Tag: pets

6 Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

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This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

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Most dog owners will have experienced that feeling of guilt when leaving their four-legged friend alone even for just a short amount of time. While it is completely natural for dogs to miss us and want us to come home as soon as possible, some dogs suffer severe cases of separation anxiety on a different level. Not only does this make going out on our own somewhat of a chore, but it can also cause your dog problems—not to mention your couch, shoes, table…the list goes on. Fortunately, there is now a completely natural way to ease separation anxiety and reduce the symptoms of anxiety in dogs using CBD treats.

If you are a new dog owner, keep an eye out for these seven signs of canine separation anxiety so you can manage their nervous demeanor before it becomes too severe.

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Your Dog Suddenly Learns to Sing

Well, not quite. One of the primary signs of severe separation anxiety and distress in dogs is excessive howling or barking, as well as destructive chewing. While all dogs feel sad when they see their parents walk out the door, howling and/or scratching at the door trying to desperately follow you is a red flag that you need to take notice of.

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You Come Home to An Accident

If your dog is already potty trained and provided you are meeting their bathroom needs and taking them out frequently, they shouldn’t feel the need to pee inside. Understandably, if you are gone for hours and hours, then an accident here and there is bound to happen. However, if you are normally only gone for an hour or two and you always come home to a pee or poop on your white sheepskin carpet, then something is definitely up. This is a common symptom of separation anxiety in dogs and we suggest consulting a dog behaviorist or professional dog trainer for further advice, treatment, and possible medication.

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Destruction and Devastation

The strongest warning sign of separation anxiety and distress—and without a doubt one of the worst—is destructive behavior while you are out, even for short periods. If you regularly come home to find your furniture chewed up and your shoes destroyed, it won’t be hard to pinpoint the culprit. Many dog owners choose to crate train their dogs and they still often come home to find that Fido has broken free and destroyed his crate and everything around it.

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Frantic Panting

Dog lovers will all agree that fireworks and thunderstorms are two things that the world could do without when it comes to the effects they can have on dogs. Think back to the last time you snuggled up by the fire with a glass of red wine in hand, all ready to settle in for the night to the sound of thunder… and then your dog just completely freaked out, panting excessively, hiding, crying—all of the things a pet parent never wants to see! The same is true with many dogs when they experience separation anxiety; they start panting like crazy usually just as they see you putting your shoes on to leave.

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Pacing

Another sign of anxiety in dogs can be repetitive pacing in the same pattern. Your dog might sometimes do this when you are home. However, if you notice that your pooch is frequently pacing more often than normal, you need to address it.

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Clingy Behavior

There is a saying about dogs that goes something like this: “you will never pee alone again!” This is definitely true for the majority of us dog lovers and is usually completely normal behavior. What isn’t normal is if your dog suddenly starts being ultra-clingy and possessive. While almost every dog wants to be by our side, most do have a small degree of independence at times. This can be something as simple as laying by the side of the bed instead of on it (and on top of you!) or in their own bed while you are sitting on the couch. A major telltale sign of separation anxiety is if they have to be on top of you all the time or they start barking or crying.

If you’re realizing that your dog has separation anxiety, here are a few pointers to try and soothe them so you can leave the house with a clear conscience and not worry about leaving them alone in the future.

  • Speak to a dog trainer about crate training and overcoming problem behavior
  • Start by leaving them alone for just 15 minutes before returning and increase the time gradually so they know you are coming home
  • Consult your vet to rule out any underlying health issues
  • Ensure they get plenty of exercise every day
  • Make sure they have their own “safe” place to comfort them
  • Try leaving an item of your clothing in their bed while you are out

The above list is quite basic and, of course, there is no guarantee that any of those things will work and if your dog’s separation anxiety is getting worse, then keep reading.

