HELPING YOUR DOG WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY
Tips and Tricks to Use at Home Most dogs are at least a little sad to be away
First, give your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout their day. Tiredness generally decreases stress and provides outlets
from their owners, but some of them experience more than a bit of loneliness. Separation anxiety occurs when a dog experiences extreme stress when left alone. Animal behaviorist Patrica McConnell likens separation anxiety to a panic attack — one that happens every time you leave your dog alone. No one knows for sure why some dogs are prone to separation anxiety. Possible reasons could include either never having been left alone at a young age or previously experiencing abandonment. A traumatic event during their owner’s absence or a significant life change might also trigger the condition. Separation anxiety can manifest with excessive barking or howling, signs of fear, destructive behavior, accidents in the house, or extreme attempts to escape. It is one of the most common reasons that people relinquish their dogs, but the condition is treatable with patience, dedication, and kindness.
for their behaviors. Some dogs also find crate training helpful. Before attempting to use one when you’re away, assess how your dog currently behaves in, and responds to, their crate. If spending time there stresses them out, this idea won't help.
Other dogs find success with slow and steady conditioning. Try not to make a big deal out of coming or going, but give them a special treat when you leave or a toy they can only use when you’re gone. Next, build up routines around your departure and desensitize your dog to them. For example, put on your shoes and coat but don't leave. Finally, start with short separations of only a few minutes, and build up to longer ones. Once your pooch learns you’re always coming back, they’re likely to have less anxiety.
While many cases of separation anxiety can be treated at home, more severe occurrences will likely require expert help. If your dog is damaging property, hurting or endangering themselves or others,
or becoming physically ill from their anxiety, give your vet a visit for further guidance. You may need an expert trainer or medication to help your dog. We’ll help you find the resources you need to ensure your pup is safe, healthy, and happy.
Clients Spreading the Word Scooby Stew Inspired by HappyAndYummy.com
Michael Atkins
INGREDIENTS
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2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed
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2 large chicken breasts
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2 lbs dog-safe frozen vegetable mix
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2 1/2 cups water
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1 cup uncooked brown rice
DIRECTIONS
1. Cut each chicken breast into 6 pieces. In a slow cooker, place chicken and all other ingredients. Ensure that each piece of chicken is completely covered with vegetables. 2. Cook for 5 hours on high or 8 hours on low. 3. Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken. 4. In a large bowl, stir the mixture until the ingredients are evenly mixed. 5. Wait until everything has fully cooled, then serve. (Stew can be refrigerated in a covered container for up to 3 days or frozen into single-serve portions.)
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