Home About Us Services Contact Links Appointments Forms News

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.

 

Jefferson Veterinary Center Adoptable Pets

 

Penelope, or Penny, as we like to call her is a vibrant female Shepard mix. She is currently in training with the help of the gentle leader device, has gotten all vaccines, and was even spayed! She is just over a year old and needs a home that can give her the space to run around and exercise that she desires. She would be a great  guard dog for any family, not to mention being a giving and devoted friend.

Chance is a 10 year old male chow chow mix. He is a very mild mannered, easy-going pet. We think his hearing is going, but he still enjoys long walks and belly rubs! Dr. Schacht found him while riding his bike, Chance was dirty and his fur was all matted. Now he is shaven, bathed, vaccinated and neutered, and ready for a family who can give him a chance for a new beginning.

Twitch is an 11 week old male kitten that was hand fed and raised since his first week of life. He is quite the energetic and playful kitten. He is a domestic black shorthair and ready to get his last set of kitten vaccines. This kitten loves dogs and other pets that love him! This would be the perfect pet for a family that has plenty of playmates to keep him busy.

.