My dog Buffy

Question
My female dog Buffy is a Labrador cross GSD she is 7 years old and until recently we were able to go for walks at any time early or late with no problems but over the last few months she will only go with me if one of my grown-up children come with us and she wont go at all with anyone else.  Before 8 o clock a.m. she will only go if we are accompanied then after 10. o clock till apprx. mid afternoon she is fine and we go to the park for 3 hours and she loves it playing with all the dogs and she usually dones not want to go home then after 3 o clock it's back to her not wanting to go unless we are accompanied which is fine if they are in but I would like to know what the problem is.  She gets extremely nervous if there is large crowds and she is afraid of thunder and fireworks.  Can you give me any advise as I want to be able to take her in the evenings after dinner like we used to.  I would be extremely grateful for your advise - thank you - Chrissie..

Answer
I would recommend taking her to the vet and having a full workup.  She is entering her old age and many health issues arise at this stage.  Especially have her eyes checked, as it sounds like she is having issues at times when she may not be able to see as well.