3 Ways to Help Pets Overcome Separation Anxiety

Since the implementation of lockdown orders because of the pandemic, our pets must have been happy because it meant more time spent with us in our homes.

But as the economy in many nations reopens, a lot of people now need to go back to work and school to physically attend to their duties either as a student or employee. This means being separated from their pets, too, regardless if they are raising cats or dogs.

If you've been raising an animal, particularly a dog or cat, for quite some time, surely you know that humans are not the only ones suffering from separation anxiety.

Our pets experience the same when we leave them either in a place strange or even at home without us. If you're worried about leaving your pets when you go back to work or school, here are 3 tips from INVERSE to help them overcome separation anxiety.

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(Photo : Sven Lachmann on Pixabay)
Pets have definitely been the happiest creatures on earth since the implementation of the lockdown orders because it meant more time spent with us.

1. Change Your Behavior

Yes, it's your behavior that needs to change. The goal here is for your pet not to make your absence a big deal. Making a fuss over your dog or cat when you're leaving or arriving home just makes things worse.

If you treat it as if it is just a routine, our pet then will also learn to do the same. For example, get dressed or put on your shoes earlier than normal but stay home rather than leaving right away. Try to start the engine of your car, turn it off, and go back inside the house.

Another effective way to change behavior is the practice of short absence. When at home, make sure to spend some time in a separate room, not with your pet.  

More so, leave the house a bit long enough, probably, for an errand or two, then gradually extend the time you are away so that being out for the whole day becomes a regular routine at home.

2. Make Your Pet Feel Your Presence Even in Your Absence

If your pet is bored, it will only worsen his separation anxiety. Giving the pet an activity while you're gone, like a treats-stuffed puzzle, or simply hiding treats all over the house will only create tension while you're away.

To keep your bond with your pet even while you're away, place a piece of clothing you've been wearing recently in prominent areas like your bed or your couch so your pet would be comforted.

In a similar way, you can leave your radio or television on. You can even find some programs intended for pets or set up a camera for you to observe and interact with your pet virtually.

(Photo : Zigmars Berzins on Pixabay)
Give your pet an activity while you’re gone, like a treats-stuffed puzzle, or simply hiding treats all over the house will only create tension while you’re away.

3. Medications or Supplements Might Be Needed

In some severe circumstances, when the pet s already harming itself or causes damage to your property, medication or supplements might be needed. This changes the neurotransmitters of the brain to develop create a sense of calm.

While some medicines are available over the counter, meaning without a prescription, it is still best to seek advice from a veterinarian so he can determine which medicines are safest and most effective for your pet's condition.

Medication can help alleviate anxiety. It makes it easier for the pet to discover new coping skills. It will also help to have your pet go through a behavior modification plan to accompany its medications.

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Check out more news and information on Animal Behavior on Science Times.