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Simple Solutions for Anxiety in Pets
Has your pet ever been scared during a
thunderstorm or traumatized after a fireworks show? Or even
showing signs of anxiety in a stressful situation? Anxiety is
defined as distressing emotions that we identify as fear, anger,
apprehension, or worry. Symptoms include panting or shortness of
breath, panic attacks, nausea or other digestive issues. If you
are unsure whether your pet has anxiety or whether something
else may be going on, please call your veterinarian before using
some of the listed options. There are many safe and
non-prescription choices to calm and soothe your pet. We offer
ideas such as wraps that affect pressure points to aromatherapy
that can greatly influence your pet’s behavior.
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative
medicine that uses essential oils, herbs, or scents that help
change one’s mood or health. Some that can help pets with stress
are lavender oil, peppermint oil, and valerian herb. Lavender
oil can be used by applying small amounts in your hands and it
can be rubbed or even massaged, starting behind your pet’s ears
down along your pet’s body. It is often used in conjunction with
a product called Rescue Remedy which you can find at GNC.
Rescue Remedy is another herbal supplement that be given on a
treat. It comes in a liquid form or in a spray form; it is
composed of over 20 flower oils that have calming effects on
both people and pets. Peppermint oil which is normally used for
baking or cooking also has natures calming effects. It can
usually be found in the spice section at your local grocery
store and 1 drop can be rubbed on each paw to soothe any of your
furry friends’ worries. Valerian extract given about an hour
before a storm hits has also proven to pacify an apprehensive
pet. Valerian extract is from the valerian flowering plant that
has a “sweet” smell and sometimes is given to help treat
insomnia and even alleviate migraines in humans. There is also
an herbal formula called Calm Spirit by Health Concerns. The
dosage is 1 pill for every 20 pounds your pet weighs, the
formula can be given twice daily as needed. If you are having
trouble finding these items call your veterinarian for some
assistance.
Pheromones also play an important part in
your pet’s behavior. Pheromones are a chemical made by the body
that triggers certain behaviors in certain situations. A product
called D.A.P. (or Dog Appeasing Pheromone) makes collars or
plug-in diffusers that contain pheromones. The pheromones in
this product replicate those of a mother to its puppy when
nursing. These pheromones are secreted to calm puppies while
they are being fed to provide a secure feeling. Products like
these can be found at your vet or at some pet retail stores.
The last option you may want to try in
order to comfort your pet is called the anxiety wrap. The best
thing about this selection is that it is reusable and you are
not using any chemicals to alter your pet’s demeanor. The wrap
is designed to apply pressure in areas that affect
over-stimulated neurological pathways; it replaces new
sensations on the nerve path, with old or familiar feelings. It
is said that this therapy helps calm present fears that could
have been associated with past events, and help the animal focus
on something other than what is frightening it. You can find
this product online or learn more about it on these websites:
http://www.anxietywrap.com/anxietywrap.htm
http://www.centerforanimaltherapy.com/new/pages/ttouch.html
It can be just as stressful for a
pet-owner to see their pet in distress, as it is for your pet to
be anxious, worried, or frightful. With this information, you
should be able to try an at home remedy to make both of your
lives easier. Of course, do not hesitate to call your
veterinarian with any questions. You may even want to schedule a
behavioral consultation to discuss which option may be right for
you and your pet, or talk about choices that were not mentioned.
Hopefully these hints can assist you in managing your pet’s
nervousness and anxiety.
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Jefferson Veterinary Center Adoptable Pets
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