Some Signs that Your Pet May Be Anxious
1. Loss of appetite
2. Rapid breathing or excessive panting
3. Body Language
– tense face, will not make eye contact
– tail low or tucked
– ears laid back
– head turned away
4. Depressed
5. Lethargic
6. Fur or skin not shiny, hair loss, major shedding
7. Constantly moving, restless
8. Vocalizing to get attention
Some Causes of Anxiety in Pets
1. New Situation: an unfamiliar noise, environment, or movement can all potential trigger anxiety in a pet.
2. Trauma: trauma could be emotional or physical. Trauma could include but is not limited to a move, loss of a person or other pet close to them, thunderstorms, load sounds.
3. Under Socialized: not having the opportunity to socialize with other animals, as well as people can create anxiety.
4. Conditioned Behavior: as pet owners, we need to have a good sense of our own behavior and emotions. For instance, when you leave your pet home while you go out, do you leave with a feeling of guilt? This guilt can be sensed by your pet and create further anxiety. When your pet is being approached by a child and begins to growl, do you respond by saying ‘it’s okay’? This response is actually affirming the pet’s behavior which is growling. Be aware of what you do and say and how your pet may receive that action or emotion.
5. Proximity: some pets experience anxiety from being approached while on leash or when they are around children or other animals. Some pets experience anxiety when a person or other animals approaches an object, food, or person that ‘belongs’ to them. Be aware if any of these triggers are issues for your pet.
What You Can Do to Alleviate Your Pet’s Anxiety
Always be aware of what triggers anxiety for your pet and try to avoid the situation if possible. Also, be aware of your own behavior and how your pet’s behavior may be influenced. In addition to the above, the following can also be used to alleviate pet anxiety…
1. Calming Herbs– Chamomile, Lemon Balm, or Lavender are just some examples
2. Herbal Collars– collars that are scented with various calming herbs
3. Pheromone Collars– mimics pet pheromones, have been known to reduce stress
4. Flower Essenses & Rescue Remedies– homeopathic remedies that are known for addressing the emotional needs of both pets and people
If you or your pet experience unnecessary anxiety, contact PetMedella and ask about our Wellness Analysis Scan at 612-812-9121 or info@petmedella.com