Stress Relief for Pets

Do you ever wonder if your dog might be stressed? Like humans, your furry friend picks up stress from tense environments, unusual circumstances, or traumatic experiences. You may identify certain triggers, like the loud sudden noise from fireworks or a thunderstorm, but what about the less obvious ones? How can you tell if your dog needs you to help them calm down? And what are some natural strategies you can start using today? The good thing is that dogs do express stress through a variety of means like body language, and there are effective ways to calm your pup down if or when the pressure gets to them.

WHAT CAUSES STRESS?

Like humans, several factors can affect your dog’s emotional health. Most dogs experience high levels of stress due to sudden loud noises (like fireworks), separation from you, and effects from aging like confusion. But while these are the most common contributing factors of stress for your dog, your own stress levels and emotional health (or lack thereof) play a role as well. Don’t neglect your own well-being even as you take care of your pup!

SYMPTOMS OF STRESS

Have you noticed that when you’re stressed, your body acts in some interesting ways? Perhaps you have trouble falling or staying asleep, your appetite dwindles, or moodiness sets in. Similar changes happen to your dog when they are stressed.

Here are some common signs that of a stressed dog:

• Aggression (biting, nipping, growling)
• Excessive panting
• Pacing
• Loss of appetite
• Tucked tail
• Flattened ears
• Shaking/shivering

Not all of these symptoms have to be present if your dog is stressed. Even if you observe just one behavioral and/or physical change, try to link it to a possible trigger. Then you can look into some stress management techniques to help calm your dog down (and maybe even yourself, too).

STRESS RELIEF TECHNIQUES

Now that you know some of the stress signs to look out for, what can you do to calm your dog down? Here some three suggestions.

• Avoid potential triggers

If you know your pup hates loud noises, don’t include him on the family fireworks trip. While you can’t prevent triggers like thunderstorms, you can comfort your dog with your presence and reassuring cuddles.

• Physical Contact

Like humans, physical touch comforts and relaxes your dog. Take time to massage, stroke, and cuddle your dog every day to alleviate any underlying stress.

• Homeopathic and Herbal Remedies

Did you know there are homeopathic and herbal supplements that safely treat your dog’s anxiety? Some examples include L-theanine for general anxiety, and Rescue Remedy for Pets which targets trauma and fear in dogs. CBD is another supplement to consider for anxious dogs, which naturally calms your pup by working with their own biological system.

GOT QUESTIONS?

Have more questions on how to manage or alleviate your dog’s stress? Email or call us and we’ll give you even more practical resources!