Creating a Separation Anxiety Kit

As the world evolves and we are living closer together and spending more time indoors, dogs bred primarily for companionship are becoming increasingly popular. Such breeds, including  Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Bichon Frises, and Toy Poodles are selected for their affinity towards people, as well as their more modest exercise needs.  They are absolutely wonderful companions for city, town and apartment dwellers!

However, problems can arise when we try to convince our companions that we are pursuing different lives, as we head to work or out to dinner. Of course, as in most cases, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We really need to let our puppies, regardless of breed, practice being alone. Sometimes life’s events and even our emotions are not consistent with leaving our puppy alone. Without this experience, adolescent and adult dogs often suffer severely from separation anxiety.

This is a problem that may require help from both your veterinarian and your trainer. 

Below are some ideas to get started, as you work to find the right support team for your dog.

1-    A wireless security camera, such as Ring or Blink, so that you can easily and accurately monitor how your dog is doing.

2-    Calming agents, either natural or prescription, depending upon the severity of the condition and your preferences. Both your veterinarian and trainer can help guide you through the options. Also, consider using combination therapy if single  therapies are not successful. Some of my clients have seen success using melatonin (formulated specifically for dogs) combined with VetriScience Calm and Confident (formerly branded as Composure).

Below are a few options to consider and talk to your veterinarian and trainer about:

Over the counter:

a.     Purina Calming Care:  a dog probiotic to support calm behavior; takes 4-6 weeks to be fully effective

b.     VetriScience Calm and Confident: Short acting natural chew that  supports calmer behavior, relaxation, and stress reduction in dogs for up to 8 hours

c.     Pet Melatonin by Pet Wellbeing: Support for dog’s adrenal gland function and healthy sleep pattern 

d.     ElleVet Calm & Comfort Chews: Research-backed Hemp calming chew.

Prescription:

a.     Reconcile

A form of Prozac specifically formulated for Separation Anxiety. This is a long- lasting medication and takes 4-6 to take full effect.

b.     Gapapentin and Trazodone:

Short acting medications to help calm your dog and make them feel sleepy.

3. A safe “Puppy Palace.” Here is where you can get creative and really think about what your dog would like in his her “Palace.” Helpful items are licki-mats with frozen baby food or peanut butter, A Woof pupsicle, a filled treat-dispensing toy and/or a bully stick inside a guard to avoid any potential choking hazard. My anxious dog also really enjoys her cozy donut bed!

Also, be careful about crating. If your dog is not 100% comfortable in their crate, you are going to have to create a safe-space instead. If we crate and leave an insecure, nervous dog, we cannot be sure if our dog is suffering from containment or separation anxiety.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, allow access to the “puppy palace” even when you are home! If you only use the puppy palace when you are away, your dog will associate the palace with your absence.

This is not a full guide to treating separation anxiety, but it will get you off to a good start. Hang in there. It is not easy, but helping your dog overcome the fear of being alone is one of the greatest gifts you can offer!