Reader-Tested: A Solution for a Scaredy “Dog?”
Shepherd mix "Josie" wears her Thundershirt during training class.
Product: The Thundershirt (www.thundershirt.com)
Tester: Michelle Robinson of Reston, VA and her Shepherd mix, Josie
When NOVADog put out the call for a very nervous doggy to test out The Thundershirt, reader Michelle Robinson of Reston, VA responded with a plea: “I am very interested. I actually thought of buying this before!” So the very nice people at Thundershirt sent out a package to Michelle and Josie, with her specially-sized shirt.
Thundershirt works by applying gentle, constant pressure, which can have a dramatic calming effect on the nervous system for dogs if they are anxious, fearful or over-excited.
“We have been using the Thundershirt pretty consistently when guests come over, and for Josie’s obedience class. The biggest thing I noticed is we have to put it on her at least 45 minutes before guests’ come or her class. Then she has had time to adjust to it and it really does calm her down,” says Michelle. “During her obedience class, she gets VERY excited (to the point of the trainer mentioning medication) but the Thundershirt seems to keep her from lunging at the other dogs and better able to focus on us during the training class.”
Michelle comments that it’s not a complete solution for her. She still works diligently with Josie on keeping her focused around distractions. ”I would say it takes the edge off of her excitement,” notes Michelle. “I’ve attached a picture of her wearing it at dog class!”
Many thanks to Thundershirt for donating the product for our testing session. And thanks to Michelle and Josie for giving it a test-drive!
