[...] Separation Blues By The Healthy Pets On November 25, 2009 Under Advanced Training Separation blues is a very common problem that occurs when dogs are frequently left alone. In the milder cases, it can be the result of boredom, and reactions can range in intensity from whimpering to constant barking and howling. Extreme cases can lead to downright neurotic and destructive behavior, like hysterical barking and destroying furniture. Some dogs go as far as to relieve themselves throughout the home. These more extreme behaviours are usually associated with a somewhat serious condition called dog separation anxiety. [...]
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a problem of a more serious nature and is the result of the dog’s fear of being left alone. It is not spiteful behavior, but rather the dog reacting to his fear in a frenzied manner. This problem is emotionally based and can be a difficult one to correct without assistance. There are new drugs that have been approved to help relieve the high anxiety that separation creates. They act on the dog in a manner similar to the calming effect of antidepressants on humans. These drugs can be obtained by prescription through your veterinarian. Although the medication does not actually cure the problem, it relieves the symptoms to the extent that retraining can begin.
Another dog or even a cat, if the two are compatible, may often solve an anxiety problem immediately, while other dogs respond well to something as simple as having the radio playing while you are gone.
A dog that reacts to loneliness by being destructive should never be allowed to remain loose when you are gone. Some people think it is cruel to confine their dog to an area or a crate where he is not able to destroy things, but they think nothing of becoming furious and frightening the dog out of his wits when he has been free to be destructive. Your reacting in a rage will only tend to enforce the dog’s fear of being alone.
Regardless of the cause – loneliness or separation anxiety – the problem is compounded by owners who make their departures and returns appear to the monumental events. Don’t upset your dog before leaving by giving the poor fellow hugs and kisses like you are ready to take off on a year-long safari. Just go! When you return, don’t make a climax suitable for the theater screen. Some dogs love those dramatic returns and begin vocally requesting them the minute you walk out the door. Make leaving home and coming home as uneventful as possible or distract your dog by offering him a toy or treat before you leave. If he is happily occupied, chances are he won’t even notice you’ve gone.
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Separation Blues | The Healthy Pets
November 29, 2009
