Separation Anxiety
 

Our Sadie (puppy mill rescue) has only been with us for three days, and has apparently decided that I am her "person"! This is great...except that she gets really agitated if she can't see or hear me, even if my husband or adult daughter are present. Since we all are here for her and plan to share responsibility for her care and well-being, I'm not sure how to address this. On the one hand, it has only been three days and I'm certainly glad that she isn't pining for her foster home. On the other hand, I don't want to start off with reinforcing a negative behavior. Any thoughts based on your own experience? Many thanks.

Welcome to Yorkie Talk and congratulations on the new addition to your family. Thank you for giving a rescue a home.

Your question is a challenging one, especially since Sadie is a puppy mill rescue. I'm sure other people with experience will share their knowledge.

Here is one thread that you may find helpful: http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/yor...ll-rescue.html

When she whines or whatever ignore her. If she knows she can whine and you will show up its all over. Wait till shes quite then give her attention

You may want to try putting a bandana around your neck so it picks up your smell, then letting her wear it so that your smell is always right near her nose...she may find that soothing. I think as she learns, over time, that you're not going to disappear she'll become more settled. Bless your heart for taking in this kiddo - she sounds SO sweet! :love:

Have the others in the household be involved with her caetaking, feeding,giving treats.taking for walks etc

My Edward had separation issues after we first got him. He bonded with me for some reason instead of my husband. What I did not know at the time was that bonding can be good but it can also lead to other issues so you are good to address it in the early stages. I researched on the internet and then found a book that gave me some good suggestions. The bandana idea mentioned in an earlier post is good and also waiting until they calm down before acknowledging them. I refer to that as the 'Ceasar' method - no touch, no talk, no eye contact! If you watch the Dog Whisperer then you have heard that before.

With my dog it started as separation anxiety, then it was thunderstorms, the diesel engine of the garbage trucks. I can't tell you how I started disliking July 4th and New Year's Eve - Fireworks! Wrapping his chest with the Thundershirt or just an Ace bandage helps if it gets serious. That compression on the chest makes him feel safe. I put Edward next to me but I don't hold him when he is stressed. I will sit on the sofa or my office chair with him laying next to me and wait until he calms down. Holding a dog when they are stressed only encourages the behavior.

He is better but my vet said he will not ever be rid of the anxiety completely. I hope your situation is not as extreme as mine but the good news is there is a lot of ideas, treatments and solutions to try until you find the right one. All the best!

I happen to see this article and thought maybe it might be helpful to you.

Dog Separation Anxiety: Solutions that Worked