[NAGDU] Anxiety Issues

Tracy Carcione carcione at access.net
Thu Feb 9 17:01:29 UTC 2017


Hi Joe.
Sorry to hear this.  Anxiety can be a bear.
On my commuter bus, there are a couple seats in the middle that are
extra-far apart so as to accommodate a wheelchair.  I always try to get one
of these seats, as I feel it gives my dog a bit more space.  My previous dog
had space issues, and seemed to feel uncomfortable in an ordinary seat.
I've even asked people to move out of one of the big seats.  I figure, hey,
the seats are meant for disabled people, and my dog is more comfortable
there, so people can move if I need it.
If your bus has something similar, you could try sitting there.

My dog Echo had issues with bumpy roads while riding the bus.  She would get
up or wiggle around.  I tried quiet petting, but finally I think I just
calmly told her to lie down, gave her a pat, and ignored her.  It's been a
long time now, and I don't totally remember, but she did get over it.

Would something like Musher's wax help your guy get a better grip on tile?
I don't use it, so I don't know; it just seems possible.

The Eye is always there, if you want to give them a call.  Not always
helpful, but sometimes they have good suggestions.
Good luck.
Tracy


-----Original Message-----
From: NAGDU [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Joe Orozco via
NAGDU
Sent: Thursday, February 09, 2017 10:52 AM
To: nagdu at nfbnet.org
Cc: Joe Orozco
Subject: [NAGDU] Anxiety Issues

Hello,

I have a couple issues going on with my shepherd I hope you guys can provide
feedback, both demonstrations of anxiety:

First, on my commute to and from work, Matthew becomes restless. It's grown
in intensity to the point now where he sits up, lays down, and trembles for
the 1.5 hour-long bus ride. I've tried massaging his back and shoulders,
rubbing his ears, speaking softly, etc. I have not yet tried treats, but I
may consider this if that is what it takes. The bus can become crowded.
There is not a whole lot of foot space, and I feel as though part of the
issue could be his feeling stifled. Every so often, once we hit open road, I
allow him to stretch out into the aisle, but even then he will want to sit
up, throw a paw over my knee and start panting, whining very low in his
throat.

The second issue is tile floors. Though not consistent, there are often
times walking through lobbies and cafeterias where he will either walk
extremely slow and gingerly, or he will freeze for a moment before lunging
forward and skitter across the tile. I have to let him carefully work it
out. I understand lifting him off the ground wont' solve anything, though I
feel bad watching him spin his wheels so to speak. His nails are not long. I
have tried outfitting his nails with tile grips, though he tends to lose
these. I'm next going to try to become more serious and consistent about
clicker training, but if anyone has other ideas on how to reduce this
psychological block with smooth floors, I would be very appreciative. He is
three years old and, to my knowledge, does not exhibit any physical medical
problems that could stimulate this behavior.

His guide work in general is adequate. Outside I have issues with him not
always walking as fast as I would like, but on carpet and concrete, he is
generally a good guide dog. He is a very quiet shepherd, very sweet and
loyal. Yet I confess these increasing bouts of anxiety are becoming an
issue.

Thanks in advance for any tips and/or suggestions.

Kind regards,

Joe

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