Dog Anxiety Awareness Week starts May 2nd. Anxiety is more common in dogs than many people think. Just like people, Fido can get uneasy, nervous, or scared sometimes. An Anderson, IN vet discusses doggy anxiety below.

Causes

Dogs can feel anxiety for many different reasons. Separation anxiety is one of the most common types. This is rooted in Fido’s past as a pack animal. Many pooches feel uneasy being left by themselves. Pups can also be anxious about things like thunderstorms, loud noises, changes to their environment or schedule, traveling, moving, strangers, or other animals. Sadly, pets that were neglected or abused seem to have higher odds of having anxiety.

Warning Signs

Fido can’t tell you how he’s feeling or why. He may try to express his anxiety in a variety of ways, many of which can easily be mistaken for simple bad behavior. These include things like digging, chewing, pacing, whining, howling, barking, or soiling inappropriately. Sometimes anxious dogs try to escape, while others may become more defensive.

Figuring Fido Out

If you know or suspect that your canine friend has anxiety, the first thing you’ll want to do is try and pinpoint the source. In some cases, this is fairly easy. For example, if Fido turns into a quivering ball of fear at the first sign of a thunderstorm, you probably know what’s upsetting him. However, things aren’t always that clear cut. If you aren’t sure what’s wrong, consult your vet or a pet behaviorist.

Helping Fido Cope

There are some things you can do to help your furry friend feel more at ease. Making sure that he is getting enough exercise and playtime can work wonders here. Fido will naturally be calmer if he’s tired out. Plus, this will give him a healthy outlet for his angst. You can also look into things like calming shirts, anti-anxiety beds, and even pet massage. Crates can also help, as long as they’re used properly. It’s also important to try to ease your pet into major changes. Your vet may also recommend pet-calming products or even medication. Of course, the exact steps you’ll need to take will depend on what type of anxiety your four-legged buddy has, and how severe it is. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Do you think your dog may be suffering from anxiety? Contact us, your Anderson, IN veterinary clinic, today!