Help your dog deal with separation anxiety.
THERE are a number of signs that your dog will display if it is experiencing separation anxiety.
These include becoming agitated as you are preparing to leave the house, displaying destructive or bad behaviour while you are away, or becoming overly clingy when you return.
There are many causes of separation anxiety, however common reasons can include your dog associating being alone with a bad experience, i.e. it may have been frightened by a thunderstorm while you were out.
Changes in routine such as the kids going back to school and you going back to work can also induce anxiety.
Dogs are very much creatures of habit and because they are also pack animals, if the family suddenly leave them for an extended period, it can cause serious distress.
Obedience training from an early age will help combat displays of bad behaviour caused by anxiousness.
Your dog will be less likely to act out when you leave because of the leadership role you have established.
Plenty of exercise before you leave the house can also have a positive effect, as burning positive energy will mean your dog will have less nervous energy while you are out.
Keeping your dog or puppy entertained with toys and games, such as hiding treats, can help keep your dog stimulated with positive activities when it is by itself.
Giving your dog some alone time while you are at home can also reinforce that it doesn’t need to be by your side constantly to feel safe and secure.
While it may not be suitable for some, adopting animals in pairs can also help negate the negative feelings of separation.
If you would like to learn more about what you can do to help your pet adjust to separation, why not attend our seminar for “fretful friends.”
You will learn tricks and handy hints on how to manage your pet’s anxiety from the RSPCA’s expert behaviourists.
For more information visit rspcavic.org or call 9224 2222.
