by Jen Flatt Osborn

Do you think there’s no way to ease your pet’s anxiety when you’re away? We beg to differ. Not only are there solutions to this common issue, we can think of eleven.

Some little ones are fine if they’re left alone and others, not-so-much. If you have an animal that would rather be stuffed than be left to his own devices, keep reading.

There are proven techniques to get your pet on the right track to becoming calm, cool, and collected every time you leave.

1. Leave them armored with a comforting vest. Animals are much more sensitive than we think. Similar to the weighted blanket for humans, the gentle, constant pressure of a vest mimics the weight of another dog huddling close.

This product can ease anxiety and help your pet feel safe and secure.

2. Leave relaxing music on. Even if you don’t believe its healing properties can help an animal, what if it does? Then it’s worth taking the chance anyway.

Soft rock and reggae are favorites, but classical music especially has been proven to lower their heart rates and relieve feelings of fight-or-flight. Animals can have powerful reactions to having separation anxiety including destroying doors, windows, and crates.

So leave some Bob Marley on. They do have excellent taste in music.

3. Exercise your dog right before you leave. For obvious reasons, this habit benefits your sweet one physically and mentally. “Migrating,” walking in packs, has been a dog’s way before they were even domesticated.

And it’s not just the exercise they need, it’s the chance to have the world go by them. If you stop on a walk with your dog, besides, um…doing their business, they sniff around.

Their noses are practically bionic and this exercises the brain as well as the body which can tire them as well.

Getting them out and about should be a habit. Plus, you might lose those extra 5 lbs. you’ve been looking to shed.

4. Train your dog by leaving them for small increments at a time. Depending on your furry one, you might even begin by going to your car. When you return, don’t greet them. Just walk in and go about your business.

They don’t need to associate your arrival with celebration. And no treats until you’ve been home for a while. (This doesn’t hurt their psyche or decrease trust.) Increase the time you’re away as you go along until they’re accustomed to your absence.

5. Leave them an interactive toy and fill it with kibble. Or fill a hollowed bone with peanut butter, just don’t overdo the amount. Too much of anything can cause tummy aches and make them too full for dinner.

Just like exercising, interactive toys stimulate a dog’s mind and body. Just what the doctor ordered.

6. Cat lovers, you can use this method, too! These toys aren’t only for dogs any more. Just skip the peanut butter (unless your cat’s name is Elvis) and fill it with cat food instead.

Cats are keen. Leaving them with something to keep them busy might save your drapes. More importantly, it’s beneficial for their minds and bodies.

7. Hire a pet sitter to come and play with, feed, and/or sit with your animal. What could be better than having an animal-lover care for them while you’re gone? Especially one who has been vetted, is trained in Pet First Aid and CPR, and who can water your plants, too.

(We’re here for you and your furry, feathered, finned, or scaled one, Cincinnati!)

8. If your animal has a severe form of anxiety when being left alone, talk to your veterinarian about getting medication for the symptoms. This may sound unreasonable when in fact it’s a viable and successful way to bring your pet some peace.

Note: Your animal might have a health condition that would prevent this option so make sure you speak to your vet.

9. Invite your pet’s best friend (of the animal variety) over. This may not be possible every time you leave but when it is, both of them can have companionship and a playdate. Let’s just hope they’re not partners in crime, too.

10. Take them with you! My dog LOVES to ride in the car. If I even touch my purse, he’s jumping around. The thing you must remember is to only take them with you when the temperature is under 70 degrees or if you’re not getting out of the car.

Going to a drive-through or to get gas are wonderful opportunities to let your munchkin catch a ride.

11. “Invest in an Adaptil collar or diffuser for your dog. These products release a pheromone that’s designed to have a calming effect on dogs.”
www.healthypets.mercola.com 
Whether your dog’s breed/mix is more prone to anxiety or if he has developed it, you have plenty of options to make sure he gets some relief.

We never want our pets to be uncomfortable and especially while we’re away from them. From shirts to rides to having a 4-legged friend over, there’s something you can do to ease their pain.

So knowing your dog and how they handle situations will do you both good since recognizing it is half the battle. Be sure to talk to your vet about the symptoms so she can give you options to tackle your pet’s anxiety.

And you’ll be back to having a pup who’s relaxed as Jimmy Buffett in no time.    

P.S. Are you looking for the best pet sitting service in Cincinnati? We’re here for you and your best friend when you need us. Just give us a call or leave your info and we’ll make sure Alpo, Fluffy, Tweety, or Sammy gets all the love and attention he or she deserves when you’re away.  

References:
1. https://www.petmd.com/dog/science-behind-calming-dogs-sound – PetMD – “The Science Behind Calming Dogs With Sound” – By Diana Bocco