"Breathe deeply, and let it be."

4x Int'l Best Selling Author. Traveled the world. Spoken on stages with the greats. And....

I had terrible anxiety most of the time. In fact, even though I've been speaking publicly for almost 30 years to help people lead their lives and businesses with joy and alignment, I STILL get nervous every time I open my mouth. Or press send. :-)

But that "What if?" monster is getting quieter more often.

And that's a good thing.

And calm confidence is what I wish for you, which is why I started this newsletter to help people find more happiness and joy in their lives and their business.

I appreciate that you're here.

So, let's get to it!

What's happening in the Fetch Happy Community?

We have some new subscribers this week - and some exciting news!

1. Mary's puppy: Mary just purchased her first bottle of Completely calm to and left this amazing review!

2. New Affiliate Program - If you're enjoying Completely Calm and want to share it AND earn some income, join our new affiliate program. You can join from our website (scroll down to the bottom) and start earning today.

My sister Sage is at the top of the leaderboard today - thank you Sage for referring such amazing people and for being a great affiliate.

3. Stress Less. Live More. Webinar on April 16. Speaking of my sister Sage, (a fabulous animal communicator, life coach and chocolate maker), we have decided to do a joint webinar on April 16 to share some tips and tactics that we have learned to calm both you and your dog.

We are having fun with this and I hope you'll join us.

​Register here for the live chat.

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The 3 Minute Anxiety Fix

🌿 Breathe Deeply and Let It Be

A Fast & Easy Calming Strategy

When your dog is anxious, their nervous system is on high alert. Instead of waiting for them to “calm down,” use this quick, 3-step method to help them feel safe fast.

Understanding Prolonged Anxiety in Dogs

Dogs experience anxiety for many reasons, but when stress becomes prolonged, it can impact their physical and emotional health (and yours too!)

• Left untreated, chronic anxiety can lead to
• Destructive behaviors (chewing, digging, excessive barking
• Reduced quality of life (fear-based avoidance, inability to relax
• Health issues (digestive upset, immune suppression, skin problems)

Common Causes of Long-Term Anxiety in Dogs

• Separation Anxiety — When a dog becomes overly stressed when left alone.
• Noise Sensitivity — Fear of thunderstorms, fireworks, or loud sounds.
• Changes in Routine — Moving homes, a new pet, or changes in family structure.
• Lack of Socialization — Fear of new people, places, or other dogs.
• Past Trauma — Rescue dogs or those with a history of abuse may have lingering stress triggers.

If a dog is experiencing ongoing anxiety, intervention is key. The faster you address stress, the easier it is to help them feel safe again.

Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs

If your dog shows any of these frequent behaviors, they may be struggling with anxiety:

• Excessive Barking or Whining - Vocalizing often, especially when left alone.
• Panting & Pacing - Restlessness, even when there’s no reason.
• Destructive Behavior - Chewing furniture, digging, or shredding objects.
• Hiding or Avoidance - Retreating under furniture or avoiding eye contact.
• Shaking or Trembling - Uncontrollable trembling in safe environments.
• Aggression or Reactivity - Growling, snapping, or fear-based biting.
• Loss of Appetite or Digestive Issues - Stress-related tummy troubles.
• Excessive Licking or Chewing Paws - Self-soothing that can lead to sores.

If you notice multiple symptoms regularly, it’s time to take action. Start here:

The 3-Minute Anxiety Fix for Dogs

Now that you understand why anxiety happens, here’s a quick way to reduce stress fast and help your dog feel safe.

The Deep Breath & Whisper Technique (1 Minute)

Dogs mirror your energy — if you’re tense, they stay tense. Try this:

• Take three deep breaths near your dog.
• Lower your voice and whisper calmly — dogs respond better to soft tones.
• Say slow, reassuring phrases, like:
• “You’re safe.”
• “I’ve got you.”
• “Good job, buddy.”
• Place one hand on their chest or shoulders for gentle grounding. (The chest or shoulders NOT THE TOP OF THE HEAD is a “safe” place to touch)

Why It Works: This helps slow your dog’s breathing and redirects their focus from stress to safety.

The “Calm Mat” Training Method (2–3 Minutes)

Teaching your dog to settle on a mat or blanket can create a predictable safe space they associate with relaxation.

How to Use the Calm Mat Method:

• Pick a dedicated “calm mat” — a small rug, towel, or blanket your dog can use anywhere.
• Place the mat in a quiet area where your dog naturally likes to rest.
• Encourage them to lie down on the mat and reward them with soft praise or a favorite treat.
• Add a cue word, like “Relax” or “Settle”, whenever they lie down on it.
• Gradually increase the time they spend on the mat while staying calm.

Why It Works: Dogs feel safer when they have a designated “chill zone” — just like humans relax in their favorite chair. Over time, your dog will associate the mat with calmness, helping them self-soothe during anxious moments.

How to Use the Calm Mat for Anxiety Relief:

Before a stress event: Encourage your dog to settle on the mat 5–10 minutes before you leave the house or before a thunderstorm starts.

During stressful moments: If your dog is anxious, redirect them to their mat with a calm voice and a treat.

As a daily practice: Regular use builds their ability to relax on cue, making anxiety triggers easier to handle.

The ‘Reset & Redirect’ Walk (1–2 Minutes)

Movement + sensory engagement helps dogs process stress faster than sitting still.

• If indoors: Guide your dog through a slow, controlled “reset” walk in a small circle or to a different room
• If outdoors: Take a 1–2 minute sniff walk — letting your dog explore new scents naturally lowers stress hormones.
• Reward small relaxations like a deep sigh, a tail wag, or sitting calmly.

Why It Works: Movement releases stress energy, helping your dog shift out of “fight-or-flight” mode.

When used together, these fast, simple steps help your dog feel safe and supported in minutes.

Hit reply and let me know how it's going!

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P.S. Did you know:

Blue whales are the heaviest animals on Earth, with a heart the size of a car. 🐳