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In my line of work, I've encountered countless dogs with separation anxiety, and I know firsthand just how distressing it can be for both pets and their owners. Today, I want to share my experiences and insights on separation anxiety from my perspective, in the hope that it may help others going through a similar journey.
A New Client's Struggle
Recently, I started walking a 14-year-old pup who had just been adopted by a wonderful loving owner. This furry friend had only been in his new home for four weeks and had grown accustomed to being his owner's constant companion. While it's heartwarming to witness such a close bond between them, it came with unintended consequences—separation anxiety.
This adorable pup is the definition of a "velcro dog." His owner took him everywhere when she wasn't at work, which is undoubtedly wonderful. However, the downside was that he became extremely upset when left alone. The initial weeks are rough, to say the least, but with time and patience, he can overcome his anxiety.
I can empathize with the challenges of separation anxiety, as my own dogs struggled with it when they were adopted. Hanalei, used to bark excessively, scratch at doors, and even tear up the trash when left alone. Max, on the other hand, had it even worse. He would run amuck in the house, finding his way upstairs, past multiple barricades, tearing apart beloved items with enthusiasm. Max would howl, wreak havoc around the house, and would become inconsolable when we left him alone. Even in a crate, he would defecate on himself and be ridden with shakes and nervous anxiety. It was heart-wrenching to see him in such distress. But we didn't give up; we started practicing techniques to ease his anxiety.
We began by gradually getting our dog used to our departures, hiding treats and food for him to find, and even playing calming classical music. Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and enrichment toys helped immensely. It took time, but these strategies eventually started to work wonders. I want to reassure all pet owners going through this that it's a normal phase, and almost every dog I've known has experienced separation anxiety initially.
The key to overcoming separation anxiety is understanding that it's a process. In the case of my new client, the first week he was left alone, he barked incessantly. The second week, he switched to whining. And now, in the third week, he's taken up the habit of chewing on drywall. But here's the crucial part—each week has shown improvement. We must be patient and trust the process, even when it's difficult to watch.
Yes, it's stressful to watch your beloved pet struggle with separation anxiety. Let's delve into some expert insights on dealing with separation anxiety.
1. Be Patient: Dogs with separation anxiety aren't trying to get back at you; they're terrified. Yelling or punishing them will only worsen the problem. Remind yourself that your dog is worth the effort.
2. Wear Them Out: Exercise your dog mentally and physically before you leave. A tired dog is a happy dog and is more likely to remain calm in your absence.
3. Turn Off Leaving Cues: Desensitize your dog to typical leaving cues, like putting on your jacket or grabbing your keys, by doing these actions without leaving. Let them get used to the things you do when you leave and then don't. This helps your dog stay calmer when you do eventually leave.
4. Start Slowly: Gradually increase the time your dog is left alone. Start with short durations and build up as your dog becomes more comfortable.
5. Seek Help: If your dog gets anxious after a certain duration, have a professional dog walker visit to give them a good walk and some play time.
6. Avoid Making It Worse: Be cautious with disciplining or shock collars, as they can worsen anxiety. Gradual, positive reinforcement is key.
7. Restrictive Areas: If your dog doesn't like crates, use baby gates or exercise pens to create a safe space. Make it a positive environment with toys and treats.
8. Engaging Toys & Puzzles: Provide toys and treats that your dog loves and can keep them busy. Interactive puzzles can be great for mental stimulation.
9. Medication: In severe cases, medication may be necessary, but always consult with a vet before considering this option.
10. Don't Blame Yourself: Separation anxiety is not your fault. Genetic predisposition and various life events can contribute to it. Remember, you didn't cause the problem but you can help it!
Separation anxiety is a challenging issue that affects both dogs and their owners. My own experiences and the insights I've gathered align with expert advice—it's a process that requires patience, understanding, and dedication. But with the right approach and support, your dog can learn to cope with being alone, just like my own dogs, Hanalei, and Max, did. So, trust the process, stay patient, and remember, you're not alone in this journey to help your beloved pet overcome separation anxiety.
About Elle Belle
At Elle Belle Pet Care, our mission is to provide exceptional and compassionate pet care services that enrich the lives of pets and their owners in Orange County, CA. We are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where pets feel loved, secure, and happy.
Meet the Founder
Lauren McCall is a compassionate and experienced pet care professional with over 15 years of expertise. She has cared for over 100 different dog breeds, both in professional care services and in animal shelters. Lauren's dedication to animals extends beyond pet sitting, as she volunteers at local humane societies and serves as an Animal Rescue Consultant for shelters and rescues across the country. With Elle Belle, she leads a team of sitters, ensuring prompt, personable, and professional service. Lauren's love for animals, from dogs to horses and exotics, drives her mission to provide the best care possible.
Through Elle Belle, she aims to foster a community that values the well-being and happiness of pets, while providing pet owners with an unparalleled level of care and customer service. With an unwavering commitment to future endeavors, Lauren aims to provide unparalleled care and customer service, reflecting her brand's exceptional reputation in the present.
