Separation anxiety is a leading cause of stress in dogs across the globe and it often results in the pooch’s owner developing anxiety, as they worry about leaving their dog for any period of time. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million Americans have an anxiety disorder, so when the time comes to close the front door and head to work, many owners are filled with dread at the prospect of leaving their canine best friend home alone. It’s important to socialize a pet dog from a young age to keep him or her healthy, but, unfortunately, this won’t always prevent Fido from feeling stressed and anxious.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

Recognizing the signs of symptoms of a dog suffering from separation anxiety is the key to dealing with it. Toileting in the home, destructively chewing, howling, crying and barking when you leave and trying to escape from confinement are all signs of a hound with separation anxiety. Although, it is recommended that your take your pet to a veterinarian to rule any other health issues, especially if not all these symptoms are being exhibited, as there are many other reasons why a dog’s behavior could change.

TACKLING YOUR DOGS SEPARATION ANXIETY

When you’re sure you’re dealing with separation anxiety, you need to take action to help your pooch tackle it and overcome it. Before you leave for work, take your dog for a long walk to stimulate him and tire him out so that he’s ready to rest when you leave. Leave chew toys out for your pet to encourage him to only chew these rather than the furniture and provide a tasty frozen snack for him in a treat toy to devour throughout the day. Studies have shown that audiobooks and music can calm a stressed dog, therefore, consider leaving a story or some tunes playing when you have to head out.

THE BENEFITS TO A DOG OWNER

You and your family will instantly feel a sense of relief knowing that your dog is once again happy and enjoying some time on his own in the comfort of your home. Your overall health should improve, too, and your feelings of anxiety, such as, tense muscles, heart palpitations, dry mouth, nausea, and dizziness should soon subside. A happy dog makes for a happy owner, and as there are many health benefits to owning a dog, you should do all you can to help ease your furry friend’s separation anxiety to keep your own anxiety at bay.

A dog with separation anxiety will likely cause its owner to become anxious, too. Therefore, it’s vital that owners recognize the symptoms of the condition swiftly and take action to help their dog beat it. After all, a content and happy dog will provide multiple health benefits which can improve its owner’s quality of life.