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Originally Posted by Charlsf  Hi all, I am new to Yorkie Talk and have spent hours reading all your posts and advice, but can't seem to find a similar problem to mine. Bolt is my first Yorkie and he has been the most wonderful addition to our lives. From day one he has gone everywhere with us, so he is used to crowds and general outings. His favorite outing was a walk everyday and the beach on weekends, although he hates the ocean(any water for that matter-water is for drinking!!) There have never been any behavior problems, fearfulness or anything else for that matter. He is not afraid of strangers, fireworks, thunder, loud noises etc.
Unfortunately about 2 months ago we were inadvertently too close to a military display(had no idea how loud it was going to be). It was so loud it scared children, adults, set off car alarms etc. We got away and into the car as quickly as possible because Bolt was petrified, so were we. My problem now is that he is obviously traumatized and I don't know how to help him. He still gets excited to go walking, but as soon as a vehicle comes past, especially a big, loud truck or bus he becomes frantic. He pulls on his harness frantically trying to get away. He yanks, drags, hyperventilates and becomes absolutely panic-stricken. He just wants to go home. If we go anywhere with crowds of people we have the same reaction. It is dreadful to see my baby so afraid and I don't know how to help him. Picking him up doesn't help he just struggles and tries to get away. The minute I put him down its back to the frantic tugging etc. Is there anyone out there with any advice? Please help, thank you in advance. |
So sorry to hear about this experience! Dogs will cue off of people's reactions and when everyone at the event was afraid it likely confirmed for him that afraid was correct. How big is Bolt? Will he fit in a front pack? I would suggest a series of desensitization activities where Bolt is held close to you right from the start instead of on a leash - short exposures to where he is held secure to you - and after he's calms that way with increasingly longer exposures try a leash again. As you're doing things just keep going without missing a beat so he picks up on your confidence. You may need to use calming meds in conjunction.
That said, I'm not an expert. You may need to find a specialist to help you. I hope Bolt heals from this traumatic experience.