The District Magazine Vol. 2 Issue 5, Winter 2017-18 | Page 42

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Burn off some energy. Some pets deal with separation anxiety by engaging
in negative or destructive behaviors, such as howling, excessive barking or
chewing on inappropriate objects. A great way to keep your dog from doing
this is to take them on a walk in the morning before you leave the house to
help burn off some of that extra energy. For cats, consider playing with them
at night as well - whether it's making them chase a feather wand or play with
a ball.
Provide Special Away Toys. When there is change it is a great time to buy your
pet a new interactive toy to play with. Before you leave for the day, present
your pet with special toys that you have designed specifically for alone time.
This will help mentally stimulate them and keep them occupied during the day.
For dogs, chew toys are a way for them to relieve their anxiety, frustration, and
boredom. For cats, creating a play area - including scratching posts and cat
furniture - can keep them entertained even when you're not home.
Turn On Some Tunes Or Let Them Binge Watch TV. Try leaving soothing
music or their favorite talk show on while everyone is gone. The music will
help drown out distracting noises that your dog may mistakenly associate with
their family coming home. Some animal shelters have even found that playing
calming music helps animals in their facilities relax. Additionally, help your
pets adjust to a new routine by providing them with clear cues. For example,
jingling your car keys prior to leaving for work each day can provide your pet
with an important audible cue and ultimately, help with the transition to a new
family schedule.
Train Your Pet To Enjoy Solitude. One way to get your pet to remain calm
in your absence is to train them but in baby steps. Try leaving your pet in one
room while you work or do a household task in another. Show them to be
comfortable with being alone. Then, leave the house for short periods of time
without making a big deal about it, which should get them used to you coming
and going. However, if you make your leaving and going a big deal every time
you return, you are creating extra anxiety for your pet.
Spend quality time with your pet if it cannot be quantity. It's important to
remember that while you may have had a long day, your pet may have been
sitting at home feeling lonely, waiting for you to come home. Spending some
quality time with your pet at the end of the day is critical to helping keep them
active and mentally sharp. It may be tough to fit into a busy work schedule, but
be sure to build some interactive time - whether it's a walk or cuddle session
-to benefit both you and your pet.