Hiding from thunder, drooling as the rain batters down

If you dread the sound of summer thunder storms, or come home early from work around Bonfire Night so your dog can toilet before it gets dark, you probably live with a noise sensitive dog.

Loud noises can be downright terrifying for some dogs, and it's an insidious problem as the fear spreads from gun shots or fireworks to include thunder, loud rain, slamming doors and more.

It was one of the biggest problems I had to work on with Finn (my first ever rescue collie). He went from being worried about fireworks to panicking over thunder, low flying jets and at one point refusing to toilet outside in the dark for over a month. You could say it was a steep learning curve!

There are no quick fixes for this kind of problem, and if there were I promise I would share them with you.

But there are some tested strategies that can really help your dog to cope better. That might include supplements or even medication, but simple preparation and training ahead of time can make a big difference too.

If you want to help your dog be less scared of loud noises, and release that knot of tension in your own stomach, come to our evening workshop on Wednesday 5th July at 7pm, Wigginton Old School Hall.

There are just 7 places left, and you'll get practical action tips plus a goodie bag, discount vouchers and refreshments!

Don't wait till November to try and fix the problem - get help now.

Morag and the collie girls

Noise Fears & Phobias - How to Help your Dog
Wednesday 5^th July 7pm to 8.30pm (Wigginton)

Book your place now as we have limited spaces

Ring Vets4Pets York on 01904 658 201 to book and pay
Tickets cost £10 per family (max two people) includes refreshments + a goodie bag

New course running in York: The Confidence Course

The Confidence Course:
Training, TTouch and Bodywork to create a calm focused canine

Morag Heirs, trainer and bodyworker
Janet Finlay, trainer (APDT) and TTouch practitioner 1

This weekly course offers you the chance to work with your dog in a controlled environment. We use motivational training methods incorporating toy, food and environmental rewards alongside reward marking/clickers. We will not use harsh or aversive techniques.

**Course runs from June 11th to July 16th - we are currently fully booked**

Pre-requisites
We welcome any dogs with some basic training who are able to be in a hall with other dogs and people. If you are not sure about taking part please contact Morag or Janet to arrange an assessment.

Course Topics:
Creating focus and attention in easily distracted or worried dogs
Dealing with sudden changes/noises/movement
Relaxing in exciting environments
Teaching games and coping skills
Learning to read your dog’s body language accurately

Much of the material in this course has been adapted from Leslie McDevitt’s “Control Unleashed” programme and we strongly recommend you purchase the book (see links).

What to Bring!

• Flat collar and/or harness (no choke chains, prong collars or stop/pull harnesses that tighten under the armpits please)
• A plain webbing or leather lead (no chain or flexi leads please)
• Lots of very small (pinkie nail sized) tasty, smelly treats
• Clicker if you have one
• Favourite toys
• Water bowl
• Mat or a thin blanket
• Muzzle or head collar if you normally use these tools
• Fabric or metal crate if your dog is accustomed to this