Will My Dog Get Separation Anxiety When I Go Back To Work
As people head back to jobs and start getting out again, a lot of things will take some getting used to. There will probably be some culture shock, not only to us humans but for our pets, as well. Our animals have gotten used to us being home almost every day all week for the past two years. As we start to integrate ourselves back into the real world, our pets might be feeling a certain type of way. We have compiled a list of some things your pets might be feeling and how to assist them through this transitional period.
You could sense your dog acting differently; they might be pacing, crying, or displaying some destructive behavior. If you witness any of these actions, they could be signs of separation anxiety. As we have been home consistently recently, our pets might react anxiously as we leave the nest more often. This feeling is completely normal for your pets (and you!) as this sudden change can trigger separation anxiety. A pretty clear way to tell whether your pet is experiencing this is to simply step outside your home. If you go outside and can hear your dog barking, whining, or scratching at the door there is a high likelihood they are feeling anxiety from you leaving.
Combatting this issue can be easier depending on your dog and its personality. Simply petting and loving on your dog right before you leave the home can have a great effect on your dog’s anxiety levels. To train your dog to get used to this leave, try leaving the home in small increments; starting first with leaving for small amounts of time and growing your length of absence slowly. This will let them know that this is a normal event and that you will indeed return home.
If their anxiety persists, you might try tactics that work while you are away. Compression jackets, for example, are vests that your dog can wear to calm their anxiety, similar to a weighted blanket for humans. Interactive dog toys or treat dispensers are also handy things to utilize. Toys such as lick mats, interactive dog cameras, or chew toys with treats inside them are all things that can keep your dog occupied while you are away.
Separation anxiety is a normal thing for pets as we return to work, but this can affect the way we know our beloved pets to act. By helping them cope with this anxiety, we can ensure we can keep our dogs happy, healthy, and acting the way we know and love.