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Using CBD to Treat Anxiety in Dogs

Fortunately, if your pup is experiencing separation anxiety for long periods and you have tried everything under the sun but nothing works, there is a solution—and a downright effective one at that! Along with mental stimulation, CBD treats are a tasty way to curb your dog’s separation anxiety. It has been proven that giving your dog a treat as a part of positive reinforcement can hugely strengthen your already rock-solid bond while also giving him an all-natural, therapeutic way to ease his nerves and anxiety. CBD oil has been proven to treat a wide range of emotional and physical ailments. These natural and completely organic CBD dog treats are worth checking out, as thousands of dog owners around the globe are tuning into the fact that CBD dog treats actually work when nothing else seems to.

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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 owners.

Tips for Treating Insomnia in Dogs

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This article by Jennifer is originally published on FOMO Bones.

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If you think insomnia is solely a human issue, then you might be surprised to hear that it is not. Dogs (and even cats) can suffer from sleepless nights. Remarkably, many of the reasons that humans suffer from insomnia apply to dogs.

Insomnia typically manifests in dogs as they age or because of a behavioral problem, such as separation anxiety or depression. The odd sleepless night can be completely normal, especially as dogs seem to spend a large part of the day snoozing. However, if you notice that your dog doesn’t seem to be sleeping properly for days on end, then it is something you want to address as soon as possible.

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Why Does Your Dog Have Problems Sleeping?

As mentioned above, your dog’s insomnia could be triggered by many things. Understandably, if your dog isn’t well or is in pain, then it makes sense that he is having trouble sleeping. And, as your dog isn’t able to tell you what’s wrong, insomnia in dogs can be an indication of an underlying issue—one of the most common being arthritis or an injury that might not be immediately apparent. Stress and anxiety will also contribute to the lack of sleep in dogs. Therefore, if your dog seems to be in perfect health physically, it is likely there is an emotional issue is keeping him up at night.

If you’ve recently moved or have only just adopted your dog and brought him home, you may need to give them time to settle into their surroundings so they can fully relax. Don’t forget that a dog’s hearing is especially sensitive, so any unfamiliar noise can cause them to remain alert and guarded.

Canine insomnia can also result from lack of exercise, which is especially poignant in high-energy dogs. Their pent-up energy can easily convert into frustration and anxiety that prevents them from being able to sleep.

Regardless of the cause of your dog’s insomnia, sleep is essential to all living beings, so here are some tips to help your dog have a good night’s sleep.

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Implement an Exercise Routine

As dogs lead relatively simple lives, their goals are not very complex. They look forward to mealtime, playtime and, of course, walkies! When you think about how often you walk your dog from this point of view, you can understand just how important exercise is for them. It’s something they will crave all day until it happens. This is exactly why implementing a daily routine can help you get your dog’s insomnia under control. If they know they will be going for a walk every morning, theoretically, any anxiety or stress related to lack of exercise should cease almost right away. If your dog is suffering from arthritis or is very elderly, you could replace physical exercise with mental exercise, like a game of seek and find or fetch.

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Supplement Their Diet

Certain natural supplements can be invaluable when it comes to treating insomnia in dogs. Many people choose to add a few drops of rescue remedy to their dog’s meal or even feed heavier carbs, such as potatoes, along with their usual meal in the evening. Feeding time can also play a part in preventing your dog from being able to sleep, as they too can suffer from indigestion. Most people prefer to feed their dogs twice daily—in the morning and in the late afternoon.

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CBD Oil

CBD oil or treats are an excellent way to help your dog sleep. Cannabis-based products have been proven to manage anxiety and stress symptoms effectively, and it will also treat any underlying pain, such as arthritis, that could be keeping your dog awake. CBD oil is fast becoming the most popular remedy on the market regarding natural treatment for a huge variety of ailments both in animals and humans. If you decide to give your dog CBD oil, then you need to ensure that you are administering the correct dosage daily and allow enough time for the cannabinoids to be absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream via the natural digestive process. If your dog is a fussy eater, then you might want to consider cannabis-infused treats instead. They are equally effective and more palatable than the oil itself.

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Provide a Calm Home Environment

If you have ever had an argument in front of your dog, then you will know exactly what effect this can have on him. Dogs will always pick up on emotions and they are highly affected by loud noise or tension. If your dog is having trouble sleeping, you can provide some relief by ensuring that the space they sleep in is calm and safe. Their bed should be inviting and comfortable, so if your dog suffers from arthritis you could consider investing in an orthopedic dog bed to make them more comfortable—and, of course, give them lots of soothing strokes and reassurance in the lead up to bedtime.

