Originally posted by aly
I ... my mouth is hanging open and I have no words. That is one of the most disturbing things I have ever read on this site. That is abuse in my book. I can't even sugar coat it.

PLEASE do not do that, PLEASE.

I can come back with constructive advice later, but right now I'm just so speechless.
Oh my gosh I am in the same boat as you! I could not believe it when I read it, I had to read it about 10 times. I would NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER tape a dogs mouth shut... okay maybe if the dog was a biter & it needed medical attention or something but even then not for hours at a time ESPECISLLY with summer coming. The dog is going to need water, not to mention a million other things that could occur with that action.


as far as yelling at him for it I suggest not to as the dog is getting attention, that *may* be a reason as to why he is barking in the first place.
Has he had a geriatric vet exam? Hearing loss usually results in more or excessive barking. And with his age he may be getting confused more easily.


I would give him a schedule & stick to it, along with extra excersize & mental stimulation toys.
let him out at the same timne everyday, feed him at the same time, excersize him at the same time, preferably multiple times a day.


I'm kinda stressed on time but I'll check back i a day or 2 & add more!
Good luck