Tynan, the Cascadian Nomads founding dog, was terrified of fireworks. He did not panic or freak out like some dogs do and many vets agreed sedation wouldn't help. His instinct was to hide. And, like everything he did in the wonderful 10 years he spent with me, he kept it very cool. In remembering his super speedy about turns towards home every time he'd hear a pop or a crackle, Jason and I smile and laugh. But I also remember that when Tynan would refuse to leave the safety of his home around the 4th of July each year, he'd often not pee or poop for 24 hours or more. I was sick with worry every year. In retrospect, wasn't it amazing that Tynan, who had been bounced out of three homes in the first year and a half of his life, trusted me, our home and his crate enough to protect him from those horrifyingly noisy fireworks? Each year, when I could not coax Tynan outside to urinate even with the promise of a huge cut of steak, I felt as if I was the worst dog mom in the whole world. What was I doing wrong? As I have learned more about dog training and behavior over the years, and how wonderful it is that Tynan trusted me and felt safe in his home, I know I was actually doing everything right. Isn't that always what our very best friends are supposed to teach us?
Typist: Bethany Tynan, the Cascadian Nomads founding dog, was terrified of fireworks. He did not panic or freak out like some dogs do and many vets agreed sedation wouldn't help. His instinct was to hide. And, like everything he did in the wonderful 10 years he spent with me, he kept it very cool. In remembering his super speedy about turns towards home every time he'd hear a pop or a crackle, Jason and I smile and laugh. But I also remember that when Tynan would refuse to leave the safety of his home around the 4th of July each year, he'd often not pee or poop for 24 hours or more. I was sick with worry every year. In retrospect, wasn't it amazing that Tynan, who had been bounced out of three homes in the first year and a half of his life, trusted me, our home and his crate enough to protect him from those horrifyingly noisy fireworks? Each year, when I could not coax Tynan outside to urinate even with the promise of a huge cut of steak, I felt as if I was the worst dog mom in the whole world. What was I doing wrong? As I have learned more about dog training and behavior over the years, and how wonderful it is that Tynan trusted me and felt safe in his home, I know I was actually doing everything right. Isn't that always what our very best friends are supposed to teach us?
14 Comments
7/4/2013 12:10:21 pm
Beautiful pictures! Hope you are having a wonderful 4th!
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7/4/2013 12:38:04 pm
I had a dog several years ago that would jump in the bathtub during thunderstorms, or fireworks. Torrey will hide under the kitchen table. Thankfully nobody tries to run away.
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Bethany
7/9/2013 04:58:18 pm
What trusting dogs! That's the best. Tynan ran once, straight back home. I was horrified at the time but now I know how important that was and what a wonderful bond we had. I hope Torrey kept safe under that table this year!
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7/4/2013 01:15:30 pm
Everyone looks great draped in the flag!! Happy 4th!
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Bethany
7/9/2013 05:01:00 pm
Thank you! I didn't have much around to take festive photos accept for that stars and stripes scarf. The dogs were glad I had nothing to put on their heads!
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7/4/2013 05:28:00 pm
We hope you had a wonderful 4th of July.I too hide either under the sofa or under a dressing table. Hope your day was a good one. Have a fabulous Friday.
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Bethany
7/9/2013 04:59:28 pm
I'm so glad you have a safe place to hide, Molly. And trust in your mom to keep you safe too. Hooray!
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Bethany
7/9/2013 05:02:52 pm
Isn't it funny how there is no rhyme or reason as to why some dogs mind the noise and others don't? I guess people are that way too. At least we all have each other to keep us feeling secure.
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Bethany
7/9/2013 05:05:27 pm
I heard from a lot of people this year how tired they are of all the stress the fireworks cause their families- pets, seniors, small children. Maybe someday those who so enjoy fireworks and those who do not will compromise on how to keep everyone happy and safe.
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Bethany
7/9/2013 05:06:12 pm
Thanks, Emma, we did have a good time!
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