Why is Separation Anxiety?
Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a mental illness. It’s not just an issue for humans, but animals too. Pets who suffer from this condition are more likely to be worried and scared of being away from their furry family members or other friends. These fears can cause specific indicators of bad behavior. Therefore, there are clear indicators of this, as outlined below.
The Most Common Signs of Separation Anxiety
Barking and Howling
A pet with a mental illness will bark and howl when its owner is away for a short time or even longer. The barking and howling behavior can be triggered when a pet is in its own space. If you’re unhappy with the noise, spend time with your dogs.
Chewing and Digging
When left unattended, pets afraid of being separated will chew on things like windowsills, doors, door frames, and tables. It can lead to self-injury, such as broken teeth, cuts, scratches on paws, or even damaged nails. When they’re disinterested, their guardians are not present. If your pet is injured, get advice from a professional to learn more about pet dental care.
Pacing
Certain animals walk or trot in a specific pattern after their owners have gone. Certain animals walk in circular movements, while others move in straight lines. If separation anxiety is the reason behind the pet’s tendency to pace, its guardian won’t observe this behavior.
Urinating and Defecating
Certain breeds of dogs urinate or defecate when left on their own or away from their owners. If your pet is susceptible to vomiting or urination with your presence, separation anxiety may not be the reason. If it frequently occurs without their owners, it’s worth looking at vets and having an appointment for a pet annual exam.
Coprophagia
If a dog is anxious and is not in contact with its owner, the consumption of its waste is an indicator. If a dog eats excrement to ease anxiety caused by separation, it’s acting in the absence of the owner’s consent. Furthermore, eating feces may harm their health and cause dental problems or health-related ailments. If this happens, it is possible to seek assistance from any vets.
Drooling, Excessive Salivation, or Panting
There are times when animals or dogs excessively salivate. Any health issue doesn’t cause it; however, it is due to anxiety. If pet owners don’t keep an eye on their pets or do not leave them at home, they may be vulnerable to a strong desire to protect their owners. They’ll become more protective of their guardians and feel an increase in anxiety. Pets can snore or sweat in a tense state during the process. If this happens, then you should check further details on wellness checks.
Attempts to Escape
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety are at risk, leading to self-injury. Pets can also cause damage to the property, particularly close to exit points like doors and windows. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety might seek to leave a place where they live alongside their owner. So, attracting their attention can be a problem.
Can dog separation anxiety ever end?
Be patient when issues arise in your pet. It may take a while to address the problems of separation. If you think you’re not able to handle the mental illness that’s so severe, find a reliable veterinarian close to you like Kittrell, NC, for your pet’s optimal health care.
