This worried pet owner is concerned over her Jack Russel’s bizarre behaviour of compulsively licking everything. Scolding doesn’t work, so what can she do?

Question:

Hi Glynne;

I have 2 JRT’s - mommies proud and joy!

Savanna is my baby she is a 1 y old female that does not stop licking. She licks EVERYTHING!
She licks us, the couches, she licks other dogs, she licks the floor and anything that she comes across.
Our vet said that we should just scold her for licking; but surely after a years worth of scolding one hundred million times a day she should have learnt?
We are really battling with this problem?

Kind regards
Chantell

Hi Chantell
And how is the scolding working for you?!
The best you can do for Savanna is get professional help because your dog’s compulsive licking is a serious problem and cannot be dealt with successfully on this site.
The trouble with an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is the more you scold the worse you make it, and she also stands the risks of developing other obsessive disorders if not dealt with right away.
If you are interested in making an appointment with me, kindly telephone (031) 765 1958, or if you reside in a province other than KZN, please visit www.ethology.com for a specialist in your area.
Please help you little angel instead of chastising her and stressing her further!
Glynne