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Final Thoughts

Usually, insomnia in dogs isn’t any more serious than it is in humans. However, you should always consult your veterinarian if your dog is exhibiting any unusual behavior that could indicate something more sinister. For example, crying during the night or struggling to get up and down is a clear indication of pain. Such symptoms as bedwetting, excessive panting, and constant pacing should also warrant a trip to the vet. When it comes to your pets, it is always better to be safe than sorry. So, if you are in doubt, make sure you get a professional opinion to put your mind at rest.

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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 owners.

4 Steps to Treat Canine Separation Anxiety

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This article by Jennifer was originally published at FOMO Bones.

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As a dog owner, dealing with canine separation anxiety and distress can sound like a daunting task. When you become a dog parent, you never think about the potential behavioral issues that might arise. The thought of having a dog that struggles with anxiety might even seem slightly absurd. The reality is: At one point or another during doggy parenthood, you are going to have to deal with some issues, and one of the most common is learning how to correctly and effectively treat separation anxiety.

Just like raising a child, everyone has different styles of parenting when it comes to their dog’s behavior. Some people prefer to crate train their dogs to get them used to being in a safe place while their human is away, while others believe that separation anxiety is due to a lack of mental stimulation or exercise. Despite the differences in doggy parenting styles, when it comes to treating severe separation anxiety, distress, and behavioral problems, everyone has one thing in common: The desire to overcome it.

Here are four steps to help your dog to overcome separation anxiety so you can feel completely at ease when you leave them home alone.

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Step 1: Decide on a Strategy and Method

The very first thing you need to do is to determine when your dog’s unusual behavior or distress increases (i.e. is it right about the time you are getting ready to go out?). This is so you can pinpoint if your pup is acting out due to separation anxiety or if there is something else going on. If you are concerned, then you should contact your vet and schedule a check-up. Once you have been given the all clear, it’s time to create a strategy that you feel comfortable with. The most important thing to account for when it comes to treating separation anxiety in dogs is that you must be consistent, and you need to have patience. You won’t necessarily see an improvement overnight but stick with it and, before too long, things will get better.

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Step 2: Create a Safe Place

As humans, when we feel alone or panicked we may seek refuge in our safe place. Some people will retreat to their man caves for long periods while others will seek comfort in their favorite chair, and many people instantly start to feel better when they are snuggled up in bed with their favorite pajamas on. If your dog doesn’t currently have her own bed, feeding area, or toys, then she may feel unsettled. To create a safe space for your pup, find a cozy and warm corner where you can set down a few blankets that have your scent on them to reassure her when you aren’t there. Many people are massive advocates of crate training, as it not only keeps your dogs out of trouble when unsupervised, it can actually be beneficial for their safety. If you do choose to look into crate training, please make sure that you seek professional guidance to ensure you do it right, or it could backfire.

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Step 3: Natural CBD Treats

Cannabinoid-based products are appearing in media headlines every day thanks to therapeutic capabilities. With so many people starting to take CBD oil to alleviate a range of illnesses and issues, it’s no wonder CBD dog treats have also become extremely popular over recent years. The healing treats have been proven to significantly decrease the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs, as well as having a range of positive benefits such as:

  • Reduces nervous or hyperactive behavior
  • Treats epilepsy and seizures*
  • Relieves pain*
  • Effectively treats arthritis*
  • Promotes a healthy immune system
  • Promotes organ health

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Step 4: Doggie Cinema

Many dog owners report that their dog is less anxious and displays fewer problem behaviors, such as destructive chewing, when left alone if they have some background noise to keep them company. And while it might sound a little ridiculous, leaving the TV or radio on while your dog is alone can help her to feel less alone. The next time you are getting ready for a night out, try putting on a movie to distract and entertain your dog, allowing you to enjoy your evening without the fear of coming home to chaos and destruction.

