Pets suffer from stress and anxiety as much as their humans do, though the symptoms can be harder to spot. For instance, your dog might try to tell you that he’s stressed by pushing his ears back or lifting his front paw. Other times they’re more obvious about their emotions and might show their discomfort by cowering or hiding, trembling, and even panting.
The good news? Just like humans, there are plenty of ways to help man’s best friend cope with stressors. Here are 6 simple strategies worth trying:
1. Look to routine.
Before you invest in the latest product on the market that may or may not work. don’t overlook the obvious. Most of the time, there are actions people can take to help manage and improve their dog’s anxiety. For instance, adhering to a consistent routine can help in this way. Knowing when he’ll get to eat, go outside, and spend time playing with you can have a comforting effect. That’s especially true if separation anxiety is in the mix.
2. Try a compression wrap.
Ever heard of a weighted blanket? Well, Thundershirt wraps are rooted in the same concept. They work by swaddling your dog and applying gentle, continuous pressure, which is thought to curb fear.
3. Play some music.
Music is a powerful antidote against stress and anxiety, but not all genres are created equally. For example, research shows that dogs respond well to classical music like Mozart and Beethoven.
4. Bring on the cuddles.
Though there’s not a lot of research to support the theory, petting does seem to work, especially in stressful situations like at the vet. Plus, it helps you bond with your dog, so it can’t hurt.
5. Seek professional help.
If all else fails and you’re worried that your dog’s emotional state is affecting his or her quality of life, know that there’s help available. Consider meeting with experts like a board-certified veterinary behaviorist or certified applied animal behaviorist. They can help you develop a plan to change your dog’s underlying emotional response.
6. Try CBD oil
Just like humans can use CBD oil to help them get through periods of anxiety, dogs may benefit, too. The substances in CBD oil interact with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which may help maintain balance in the body and keep it in a normal healthy state.
If you intend to use it ahead of an event like fireworks or a trip to the vet, you’ll need to plan ahead to make sure the CBD oil has time to kick in. It generally takes about an hour or so to have a therapeutic effect, so plan accordingly.
Here’s to you and your four-legged friend!