PennySkyrud Webboard User Reg: 07-10-2006
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We adopted a 3yr old altered male Bichon/poodle mix from a rescue shelter, & the one problem we have w/him is riding in our van.
The minute he sees the key headed for the ignition he starts quaking/panting...When the van stops, he stops. I'm trying to take him on 10min. rides around the neighborhood hoping this will stop. But it's been almost 3weeks now, w/no luck..That's how long we've had him also.
He is not a crate trained dog & have tried riding w/just him in the passenger seat & also w/him sitting on our laps. No luck. We want to take him w/us when visiting out of town family, but so far, I can't see putting him thru this.
A couple of people have mentioned using Bach Rescue Remedy drops. What do all of you think of this product, & do you have any other suggestions for me to try?
Any help would be appreciated..We're planning a 2hr. trip in about 3 or so weeks. Other then this problem, he's a sweet natured dog. Just right for a retired gramma & grampa..
Connie Sutherland Moderator Reg: 07-13-2005
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Loc: North-Central coast of California
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We adopted a 3yr old altered male Bichon/poodle mix from a rescue shelter, & the one problem we have w/him is riding in our van.
The minute he sees the key headed for the ignition he starts quaking/panting.......
I would try gradually getting him over the fear, without even starting up the vehicle.
I'd hand-feed him special treats near and then in the van, play some fun things near and then in the van (with the doors open, maybe, if that helps), and so on, getting him accustomed to thinking of it as a good place.
I would *not* soothe, caress, or comfort him when he showed fearful behavior, because I would not want to reinforce that behavior. I would be calm, confident, and matter-of-fact throughout.
And when he was all over this, I would consider very carefully getting a restraint system, because aside from the projectile thing, frightenened dogs do run out into traffic or just away when there is an accident and the EMT people (or the owners, or whoever) open the vehicle.
P.S. I'll bet it works. <img src="http://www.leerburg.com/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Patient and calm....... not reinforcing fearful behavior.......
I'd get a crate for teh dog rather than a restraint system. I'm not suggesting the restraint is a bad idea, far from it but I think a crate is MUCH better for destressing the dog (and you while driving with a whining dog)
You can also feed your dog in it's crate IN the car with the engine running -- Just make sure it's outdoors with all the windows & sun-roof OPEN for ventilation!
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Stressed riding in van
#110006 - 07/19/2006 04:50 PM 
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Re: Stressed riding in van
[Re: PennySkyrud ]
#110007 - 07/19/2006 05:03 PM 
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