Category: CBD for pets

How to Keep Your Dog Calm During a Storm

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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Batten down the hatches, draw the curtains—there’s a storm about to hit and the forecast isn’t looking good (especially for Fido). Hiding, whining, scratching, peeing—these are just some of the symptoms of a dog suffering from “Thunder Phobia,” a condition that typically begins between the ages of two and four, and which gets worse over time. But no matter how long your pup’s panic has been in full swing, the following top tips should soon soothe his jangling nerves.

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Why are Dogs Scared of Thunder Storms?

Vets and animal behaviorists have studied this topic to the -nth degree, yet there’s still no concrete answer. The consensus is that the noise of the thunder and the flashes of lightning are unpredictable and, to a dog, seemingly come out of nowhere. However, there’s also the complexities of how dogs are hardwired to pick up on changes in air pressure and to hear the super low-frequency rumbles of a storm before it arrives. Another hypothesis is that dogs may even suffer from shocks, as static electric builds up as a thunderstorm approaches. Herding breeds (such as Border Collies) are especially affected, as well as naturally nervy dogs who are anxious in everyday life. Whatever the facts of the matter and actual root cause of their fear, there are tactics that can help. And here they are…

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Always be Prepared

First thing’s first—you should always be aware of the forecast if it seems that bad weather is swirling overhead. Getting caught outside in a storm can be incredibly stressful for your dog (and you can multiply that by ten if they also hate getting wet). All in all, it can serve to worsen their already serious fear. Launch into some positive association training with the help of a downloadable thunder storm app or soundtrack. Over the next two weeks, play the storm audio at increasingly louder levels, and while doing so play with your pup and feed him treats. Once you switch off or pause the audio, stop all play and all treats—the point here is to link the sounds of thunder with tail-wagging happy times.

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Reward Calmness

You may have trained your dog to sit, lay, and maybe even shake hands. But what about training them to settle down? This isn’t nearly as impossible as it sounds. Simply put on a special “inside” leash and direct your pup to lie at your feet, rewarding him when he follows your instruction. Practicing this routine all year through can ensure that your pup has a reassuringly regular cue to follow, even as the thunderous rumbles begin.

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Classic Distraction Techniques

Do as much as possible to lessen the effects of a storm by getting the basics covered—that includes drawing the curtains, having a TV or music on medium-to-loud, and creating a cozy hideaway complete with overhead blankets and plenty of pillows. You should also observe your dog during a storm—is there a place he tries to gain access to, such as a bathroom, office, or basement? If possible, try and prepare this area with his blankets. Over the course of the storm try to keep your pup engaged with treats, training, and toys where possible.

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Swaddle that Pup up like a Real Human Baby (kind of)

Not so long ago a product hit the shop shelves that claimed to calm the nerves of our canine mates. It was called the Thundershirt—a type of tight dog jacket that provides an experience of pressure and closeness. It works in the same way as swaddling a baby—reminding them, on a subconscious level, of being in the womb. You can create your own DIY version of this jacket by purchasing a suitably sized human t-shirt and placing your dog’s front legs in the arm holes. If you get the sizing right, this should provide at least a partial sensation of pressure.

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Give the Dog a Bone (but not just any old bone)

Nope, we’re talking CBD dog treats (CBD standing for cannabinoids). Contrary to common misconceptions, CBD is nothing to do with recreational cannabis. It’s simply derived from the same family of plants—namely hemp (the plant material that’s used in everything from clothing to cosmetics). CBD dog treats are proven to relax, ease anxiety, and calm even the cagiest of canines by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is in charge of physiological reactions including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory.

So effective is CBD, that it’s even been shown to help with a multitude of other dog conditions, including skin allergies and dry, itchy skin (you can thank the high content of Omega 3 fatty acids for that); as well as easing seizures and epilepsy, and even overcoming low energy.

If Eddie the English Springer was in the eye of the storm with a FOMO Bone in his mouth, he’d be a whole lot less stressed.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

7 Steps To Build Confidence In Your Dog

This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

 

Oh Fido. It’s tough to see him frightened and not really have a clue as to how to help (or what he’s even scared of). From jumping at the slightest sound to following you everywhere and showing tell-tale signs of fear (dropped tail, crouching, panting), it’s always pretty clear when you’ve got a nervy canine on your hands.

The question is: What can you do about it? Try following these seven simple tips.

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1: Begin with firm foundations—set up good obedience during walks

Sit, stay, heel—these are the basic commands that your dog should know (and obey) during your walks. These cues and the consequent treats that follow (such as being handed a ball or toy) are essential distraction techniques for when you spot a hazard looming. Speaking of which…

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2: Worried during walks? Distract your dog

A cautious, concerned canine during a walk can lead to disaster around other dogs or unpredictable people. The solution? Distraction. By giving your dog something to do while walking (like chewing a bone or carrying your bag), you give him something to focus on. In doing so, he’ll hopefully remain distracted on what he’s doing, rather than what may happen (and being hyper-sensitive to all that’s around).

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3: Switch items from scary to something to salivate over

If your dog is scared of certain items, try exposure management. Simply take the item that your dog is afraid of and place something on it that your dog loves (treats usually work best). So if Sammy’s scared of skateboards, place a few treats on the top and encourage him to explore. Once he’s comfortable with that, move on to pushing the skateboard slightly (with items such as this, which are common in parks) it’s usually the movement that dogs are uncomfortable with. Remember, with exposure management slow and steady wins the race.

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4: Seek out fresh new places where your dog can taste success

Practicing and repeating problem behaviors only reinforces them. Staying cooped up inside isn’t helpful for anyone—not for humans, not for dogs. Getting out and about to new places can allow your dog to explore and be fascinated by the new smells and sights around him.

