Helping Your Pet Cope with Anxiety

Dealing with an anxious pet can be challenging for even the most patient pet owners. Knowing the causes, signs, and treatment options for anxiety in pets can help you decide how to best help your furry friend. Look for the following signs of anxiety in your pet if you notice a change in behavior.

Signs of Anxiety

• Pacing
• Whining
• Excessive Panting/Drooling
• Hiding
• Clinginess
• Shaking
• Urinating and defecating
• Destructive behavior (chewing and digging) Causes of Anxiety
• Separation from the owner or companion pet
• Moving to a new home
• Traveling
• Thunderstorms and fireworks
• Vacuums or construction noise

While many pets suffer from anxiety, the good news is that there are numerous treatments out there ranging from prescription medications to apparel designed to reduce anxiety.

Treatments

• Changing up your routine when preparing to leave your pet for any length of time.
• Pheromone remedies that can be plugged right into a wall outlet
• Pheromone releasing collars like these
• A heartbeat harness like this one
• Stuffed animal with heat source and heartbeat like the Snuggle Puppy;
• This American Kennel Club endorsed coat that gives your pet a “bear hug” for comfort for both dogs and cats
• Prescription medications (check with your veterinarian)

Watching your dog suffer from anxiety is tough and can make you feel helpless. Less severe cases of anxiety may be treated by simply changing up your routine, or by using a harness or calming coat. If you suspect your pet is suffering from severe anxiety, talk with your vet about the best course of action. A happy pet is a healthy pet!