Pet anxiety can occur for several reasons. Many pet parents begin to notice anxiety in pets, particularly dogs when they are left alone for an extended amount of time. Whatever the reason may be for your pet’s anxiety, the veterinary professionals at Cedar Grove Animal Hospital in Mission, BC are ready to assist you. Sometimes, a trip to an emergency vet will be the only action you need to take when it comes to reducing pet anxiety.
Causes of Pet Anxiety
Many times, it can seem as if the anxiety your pet is experiencing occurs out of nowhere. However, a change of activity, environment, or routine is usually to blame for the anxiety. A sudden change in routine is the most common cause of anxiety. While separation anxiety is the most common, pets also frequently experience environmental anxiety and social anxiety.
Environmental anxiety is known as a fear of leaving the home to go to a specific location such as a veterinarian's office. It can also be caused by frightening situations or loud noises such as alarms, thunder, fireworks, or sirens. Social anxiety means that your pet is anxious about being around other pets or other people. This can be due to trauma in the past or from not being frequently socialized.
Signs of Pet Anxiety
Symptoms may vary from one pet to the next when it comes to symptoms of anxiety. You should pay particular attention to your pet’s body language, as it often tells you all you need to know. You may begin to notice subtle signs such as unusual reactions or overreactions if they are any changes in the environment, social situations, or people. Your pet may begin to bark or overreact. They may also show less interest in eating.
Other signs to look out for include:
- Drooling
- Aggression
- Whining
- Barking
- Panting
- General restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Trembling or shaking
- Tucking tail
- Defecating or urinating in the house
- Destructive behavior
Treating Pet Anxiety
Sometimes, you will not even need to bring your pet to an emergency vet for anxiety treatment. You may be able to treat long-term anxiety at home with several methods such as desensitization, counter conditioning, professional training, or supplements, and other stress relief products.
For severe pet anxiety, our emergency vet may recommend prescription medication to help them cope with stress. Even if you decide to buy a supplement over the counter to help your pet, make sure to discuss this with our vet before administering it.
Contact Our Emergency Vet for Pet Anxiety Treatment in Mission, BC
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Cedar Grove Animal Hospital today at (604) 820-8552.