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About 6 months ago my 10 year old Shepard/Lab, Peaches, was witness to something absolutely horrible. My former finace', Peaches owner, beat me beyond recognition. I wasn't able to escape until the next day. I was unable to sneak Peaches out with me. Shortly after I left my fiance' committed suicide. I have few memories of this due to extreme head trauma. Unfortunately Peaches remembers what I don't.
Peaches was alright at first. I knew that wouldn't last long. About 4 months ago she began displaying neurotic behavior. She chewed all the fur from her hind quarters clear down to her tail. Alot of time these gnawing sessions would end with her yalping and a small bleeding wound. I'am home all day with her. EVERY time I see her doing this I call her name sternly (not angrily!) when she stops I give her lots of praise. Sometimes she will not stop. She just keeps on chewing until she bleeds.
Her vet has given me anti-itch meds but they do not seem to work.
Is there anyone out there who can help Peaches? I love her so much. She tried to help me that night. I do remember that. She is my hero!!!! I know this is going to take a long time. There is no quick fix. That is ok. I have all the patience and time in the world for her. She is so worth it.
Please someone help me to help her.
Thank you for your reply! She was on really cheap (mostly grains) food prior to living here. I switched her food gradually to Eukanuba. The obsessive biting didn't begin until about 4 months ago. Prior to that she had a beautiful coat and no OCD behavior. Our vet did rule out food allergies. I'am still looking in the Dog Forum. Wow there are alot of posts!! Again, thank you!
You don't say anything about how big the dog is, whether she gets any exercise, how often she is left alone........I don't want to be unkind but there are periods in peoples lives when they are not best situated to keep a dog at that particular time.
No offense taken at all. Peaches is 48lbs. She is walked 2-3x a day. We have a large fenced in yard. Her and I are in the yard together daily as well. She does run and play with me. She is rarely left alone as I'am home all day. If she is left alone it is only for long enough to go to the store. Peaches and I have actually helped each other through this. I'am the familiar voice and face to her.
I'm so sorry for what you have been through. Do you have any board certified veterinary behaviorists in your area? Once a physical cause is completely ruled out, I suspect there is a possibility of her behavior being anxiety-based. If it is, she'll need a skilled veterinarian to find the right balance of medication and behavioral therapy. It sounds like you are a great owner, keep up the good work!
I will make it alright. Thank you. Actually, Peaches' vet gave me the number for a certified behaviorist. I'am anxiously waiting for a return call.
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