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Final Thoughts

Helping your dog overcome separation anxiety is not only going to allow your dog to have a well-balanced approach to life, but it will also benefit you as an owner. And if you want to successfully treat separation anxiety for good, then it is important to create a routine and stick to it. The good thing about natural remedies like CBD treats is that they can be used alone or in conjunction with any other method you choose. CBD is pretty much the only natural remedy that will allow you to see positive improvements fast, and the fact that there are so many other benefits means that your dog’s overall health will improve.

Separation anxiety in dogs will progressively get worse over time, which is why it is so important to take action as soon as you notice that something is awry. And as responsible dog owners, we should always approach the methods we choose with love and care, as changes won’t happen overnight. Patience and persistence is a key factor in ensuring that you are reinforcing a bond with your dog that is based on discipline and trust.

*Medical disclaimer: Clinical studies and research for these claims have not been provided. Please speak to your vet if your pet is having medical issues.

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About the Author: 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 owners.

Pet Hacks: Tips for a Stress-free Roadtrip

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This article by Jennifer is originally published at FOMO Bones.

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Time to hit the road? Far from setting off into the sunset and enjoying a relaxing journey, traveling with a dog can be a fur-raising experience.

Fear peeing, puking, and pooing; shaking, barking, whining and whimpering. Yeah, safe to say that hitting route 66 quickly turns into the road trip from hell when accompanied by your nervy canine. So, what can you do about it? Let’s work through our top waggly-tail tips.

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Plan well ahead for accommodation

We don’t know why, but not everyone is a huge fan of dogs (between you and me—they don’t know what they’re missing). Anyway, dogs are pretty much a no-go for many motels and hotels, so you’ll need to do a little legwork before you set off.

This page lists pet-friendly hotels in the US, and allows you to search by date as well as book online. Easy peasy.

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Make a list (check it twice, thrice, four times) and pack in good time

Packing for a smooth trip starts with getting organized and packing your bag at least the day before. Here’s a list of things to pop into your case for your pooch:

  • Dog food
  • Treats
  • Dog crate
  • Food/water bowls
  • Dog harness/seat belt buckle
  • Leashes
  • Up-to-date vaccine records (this will be required when entering Canada, as well as for staying at some accommodation)
  • Poo bags
  • Lint roller (for attempting to tackle that in-car dog hair)

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Go for walkies beforehand

A long walk will pay off big time before your journey (at least double the usual daily walk should do nicely). Give him a small treat or two once he’s home, but avoid feeding him his usual meal (a full belly is a sure-fire way to bring about car sickness).

Dogs can easily (and happily) go for a day without food, just so long as they have plenty of water to hand.

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Safety first

When it’s time to set off, be sure to safely secure your dog with a seat buckle or place him in a good quality crate (don’t be tempted to let him hang his head out of the window – as this can lead to some pretty nasty eye injuries).

You should also make sure that he’s easily identifiable (at least through a collar tag and microchip). Ideally, however, you should go one step further, and fit him with a dog tracker (there are some great—and inexpensive—options out there that work with your smartphone – such as the Paw Tracker; Gibi Pet Locator and Link AKC Smart Dog Collar).

Finally, think about the weather. If it’s the midst of summer and your car is air-conditioning free you should plan to avoid traveling during the hottest times of the day.

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Top up your gas at quiet stations

If possible, try to stop off for gas and toilet breaks at stations outside of built-up urban areas, as it’ll be more likely that you’ll discover a grassy space (which can encourage a reluctant pooch to open his bladder!).

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Take a pitstop for a mid-way walk

Try to split your journey up every couple of hours or so with a 15-minute walk. This may take some planning, but it shouldn’t be too challenging to discover a nice walk just a short way off most main highways.

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Pop in a CBD bone or two into your pouch’s packing

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that’s derived from all-natural, 3rd party tested hemp (e.g. it won’t make your canine stoned – it’ll simply calm their nerves and get them travel-ready).

CBD bones are made for everything from the terrors of fireworks to taking a road trip or plane ride.

FOMO bones team CBD with a formidable team of valerian root, chamomile and passion flower for one all-natural canine calmer.

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About the Author: 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 owners.