This may not necessarily mean a walk in a forest (some dogs aren’t comfortable in the great outdoors); it may mean a late-night wander in a dead-quiet park. But no matter the environment, it’s the newness of the place that will encourage his innate curiosity to explore.

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5: Sign up for agility training

Agility training involves plenty of physical effort and dexterity on the dog’s part. And yet agility isn’t really the key skill being learned.

By showing them how to complete new tasks, and with your dog gradually working towards getting it right every time, their trust in you grows and their confidence in their own abilities increases. With each tunnel, pole, or hoop successfully navigated, they’ll learn that what once seemed insurmountable can be mastered. And so their confidence will (hopefully) grow and grow.

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6: Have a trial run with another dog

For dogs that don’t fear (or show aggression) to other dogs, a more confident canine pal can prove to be a real behavior-changer.

After all, dogs (much like humans) observe the actions and interactions of others, and can mirror behaviors that they come to see as appropriate.

A key pointer here is that some companionship is more effective than others, and it may take a few trial play dates to discover a dog that’s a natural, positive fit with yours.

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7: Harness the targeting technique

Targeting is the practice of touching a specific part of your dog’s body to re-direct his attention to you. This becomes more effective than simply calling his name during a frightening experience, as it’s used less often.

To train him, hold a treat in your hand. Once he begins to sniff around it, say ”nose” and pass him his treat. Regularly practicing this will show your dog that bumping his nose on your hand, and giving you his focus, will result in a yummy treat being given.

Alaskan Husky struggling with dog anxiety? Stressed out St. Bernard? We’ve got just the thing. 100% natural CBD dog treats that are packed not just with stress-exterminating cannabidiol but also with plenty of good stuff to boot (good stuff such as potatoes, natural bacon flavoring, whole peas, sweet potatoes, potato starch, dried plain beet pulp, mixed tocopherols, carrots, and rosemary extract).

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

Do Puppies Grow Out of Separation Anxiety?

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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Dog separation anxiety, especially in puppies, is a common problem that affects thousands of dog owners across the world and, if left untreated, it can become quite serious. Although we have not been able to pinpoint an exact root cause of separation anxiety, we are aware that it is usually because animals are not created to be alone. Dogs, in particular, are pack animals, so when we take a pup away from the rest of its litter, this is when we start witnessing the symptoms of loneliness. Sometimes, the symptoms can be limited to just a bit of initial barking and crying when we leave, but more often than not separation anxiety will produce destructive behaviors like chewing and biting.

It is important to recognize puppy separation anxiety, and that he is not acting out on purpose to upset you. They are more prone to experiencing separation anxiety due to their need for more human interaction and attention. They also haven’t developed the skills that older dogs have, so your puppy probably doesn’t realize that you will be coming back.

Thankfully, there is a whole range of tools and techniques that you can use to get your puppy’s separation anxiety under control, and this is what will set them up for good behavior and habits for the rest of their lives.

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Only Leave Your Puppy Alone When it is Appropriate

Puppies simply can’t be left on their own for long periods of time. It is likely that you are still potty training your puppy if he is young, so you will need to make sure that you are taking him out frequently enough to get a good routine down. During puppyhood, dogs will absorb everything they notice going on around him and a lonely, bored puppy can result in an insecure and unhappy adult dog. If you work full time and you have recently added a puppy into the mix, then you may want to consider paying a dog sitter or friend to come over every few hours to check on them.

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Consider Crate Training

Crate training is recommended by dog behaviorists, as it one of the most effective ways of tacking separation anxiety in dogs. Contrary to popular belief, crate training is not just a matter of shutting your dog into a cage. If you follow the correct methods when introducing your dog to his crate, he will start seeing it as his safe place where he can go to feel comforted and secure.

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Try CBD Treats

Not only will he benefit from the soothing therapeutic benefits of these all-natural treats, but he will also learn to form a positive association with being left alone. Many people prefer using CBD treats over any other treatment, especially when their dog is demonstrating severe symptoms of anxiety. You can help alleviate some of the terror that a small dog feels by having a special treat they get only before you leave. This can help them get something great out of your leaving and helps make the process a little less stressful.

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Ease Your Puppy into a Routine

Just before leaving, pick up your keys and put your shoes on. Start by stepping out the door and then come back almost immediately (if they are being quiet) and reward them with a treat. You can gradually extend the length of time you leave your dog and always remember that you should never reward negative behavior (like barking, whining, etc.) or your dog will learn that that will get them attention. Stay away for a little longer each time you go out and before too long, your pup will get used to it and even learn to accept it.

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Will My Pup Grow Out of Separation Anxiety?

Sadly, if you don’t act to correct the symptoms of separation anxiety early on, it tends to get worse. Puppies will not just miraculously grow out of separation anxiety as they get older because it has little to do with their age. If a puppy is left on its own from day one and never learns to feel safe about being alone, then they will never be able to have a positive association with you going out.

Many rescue dogs have extreme separation anxiety, due to the abandonment they have previously experienced. As our dogs are not able to speak to us and tell us what they need and how they feel, we need to step up and be responsible dog parents and do our best to ensure that we raise a well-balanced and confident dog. Due to their tiny size, puppies can’t do that much damage even if they try… but imagine what they could do once they are fully grown and suffering from a harsher degree of anxiety. Suddenly we are dealing with a whole different ball game!

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Can I Give My Dog Anxiety Medicine?

