By Kristy Smith, ABC Pet Resort & Spa

There is no doubt that dogs too, have strong emotions. Some unfortunately, become panic stricken when their owners leave the house each day. These dogs may be suffering from Separation Anxiety (SA). If your dog performs any of the following behaviors, then read on. Common SA symptoms include pacing, drooling, shaking and whining before you leave each day. While you are gone they may refuse to eat, constantly howl, and engage in destructive digging and chewing around house entrances. If your dog is suffering from SA, then it is your job to teach him a new reaction to your departure. Remember, it is the dogs’ internal state that needs help. By implementing some changes in both yours and the dogs’ routine, you can help curb your dogs’ anxieties. 

• NEVER punish destruction or accidents after the fact. In fact, you can create more anxiety by teaching your dog to fear your return. Make it a point to come home, drama free, no matter what you find. Crating is the best way to prevent destruction, however confinement can make SA worse. 

• Keep your departures and arrivals low-key. Don’t emotionally overload your dog with long goodbyes and hugs. You’re actually sending a message to your dog that it IS a big deal that you are leaving the house. This includes dropping your dog off for boarding. A quick goodbye is the best medicine for your pet’s comfort.

• Desensitize your dog to your daily departing routine. Find out what steps in your routine trigger your dog to panic. This includes taking a shower, putting on shoes, picking up keys, etc. Most dogs are already in a full panic before we even leave. Practice the triggers one at a time, 5 times a day without actually leaving the house. For example, pick up your keys and set them right down. Put on your coat, then sit down and watch tv without even leaving. This disassociates your triggers with leaving and makes the dog more comfortable.

• Practice counter-conditioning these triggers routinely. While performing the triggers, give your dog his favorite treat ball or a filled Kong. This teaches your dog to actually look forward to your departure. For example, start your routine after giving your dog his favorite treat ball. The key is to save his favorite toy for your departures only. Don’t leave the toy lying around the house. It will lose its meaning.

• Once your dog is showing progress, begin with practicing very short departures. Try just opening the door and coming right back in. Working your way up to driving out of the driveway. Most destructive behavior happens within the first 30 minutes of you leaving. If your dog begins to panic, you have gone too far, so take a step back.

When the appropriate steps are followed in a consistent and patient manner, the success rate is high. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks, depending on the severity. The good news is, once its over, both you and your dog can resume living a happy stress-free environment.

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