The Coronavirus pandemic has had a massive impact on daily life for everyone around the world, with many people spending more time at home. Dogs like us are very social creatures, but as children return to school and parents start returning to work after this extended period at home, there is a concern that some dogs are showing signs of separation anxiety. So here are some tips to help you.
So what is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety is the stress felt when an animal is away from its owner. In the wild dogs are part of a pack and relish company. It is a complex problem and separation anxiety can vary greatly in its severity.
After spending 24 hours a day with your pet for months, leaving the house for long periods of time may cause distress and separation anxiety if introduced too quickly. This may have a huge impact on their daily life and should not be underestimated. Of course, all dogs are different and whilst some may easily revert to their old routines, for others, who have loved having their human companions around all the time, it may be difficult
It is often difficult to know if your dog is suffering as their symptoms will take place when you are apart. So, take notice of your dogs’ behaviour as you prepare to leave the house…for example as you pick up your car keys or put your coat on. Anxious dogs may scratch furniture, pace, chew objects or toilet inside.
To adapt, changes should not be made overnight, there should be a gradual increase in the time you spend away from your dog. At first, try closing off a section of the house and increasing ‘alone time’, or go out for a quick walk alone. By gradually increasing the time you are away from your dog, this will give them time to adjust rather than just introducing everything all in one go.
Marlena de Martini-Price is a world-renowned specialist on Separation Anxiety and has written a great book and has a very informative Facebook page. So have a read of her very informative blog "Avoiding Separation Anxiety When You Go Back To Work" which goes into detail on this subject.
Martina has also written a course called Mission Possible to help you work through the steps of working with your dog in these situations.
Here at Healthful Pets, we sell a great range of all natural, hand-picked calming products which may help your dog during the adjustment period.
A few are highlighted below:
- Dorwest Scullcap and Valerian Tablets and Dorwest Valerian Liquid Also available as a "combo"
- Dr Mercola Stress Support for Pets
- Proflax Calm & Collected
- A Vogel / Bioforce Separation Essence
- Vince The Vet Fears and Anxieties for restlessness and anxious behaviour or Vince The Vet Grief Relief for sadness, depression, moping / whining / pining is more evident. Where a pet is severely affected, both can be given together.
The Pet Remedy Range also has different alternatives including Plug-In diffusers and Calming Sprays.
There is something for every pet.
