Three top culprits contributing to a pet’s anxiety are noise such as thunder, separation from the primary caregiver, and social situations with unfamiliar people or other pets.
Illness or pain, cognitive issues due to old age, or a history of abandonment, neglect, and abuse are also factors that could add to your pooch’s stress. There are also certain breeds of dogs more prone to separation anxiety than others.
Common signs of anxiety are panting, tucked tail, pacing, barking, trembling, whimpering, hurting themselves by excessive licking and biting, hiding, exhibiting destructive behavior, trying to escape, or doing their business indoors.
There are ways to alleviate your pet’s anxiety but first consult with your veterinarian to rule out any condition or illness that may be causing the stress.
If your pet’s behavior is anxiety-related, possibly one or a combination of remedies can help.
- Avoid triggers – take notice of what triggers the anxiety and limit or, if possible, avoid those situations. Stay lowkey when coming and going.
- Distract and redirect – divert attention with an interactive toy or treat toy.
- Consistent schedule – pets like routine and consistency. Interruption or change in that routine can be stressful
- Environment – create a calming, predictable environment with low sound and visual stimuli; limit social interaction.
- Exercise and play – make sure your pet is getting plenty of exercise, especially if they get bored lonely in your absence. This tactic will help your pup relax and sleep instead of being destructive.
- Behavior modification – this is a systematic approach to changing behavior
- Desensitization – repeated controlled exposure to a low-intensity stimulus that causes fear or anxiety.
- Counter-conditioning (refocusing) – training to perform a positive behavior in place of anxiety such as sit/stay and then giving a reward.
- Calming aids – place an item of clothing with your scent where your pooch sleeps or in their crate to help with separation anxiety; use anxiety vests in situations such as a thunderstorm; try a natural treatment or prescription anti-anxiety medication recommended by your vet.
It’s not always easy to remain patient with a pet suffering from anxiety, but it’s essential to avoid punishment related to behavior driven by fear and stress.
If your dog shows signs of stress, schedule an appointment with your veterinary office to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Depending on the type or level of anxiety, the vet can recommend the best treatment to help your pooch.
Dr. James Miller, Dr. Katie Leslie, and the entire veterinary staff at both Durham Animal Hospital and North Churton Animal Hospital are dedicated to the well-being of your pet. Call 919-620-7387 in the Durham, NC area or 919-644-7387 in the Hillsborough, NC area to schedule an appointment.
