When daily routines change, pets feel it, too. A new job, a different schedule, or a return to longer hours can disrupt the rhythm your dog has grown used to. Many pets will adapt without any issues, but some may have more trouble adjusting to a life without constant company.
Pet adoption rates have remained high in recent years, with shelters and breeders in some areas still working to keep up with demand. For many families, bringing home a new pet felt like a natural fit for a season of life spent closer to home, and most of those pets have thrived in the warmth and consistency of family life. But it does mean that some of these animals have rarely, if ever, experienced being alone.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Some pets may struggle with separation anxiety when life and schedules change. Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit signs of distress, panic, or depression whenever they are separated from their caretakers or left home alone. It is one of the most common behavioral issues we see in veterinary practice. Signs of separation anxiety include barking and howling, chewing or destructive behavior, urinating or defecating in the house, and attempting to escape. It was estimated that 22-50% of the general dog population experiences some level of separation anxiety, and some 14-44% of all behavior related consultations are due to pet owners seeking help for this condition.
Separation anxiety is considered a syndrome, a constellation of clinical signs, with potentially varied causes. Therefore, it can be difficult to suggest a one-size-fits-all means of prevention or treatment. Research to date suggests a combination of behavioral modification, training, and medications can help improve clinical signs.
No one knows exactly what causes separation anxiety, and the answer is likely multifactorial. Some dogs may be predisposed to showing clinical signs of separation anxiety due to genetically possessing a more high-strung or nervous temperament; usually, however, the signs are often initiated by some major life change. Major life changes include a change in caretaker, change in household, or major change in daily routine. Caretakers going back to work or starting a new schedule full time certainly qualifies as a change in routine.
Ways to Mitigate These Issues
Establishing a consistent routine is key. Puppies should be crate trained, and taught early on that time spent in their crate alone is associated with good things. Start with very short periods of time alone in the crate initially, slowly graduating to longer periods over time. Providing your puppy with a Kong toy filled with peanut butter or kibble will help connect your absence with something positive – food. This approach may also help dogs with mild separation anxiety lessen their concerns. The distraction of a toy treat, given only when you leave, can be just enough to make them calm down and relax while you are away.
Dogs with severe separation anxiety, however, may prove more difficult. These dogs can become very anxious even as you go about preparing to leave; the sight of you putting on your shoes, or picking up the keys to the car can trigger panic. These dogs may be too anxious to enjoy a treat-filled Kong, therefore making counter conditioning, and forming the positive association between food and alone time difficult.
As the cause of separation anxiety, especially in severe cases, is multifactorial and treatment includes both behavioral modification and medications, involving a specialist in veterinary behavior is very important. The veterinarians at Longwood Veterinary Center are available to discuss your concerns, troubleshoot treatments plans, and if needed, help find you a specialist best suited to the task at hand. We are here to help ensure you and your pets have a smooth transition into post pandemic life. Contact us with any needs.
