Treat Separation Anxiety by Changing Habits

Treat Separation Anxiety tips.

Treat Separation Anxiety tips

Does your dog suffer from separation anxiety when you leave home? There are many ways to calm your dog or hold their attention. But there are also ways to curb it by changing habits and triggers

• Develop Better Bathroom Habits: On average, dogs use the bathroom every four to six hours, but because you were home more often, they may have become used to more regular bathroom trips. Build better bladder control by spacing out their walks or backyard outings.
• Use a Dog Walker: If you’re planning on being out of home for longer than six hours at a time, hiring a dog walker is a wise move. Keep in mind that if you’re going this route, it’s best to start planning now to introduce your dog to this new person.
• Routine Cues Are Key: Desensitizing your animals to the cues they associate with you leaving can help to take the stress out of your departure. Get dressed, grab your keys, and head out the door. Come back a few minutes later and settle in for your day. Try this over a couple of weeks prior to your office start-date, leaving for longer periods of time. After a few days you’ll notice your pet introduces their own routine of saying goodbye, napping, and welcoming you home. This is known as the planned departure technique and works wonders to build a routine when you ultimately do leave your pet for the office or school.
• Don’t Forget About Cats: Cats often hide their stress much better than dogs, but often feel it way more. When stressed will become either clingy or more withdrawn or exhibit similar behaviors to dogs, like peeing outside the litter box or tearing up furniture or personal items. The planned departure technique can also help your cat with anxiety when you leave.

Tips provided by Vetster