Yes, the holder absolutely scares her. Dogs don't like to stay on something unstable. I got the holder before and returned it immediately, because I knew right away they won't step on it. It made floppy sounds, it somewhat moved when you touch it, no way they would come near it, it was uneven to the floor as well. So yes, absolutely remove the holder. It also depends on dogs but I think all dogs afraid of unstable, slippery flooring. Try scotching it to the floor, or get washable reusables, I absolutely love those. Try to find the one that look similar to the pads you use, I was able to find white with blue bottom, love them.