Anti-Anxiety Cures for Dogs
From panting and pacing to total house destruction, anxiety can make your dog's life miserable. The first step in treating anxiety is identifying the source. It may be something obvious like fireworks, isolation or veterinary visits, but it can be something more subtle like a change in schedule or family structure. Fortunately, there are ways to soothe an anxious dog to help it better cope with stressful situations.
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Stay Calm
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When your dog is showing signs of anxiety, stay calm. Hugging and crouching make you look nervous, too. Stand tall and speak normally.
Desensitize
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If your dog becomes anxious when you leave the house, practice smaller separations. Leave (without fanfare) for five minutes, then ten. Praise the dog when you return. Keep extending your separations.
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Lavender
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For travel-related anxiety, the scent of lavender may be helpful. According to the AVMA, "diffused lavender odor may offer a practical alternative treatment for travel-induced excitement in dogs."
DAP Pheromones
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Consider a Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) dispenser which fills the air with calming scents. Studies at the University of Edinburgh showed a reduction in stress in shelter dogs.
Homeopathy
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Rescue Remedy is a Bach flower essence preparation used worldwide for human and animal stress. It is a safe, non-toxic and non-habit forming alternative.
Exercise
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Stress-busting exercise works for people and dogs. Walk, run, play and interact with your dog several times a day. Dogs are pack animals and an isolated, inactive dog is more prone to stress.
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