Dog's Help

Dogs love to have their owners around all the time. But, considering busy schedules, it becomes difficult for pet owners to stay with their pets 24*7. As a result of staying away from their owners for long time, dogs tend to fall prey to separation anxiety. Here are some things about this problem that a pet owner must know.

Causes
Though prolonged separation from owners is the sole cause of separation anxiety in dogs, there are several other factors as well that may attribute to the problem. Amidst various other factors, over bonding is the most prominent.

If your dog is constantly mingling with you when you are at home or always stays in the same room as yours, he is bound to suffer from separation anxiety when you are away. Pets that are always in close contact with their owners are more likely to develop the problem.

Risk factors
Though all dogs are at a risk of developing separation anxiety if they are made to stay alone for long time duration, there are others who are at a greater risk. Dogs that are more prone to developing the problem include dogs

* coming from a shelter group.
* who were previously owned by unemployed owners.
* wWho were re-homed in adolescence.

Symptoms
There are several signs that can indicate separation anxiety in your canine. If your dog indulges in frequent soiling or aggressive barking due to your absence, he may be suffering from separation anxiety. Over destructive behavior could also be a result of your long abstinence from your pet.

What pet owners can do?
One of the simplest things that you can do to deal with separation anxiety in your dog is to teach him to be self dependent. Even when you are home, try to stay out of your pet's sight for some time. Encourage your pet to be on his own for some time.

Also, you should make efforts to divide your pet's attachment amidst various family members. If your pet is attached to only one particular member, then the world is bound to come to an end for your pet if he is away from that particular member. To segregate your dog's attention, different members should disperse treats to the pets at different times.

Another thing that you can do to prevent your dog from getting anxious is to keep him busy after you leave. Your dog feels most frustrated during the first hour after your departure. Make sure that your pet is engrossed during that time. Switch on your TV, radio or any other noise machine that will keep your pet busy. Avoiding or ignoring your pet at least 15 minutes before you leave will also prove to be of great help.

If none of the above mentioned measures help, then you may consider hiring a pet sitter or taking your dog to day care services.