Believe it or not...your pets can have anxiety. Anxiety can be triggered by many things such as separation or even traveling. Anxiety is often considered the most common reason for stress in dogs. Educating yourself on what to look for will help your pet.
There are a few ways to determine if your pet has separation anxiety such as: Your pet craves physical contact or attention or follows you from room to room. Some pets shake uncontrollably, exhibit heavy panting, drooling or even refuse to eat. Some symptoms to watch out for are excessive whining or becoming withdrawn or depressed. Some pets exhibit extreme behavior such as becoming destructive. This includes destroying shoes or furniture such as the couch.
However exercise, training and reconditioning can help relieve this. A great way to reduce separation anxiety is to calmly greet or say goodbye to your pet. By establishing a routine and helping your pet develop independence they will learn not to be so clingy. A simple way to start off is by teaching your pet the command of 'stay'. If your pet can learn to remain by themselves for a short amount of time they can learn to be alone without being overwhelmed for longer periods. Don't forget taking your pet for a walk is good exercise and also helps them calm down.
If your pet needs to be in a crate throughout the day or while traveling it's important to ensure they are comfortable. Adding some of their favorite toys or a blanket can be calming. If your pet travels with you it's important to be sure to keep your car comfortable and stop for breaks often.
Sometimes pets have anxiety for reasons beyond our control such as bad weather or fireworks. Luckily there are some great products on the market that can help. There are shirts designed to calm your pet during storms called ThunderShirts.
Lastly, Doggy Daycare is becoming more popular and it could be a great option If your pet must be left alone for extended periods of time. Outings during the day can help your pet with socializing and it's a great way to get exercise.
Pet anxiety can be stressful for the whole family but luckily there are ways to help. Do you know any other tips? Join our community forum!
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