Day 367: One Year Ago Today

From: goldens@grrh.org
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2008, 7:26 AM
To: THE MOM

Amanda-

We are not sure if Karen has gotten back to you yet; however, it sounds like the storm was not well timed - Luke's only real issue from his records and what I was told when I picked him up was his fear of thunder. He spent his entire life (before the nine months at the shelter) outside and, as a result, likely had some traumatic experiences during storms. One of our rescues was severely thunder phobic and I took him to the behaviorist at TAMU. He is now much better - the bottom line is exactly what you know - treat them as normal as possible, be with them if possible ( I find being on the floor with them is the fastest way to bond or reassure during a trauma), do anything and everything that is comforting. We actually played a tape of thunder sometimes and over time, the problem has become no big deal. Dakota will occasionally with a really big storm want to get in my closet; however, it is no longer a panic situation.

We are here to help and I have a special attachment to Luke, so please contact us if you need help or want to give us an update. Rescue dogs are seldom easy at the outset; however, as you know, they are even better companions as they bond etc.. Cool Hand Luke is a really good guy and he is intelligent, so I am confident he will get over this issue before long and then he will get on to writing blogs for you! Call if you need anything at all.

(Uncle) Tom and (Aunt) Madison