By Cheryl Rahal, D.V.M.
(With sidenotes from Toby the clinic kitty)
Pacing, barking, trembling and hiding. If this sounds like your dog during loud-noise events such as fireworks and thunderstorms, it’s likely a case of doggy anxiety. It can also happen during a change in your pet’s routine. Now that quarantine is over and many pet owners are heading back to the office, returning to social routines and spending less time at home, here at the clinic we have been seeing more pets showing signs of separation anxiety.
Fear not, there are many things that we can do to help our pets with their anxiety. Products like Thundershirt apply a comforting pressure to your dog like a hug, much like a weighted blanket. There is a natural product (in diffuser or collar form) called Adaptil, which may help dogs to feel reassured and relaxed in fearful situations. Composure Pro, an over-the-counter chew, may help support calm behavior and brain health. CBD oil can also help with your pets anxiety, but some pets are very sensitive to THC, so make sure you are using a hemp or other CBD oil that is THC-free. If anxiety is severe, there are medications you can talk to your veterinarian about.
Crate training is a great way to help pets feel safe in their own space. Special treats and toys to keep them occupied in the crate and a calming environment helps your dog get used to and enjoy being in their crate. Talking to your dog can help them focus on something other than their own anxiety. Of course, lots of rewards and reassurance helps, too.
Toby’s Take
Cats suffer from anxiety, too. We express it a little differently, mostly by hiding and being tense. If your cat is territorial insecure (hiding and urine marking around the house), you can help by adding more litter boxes, making sure there’s multiple ways to exit a room, keeping a routine, and plenty of positive interactions. Dr. Rahal already mentioned CBD oil and Composure Pro, but Royal Canin has a calm food that I think tastes delicious—it contains tryptophan. Feliway (by Adaptil) comes in a spray, a wipe, and a diffuser. Of course there’s other medications you can talk to your vet about, too.
Dr. Cheryl Rahal is a doctor of veterinary medicine at The Pet Wellness Center in North Phoenix. Her sidekick, Toby, spends his days alongside her at the clinic.