Separation anxiety in dogs—and all pets—has been an issue that pet parents have struggled with for ages. Have you ever noticed your dog whining when you leave? Whether staying close to home in Brevard County or making a day trip to Orlando, your pup is visibly distraught, making it difficult to go anywhere for any length of time. Driving from Rockledge to Melbourne can result in dangerous and sometimes destructive behavior.
Do you come home only to find the corner of the couch has been gnawed on?
Are your doors filled with scratches?
If these are the typical problems you encounter, your dog may have separation anxiety.
The first thing to determine is if your dog actually has separation anxiety. What you may assume to be stress could be a case of doggie boredom. As a pet parent, you may have to spy on your dog. Set up a camera or go to a window to watch what he does when you leave.
Does he quietly walk over to the garbage and rifle through it? Or does he desperately try to claw his way out of the window? Is he bored or scared? Let’s try to get to the bottom of this!
Boredom, Mild Isolation Distress, or Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
A dog that suffers isolation distress means that he doesn’t want to be left alone. Having a pet service come by can help ease your dog’s anxiety during the day. A friendly face is sure to brighten their day!
Having another dog to play with can help. Keeping toys available that challenge and entertain is another way to keep your dog doing anything but worrying about you. You can also leave the TV or radio on. If the dog is used to the TV being on all day, having it turned off when you go can lead to confusion. Many of our clients ask us to do that when caring for their anxious pets.
Calming treats can be used. Soft chews with all-natural ingredients, such as CBD oil, can be tasty and help ease the dog’s nervousness. They are also beneficial if the dog gets nervous during thunderstorms or fireworks.
Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs – What to Look For
Separation anxiety manifests in the dog as panic. With pent-up nervous energy, the dog is desperate to get out and go. The destructive behavior of biting, scratching, and clawing is also evident.
A dog’s separation anxiety should not be taken lightly. If left untreated, the dog can injure himself during a panic attack. Dogs have been known to try to break through a window or, worse, try to escape the overwhelming anxiety. Treating severe separation anxiety involves teaching the dog to relax when you are not with him. As you may know, this is sometimes easier said than done.
Some dogs are not used to being away from their pack. Like his family, you are now his pack. When the pack leaves, he panics. You have to help him understand the new normal—that being alone is okay. Giving the dog a simple treat will not distract him from the anxiety. You must be clever and take small steps to accomplish this goal.
Trusted Tips to Help Your Dog With Separation Anxiety
Your dog may start getting nervous when he sees you put on your shoes. If that is the case, try putting on and removing your shoes multiple times throughout the day. He will get used to you changing shoes and not associate it with you leaving him.
Another trick is to dress like you are leaving the house and play inside with him. Or you can put on your work clothes, give him a treat, and step outside the door. Wait a few minutes, then come back in. Keep increasing the time before you re-enter. He’ll adapt and overcome. Sneaky! You may have to enlist help from family and friends. Having a dog sitter or dog-walking service come over will also help with the anxiety.
An active dog is a tired dog. Giving a dog plenty of exercise daily will encourage him to rest and not stress, which is true for any level of anxiety a dog may face. Exercising the dog for 20 minutes or so before you leave will give him plenty of time to calm down. Chances are, a well-exercised pup will nap before you get to the end of the driveway.
You can also make your departure and return a low-key affair. Instead of encouraging big sloppy dog kisses, give a friendly welcome pat and discuss your business. There will be time to play later.
An all-natural essential oil like T-Away can help calm and comfort your dog. It can be applied to its fur or diffused near its crate in an open, well-ventilated area. This method has been tried and true in my home with both guest pups and mine.
A dog’s separation anxiety is heartbreaking. However, with loving care, your pet can overcome this. It won’t be easy, but with patience and dedication, you can help your dog understand that being alone does not have to be scary.
Pet care professionals provide dog walking, house visits, and pet sitting to help with separation anxiety. Having a friendly face to visit and play with can ease your dog’s separation when his pet parent leaves home. If all other methods prove unsuccessful, it’s probably time you consult your vet for possible medical intervention.
We provide reliable, trustworthy care for your dogs (and cats!) when they get lonely. Book now or contact us at Space Coast Pet Services and let us help ease your mind and your pup’s the next time you need to spend some time away from home.
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