WHAT TO WATCH FOR AND HOW TO HELP Up, Up, and Asleep Pet Anxiety 101
Have you ever wondered how birds manage to fly thousands of miles without a layover? For one seabird, the secret is a good power nap … in the sky … mid-flight. The great frigatebird can stay aloft for two months without touching the ground and snoozes while its wings are still busy flapping. While scientists once thought the idea of birds staying air-bound for their shut eye was just a feathered fable, new research is shedding light on the frigatebird’s rest routines. Frigatebirds are unique among seabirds because they can’t swim. Though they fly over large bodies of water, they can’t take a break on the sea, as they could drown. Researchers began to wonder how these birds undertake this voyage without sleeping. Surely, the flyers had to be catching z’s while in the pilot’s seat, right? A study found that these seabirds take 10-second siestas, totaling about 45 minutes of sleep a day. They still have to do a little steering with their eyes closed, so they only shut down one side of their brain. This allows them to avoid mid-air crashes, and it only occurs when they glide upward on an updraft. Other birds, like mallard ducks, literally sleep with one eye open. Like the frigatebird, they keep one side of their brain awake so they can react to movement, predators, and the world around them. But their earth-bound naps are not quite as impressive. The majority of bird species like to find a comfy perch, like a branch, when they sleep. They keep their feet tight around the support so they don’t take a tumble while they dream. They usually sleep for a minute at a time for about 10–12 hours of rest each day. Does the thought of micro-naps while soaring through the skies make you feel tired? Renowned artist Leonardo da Vinci is rumored to have slept only 90 minutes every day, in 15-minute bursts. But he did that on land. For the rest of us, high-altitude power naps are only for the birds. The Birds Who Snooze While Soaring
An anxious pet is an unhappy pet. If your dog or cat appears uneasy or fearful much of the time, it’s wise to look into the causes and help your pet gain confidence. Signs of anxiety in a pet may include drooling, panting or rapid breathing, flattened ears, and destruction of toys or furniture. Dogs may signal their unease by whining or licking their lips. An anxious cat may drop their head below the level of their shoulders, keep their tail low, and meow more often than usual. Pets become anxious for a variety of reasons. They may suffer from separation anxiety over your departure. Loud or unfamiliar sounds may unnerve a pet. And puppies or kittens that weren’t socialized young may be fearful of facing new things, such as the arrival of a guest. Here are three ways a concerned pet owner can help. Offer Comfort
Pets are reassured by predictable routines. Simple things like asking your dog to sit before petting them or scheduling meals and walks at the same time each day can give your pet a sense of control. For dogs, crate-training can provide a secure refuge during unexpected events. You might teach your pet to stay in their crate during family mealtimes, for example, so they see the crate as a secure place.
Also, teach your dog to respond to commands to come to your side, sit, or lie down. This enables you to distract them when
anxiety-producing situations arise, such as the approach of a stranger. Your dog will learn that obeying your commands is a way to achieve safety and security. Modify Their Behavior Another method of addressing anxiety is desensitization, or exposing your pet to low levels of the upsetting stimulus and gradually increasing their exposure as they get used to it. If your cat is afraid of strangers, have a friend role-play a visitor who arrives at your house and stands at a distance. Reward your cat when they remain calm. Then gradually decrease the distance between your cat and the visitor. Another strategy is counter-conditioning. This entails giving your pet a treat or other positive reinforcement every time they encounter something that causes anxiety. For example, if your kitten is afraid of the family dog, give them a treat every time the dog comes near. Get a Checkup If your pet continues to suffer, ask your veterinarian for help. They will be able to rule out physical causes of anxiety, such as pain or a thyroid disorder. They may also be able to suggest medication or other strategies to help your pet enjoy life again.
2 970-856-4474
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator