Rescue dogs - Honey moon period #fear reactivity

It is a common scenario when getting a rescue dog that after several weeks of appearing to be well settled and balanced that they seem to regress and start reacting to other dogs, people, traffic etc
This can be a huge shock to their human guardian, and lead to feelings of shock, self doubt, and powerlessness. This is compounded still further if there is no support or worse still blame from the rescue organisation from whom your animal came – and sadly it happens all too often.
It is important to know that this apparent regression after a honeymoon period is very normal in a badly traumatised dog that has been living in pure survival mode for a long time. Imagine it from the dogs point of view…, they have only had themselves to rely on for physical, emotional support and likely have had bad experiences with humans in the past.
When they first arrive in their new home they are in shock, and for some dogs this presents as emotional shut down. They can appear as if they are settling and content but underneath this calm exterior their are all sorts of emotions bubbling away. The change in environment on its own is a huge transition and even positive change is stressful.
There are two things that can be going on here – one is that until this point your animal companion has never felt safe enough to express their feelings without severe consequences. After a few weeks and they begin to settle and develop trust in you and recognise that they are in a safe environment, they then begin to express their anxiety and feelings. Although it is hugely stressful for a new guardian it shows that your dog trusts you to help keep them ‘safe’.
The other thing that is happening is that mental and emotional trauma is stored in the energy field of the body. As an animal begins to feel safe and more peaceful, the healing process begins. The healing journey can be a messy process for all of us because all these blocked feelings and emotions start to rise to the surface and present in the physical. Your animal will also likely be starting to feel fiercely protective of its new home, people, toys etc
No matter what anyone says to you this is not happening because of anything you are doing wrong… in fact often quite the opposite. You have developed a strong bond with your animal and he trusts you to express how he is feeling. You will however need support to manage this often difficult time of transition.
When looking for support please ensure that any methods are force free and positive. Any form of punishment or admonishment is not the answer. I will drop some links below
A programme of reiki/energy healing can also be very helpful to help your animal relax, and support their healing journey.