Back on track, somewhat

Well, I didn't adhere completely to the umbilical cord approach for three solid days, but I think my modified approach was still productive. Sofi came out of "turtle" mode on Day 2 (Sunday) and I started giving her (OK, myself) some freedom when she began demonstrating a bit more willingness to engage with me.

We switched over to the retractable leash, which she appreciated. Dr. Bradley approved an rx for anti-anxiety, and within an hour of taking one tonight, we had her walking down the sidewalk out front with her tail up! We went halfway down the block and back. When we came back, she burned off plenty of energy in the back yard, then followed me around the house (inside) several times--no leash involved. My biggest concern about her outside is the speed with which she launches herself through the yard, sometimes clipping a tree with her shoulder or coming dangerously close to the edge of the pond. She has a lot more speed and energy than dexterity at this point, and I just cringe when she is zooming around out there.

I have ordered a plug-in diffuser with pheromones for dog calming, so between that and the anti-anxiety meds, she should be the picture of placidness! I know the anti-anxiety meds are not to be taken lightly, but I just feel like this is an appropriate situation for them--she wants to move forward, and I think this will help her do the things she wants to do. There is a happy dog inside there, if she can just dig out through the fear.