If your dog is demonstrating severe anxiety, which could include destructive behavior, being too anxious, house soiling, or never being calm, even if you just walk out of the room for a minute, then a trip to the vet or animal behaviorist is always a good idea. Many people, however, prefer not to give their dog any kind of chemical medications and instead would rather take a natural approach. Not only is it better for your pet in the long run, but it can also be less expensive. For example, giving your dog a totally organic CBD treat will not only bring his anxiety levels right down, but the treats also offer a whole load of other benefits, like improved health, shinier coats, and pain relief. We always recommend taking a natural approach where possible, and many vets now advocate and even promote the use of CBD to help separation anxiety in dogs.

Whichever approach you decide to take, if your dog has separation anxiety, always remember that consistency is key, and you won’t see a sudden improvement overnight. Stick with whichever training method you decide on and give your pet the chance to be the best dog they can possibly be.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

5 Common Sudden Strange Dog Behavior Symptoms (and What to Do)

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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When we think of dogs, we tend to imagine a happy, goofy companion that loves to play and, most of all, loves to sit right by our side. A running joke in the dog-parent community is the fact that our pooches absolutely lack personal space and it is usually impossible to even go to the bathroom in peace. What most people don’t realize is that our canine companions can experience emotional issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. What’s more, because the powers that be failed to give dogs the ability to talk, the only way they can get our attention to alert us that something is wrong is by acting out in some very strange ways.

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Why Do Dogs Start Behaving Strangely Overnight?

More often than not, if your dog’s behavior is normal and he is otherwise in good health, a sudden change in behavior could indicate that your pup is experiencing stress and/or anxiety. And here’s the thing about anxiety—we can’t control it most of the time and we have no idea where it comes from. The same is true for our dogs when they start feeling anxious as a result of being left on their own for extended periods of time or due to a lack of exercise or a change in environment. So, it’s not that they have suddenly become anxious or unwell; it’s more that their symptoms have become severe enough for them to seek help by getting our attention, or they could also be self-soothing by using bizarre behavior as a coping mechanism.

If you notice any of the following strange behaviors in your dog, then they are sending you a signal that something is awry, and you should take action right away to stop the problem worsening.

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1. Your Dog Seems to Be Unable to Focus

If your seemingly intelligent dog starts randomly distracting himself and is unable to focus on one task (like a game of fetch) he could be trying to release pent-up stress. A common displacement behavior is pacing and obsessively sniffing the ground, or compulsively licking paws. If you notice that your dog is suddenly acting out in this way, then it is likely he is suffering from a bout of anxiety. At this stage, you should make a mental note of any poignant changes that have taken place regarding your dog’s routine or living environment and try to restore normality as best as possible.

2. Obsessive Compulsive Behavior

Sometimes a pet will obsessively scratch himself or pace around as he is struggling to deal with anxiety. This is often the result of an impending event, such as fireworks or you leaving for a trip (trust me, they just know). The problem is this kind of behavior can end up being quite harmful to your dog, especially if they are scratching themselves raw.

3. They Suddenly Forget Where to Go Potty

A common sign of stress or anxiety in dogs is peeing in the house in a particular spot even though they are completely housebroken. This is a major warning sign that something isn’t right and if you notice that your dog pees in the same place every time you leave them alone, it is a clear indication of separation anxiety. Please note: this is not the same as incontinence. If your dog isn’t capable of controlling their bladder at all, then you need to visit your vet ASAP as it could be the start of a serious disease.

4. Clingy Behavior

Some dogs need their own space while others love to cuddle close to you at all times. This is one of their lovable traits, as we rely on our dogs for reassurance and affection as much as they do us. But, if your dog has suddenly become super clingy and whiney when he can’t hop onto your lap, then this indicates a problem that needs to be addressed. Pandering to a dog’s negative behavior is only going to reinforce and worsen the issue, not improve it.

5. Aggression

If your otherwise docile pet suddenly becomes aggressive this could be an indication that he is in pain. Your first step should be to take him to the vet to rule out any serious injuries. If the behavior continues, but your dog isn’t sick, it is likely that the aggression is fear-based and could stem from anxiety.

There are many other strange behaviors that can indicate stress or anxiety, but the above are not as common as others and therefore are easily missed.

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How to Overcome These Issues

Now that you understand where your dog’s bizarre behaviors are potentially coming from, it’s time to decide what steps you are going to take to correct the problem. It is worth noting that a combination of tactics to alleviate stress and anxiety work better than using a single method.

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CBD Oil

CBD oil is an excellent natural remedy that has powerful healing properties when it comes to treating issues like pain or anxiety. There is already a substantial amount of evidence that shows it can alleviate a range of negative symptoms. Thanks to medical research and CBD oil’s increasing popularity as an alternative medicine, we can only expect more positive news regarding its therapeutic potential in the coming years.

Many dog owners are now choosing to treat anxiety in dogs with CBD oil as it is entirely plant-based and offers a wealth of benefits including anti-inflammatory properties. Many mainstream veterinarians are now advocating the use of CBD to treat a range of canine ailments, primarily anxiety.

Crate Training

If your dog has suddenly started chewing or destroying things around the house, then you could consider crate training. When done properly, it offers your dog a safe haven where they can go to seek respite from their stress. It will also stop them from engaging in destructive behavior that could harm them.

Behavioral Training

If you feel that your dog’s anxiety or strange behavior is getting out of control, it might be time to consult a behavioral therapist. Dogs are pack animals and they need to see you as their pack leader in order to listen and obey you when you tell them to stop baring their teeth or chewing up your favorite pair of shoes.

As always, before you take matters into your own hands, always try to seek professional advice on what you can do to eliminate your dog’s negative behavior.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

Eight Signs of a Stressed-out Dog

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This article by Jennifer is originally published at FOMO Bones.

