The benefits of having pets are immeasurable. Dogs and cats give us unconditional love regardless of what we have going on in our lives. Pets can be wonderful companions and can also provide great comfort and support for our own anxiety. By caring for them and increasing the human-animal bond, our stress levels can decrease tremendously. Sometimes, we have to help our pet deal with their own anxiety. When your pet experiences situational anxiety, things like going to the groomer, coming to the veterinarian, or hearing fireworks and thunderstorms, can give them extreme anxiety. You may feel helpless when your pet has anxiety. Have no fear! Here are some things that you can do to help manage your pets and their anxiety.
- Create a calm and safe environment: Ensure that your pet has a quiet and secure space where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Provide them with a comfortable bed, toys, and familiar objects that they associate with relaxation.
- Establish a routine: Pets thrive on routine, as it provides them with a sense of predictability and security. Set regular feeding, exercise, and playtime schedules to help your pet feel more secure and reduce their anxiety.
- Provide mental and physical stimulation: Engage your pet in activities that stimulate their mind and body. This can include puzzle toys, interactive games, obedience training, or even simple hide-and-seek games. Mental and physical exercise can help reduce anxiety by channeling your pet’s energy in a positive way.
- Consider calming aids: There are various products available that can help calm pets, such as calming pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or natural remedies like chamomile or lavender. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which options may be suitable for your pet. Many times, pets require medication to give prior to the onset of an anxious trigger. This helps the pet have a more positive experience with that trigger and develop less anxious behavior long term.
- Practice positive reinforcement: Reward your pet’s calm and relaxed behavior with treats, praise, and affection. Positive reinforcement can help them associate calm behavior with positive outcomes, reinforcing their ability to manage anxiety. One practical way of doing this is something I tell owners of pets with separation anxiety. If your pet is anxious when you’re away, they may be very excited to see you when you get home. When you return home and they are excited to see you, wait until they calm down to give them praise. Don’t praise them in thoes initial moments of your arrival while they are still excited, as this may be seen by them as being rewarded for their anxious behavior.
- Seek our help if needed: If your pet’s anxiety is severe or significantly impacts their quality of life, consult with a veterinarian or a professional animal behaviorist. They can provide specialized guidance, behavior modification techniques, or recommend medication if necessary.
- Take care of your own mental health: Pets are highly sensitive to their owners’ emotions. If you’re experiencing anxiety, it’s important to manage your own mental health. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor, practicing self-care, and engaging in stress-reducing activities. A calm and composed demeanor can have a positive impact on your pet’s well-being.
Remember, each pet is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the strategies that work best for your furry friend. Patience, consistency, and understanding are key when helping pets with anxiety.
Adam Thompson, DVM
North Alabama Animal Hospital
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