Chester County recently entered the “Yellow Phase” of Covid 19 recovery. For many of us, the ability to return to work or other activities outside of our home will be a welcome change. But how will our furry companions react to our departure? Many of us have been their constant companions for months. Some of our pets have had to adjust their life styles to accommodate our 24/7 presence. Other pets, recently adopted into our homes, have never really been left alone. A worry for many pet owners is that their pet will suffer separation anxiety when they are apart for longer hours. But a little understanding and some practice, by both owners and pets, can help prevent or at least lessen the impact of your return to your more regular lifestyle.
Anxiety is an Overreaction to Your Absence
Leaving a puppy unattended for a few minutes and finding they have happily chewed up your favorite book or accidentally urinated on the floor is not separation anxiety. Rather, separation anxiety is an abnormal and very stressed response to your absence. Behaviors such as relentless pacing, panting, digging at potential exit doors and windows, frantically destroying items in the house, chewing the doors of a crate, and potentially even causing harm to themselves are signs of a pet’s separation anxiety. These pets seem to be unable to control their response to a stressful situation – your departure from their presence.
It is difficult to predict which pets will suffer from separation anxiety. There is some suggestion that “clingy” pets may be more predisposed. Studies show any major trauma can set it off. Your returning to work without adequate preparation could potentially trigger your pet.
How to Prevent Separation Anxiety
Start practicing now, before you need to leave.
- Crate train your pet so they have a safe place when you are absent. Dogs have evolved from den animals. An enclosed area can make them feel more secure. Provide favorite toys or treats as they enter the crate. This way they will feel happier about going in.
- Practice “baby steps” for your departure. Pick up your car keys, walk to the door, stand on other side of door repetitively until they understand you are returning.
- Reward calm behavior during your departure and return. Don’t make a fuss. Stay calm yourself when you come and go. The calmer you are, the calmer your pet will be to the situation. If you are overly excited greeting your pet, they will feel your absence was more significant than it need be.
- Exercise your pet. If your pet has had fun playing ball or going for a long walk, they will be ready for a nap. Your departures will be more readily accepted if they would rather be snoozing during your absence.
- Consider medications with the guidance of your veterinarian. Once your pet has already shown signs of anxiety, medications can help with the training process.
- Consider voice or music recordings. Frontline and Spotify developed a music playlist to help. While I am not certain if your dog will be dancing to the tunes, you will likely be tapping your toes as you exit.
Being home alone does not need to be a terrifying experience. Many pets (like people) learn to enjoy that private time when they can rest uninterrupted. Start now to teach you pet the rewards of “me time”.