Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Having a dog is such a joy –they are loyal, sweet, and they keep you company. Although a tight bond with your dog is encouraged, you should note that when you need to go on vacation without your pet or leave your dog elsewhere for a while –separation anxiety can be a big problem.

When dealing with separation anxiety, you should think from your dog’s perspective. You must remember that you are the most important thing in your dog’s life. Dogs are not called pack animals for nothing. This means they are very sociable and thrive in groups and will definitely feel alone if you leave them for a while. There are many degrees of separation anxiety and this can range from short term anxiety i.e. from the time you leave home to go to work to the time you come back to something long term and recurring. Basically, the cure for separation anxiety in dogs is for you to be reunited but there’s one story that I would like to share regarding this. When my sister had to go take an exam in another city, she left her black Labrador Retriever home. It was only a week but her dog was so depressed that it started vomiting and didn’t even want to eat. Excessive salivation and inappropriate urinating was also noted by my father who was the only one at home at the time. When my sister came home, the dog was already confined in a local veterinary clinic. It died days after she came home. It is a very sad story and it is something that no one would want to happen. 

What are the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs?

Barking
Whining
Diarrhea
Self Mutilation
Panic Attacks
Chewing
Licking
Excessive Salivation
Crying
Loss of Appetite
Escaping
House Soiling
Howling
Digging
Vomiting
Destructive Behavior
Jumping Through Windows

What should you do to help your dog? 

According to experts, the treatment would depend on the reasons why your dog is experiencing anxiety but whatever the reason, the best trick is to teach your dog how to enjoy being alone from time to time. You can do this by making sure that your dog has food, fresh water, treats, and a warm bed to sleep in when you are not around. There are also ways that your vet will not tell you. One is to leave music on specifically harp music to relax your dog. Studies show that harp music relaxes dogs and it makes them so relaxed that they fall asleep. 

When you get home, giving your dog a massage is a fine idea too because dogs need body contact. This is a good way to you’re your dog feel safe. Basically, making your dog feel relaxed and safe will help. Although some pet owners might start punishing their pets if they chew on things they are not supposed to chew on, one has to know that this is NEVER a good idea. 

Including your dog to most of the things you do is a good way to establish that you love him or her. Pet owners must remember that dogs are pack animals and interaction is one of the things they crave for and need. One veterinarian said that before you think of leaving the house, think whether you can bring your dog or dogs with you or not. If it is possible to have the tag along then it is a good idea to have them tag along. This way, your dog or dogs will be spending more time with you even if you are out.