So you’ve got a new animal friend in your life, but when it comes to leaving the house they act like your worst enemy. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are ways to help pets overcome separation anxiety and stay happy while you’re gone. Here’s seven of them:
1) Exercise your pet regularly
Most pets with separation anxiety have a lot of energy pent up from being cooped up in the house all day. Try getting them tired out every single day before you leave for work by playing fetch or Frisbee, going on a long walk or run, or even just romping around the yard.
2) Keep your routine as normal as possible
Pets are highly attuned to changes in their environment, so try to keep the things you do before work and after work consistent. For example, if you feed your pet right before leaving for work every morning, don’t delay or vary that routine. The same goes for coming home – stick to a consistent time and follow your usual routine for feeding, playing with, and cuddling your pet.
3) Create a safe space for your pet
If your dog is suffering from separation anxiety you can create a “safe” room or area inside where they can go to feel alone without feeling anxious. Set up the room so that it has everything they need – food, water, a bed or blanket, and any toys they like. Then, when it’s time for you to go, put your pet in the area and shut the door so they can’t escape. Some pets may whine or bark at first, but if you do this consistently they’ll get used to feeling safe on their own.
4) Desensitize your pet to being alone
If you have a pet with separation anxiety, it’s important that they get used to being left on their own for short periods of time. Start small by leaving them alone for just five minutes at a time while you’re home so they can get used to being by themselves. Then, gradually increase the time you’re gone, keeping track of how your pet acts while you’re away. If they start to look panicked or miserable, come home early or take a longer break next time.
5) Speak to your vet about medication
If all else fails and your pet’s separation anxiety is making it impossible for them to be happy while you’re gone, consider speaking to your vet about medication that can help. Always be sure to talk with your vet before giving your pet any kind of medication, and be aware that these medications usually come with a host of side effects.
6) Seek professional help from a trainer or animal behaviorist
Working with a professional is especially helpful if you have a very anxious pet, or a pet who has been suffering from separation anxiety for a long time. A trainer or animal behaviorist can come to your home and provide you with professional advice on how to help your pet overcome their anxieties, ensuring you get the best results possible.
7) Give your dog CBD oil
If you want to avoid harsh chemicals and drugs that could have negative side effects, consider giving your dog CBD oil for separation anxiety. https://www.peninsuladailynews.com stated that this is a natural remedy made from hemp that has been shown to reduce stress in animals. It can also help with other issues such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, seizures, and mobility problems.
Conclusion
Understanding why your dog acts aggressively toward other dogs is vital if you want to stop it from happening. Aggression in dogs is a serious problem and can even lead to the dog being euthanized if it’s severe enough. Fortunately, most cases of aggressive behavior in dogs are very treatable; however, they will not just go away on their own. In order for you to effectively treat your pet’s aggression, you need to fully understand your dog’s motivations and triggers.