SOCIAL ANXIETY SEPARATION ANXIETY NOISE ANXIETY

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1 Pets help keep our stress levels under control but what about theirs? With the pace of modern-day living being what it is and stress levels continually on the rise, it s little wonder our pets become affected as well. Pets are known for being very in tune with their owner s state of mind. How often have you noticed your pet seeking you out to console you when you are feeling blue? They are such a comfort! While they do us a world of good, what can we do to keep our domesticated companions happy and stress-free? Dogs can be sensitive to all the same forms of stress and anxiety that we are - be it from trauma, physical limitations, boredom, noise, change in routine or separation anxiety, to name but a few. Some breeds are also prone to being more highly strung than others, so understanding your dog s natural disposition is also key to ensuring your dog s tail keeps wagging with the happy-go-lucky approach to life you love so much.

2 SOCIAL ANXIETY Social anxiety usually develops as a result of a puppy not receiving adequate training on how to socialise with other animals and people. Typically, pups who are separated from their mothers too early are more prone to exhibiting signs of social anxiety later on. The first three months of a pup s life are crucial, and if during this stage of their development they don t learn how to socialise, then this can turn into emotional and behavourial problems down the line. Typical behaviour problems include aggression, fear, as well as signs of anxiety. NOISE ANXIETY Noise anxiety refers to dogs that are sensitive to loud noises such as thunderstorms, fireworks and even vacuum cleaners. If your dog reacts to such noises by running away, whimpering and/or generally acting skittish it could be that he or she suffers from noise anxiety. Causes 2 include a traumatic experience, breed, and genetic factors - e.g. herding breeds such as Border Collies and German Shepherds commonly suffer from noise anxiety. SEPARATION ANXIETY Separation anxiety is the most common form of stress and anxiety in dogs. A dog that may have a very gentle nature normally 3 but is prone to experiencing separation anxiety can easily become highly strung and destructive. In these cases, dogs typically show signs of clinginess and whimpering, whining, howling, scratching, digging, barking and/or pacing when left alone, which often leads to destructive behaviours. Carpets and sofas beware!

3 It is normal for dogs to experience occasional stress, just as we do, but when stress and feelings of anxiety become more consistent and severe this can lead to long-term emotional and physical problems. By being vigilant and looking out for any signs of abnormal behaviour in your dog, you will be able to pinpoint what the problems are, enabling you to take steps sooner rather than later to relieve your dog s stress and anxiety. Unstable home environment, Fear of abandonment, Jealousy towards a new member in the family, Sudden change in their environment, Age Poor nutrition Physical problems Dominant relationship - dog owners that have allowed their dog to be the dominant pack leader in the family will often find they become upset i.e. display signs of separation anxiety - when the owners (i.e. in the dog s view, the subordinates) leave without permission. Signs to look out for include: Repetitive behaviours Aggression barking, biting, growling, snarling Loss of appetite or overeating Whining Drooling Hiding Yawning Dilated pupils Constant licking of lips Lack of bowel or bladder control Behaviours that appear unusual or uncharacteristic e.g. the eating of faeces

4 Herding dogs such as German Shepherds, Border Collies and Shelties Airedales Weimaraners Springer Spaniels Labrador Retrievers While some breeds might be predisposed to feelings of insecurity, this is not to say that they are guaranteed to become anxious. All dogs can be prone to suffering from stress and anxiety depending on their circumstances and upbringing as well as their predisposition While a happy dog makes for a happy home, a happy home makes for a happy dog! Laying the right foundation at home and understanding what your pet really needs is the key to helping him/her feel less stressed. An animal behaviourist can help you understand how your dog perceives and reacts to stimuli around him/her and will teach you how to lay down the right ground rules from the beginning. That said, there is a lot you can do in your own home. A good place to start, for example, is not reacting or fussing much to your dog s feelings of fear and insecurity, as this may be teaching your dog that it s a way to gain attention. For example, a pet owner that cuddles a fearful dog during a thunderstorm may also inadvertently teach the dog there is something to be fearful about and can elevate rather than lessen the anxiety. A better approach is to remain calm yourself and teach your dog how to cope on his/her own. One example of this is to make up an area that becomes their sanctuary (with a blanket and some of their favourite toys), where they can feel safe and keep an eye on what they consider to be a threat. Adequate training during the first three months is essential in helping dogs feel secure both at home (especially when you are not around) and in a social environment as they grow older. Always be aware of your own feelings as your dog will easily pick up on your energies. Take stock of how you are both feeling for your own, as well as your dog s, sake.

5 On arriving home I gave my dog the initial 7.5 ml and noticed quite soon how relaxed he seemed without becoming drowsy. On previous nights he had been too scared to go outside which had led to him urinating in the house, but by having the product he was able to brave the outside. Jackie Cooper (UK) Regal Nerve Tonic Formula, with delicious artificial beef flavouring, has been specifically formulated with three herbs traditionally known for calming stressed, anxious and problem dogs. This herbal nerve tonic is beneficial for dogs prone to separation anxiety and problem behaviours (including barking, biting, aggression and hyperactivity). It can also be given to help soothe nerves during stressful situations such as thunderstorms, fireworks or a car trip. A happy dog makes for a happy home! HOW TO USE: Regal Nerve Tonic Formula has been formulated with tasty beef flavouring to ensure administration is stress-free for both you and your dog! Administer liquid directly into the mouth or place it into a bowl. If your dog has a fussy palate then simply add some of your dog s favourite food or snack to the liquid. Active herbs in the formula include Chamomile, Passion Flower and Valerian. Small dogs (1-4.5kg) 2.5ml TWO TO THREE times a day Small-medium dogs (5kg 10kg) 5ml TWO TO THREE times a day Medium dogs (11kg 20kg) 7.5ml TWO TO THREE times a day Large dogs (21kg and more) 10ml TWO TO THREE times a day For best results use strictly as per dosage recommendation. Use until symptoms clear or continue as needed.