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After a hard day’s work, you may sometimes look at your pooch and wish you had it as easy as they did. After all, they get three (free) square meals a day, a comfy bed, ZERO bills and plenty of belly scratches. Ahhh, that’s the life, right?

And yet our dogs can suffer severely with stress and anxiety—so much so that if left untreated, it can lead to serious behavioral issues and persistent psychological problems.

At FOMO, we’re all for happy wagging tails. So here we present the top eight signs of a dog in distress (with some pointers along the way as to what you could and should do about it.

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1. Barely poops or, alternatively, gets all blocked op

Diarrhea and constipation can go hand-in-hand with anxiety. Like their owners, dogs have millions of receptors within their gastrointestinal tract. When a dog is stressed, these receptors react to the physiological response to fear by either speeding up or slowing down their digestive tract.

Im-paw-tant pointer: With this indicator, it’s worth understanding that diarrhea or constipation is usually more likely to be linked with illness or food intolerance—so any persistent stomach upsets should warrant an urgent trip to the vet (when we say persistent, we’re talking for more than 48 hours or so). This is especially true if you spot blood in their vomit or stools.

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2. “Favorite dog treat? No thank you” —Your dog’s appetite dramatically decreases

This one can be a big red flag. After all, what dog would willingly turn their CBD dog treats or food down? In the most basic sense, a loss in appetite in dogs can be compared to how a human loses weight during stressful times of their life. If this has happened with your dog, think about whether there have been any new stressors recently—such as moving home, a new baby, or a change in routine. You should also think about giving your vet a call—just to ensure there’s no underlying illness that could explain their dip in appetite.

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3. “Just leave me alone!” —Your dog isolates himself

It’s pretty natural for any dog to want to spend time alone occasionally. However, when this becomes more regular with your pup removing himself from human or canine company for hours on end, it could be an indicator that they are anxious or sick. To rule out illness, it may be worthwhile to check in with your veterinarian.

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4. Your dog destroys… EVERYTHING

In more boisterous breeds, dogs routinely attempt to calm their nerves themselves by chowing down on furniture, shoes, toys, and even by biting or licking their own body! If you spot these signs, consider the immediate circumstances leading up to this behavior: Had they been left alone for a long time? Has an unfamiliar guest popped round?

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5. Yawning—Yup, it’s not just a sign of tiredness

It might seem odd, but yawning can be a symptom of stress. When a dog feels anxious, their body enters flight or fight mode.

Their heart rate increases, they breathe more quickly, and their muscles tighten. To assist these processes, your pup’s body needs more oxygen, which is gained by taking deep, protracted breathes in the form of yawning.

A stressed yawn is typically observed alongside other behaviors, such as isolation and…

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6. Pinned ears and panting

Some dogs seem to look worried—a key indicator of which can be pinned ears, where their ears pull back and sit flusher to their head. They may also pant in reaction to fear, anxiety, or stress.

A warning sign to look out for in a stressed, panting dog is when they suddenly close their mouth; this could be a signal that they’re reaching peak stress, and preparing to bite.

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7. “Pass me the brush!” —Your pup sheds his hair

Ever noticed how much fur your dog leaves behind at the vet? You may have thought that you didn’t notice just how much they shred until you were under the bright vet lights. But actually, shedding hair is a reaction to anxiety. This can be as immediate as being in the vet’s waiting room, or it could be more gradual in response to a big life event, such as moving, adopting another pet, or a family member moving out.

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8. Licking (and licking and licking!) their nose and lips.

Dogs are forever attempting to communicate using body language, it’s just that most humans aren’t clued up as to what action holds what meaning.

In the case of a dog who excessively licks their nose and lips, they are showing you that they’re feeling a bit uneasy.

So, those are the signs of a stressed-out pup. You could probably do with something to ease his frayed nerves. Which, luckily enough, is right about where FOMO Bones’s rather special bones step in. All-natural FOMO Bones are packed with anxiety-eradicating CBD, which eases canine anxiety and relaxes your furry friend.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

Severe Separation Anxiety in Dogs: When Is It Time to See the Vet?

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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If your dog has started acting out or is visibly stressed out when you leave him alone, then you are more than likely dealing with one of the most common issues when it comes to having a dog: separation anxiety! It is essentially defined as a problematic type of behavior that is accompanied by symptoms such as whining, pooping, excessive barking, scratching the walls and doors, chewing things up, or other destructive behavior. In more severe cases, separation anxiety could cause your dog to try and escape through the room they are in at any cost! Even crate training may not always work.

If you are among the thousands of devoted pet parents who have to deal with the negative effects of your dog’s separation anxiety, then you will be pleased to hear there are several highly effective remedies you can try at home to soothe your pup.

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Why Do Dogs Get Separation Anxiety?

What the majority of pet owners don’t realize is that separation anxiety in dogs, especially when left for longer periods, is often encouraged by overly adoring dog owners. Because we love our four-legged friends so much, it is just too tempting not to make a huge fuss and smother them with kisses and cuddles when we get home after being at work all day. And while we think that this will give them the reassurance they need to know that we will always come back after a few hours, dogs do not have the ability to rationalize as humans do. Every time your dog experiences the anxiety of being away from you and you reward this stress with attention on returning home, you are provoking him to continue acting out. Also, dogs are pack animals and they see us as their pack leader which they want to be with 24/7, so leaving them in a crate while you go to work for short periods may have a serious effect on the pet.

The root cause of separation anxiety in dogs can’t be pinned on one general factor. Some experts indicate that a lack of exercise and overall boredom can cause our dogs to become more stressed, while many others believe that some breeds have an inherently nervous disposition compared to others. Regardless of the cause of the separation anxiety, it is something that needs to be dealt with sooner rather than later with behavior modification.

