Pet separation anxiety
In January, just after holiday celebrations when travelling is involved, the routine adjustments for pets can be difficult, particularly for those who suffer from separation anxiety. Your pet may experience loneliness, bewilderment while you have been away, or anxiety while you have been spending more time away from home.
As pets, dogs and cats especially, thrive on routine and can become anxious by changes, holidays are difficult for them and cause schedule interruptions. Being left alone with a pet sitter or in a boarding facility while travelling might cause worry and may become agitated around strangers and crowds, including noisy gatherings and new visitors. Additional anxiety could be caused in your pet when you spend less time with them while you are too busy getting ready for the holidays.
Sign of separation anxiety in pets
Pets who experience separation anxiety get upset when they are left alone or separated from their owners. Although it's more frequent in dogs, some cats may also have it.
Changes in behaviour
Among the symptoms could be constant vocalizations, such as excessive barking, howling, or meowing, when left alone. Destroying objects by knocking them over, gnawing on furniture, or clawing doors. Stumbling around close to windows or doors, or even trying to escape from a room or cage by digging, chewing, or scratching.
Physical signs
In addition to behavioural indicators, physical indicators may include excessive drooling or panting, even in normal temperatures. Shaking or trembling as you leave and displaying obvious distress. Excessive licking, biting of the paws, or overgrooming are examples of self-harming habits. Appetite loss and refusal of food or sweets when by self.
Emotional signs
Following you about, not wanting to be left alone, and being extremely excited when you get back—excessive welcomes, hopping, and whimpering. Not only apprehensive before you leave, but they also become uneasy when you take your bag, put on your shoes, or pick up your keys.
Bathroom issues
Incidents involving house soiling, such as urinating or defecating despite training and marking behaviour; increased marking within the home as a result of stress.
What to do if the pet does show separation anxiety
After the holidays, getting back to routine can be difficult for you and your pet and your pet may experience another separation anxiety when you even return to work.
To fit back into your regular routine, gradually change back to the same timings for eating, playing, and walking. Before leaving for extended periods of time, practice brief absences. Also, don't make a big deal out of coming and going; instead, remain calm.
Maintain their physical and mental interest. Exercise will make your pet tired before you leave, and a tired pet is a calm pet. That can be done with the help of interactive toys and treat puzzles. To keep your pet calm while you are away, leave a reassuring object, like a blanket scented with your fragrance. Start with little intervals of time (5–10 minutes) and gradually extend the amount of time spent alone. When you get back, give praise or incentives for calm behaviour and make sure the crate is a secure and encouraging environment if the dog is crate-trained.
See a veterinarian or behaviourist if your dog exhibits significant anxiety symptoms, such as self-harm, excessive barking, or damage. Medication may be suggested for support in severe situations.
Conclusion
Pets may find the holidays too stressful, but you can make them feel safe and at ease with a little additional care, preparation, and patience. Little changes can have a major impact on keeping your pets' tails wagging and lowering their separation anxiety, whether you're entertaining or travelling, therefore it is important to foster independence, stability, and trust to prevent anxiety in pets. A supportive atmosphere, training, and patience can help your pet develop into a contented, lifelong friend.
Although prevalent, post-holiday separation anxiety is controllable. Even while you're away, your pet can acclimate to normal life and feel safe with routine, excitement, and gradual training. They will quickly return to their contented selves if you remain patient and persistent.
