Tips For Handling Dog Separation Anxiety
Posted on: 20 June 2019
Your dog is a member of your family and you want the best for them, which is why instead of leaving them at home when you're at work or enjoying a day out, you send them to dog daycare. However, when you leave your dog at daycare or at home, your beloved pooch may start exhibiting the signs of separation anxiety.
If you are dealing with dog separation anxiety when you leave your four-legged family member at home or at daycare, here are some tips to help you deal with it.
Recognize the Signs of Separation Anxiety
Most dogs love nothing more than being with their owners and family. When your dog is separated from you, it causes distress. Many dogs are able to deal with this distress and have no reaction to being left at home or doggie daycare. Unfortunately, for other dogs, this distress will manifest in any number of symptoms, including the following:
- Excessive chewing
- Digging and scratching
- Barking, whining, and howling
- Pacing
Some dogs will also urinate or defecate in the home, even if they have been potty trained for several months or years.
If your dog is exhibiting the signs of separation anxiety at home, ask your dog daycare if they are showing the same symptoms there as well.
Make Going to Daycare Fun
Your dog is used to the routine of your home and knows that when they jump into the car in the morning, they are headed to dog daycare. Instead of stressing out, which in turn stresses your dog out, make going to the daycare fun. For example, leave a special toy in the car or a piece of clothing that smells like you or another family member.
Remain positive during the ride and give your dog plenty of treats throughout the trip. When you get to daycare, give your dog another treat, drop them off, and walk away. Avoid drawing out the goodbyes because this could trigger your dog's anxiety even more.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
If your dog is exhibiting severe symptoms of separation anxiety, either at home or at daycare, and you are getting worried they might hurt themselves or another dog, talk to your veterinarian. Your vet will help you understand separation anxiety and look for treatments that can help. For example, your veterinarian might recommend over-the-counter herbal medications or prescription medications to help ease the symptoms of separation anxiety.
If your dog is suffering from separation anxiety at home or at doggie daycare, recognizing the symptoms, making the trip to daycare fun, and working with your veterinarian can help you and your dog feel better.
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