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How to Overcome Separation Anxiety in Dogs

A change in routine including mental stimulation is thought to be one of the factors that contribute most to your pet experiencing an onset of separation anxiety. In order to start minimizing these bouts of stress, you have to establish a balanced sense of confidence, patience, and obedience in your dog. This happens by ensuring you take a consistent approach to never rewarding negative behavior. For example, if every time you leave, and you hear your dog whining and go back to comfort him, it is going to teach him that by barking and whining more, he is going to get you back quicker. Any kind of discipline and training involves patience and consistency and the same is true of helping your hound to feel better about being left home alone.

There is also a range of entirely natural and healing products you can use as tools to accompany your chosen “training” regime, such as CBD dog treats. These organic treats are infused with just the right dose of CBD oil to ease your dog’s anxiety and many dog owners who found that nothing seemed to work with regards to their dog’s separation anxiety are having excellent results. Not only will the CBD dog treats calm your dog down, but they also work to cure ailments like arthritis, epilepsy, and pain.

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When Is It Time to See the Vet?

Separation anxiety in dogs is a common issue that almost every pet will experience to some degree, thus it is usually normal. However, there are some warning signs that indicate you might need to go and see the vet or veterinary behaviorist. These include…

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Aggressive Behavior

If you notice that your dog is demonstrating aggressive or possessive behavior all of a sudden, then it could be he is experiencing severe separation anxiety. Many dogs try to overcome their feelings of being left alone by clinging to our sides during the time we are with them. In theory, there is nothing wrong with this, but if your dog starts guarding you and showing aggressive behavior or similar problem behaviors to others wanting to get close to you, then you need to see the vet as soon as possible in order to rule out any underlying illness. Your vet should also be able to recommend an animal behaviorist who can help you get your dog’s attitude in check.

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Extreme Panic Attacks

Most people think that panic attacks only happen to humans who are under extreme amounts of pressure. Unfortunately, that is simply not the case, and our dogs can experience panic attacks that can cause them to act out through pooping and even eating parts of the furniture, shoes, etc. If your dog’s anxiety seems to be through the roof, then you should consult your vet about what you can do. Many vets will promote natural remedies, so be sure to ask if they think CBD treats could be a feasible option for your pup.

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Obsessive Eating

A couple of years ago, my own dog went through such a bad case of separation anxiety he ate part of the curtain. I came home to find him choking and rushed him to the vet. Fortunately, she told me that he wasn’t choking—he was having an anxiety attack. Because dogs don’t understand what anxiety is, when they feel overcome with a negative sensation, they will often take comfort in trying to eat the proverbial lump in their throat away. Some dogs will obsessively eat shoes, cushion stuffing, and toys, while others will literally try and chew their way through doors. Aside from the cost of having to replace and repair everything, if your dog ingests plastic or wood it could cause them major stomach problems.

The above points are just a few examples of when it could be time to see a vet to get further advice on how to deal with separation anxiety in dogs. As a rule of thumb, you as a devoted dog owner will sense in your gut when something is wrong, so it’s always better to get a professional second opinion from a reputable vet to help you treat your dog’s anxiety properly.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

Separation Anxiety Tactics for 6 Dog Breeds

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This article by Jennifer is originally published at FOMO Bones.

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Separation anxiety is something that every dog owner will likely have to go through at some point. And while it isn’t breed specific, there are some breeds that seem to be more prone to suffering from separation anxiety according to recent studies. Just as some breeds can be more likely to have stubborn temperaments or develop ailments like hip dysplasia, some seem to be prone to developing worse separation anxiety than others.

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What Is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety in dogs is basically an extreme version of missing you, and it is often accompanied by destructive behaviors like chewing, urinating in the house, or even escape tactics like trying to break the door down or bolting out the yard through a minuscule hole in the fence. The exact cause of separation anxiety in dogs hasn’t been pinpointed, but if your dog is among the breeds that are very people-orientated or he is a rescue pup that has been through abandonment, then it makes sense that he will be anxious when you are away from him as, ultimately, how will he know when you are coming back?

If you are considering adopting a puppy, or you have a particular breed in mind that you want to add to your family, then there are separation anxiety tactics for dogs that you need to adhere to. There are six breeds, in particular, that are prone to separation anxiety and fear, as well as stress, and require mental stimulation or it could have behavioral issues, such as destructive behavior or similar behavior modification. Failing to plan is planning to fail, so make sure that you are fully prepared to deal with separation anxiety before you bring a new pet into the family.

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Labradors

Many dog owners all around the world hail Labradors as the best family pet. Their temperaments are usually docile and they are known for their strong familial bonds, especially with children. Due to the fact that they love nothing more than to be at their human’s side, a Labrador can often be prone to separation anxiety. They often start demonstrating signs of separation anxiety from a young age and due to their size, as they grow their behavior can become destructive when left alone.

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Hungarian Vizsla

This stunning breed of dog was originally bred for hunting purposes and they form such a strong bond with their owners that they are known as “Velcro dogs” that are permanently glued to your side. A Vizsla is a high-energy dog, so daily exercise is an absolute must, in order to prevent continuous whining and howling and power chewing that often happens when they are left on their own.

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Pitbull Terrier

Pitbull and Staffordshire bull terriers have unfortunately been given a very unfair reputation as highly aggressive dogs due to owner exploitation. This is simply not true, as they are naturally very loving and human orientated and they are prone to severe separation anxiety when they are forced to be apart from their owners. It is true that they are powerful dogs and can be destructive when their separation anxiety causes them to act out, which is why many owners of this breed choose to crate them when they are left alone.

