear reaction. Obviously something she didn't like happened when the fire was being lit or burning and she is now associating all fires in the fireplace with that scary or anxious time. Can someone try treating her with fresh, warm, boiled chicken as the other lights the fire or try distracting her - toss her ball or something else she just loves while the fire is being lit so she doesn't get so stressed as she focuses in on the other, pleasant stimulant - her ball or toys or chew bones? Perhaps you can even take her to the other room while you light the fire for a while and allow her to follow a trail of treats into the room with the fireplace, where she gets more treats or a special play session with you before the fireplace. A few things to help her associate the fire with new, pleasant, fun, happy experiences will help displace that anxious memory one day if you keep at it until she is okay with the fire.
__________________  Jeanie and Tibbe One must do the best one can. You may get some marks for a very imperfect answer: you will certainly get none for leaving the question alone. C. S. Lewis |