Freya V. Locke - Dog Behaviourist | Author | Blogger. Issue 1, 2024
A Happy New Year to each and every one of you!
Hi Gang
Did you all have an amazing Christmas and New Year? Or was it a bit meh? Or somewhere in between?
I hope it was the former, but if not, then is there anything we can do to help?
I have faffed about with how I want this newsletter to look and feel for a few months. I have finally settled with how this one is today. A lot of dog stuff, with a sprinkling of other bits n bobs.
You might notice I have also wiped out all of the posts at www.freyavlocke.com . I decided to have a new start there too. I'll only share things that are free for you all to access and read. I know the paywall was a problem for non-members of some other websites.
I hope you will find this little corner of the internet cosy and useful in 2024. May all your doggy dreams come true.
On a side note, I almost typed “I hope all your dodgy dreams come true.” That would be a very different newsletter indeed.
Ai Cock-up of the week
![A photorealistic image of a joyful mixed breed dog, with characteristics of a black Labrador and a spaniel, enjoying a windy day. The medium-sized dog has a glossy black coat with wavy textures, long floppy ears, and a happy expression with its tongue out. The background features a sunny day with a vivid blue sky, occasional clouds, and a few tall trees scattered around, adding a sense of depth and nature to the scene. Additionally, a colorful kite is seen flying high in the sky, adding a playful and whimsical element to the composition. The dog stands in a lush green field, fully immersed in this joyful and serene setting. A photorealistic image of a joyful mixed breed dog, with characteristics of a black Labrador and a spaniel, enjoying a windy day. The medium-sized dog has a glossy black coat with wavy textures, long floppy ears, and a happy expression with its tongue out. The background features a sunny day with a vivid blue sky, occasional clouds, and a few tall trees scattered around, adding a sense of depth and nature to the scene. Additionally, a colorful kite is seen flying high in the sky, adding a playful and whimsical element to the composition. The dog stands in a lush green field, fully immersed in this joyful and serene setting.](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F6e82b242-c9f9-4833-a5bb-022b93d2a355_1024x1024.webp)
Fun Not Fear® Journal
How were your dogs with the fireworks at New Year?
My old girl Ruby was deaf as a post and couldn’t give a flying duck about the fireworks. We could even walk her through a display, and she wouldn’t bat an eyelid. My Moo took his cues from her and saw she was ok, so they didn’t bother him either.
Twyla, though, is not so keen. She thinks that they must be somehow related to that pesky postman or the Amazon man. So, she must bark at the door to see them off.
Luckily, there are things we can do. First, the sound of Taiko Drums, a radio, and the washing machine can mask distant fireworks effectively. Basically, play anything that makes a banging noise that you can create on various levels around your home at the same time so your dog can attribute the bangs to that. Make a noise in the weeks leading up to fireworks. Gradually increase the volume so your dog is not surprised by all the racket.
For bangs that are closer, pairing each boom with a prompt shower of cheese seems to do the trick nicely. Your dog might like something else more, but be sure it is something they really, really love. By the end of the evening, Twyla was not remotely bothered by the fireworks, even the close ones.
For very scared dogs, we offer noise desensitisation programs. We teach our clients these programs both online and in person. Additionally, the Dog’s Trust website offers a free, fantastic resource worth checking out.
The earlier you start work on your dog’s noise sensitivities, the better the outcome once the next lot of scary fireworks come around.
My Wonderful Dog Made Me So Insanely Proud Today. - How this Scrumperdinger made my whole year and changed my world in just a few seconds.
2024 — The Year Of The Banned Breed And The Stupidity Of Humans. - 2024 is not all it’s cracked up to be for some poor, innocent souls.
Spotted and sharing.
I read this article by Medium writer Nate Zachary, about his dog, and it is simply perfect. I know you will enjoy it too. I challenge you not to have a lump in your throat by the end!
Falling Back in Love With My Firstborn
My other posts - because I write about other stuff too!
It’s NYE, And I Have Run Out Of Things To Give Up. - Now, what do I do?
Handy links.
So that’s it for your first newsletter of 2024! Let’s make 2024 a brilliant year.
Warm and fuzzies,
Freya xx