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Since the event that caused Totem's amputation (vicious attack by 2 larger dogs) was so brutal and terrifying for Totem (and me) might he suffer from PTSD? Since he is only 9 days post surgery we have yet to take him for any kind of walk. The attack happened in our neighborhood less than 1/4 mile from our home. I just wonder what to expect when we are able to go on walks if we head in the direction where the attack occurred. Or, could he be oblivious while I'm the only one concerned? Any thoughts or experience?
Wish Cesar Milan was on the site! He would know exactly what to do!
Some thoughts though! YOU are the only one thinking about what to expect, not Totem. Obviously you are already "expecting" the worse. And that is completely understandable. You, and Totem, have been thru an awful ordeal, that's for sure!
Totem will pick up on your energy. If it is fearful and apprehensive, he will definitely feel that energy go straight down the leash.
You need to install a strong, confident, pack leader attitude and let that energy flow down his leash!
As hard as it is, you need to start right NOW visualizing the wonderful walk you two will have!! Visualize over and over seeing how hapoy the two,of you are on this walk. You are walking strong and confidently! You are standing tall! You are enjoying seeing how much fun Totem is having! VISUALIZE THOS BEAUTIFUL WALK OVER AND OVER! Practice standing tall! Practice breathing with confidence! How does that feel?? Do you feel like a strong confident pack leader?? And btw, you ARE!!! Ypu have already shown you are handling a very scary situation!!! You already ARE a strong confident pack leader who can handle anything!!
Totem has already moved on. Your energy is what will ensure that he continues to move on, Try a little "practice walk"....being a toy...a ball...a treat....something for him to focus on as you walk. It will help YOU focus on the fun too!
Don't know if you've spoken to that neighbor, but I would confirm that the dogs are secured in a fence. I mentioned before, I do hope they paid your Vet bills.
Others will chime in with suggestions.
Hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
I'm so sorry to hear what happened to Totem. This must have been very scary for both of you.
I agree with Sally that this must be addressed with the dog owners. You need their assurance that their dogs are restrained/controlled in some manner. Also, this incident should be reported to an animal control officer. These dogs might have done this before. And yes, they need to pay for Totem's vet bills. I know this is an added burden on you. Perhaps a friend or relative can help you deal with this. Knowing some action has been taken will give you more confidence in walking in that area.
Huge hugs for both you and Totem!
Kerren
x2 ditto, totally agree with Sally and Kerren. Now is the time to ensure those dogs won't attack again, since Totem isn't going on any walks right now. Do you have someone who can help with that situation?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Thanks for your replies. Yes, the attacking dogs' owners are paying for Totem's vet bills...at least their insurance company has contacted us to file a claim.
There are no leash laws in our rural neighborhood but I did contact the sheriff. A deputy came out and explained to me, and then to the owners, that now that the dogs are on record for causing "property damage" they must be kept on their own property. I was told that should I see them running loose off their property I should call the sheriff and they would "issue a citation."
These 2 dogs are kept in a 10X10 foot pen, much two small for 2 labs. I learned that the owner would let them out at night to run free. Totem and I were walking at 6:30 Sunday morning when the dogs were still loose.
I have alerted a few other neighbors so I hope if they are seen running off their property someone will call the sheriff. They are penned 24/7 right now to make sure they do not have rabies as I had some nicks on my fingers that were bleeding. They had had their initial rabies shot but did not have the booster one year later.
Oh those poor dogs, what a sad situation. I'm so sorry that your pup paid the price for their owner's ignorance and weak animal control laws. Sheesh.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
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