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German Shepherd

When you imagine a strong and noble German shepherd, you probably wouldn’t think that they would be prone to anxiety. In fact, they are one of the primary breeds that experiences separation anxiety due to their loyalty and pack mentality. They often see their humans as their pack leader (one of the many reasons they are frequently used as police dogs) and when they are left alone, they feel as if their whole world is falling apart.

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Bichon Frise

These cute little lap dogs usually have big separation anxiety problems and issues with behavior as a result. The Bichon Frise was bred with the sole purpose of being a companion to its human counterpart, so while they are happy being snuggled up on their owner’s laps, panic sets in when they are left alone. Fortunately, there is only so much destruction a little dog can cause, but negative behavior associated with separation anxiety still needs to be dealt with, as they could cause themselves harm.

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Border Collie

This herding breed is one of the most highly regarded working dogs today. They are always up for a challenge, they learn quickly and they never seem to run out of energy. Mental and physical stimulation is of prime importance when it comes to this specific breed because, should they get bored, they can become destructive and prone to separation anxiety. Border Collies see pet owners as their leaders, which is why many farmers are always seen with their loyal companion at their side and, ironically, this loyalty can also be their biggest shortcoming as they can’t cope with being left alone for extended periods of time—even short periods at first can prove to be a challenge.

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How to Ease the Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Your Dog

Sometimes, a dog will have a valid reason for extreme bouts of separation anxiety. Either they have been abandoned in the past, they have been separated from their mother too young, or they simply just don’t like to be on their own, and the dog’s behavior is apparent. Sometimes, however, there is no explanation for it. Whatever the cause of your pup’s anxiety, you can take certain steps to minimize their “pain” by ensuring that they are well socialized, well exercised, and distracted with treats or toys. CBD oil is an effective, natural way to minimize symptoms of anxiety in dogs and many “destructive dog” parents have had excellent results from it.

Crate training can also be a good option for larger breeds, as can doggy daycare. If you feel that your dog’s separation anxiety tactics are getting out of hand, then it is time to start exploring your options and our advice would be to start giving your pup a daily dose of high quality, organic CBD oil to calm them and get them in the right frame of mind for further training that you can undertake to prevent anxiety related issues.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

How CBD Oil for Arthritis in Dogs Works

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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The sometimes cruel nature of life’s natural aging process can also affect our canine companions. They are prone to contracting some of the same illnesses we do in old age. Ailments such as arthritis that make simple tasks painfully unbearable are equally prevalent in senior dogs and cats, which is why pet owners need to take certain steps to soothe their aches and pains in their final years.

As they age, dogs may start to suffer from one of the many diseases that can take hold in us—the pet parents—too, such as cancer, chronic pain, and arthritis. Canine arthritis, just like human arthritis, gets worse when our pups are exposed to cold, wet weather or when they gain weight or overexert themselves. Certain breeds are more susceptible to hip, joint, and bone disorders, but every breed of dog can develop arthritis as they age.

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What are the Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs?

Unlike real children, our canine kids can’t tell us when something is up. And when they are experiencing pain, we have to pay attention to the subtle hints and visual cues that our dog cunningly gives us. If you notice any of the following symptoms, then your dog may have arthritis:

  • Staggering or problems when walking
  • Changing positions very slowly accompanied by groaning or whining
  • Stiffness when getting up or lying down
  • Reluctant to go on walks
  • A strong aversion to stairs
  • Spending more time sleeping than usual
  • Panting or whimpering

If you start noticing any of the above symptoms taking place on a daily basis, then you need to visit your vet right away to start treatment. Arthritis is a degenerative disease, so delaying action is not an option.

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The Main Issue with Traditional Arthritis Treatments

Upon visiting your vet and confirming that your dog has arthritis, you will at first be relieved to hear that anti-inflammatory painkillers will most likely be prescribed. “Great!” I hear you say. Sadly, there is some bad news. The majority of mainstream pharmaceuticals used to treat joint pain and bone disorders are accompanied by some pretty horrendous side effects including:

  • Incontinence
  • Loose stools or diarrhea
  • Seeming spaced out
  • Clumsiness and lack of spatial awareness
  • Irritated skin or allergies
  • Yellowing of the eyes which can indicate liver problems
  • Vomiting and weight loss
  • Dehydration and restlessness
  • Stomach ulcers

Most importantly, many of the common medications used to treat canine arthritis can potentially damage your dog’s internal organs, which opens a whole other range of health issues.

This is exactly the reason why the majority of doggy parents are reluctant to give their precious pooches pharmaceuticals that could potentially jeopardize their health along with making them miserable.

Thankfully, if you are among the people who are searching for a natural, gentle, yet incredibly effective remedy to treat your four-legged friend’s arthritis, there is now an option capable of treating the symptoms of arthritis in dogs.

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Using CBD Oil to Treat Arthritis in Dogs

Like the increasing popularity of such products as hemp oil, marijuana, hemp seed oil, and medical cannabis, cannabis oil is fast becoming the number one natural remedy for treating almost any issue that you can think of, even arthritis. During recent years, several studies on the efficacy of CBD oil and the healing benefits of the cannabis plant have been published, as well as hundreds of thousands of testimonials from patients who have been helped by this powerful elixir. As people are waking up to the fact that natural, non-toxic products can be even more potent than pharmaceuticals, CBD products are being legalized all around the world for the use of pain relief and more. More research is being performed and even the notoriously strict FDA has approved the use of CBD-rich products to successfully treat disease and illness symptoms.

