In general, Jackson is a very well behaved good citizen. He's well behaved in public and is very good on vacations, in hotels, with people and dogs etc.
He is *terrified* of vets, groomers, etc. He does not get aggressive though so I think our issue is slightly different. Although maybe not -- the biting in your case sounds like it's likely fear-based but it's just shown in a different way. Jackson goes into flight mode where he just tries to get away from the situation or he just stands there and shakes and pants heavily.
He is very socialized, has been since a pup, so I think it's just his anxiety in these type of situations he obviously senses it's different or has something to fear. We tried sprays, Rescue Remedy, calming treats, etc. Nothing really worked to curb the anxiety. We tried Xanax first and that did nothing for him. Vet suggested Trazadone and it's been working great. It doesn't make him like "happy go lucky" or anything lol but it eases that anxiety enough to where he's not like in full blown panic mode anymore.
After some training and exposure, maybe you could speak to the vet about medications. We also found a vet that is really good with shy dogs... the office is very calming itself with spa music playing & a little water fountain in the lobby, non-slip floors, and they don't make Jackson get up on the table if he doesn't want and the vet will get on the floor with him to make him more comfortable. They also have diffusers plugged in from Adapatil that is supposed to create a calming sense. |