Understanding and Addressing Anxiety in Dogs:
A Guide for Pet Owners
Written by: Larissa Shoop (RVT), Brittany Burgess(RVT)
Anxiety is not limited to humans; our beloved dogs can also experience this challenging condition. Just like us, they may exhibit signs of fear and distress, often in anticipation of something they perceive as painful or frightening.
Addressing Anxiety:
Avoiding triggers: If you know of specific triggers that cause anxiety in your pet, try to minimize exposure to them whenever possible. Additionally, gradually desensitizing your pet to these triggers through a positive and gradual exposure plan can help rescue their anxiety response over time.
Making stressful situations enjoyable: For situations that cannot be avoided, such as vet visits, try to associate them with positive experiences. Bring treats or toys to create a positive association and help your dog/cat feel more at ease.
Noise management: During thunderstorms or fireworks, providing background noise, such as turning on the TV or playing soft music, can help distract your dog/cat and drown out the anxiety-inducing sounds.
Calming aids: Various products, such as thundershirts (pressure wraps), pheromone diffusers (Feliway for cats, Adaptil for dogs), and even medication prescribed by your veterinarian, can help calm anxious dogs/cats in certain situations.
Early socialization: Enrolling puppies and kittens in socialization classes at a young age is highly beneficial. These classes expose them to different people, environments, and noises, helping them develop confidence and prevent anxiety later in life.
Remember, every dog/cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. If you’re concerned about your pet’s anxiety levels, consult with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations, including behavior modification techniques or medication if necessary.
By addressing anxiety in our dogs and cats, we can create a happier, more relaxed environment for them and strengthen our bond as pet owners.