NEW YORK, March 25, 2006
When Dogs Need Some Extra TLC
Like Children, Dogs Suffer From Separation Anxiety
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Play CBS Video Video Separation Anxiety In Pets Just like young children, dogs can feel intense anxiety when separated from their families. In "The Saturday Early Show," resident veterinarian Debbye Turner explores the issue and how to handle it.
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(CBS/AP)
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Resident veterinarian Debbye Turner joins The Saturday Early Show to discuss this issue and says it can be difficult to resolve.
What causes separation anxiety?
Pets that are extraordinarily attached to their owners are susceptible to the anxiety of being separated from them. These are the pets that follow you from room to room, never letting you out of their sight. There are some factors that might lead to separation anxiety, including a traumatic event, early separation from the mother, a sudden change of environment and/or lifestyle and long absence from a family member
How to recognize separation anxiety
Some of the signs exhibited in separation anxiety are inappropriate urination and defecation; destructive behavior, such as digging; chewing, especially at the exit that the pet owner used to leave; excessive barking and whining; depression, and hyperactivity. It is important to note that all of these behaviors can signal other health problems as well, so it is always important to consult your veterinarian before taking any course of action. Also, the behaviors associated with separation anxiety are not spiteful actions but ways your pet relieves the high stress it feels when you are away. Punishing a pet for these behaviors is not the answer.
Cats can also show signs of separation anxiety. They may sulk or hide when their owner is about to leave, or show unusual enthusiasm upon the owner's return. They may show the same signs that dogs show, such as excessive vocalizing, inappropriate urination or defecation, destructive behavior, plus excessive grooming or vomiting. But this is far more rare in cats than dogs.
Treatment
For mild cases of separation, especially when boredom is the real problem, there are a few techniques that may solve the problem. They include:
Getting a new pet after your dog has exhibited separation anxiety probably won't help the situation. The anxiety is because you are away. Another animal in the house with whom the pet has to compete for attention might not be a good idea. But getting two dogs or two cats at the same time may be a good way to teach them to use each other for company instead of depending on you.
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