Question:
Recently, you asked about fun games that pets can play.My male cat Luke and I like to play "bottle-cap hockey." Luke hides behind a bedroom or closet door, and I "shoot" a plastic bottle cap under the door that he quickly and deftly sends back. His speed and coordination are amazing, and we get some very intense volleys going back and forth under the door. Then, without warning, Luke will pick the cap up in his mouth and saunter off to parts unknown, having declared himself the winner once again.My husband and I suspect that, if we ever move out of our house, we will one day find Luke's secret stash of "hockey pucks." -- K.A.O'C., Arlington, Va.DEAR K.A.O'C.: Thanks for describing the game that you and your cat have enjoyed together. A little creativity and inventive trial and error are called for in discovering what one's dog or cat will respond to playfully.Play is good medicine and is a socially and emotionally bonding activity for all animals, including humans. Many dogs and cats love catching a moving f
P.G., Arlington, Va Jul 23, 2006
Answer:
Your young dog was probably terrified or experienced abandonment and acute separation anxiety after being dropped off at the shelter. She may have been abused before that.Be extremely patient and calm. Sit in the car with her and in the park while she is leashed. Talk to her and reassure her when whatever she sees disturbs her. Coax her to relax with the occasional treat as a reward. Encourage her to play, to run, chase a ball, tug on a rope -- the best therapy to give shy dogs more self-confidence and enthusiasm. Play and petting are euphoric experiences. If you could find her an older, easygoing buddy-dog playmate to meet up with on a regular basis, your dog should recover quickly. If not, a short course of treatment with a psychotropic medication prescribed by her veterinarian to help reduce her fear and anxiety may prove beneficial.
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