How To Manage Canine Separation Anxiety Montevallo AL

Separation anxiety is a complex issue that faces many owners. It is rarely realistic to be with your dog 24/7. If you can - GREAT! If not, there are times when separation anxiety can be very detrimental to your dog. Has your dog scratched the back door until his paws were bleeding? Does your dog lunge at the plate glass window in an attempt to join you outside? At times, it may not be as physically dangerous, but it still may be very disruptive to you and your dog.

1. Determine if this truly is separation anxiety. There are medical issues that can contribute to your dog's anxiety. For example, hypothyroidism can cause aggressiveness in dogs that can be misinterpreted as separation anxiety. Also, Cushing's disease (aka hyperadrenocorticism) can cause your dog to NEED frequent trips to the bathroom. A well-trained dog will do anything possible to avoid going to the bathroom in the house. This need can manifest itself in many different ways, including illogical attempts to get outside.
   
   A visit to your veterinarian can help eliminate medical issue that you may be facing. Routine blood work often includes a CBC (complete blood count), chemistry panel, thyroid test, and a urinalysis. If any other tests are in order, your veterinarian can guide you in the right direction.
2. Discuss separation anxiety with your veterinarian. Since you are already at your veterinarian's office, take the opportunity to discuss separation anxiety with your vet. Many well-educated veterinarians have the ability to recommend some behavior modification therapy or drug therapy. In the rare event that your dog's anxiety is extreme, your veterinarian may also recommend referral to a veterinary behaviorist. If your veterinarian feels that referral is necessary, your dog's symptoms may be more severe than you realize....

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Author: Edward Susmilch