Managing Separation Anxiety

Does your dog bark excessively or have accidents when you are not home despite being house-trained? These are classic symptoms of separation anxiety. This condition can lead to several behavioral issues that make boarding your pet challenging or impossible. South Granville Animal Hospital in Creedmoor, NC, is here to advise you on how to manage separation anxiety and keep your pet happy and healthy.

What Is Separation Anxiety in Pets?

Your pet can get nervous when you are away for extended periods. Pets often feel anxiety when their owner leaves the house for the day or when they are in a boarding facility. Your pet may experience one or more of the following symptoms when dealing with separation anxiety:

•             Urinating or defecating in the house

•             Barking excessively

•             Howling

•             Trying to escape

•             Chewing or digging in a destructive manner

•             Pacing around

How Should I Handle Separation Anxiety?

The first step toward managing your pet’s separation anxiety is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Since several health conditions can cause similar symptoms to separation anxiety, you should get your pet examined to rule out underlying health issues. For example, accidents in the home could signal a urinary tract infection. Once your veterinarian determines your pet has separation anxiety, they can advise you on handling this condition.

Your veterinarian may recommend counterconditioning if your pet’s separation anxiety is mild. Counterconditioning involves connecting something rewarding or desirable to being left alone. For example, you could give your pet a treat-filled puzzle toy before leaving. Doing this helps your pet associate being alone with getting something it wants.

Moderate to severe anxiety may require more steps to alleviate. Some ways you can manage your pet’s anxiety include:

•             Desensitization and counterconditioning with help from a professional trainer

•             Physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom

•             Crate training to give pets somewhere safe to stay when they are alone

•             Medication for severe anxiety

Visit Your Veterinarian Near You in Creedmoor, NC, to Ease Your Pet’s Anxiety

If your pet is struggling with separation anxiety and you are searching for a “veterinarian near you” to help manage it, look no further than South Granville Animal Hospital in Creedmoor, NC. Our veterinarian can rule out underlying health issues and offer advice on easing your pet’s symptoms, including training and medications if necessary. Call us and schedule an appointment with our veterinary team today at (919) 528-3591.