Using CBD oil for medicinal purposes has been scientifically proven to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints and protect joints from further damage. Further still, CBD products do not contain THC, the psychoactive element found in cannabis. The key to overcoming debilitating illnesses, such as arthritis, in your dog is to ensure that the pain is manageable enough for him to still be able to do light movement and exercise. Not only will this improve his mood, but it will also prevent your pet from gaining weight through lack of exercise.

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How Does it Work?

To explain it in simple terms, CBD for pets works through triggering sensors in the natural endocannabinoid system present in vertebrates. These sensors then convey a message to the brain to relieve pain and activate the other internal systems necessary to combat illness and inflammation.

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How to Give CBD Oil to Your Arthritic Dog

You can administer CBD to companion animals in a variety of different ways, with the most popular being CBD tincture or oil. Pet-approved oil will likely have omega-3 present, which is going to give your dog added health benefits. If your dog is relatively chilled out, then you can use a syringe to give him a few drops in his mouth. If he is not so keen on the taste and refuses to take it, then you can mix it into his meals to disguise the taste.

If your dog has your sneaky medicine-giving tactics figured out, then CBD-infused dog treats are equally effective, and they taste good (to your dog, at least). You could also try rubbing CBD balm onto your dog’s skin but bear in mind that it will take longer to work, as it needs to be absorbed into the bloodstream via the skin.

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How Much CBD Oil Should You Give Your Dog?

Dosage will depend on a few factors, such as the size and weight of your dog. Obviously, it also depends on how advanced his arthritis is. If you are using CBD as a complementary treatment to pharmaceutical medication, then always run your intention past your vet for approval before getting started.

As a rule of thumb, you should start with a smaller dose of CBD oil and increase if necessary. There is currently no firm decision on the correct dosage of CBD oil since research is still in its early stages. So, you will need to be consistent and vigilant by increasing the dosage slowly and gradually until you can see a visible improvement in your dog’s symptoms.

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Final Thoughts

While arthritis is classified as a degenerative disease, CBD may slow further joint damage and treat future pain. It also has the added benefit of treating other issues, including insomnia, anxiety, and seizures. Basically, there is no downside to giving your dog CBD oil, especially if he is getting old. That said, CBD is a medicine and should be treated as such. Make sure that you are consistent with your timings and dosage and if your dog is improving, then don’t stop giving him the tincture; keep administering the same dosage and watch its goodness manifest!

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

Pet Industry Trends to Watch Out for in 2019

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This article by Jordan was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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Every year, we see a new collection of pet trends flooding social media, local pet stores, and the Global Pet Expo—and 2019 is certainly no different. We’re seeing a ton of new age ideas that are going to completely change the way you and your pet live your daily lives. From new mobile apps to new dog food formulas, you’re sure to be amazing (and excited) at what 2019 pet trends have to offer. Even pet services, such as grooming, pet sitting, and veterinary care are in on the act and offering more and more new and exciting products.

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More Technology

Technology is a huge part of everyone’s lives today and companies are utilizing this to sell more of their must-have, new age products to dog owners and pet parents in general. Some of the products you might see in 2019 include:

  • Pet Health Apps: It is easy to stay up-to-date with your pet’s health when you have an app on your phone helping you every step of the way. These apps will ensure your pet is in top-notch condition and provide insight on things you can do to help your pet grow bigger and stronger. Some apps will also hook up to webcams, allowing you to easily check on your dog throughout the day.
  • Automatic pet feeders: Not your typical automatic pet feeder, though. These are connected to an app so you can feed your dog when you’re not at home without worrying he might be overeating.
  • Mobile vet clinics: Don’t want to visit your veterinarian if you don’t absolutely have to? I’m sure your dog will love hearing that there will be digital applications for vets in 2019. This means no horrible visits to the vet that end in an anxious, uneasy dog that is afraid to go for a ride in the car again.

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Tear-Free Vet Visits*

Many pets aren’t fond of visiting the vet (and oftentimes, it can be stressful for pet parents as well). In some cases—especially with pets rescued from abusive situations and/or neglectful owners—visiting animal clinics can cause severe anxiety. But, veterinarians and their assistants take measures to ensure every visit is an enjoyable one.

First and foremost, they want to alleviate the anxiety by offering plenty of positive reinforcement during the visit while also providing treats and goodies. Another thing they want to do is create new rooms throughout the office, including a separate waiting room for dogs and cats so there’s no fighting while waiting. They also want to provide dogs only and cats only exam rooms so smells don’t rile them up anymore. Lastly, calming pheromones may also be used to help release any stress or anxiety that the pet is having. This is a huge positive for both pets and their owners!

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Food Delivery Services

Uber Eats, Postmates, Grubhub…do I really need to go on?

In this day and age, we expect to have our food delivered to us. So, why wouldn’t we want the same for our dogs? In 2019 will see the introduction of a food delivery service for dogs as well. With healthy, nutritious food being delivered directly to your door, there is really no excuse to not provide your dog with the best. It makes everything so much easier on everyone’s part, and your dog will be delighted to have a treat delivered to him every so often.

And speaking of pet food, another trend you might see in 2019 is better food. It seems like pet owners are less interested in brand names and prices these days. They would much rather purchase nutritious food to keep their pup healthy and strong for many years to come. This means that more companies are making pet foods that are loaded up with real ingredients that make your dog (and their belly) happy.

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Stress-Reducing Food

Dogs can suffer from anxiety for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes, the stress trigger is obvious and other times we haven’t a clue why our dog is all the sudden behaving oddly and riddled with anxiety. To combat this stress and anxiety, we are seeing an increase in pet food and treats that contain calming ingredients, such as probiotics and CBD oils.

