Does Your Pet Freak Out When You Leave the House?

Dogs or cats that have separation anxiety show distress and behavioral problems as they are left alone. Some of the more typical ways:

·       Scratching and digging at windows or doors trying to reunite with owners

·       Destructive chewing

·       Whining, barking, and howling

·       Defecation and urination

Separation Anxiety: What Causes It?

It isn’t completely understood why some cats and dogs suffer with separation anxiety and others do not. However, keep in mind, your pet’s behaviors are a portion of a panic response. Your pet is not punishing you! He or she just wants you to come back home!

The following are some of the situations that may cause separation anxiety:

·       Change in the family's structure or routine, or the loss of a loved one or other animal.

·       Experiencing a traumatic event, like time at a boarding kennel or shelter.

·       Being left alone when used to consistent human contact.

·       Being left alone for the very first time.

Treating Minor Separation Anxiety

·       Do not make a huge deal out of departures and arrivals — ignore your pet for the first couple of minutes then you can eventually gently pet them.

·       Leave your pet with recently worn clothing that smells like you.

·       Establish an action or word to use each time you leave which lets your pet know you will return.

·       Think about using an over-the-counter (OTC) calming product which decreases fearfulness in pets.

How to Deal with A More Serious Issue

Use the methods outlined above in conjunction with desensitization training. Teach your pup the down-stay and sit-stay commands with the use of positive reinforcement. The training will assist them in learning that they can stay happily and calmly in one place while you travel to another room.

Develop a "safe place" to restrict your pet’s capability of being destructive when you are away. A safe place ought to:

·       Confine the pet loosely (room that has toys and a window, not complete isolation)

·       Contain interesting toys for distraction

·       Have dirty laundry that lends a calming scent cue or additional safety cues

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Author of article: Kristen Brady