Dog Anxiety Awareness Week
This first week in May – the week of the 2nd through the 8th – is Dog Anxiety awareness week. As a dog owner, it is important to be able to recognize signs of anxiety in your canine friend. Prolonged anxiety can have serious effects on your dog’s health. Look out for signs of anxiety, such as the following:
Pacing
Shaking or trembling
Frequent lip licking or yawning
Hyper-vigilance
A decrease in appetite
An increase in salivation or drooling
Dilated pupils
Over-grooming
An increased heart rate or increased panting
Skin lesions from self-trauma
What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Is Suffering From Anxiety?
If you worry your dog is suffering from anxiety, be sure to talk with your vet. By learning to detect when your dog is anxious, you can begin to identify what is triggering these episodes of anxiety. Write down what you notice happening when your dog is anxious and tell the vet. This will help your vet determine the best method to treating your pet. Your vet will help rule out other illnesses that may be linked to anxiety, recommend medication as necessary, or even recommend tips on how best to manage your dog’s anxiety.
Help Your Dog Avoid Triggers
When possible, it’s best to remove or to help your dog avoid whatever triggers their anxiety. For example, if your dog is anxious around other dogs they probably won’t enjoy the dog park much. If they are anxious around people, try walking them when not many other people will be out. If you have a fenced-in yard, play with your dog there.
Try Exercise To Ease Anxiety
Anxiety is sometimes tied to excess energy. Exercise will keep your dog physically fit and also help them lower their anxiety.
Physical Touch Helps Your Pooch Relax
It’s also helpful to give your dog some extra loving if you notice they’re anxious. Give them a cuddle and some pets and it could do wonders to help them calm down.
Don’t hesitate to ask the Gresham Animal Hospital team if you have more questions about how to help your anxious dog.
Rely On Gresham Animal Hospital For Top-Notch Veterinary Care
Gresham Animal Hospital is equipped to provide the service and treatment your pet needs under one roof. Keep Gresham Animal Hospital in mind next time your dog or cat needs a checkup, shots, or vaccines. Give us a call at 503.666.1600 to schedule an appointment today.