These products are starting to pop up on the shelves everywhere, including FOMO Bones which have become a huge hit recently. FOMO Bones, much like other products you may start to see on the shelves in pet stores, are geared toward making dogs feel at ease. That means no more jittery pup, no more doggy struggling with anxiety—just the happy dog that you know and love.

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Eating Like Adults

People will always say not to give food off your plate to your dog, but why? Yes, it’s true some of these foods are harmful; however, there is a long list of foods that are perfectly fine for your pup.** This is why more and more people are starting to give their dog exactly what they are eating, especially if they are following an organic diet filled with plenty of lean meat, fruits, and vegetables.

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Conclusion

Excited for 2019 pet trends? We don’t blame you! There are truly some amazing things we get to look forward to—and your dog will be happy too. Just imagine how your puppy will act with a belly full of nutritious food with stress-relieving properties? How about a visit to the vet that isn’t a disaster? These things—and more—are just moments away.

*This section is not intended to be a blanket statement inclusive of all pets and all animal clinics/veterinary services.

**Giving pets food “off your plate” can encourage bad behavior, such as begging and, in severe cases, food aggression.

CBD Oil for Dogs with Cancer

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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They say the hardest thing about having a dog is saying goodbye to them far too soon. Most pet owners dote on their pooches as if they were children but are always subconsciously aware that, on average, a dog will only live to be around 12 years old—if they are in good health.

Sadly, even as loving pet parents, we cannot protect our loved ones from diseases like cancer or arthritis. In fact, often cancer in dogs is usually not detected until it is at a stage where it is already spreading to other parts of the body and causing Fido a fair amount of discomfort. Fortunately, cannabis-based medicines, such as medical cannabis, hemp seed oil, and especially CBD oil are becoming popular treatment options for dogs and cats suffering from chronic pain, seizures, and even cancer.

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How CBD Oil Works: The Science

While we have only really become aware of the potential benefits of cannabis during the past couple of years, cannabis, cannabis oil, and hemp oil have been used for centuries to successfully treat symptoms of certain illnesses. Its oil is incredibly powerful and, as more states are moving to legalize the herb, more research is being conducted to prove its efficacy in fighting cancer cells. When most people think of cannabis, they automatically think of stoners getting high—and this is where it’s necessary to understand exactly how CBD oil works.

The first and most important point to understand is that CBD oil is formulated in a specific way to eliminate the psychoactive effects of the THC compound. This means that you won’t have to worry about your precious pooch turning into a zombie. The cannabinoids in the oil are the all-important component here, as they contain all the rich, therapeutic, and healing medicinal benefits. While a very small amount of THC is usually necessary to allow the oil to work to its full potential, oils that are rich in CBD balance out the THC, meaning that it does not produce a woozy or “stoned” feeling.

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CBD Oil as a Cancer Treatment

While there is still a fair amount of research to be done to pinpoint exactly how CBD works to improve the symptoms of cancer in the human body, there is already existing research that proves how it can kill tumors and cancerous cells in animals.

In 2009, Spanish researchers from a reputable university published a research paper along with results that demonstrated how THC (one of the two key components found in CBD oil) successfully eliminated brain cancer in mice. What it actually did was cause the cancerous cells to essentially destroy themselves resulting in the existing tumors shrinking substantially. The same was true in human patients—except only CBD was administered, and it was equally as effective at treating cancer.

CBD can also stop metastasis, which is when cancer starts spreading into the bloodstream and usually indicates that the final stages of the disease are near.

There is currently no clinical research that demonstrates exactly how CBD works to treat cancer in dogs, but there are enough compelling evidence and testimonials from pet owners who have used the oil to indicate that it could work better and faster than traditional pharmaceutical treatments.

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How Can CBD Oil Help Dogs with Cancer?

Here are some benefits of CBD oil for dogs with cancer:

  • It increases appetite. As our dogs can’t tell us what they are feeling, when they feel low, they usually avoid food like the plague. While this can be normal if it only lasts a day or two, when it comes to cancer, most dogs will not feel hungry, which, in turn, weakens their strength and immune system. Giving your dog CBD oil will increase their appetite and help them maintain a normal eating and drinking routine.
  • It offers pain relief. Cancer is, unfortunately, a disease that is accompanied by pain, especially if the tumors are in the legs or stomach. Our pups can’t just reach for a painkiller whenever they need it but instead will show pain by whimpering and whining. One of the greatest benefits of giving your pooch CBD oil is that it can offer a substantial amount of relief from the pain they are experiencing.
  • It reduces inflammation. CBD is also used to effectively manage the symptoms of arthritis—aching joints, stiffness, etc. Cancer also manifests the same symptoms when it is found present in dogs, so the oil will allow your pet to live a more comfortable and agile life.
  • It inhibits tumor growth. CBD has been known to shrink tumors as per the research we pointed out above. Daily administration of the oil can also stop cancer from spreading to other parts of the body and possibly eliminate it altogether.
  • It helps insomnia. Insomnia isn’t just a human ailment; our dogs can suffer from sleepless nights, too! The therapeutic properties of good quality CBD oil can help relax your dog, so he has the strength to participate in normal, dog-like activity during the day.

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Final Thoughts

Traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy can often cause your pooch to experience terrible side effects that prevent him from living out the rest of his days comfortably. While there are few vets who would condone CBD oil as a sole method of treatment this early on in the stages of its research, almost all reputable veterinary clinics will agree that it can only add complimentary benefits to existing treatments.

Many humans take CBD oil daily—even if they are in good health—as a kind of precursor to any illness that might manifest in the future. With a good quality product that is organic and pure, you might just find that CBD oil is the elixir of life that you have been searching for to extend your time with your beloved pet for as long as possible.

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Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.