How to Help Your Pet with Separation Anxiety
If you’re a pet owner, leaving your animal behind can be stressful—but you’re not the only one who feels this way! Many dogs and cats also struggle with separation anxiety, making it more difficult for both pets and their owners. This is especially true if your pet isn’t getting enough activity or socialization during the day, which can intensify their anxiety.
Thankfully, there are some simple solutions for separation anxiety in dogs and cats. At Fetch! Pet Care, we know that your pet deserves to feel safe when you’re away, which is why we provide professional dog and cat sitting services for extra support. If your pet is experiencing separation anxiety, here’s what you should know:
Signs Your Pet May Have Separation Anxiety
How can you tell if your pet is anxious about you leaving them behind? Separation anxiety in dogs can manifest differently, but there are a few common signs that indicate your pet is struggling with being left alone. If you notice these behaviors, your dog or cat may be stressed:
- Excessive barking or howling: Continuous vocalization that starts soon after you leave and persists for long periods.
- Destructive behaviors: Chewing furniture, digging at doors, or scratching floors in an attempt to escape.
- Accidents in the house: Even in fully house-trained pets, stress can lead to unexpected urination or defecation.
- Clinginess before departure: Pets might start following you everywhere and showing distress when they sense you’re about to leave.
What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
There’s no single cause of separation anxiety, but certain factors can make pets more prone to distress when their owners leave. Understanding why your pet struggles with being alone can help you find the best solution:
- Personality and breed tendencies: Some dogs or cats are naturally more attached to their owners and may struggle with independence.
- Past trauma or changes in routine: Rescue pets, rehomed animals, or those who’ve experienced major life changes like a move are more likely to develop anxiety.
- Lack of exercise: Without regular physical activity, pets may have excess energy that turns into anxious behaviors.
- Limited social interaction: Without dog sitting or cat sitting, pets that spend most of their time alone without other pets or people may feel stressed when left for extended periods.
The American Kennel Club advises that dogs left alone for more than six to eight hours should have opportunities for socialization to prevent stress and behavior issues.
How Fetch! Pet Care Can Help Your Pet Overcome Separation Anxiety
If your dog or cat struggles with separation anxiety, easing their stress while you’re away might come down to giving them enough social interaction and mental stimulation. One of the best solutions to separation anxiety in dogs is ensuring they get plenty of physical activity. Regular walks with a Fetch! Pet Care professional can help burn off excess energy, keeping your pet calmer and more relaxed when left alone. A tired pet is often a happy pet, and at Fetch! Pet Care, we’re here to help your dog get their energy out.
In addition to exercise, hiring a trusted Fetch! Pet Care sitter can provide company for your animal while you’re away. Whether it’s a midday drop-in visit for some playtime or an overnight, having a familiar and friendly presence can make a world of difference. At Fetch! Pet Care, we work to pair you with the same sitter each time, giving your pet a sense of consistency and comfort.
If regular walking and dog sitting aren’t cutting it, try giving your pet a special toy, treat, or puzzle feeder whenever you leave. Every pet is different, so finding the right combination of exercise, companionship, and enrichment is key to helping them feel safe and secure when home alone.
With a little patience, attention, and the right support, you can ease your pet’s separation anxiety once and for all. Ready to work with Fetch! Pet Care to get your dog into a social, active routine? Find your local Fetch! today!
