Question
Jenni
My 3 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Jenni, started chasing shadows and lights about 2 months ago. I am worried about her safety because she runs at walls to get at them. Lately she seems upset at times, and will periodically look up at the ceiling and stare, look away, then look up again. This can go on for hours. Her checkup at the vet was good, and he thinks this is a compulsive disorder. I have tried to minimize the problem in the house by closing curtains to eliminate direct sunlight, and putting away objects that might reflect. Unless safety is an issue, I try to ignore the behavior. She is a rescue from a puppy mill, where she spent her first 2 years. The mill was shut down due to the horrid conditions found there, with 4 - 5 Cavaliers in a rabbit cage. She seemed to adjust well to my home, and, until this started, was a happy dog. We walk most days, and I play with her every day, so she gets exercise. We've been to a training class, and she learned basic commands very quickly. We still practice her skills. Jenni's problem started when a well-meaning friend played with her using a laser pointer when I had to be away for a day. Is there anything else I can do for her before we try medication (Prozac), which my vet said may be necessary at least for a while? I'd really like that to be a last resort. Thank you for any information you can give me.
AnswerWHY people use laser pointers to 'play' with cats and dogs is beyond me. I wouldn't let that person IN MY HOUSE again.
You need a veterinary behaviorist. Your dog requires a complete neurological evaluation and is going to require hands on evaluation by someone expert who can prescribe appropriate medication. "Prozac" is not a drug of choice in my opinion due to the side effects, one of which can be extreme increase in anxiety. From the following list, you may be able to find a veterinary behaviorist within a reasonable driving distance (a few hours each way). Bring copy of all records from your present veterinarian. If you are unable to locate one, call the veterinary college in your geographical area and ask for referral:
http://www.veterinarybehaviorists.org/
http://www.avsabonline.org/avsabonline/
It is possible that there is a neurological problem set off by the idiot with the laser. This sort of low level seizure disorder is not uncommon in your breed. While waiting for an appointment, each time the dog demonstrates this behavior put her immediately on leash. Be casual and CALM (very important). Simply restrain her, redirect her to a "sit" for food reward and praise, and stay calm for a few minutes. Often obsessive compulsive behaviors or low level seizure behaviors respond to leash restraint: the dog knows it is restrained, associates the restraint with reward, and is calmer. This should help in the short term.
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