- Make some changes to help your four-legged friend
- Start with small steps to prep your pet. If you start to see some signs of separation anxiety, dip into some training right away. After a relaxing walk or other calm activity, go into another room for a few minutes while your pet stays put in his crate. They’ll start to see that being alone is OK. Gradually increase the amount of time you’re apart, don’t emphasize greetings or goodbyes… just make it feel easy, calm, and normal. You can use your voice to reassure your pet from the other room. As soon as he calms down you can let him out of the crate. Being in the room with him in the crate with the door open is a great way to start crate training. Gradually increase the amount of time and close the door after the first few tries as well.
- Keep things consistent and predictable. Establish a routine and stick to it, so your pet is comfortable and knows what to expect during the day.
- Train and encourage calm behavior. When you’re at home and your doggo or kitty is happily relaxing in a comfortable spot, reinforce their serenity with a gentle voice and a tasty treat (don’t overdo it, of course). No guarantees, but this praise could encourage similar behavior when you’re out of the house.
- Make home fun, even when you’re not there. Your pet loves you sooo much… but they also love food and play. So try hiding food in feeding toys to give your BFF something to do while you’re away.
- Get moving together. Health and safety is still the number 1 priority, but there’s no doubt that we can all get outside more for walks, dog parks, even a ride in the car. Exercise your pet, inside or outside, and their overall mood might improve. It’s a good way to reduce your own stress, too.
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