Phobia of Outdoor Stimuli and the Car in a Neutered Newfoundland Therapy Dog

Abstract Dorset, a castrated 2-year-old Newfoundland therapy dog, exhibited intense phobic reactions to outdoor and car stimuli following loud noises, affecting his therapeutic functions following exposure to a boat horn. Behavior modification strategies alongside pharmacological interventions – primarily buspirone, trazodone, and situational lorazepam – were trialed to address these fears. Initial progress was hindered by adverse responses to medication and increased anxiety, but gradual improvements in outdoor tolerance and car travel were observed. Later additions to his treatment, including clonidine, aided in managing new fears. Dorset regained the ability to take walks and resume therapy activities, showing how targeted therapy can assist in complex canine phobia cases. Information © The Author 2025