Revisited: Redefining Reactivity, Recognizing Trauma in Your Dog with Dr Laura Donaldson

What if “reactivity” isn't the whole story?What if the behaviour we find difficult in our dogs is actually communication - an expression of fear, overwhelm, a nervous system on high alert, or a dog who simply doesn't feel safe?In this Revisited episode of Mystic Dog Mama, I return to my very first conversation with Dr Laura Donaldson, a conversation that had a profound impact on how I understood Lucky and the way I approached our relationship.I first discovered Laura's work when I was desperately looking for help with Lucky's reactivity. At the time, I was experiencing so much of what can come with living alongside a dog who finds the world difficult: overwhelm, fear, isolation, grief, and the constant worry that somehow you're letting your dog down.Laura introduced me to a different way of seeing things.Rather than asking “How do I stop this behaviour?”, she encouraged me to become curious about what was happening underneath it - and to ask:“What do I need to learn from you to help you feel safe in this context?”That question has stayed with me. And over time, it became part of a much bigger shift in how I related to Lucky. Learning to listen differently, understanding regulation, paying attention to my own nervous system, supporting his gut health, and bringing together the physical, emotional and relational pieces of his wellbeing have all played a part.Today, Lucky is a dog who genuinely enjoys being in the world, and I enjoy being in it with him.That's why I wanted to revisit this conversation.In this episode, we explore:Why the language of “reactivity” can sometimes limit how we understand our dogsWhat might be happening underneath behaviours such as reactivity and aggressionUnderstanding trauma and its potential impact on our dogsThe importance of safety and emotional resilienceHow our own nervous systems and experiences can become part of the pictureAsking better questions of our dogs rather than simply trying to stop unwanted behavioursHow we can become stronger advocates for our dogsSupporting dogs who carry emotional charge in their bodiesLaura's approach to grounding and regulationEFT and energy work as possible tools for supporting emotional wellbeingThe relationship between compassion for our dogs and compassion for ourselvesContinue the conversationLearn more from Dr Laura Donaldsonhttps://fourpawsfourdirections.com/Start your holistic journeyDownload my free Mystic Dog Mama Nourishment Starter Kit for practical guidance on fresh food, energetics, targeted support, curiosity, and holistic health:https://mysticdogmama.comJoin The Nourished PackContinue the conversation with like-minded dog guardians inside our free community:https://facebook.com/groups/thenourishedpackJoin me for one of my upcoming Cook-Alongs!Saturday 26th September 10am-1pm UK timeSaturday 3rd October 5pm-8pm UK time (12pm ET// 10am MT// 9am PT)Information and booking: https://mysticdogmama.com/upcoming-eventsIf this episode resonated with you…Please consider following the podcast and leaving a rating or review. It helps more soul-led dog guardians discover these conversations and supports the growth of this community.And if someone came to mind while listening, I'd love for you to share this episode with them.Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease, or replace medical guidance. Please speak with your veterinarian.