Halloween is fun or scary. People love getting "scared" with the goblins, ghosts, and horrible monsters. Our pets don't understand why people are dressed funny, wear masks, and try to scare them.

For many pets it is a time of uncertainty, anxiety, and fear. Pets don't understand Halloween and can be afraid.

What does fear feel like? Imagine getting a dreaded phone call or dropping your dog's leash and losing him.

• Do you feel you gut tightening up?
• Are you holding your breathe?
• Are you shoulders hunched, hands clenched, and your muscles tight?
• Do you feel the fear to your very core?

Now imagine feeling like this every time you:

• Hear a loud noise or fireworks.
• See a person with a hat or hood pulled down over their forehead.
• See a small or large dog.
• Get in the car for a ride.
• Or walk into the vet's or groomer's office.

This is what many of our pets feel. Sometimes people say the "dog is aggressive" when she is barking. Really she is "reacting" to a dog who scared her. She doesn't enjoy this feeling and we can help her!

I've met so many pets that are stressed and really afraid. They express their fear by:

• Barking or hissing.
• Hiding behind people or objects.
• Trembling or freezing. 
• Refusing to get into the car or getting car sick.
• Or reacting to the person or dog.

We can help your dog or cat calm his fears. Starting today you can do some simple techniques to help both of you. When you see your pet is stressed or afraid:

• Slowly exhale because you may be holding your breathe. Keep breathing calmly.
• Slowly and gently stroke his body one time as you exhale.
• Talk in a low calm voice to your dog reassuring her that you will keep her safe. I use the word "easy." You are acknowledging her concern.
• For cats you can use "cat body language" and very slowly blink a few times.
• For dogs you can use "dog body language" and make a big yawn and look away.

Jackson's canine anxiety and Sophia's fear of dogs were resolved after their pet parents learned new skills.  

Are you still frustrated and are not seeing the calmer dog you want? Elaine can help you "bring out the best in your pet."  

Have a wonderful autumn with walks in the leaves, cuddles in the house, and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature.  

Take care,

Elaine 

P.S. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute About Your Pet consultation by emailing Elaine with the best times to call you.