Yesterday I posted a diary about my dog Buzz and the sudden destructive behaviors and running away he was doing. I awoke this morning and was very happy to find over a hundred comments and suggestions for things I could do to help him.
I wanted to give you wonderful people an update and say thank you for the outpouring of support and suggestions to help. I agree that he is suffering extreme separation anxiety.
Buzz lounging on my bed. Normally he does not let me catch him on my bed as he clearly was punished by previous owners for being on the bed.
This morning did not start out well. When I pulled into my work parking lot I already had a call from a neighbor - he had gotten out of the crate and escaped again. This neighbor was a mile away so he made really good time on his escape. My ex was willing to get him and she simply locked him in the house shutting the doggie door for the day. Not an ideal situation as this prevents either Buzz or Zoey, my other dog, going outside to the bathroom.
Per many suggestions I called the vet and talked with them about a sedative to give on a temporary basis until the prozac kicks in. Rather than valium, the vet prescribed Acepromazine.
I also went and enrolled him in a doggie day care the vet recommended. Both dogs start on Monday and we will play that by ear, see how that goes. Many commenters liked this idea but some were very ambivalent, feeling it might heighten Buzz' sense of abandonment. But I felt that I have to try something and this was something that seemed like it was worthwhile.
I have also messaged two trainers from Kos and both seem wonderful and willing to help so we will see what comes of that.
So that is where things stand.
Thank you again for all the suggestions and encouragement!
Andy
Buzz and I this past spring. Yes, I am wearing a kilt.
Zoey doing what she does best.
Zoey, not so sure about this wearing pants thing.