Pet parenting is big in the US, with the number of households owning dogs and cats consistently increasing over the years. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the dog population in the US grew from 52.9 million to a new peak of a whopping 89.7 million from 1996 to 2024. Also, nearly 45.5% of American households own canine babies.
Dog ownership requires a hefty investment, with veterinary care costing as much as $580 per year. Needless to say, you must commit to spending enough time bonding with your furry companion to keep it happy and healthy. Unfortunately, separation anxiety is a common issue many dog owners struggle with. The concern is bigger for those with busy lifestyles.
This condition occurs when dogs become distressed due to being separated from their guardians. It can result in behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and even attempts to escape.
As a busy pet parent, you must have a plan in place to handle separation anxiety and its implications. This guide offers actionable steps to help dog parents address this concern.
Causes of Separation Anxiety
Before suggesting measures to address canine separation anxiety, we will highlight the possible causes of it. According to WebMD, it happens when an animal is overly attached to its owner. Being left alone can stress it out, eventually causing anxiety. At times, owners get frustrated enough to give up their beloved pets.
A good understanding of the potential reasons is a good way to overcome the issue and keep your dog despite your busy lifestyle. Your canine buddy may experience separation anxiety in the following situations:
- Abrupt changes in daily schedules, such as when the owner takes up a new job requiring longer hours away from home
- Relocating to a new home, causes feelings of discomfort, fear, or stress, particularly when the pet is left alone at home
- Loss of a family member the dog is attached to whether through relocation or death
- Past trauma due to abandonment or frequent changes in ownership at some point in the dog’s life
- Lack of training, when the dog is not gradually acclimated to being alone without anyone around
Strategies to Reduce Separation Anxiety
If you are a busy pet parent, separation anxiety may become worse for your dog, regardless of the primary reason. You can follow these simple strategies to make life easier for yourself and your furry companion.
Create a Safe Space
According to DogTV, a stress-free, safe space is vital for canine pets. This should be a cozy area where they can relax when there’s a storm outside. It can also be their haven when they experience anxiety in the absence of their parents. Consider it an investment in the well-being of your pooch.
Designate a secure area that includes their favorite toys and bedding. This space should be soundproof and associated with positive experiences. Spending time here will make your pet feel safe when you’re away.
Try Gradual Desensitization
Another proven tip that can help busy dog parents keep separation anxiety at bay is gradual desensitization. The best way to do it is to ensure that your pet is ready to be alone when you leave it at home, explains PawsChicago.
Practice departure by going through your leaving routine. This includes triggers like wearing your shoes and picking up your keys. Over time, this will reduce the significance of these cues and make them less scary for your pet.
Brief separations for seconds to minutes are another way to start the desensitization process. You can gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable when you are not around. Another tip worth trying is giving it a treat so that it associates your leaving with something positive.
Seek Vet Guidance
Practical steps may not always help calm down your dog, particularly when you have to spend many hours away. In such cases, seeking vet guidance and prescriptions for calming medications is a good idea. Medications like Fluxotexine, Gabapentin, and Doxepin are safe and effective solutions.
However, you must consult your vet to administer the right product and safe dosage according to your canine’s age and health condition. Also, look for a trusted dog pharmacy where you can get these products for your canine buddy.
PetRx recommends a pharmacy that accepts orders online and delivers products to your doorstep. With such an option, you don’t have to worry about buying medications for your pooch when you have tight schedules.
Establish a Consistent Routine
Establishing a predictable daily routine can provide comfort to your dog if it struggles with separation anxiety. Furbo notes that changes in daily routines, whatever the reason, may disrupt your pet’s life and cause stress. However, a few simple steps can help you maintain control over your routine and your pooch’s behavior.
Follow a consistent mealtime, stick with a daily exercise schedule, and encourage independence for your Fido. Most importantly, don’t make a fuss about leaving it alone. The more you freak out, the more anxious it feels. Spend quality time with it whenever you can squeeze in playtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I expect my dog to overcome separation anxiety?
For a dog parent, sooner sounds better, but there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The time your furry friend may need to overcome separation anxiety may vary based on its temperament and the severity of the problem. Some dogs may show improvement within weeks, while others might need months of consistent training and desensitization efforts.
Can medication help with my dog’s separation anxiety?
Your dog may need more than training and behavioral support to overcome separation anxiety. In some cases, medication prescribed by a veterinarian is needed to manage severe anxiety. However, combining medication with behavioral modification techniques like desensitization and counterconditioning can give better results.
What should I do if my dog shows destructive behavior when I leave?
If your dog is destructive due to separation anxiety, you must first assess their environment and triggers. Also, ensure they have appropriate outlets for their energy like toys and stimulative activities. Gradually desensitize them to being alone and consider consulting a professional trainer or behaviorist for additional support if nothing works.
Being a busy pet owner often means leaving your furry buddy home alone for most of the day. This can result in separation anxiety if your pet is deeply attached to you. The good thing is that separation anxiety is manageable, provided you recognize it early and act appropriately. Don’t feel guilty because you can implement these steps to make a difference!