YOUR DOG HAS SEPARATION ISSUES- HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP

My friend, Donna, adopted a wonderful dog named Jessie. (connect with her on Petpav.com) She is really good to him and either she or her boyfriend brings Jessie to work with him or her during the day. However, if they want to go out for dinner or a concert, they are reluctant to leave him behind. Jessie gives them the sad eyes and whines and they succumb to his desires. Jessie has a spell on them!

While I respect their loyalty to Jessie, I wanted to do some research on how to ease their separation anxiety. Below are some tips that should help.

1. The golden rule is that you must educate your dog to accept the fact that sometimes you will need to be apart from each other. The earlier you start getting your dog used to this fact, the easier it will be, for both of you.

2. Ensure that your dog feels safe and comfortable when you are away from him. Provide plenty of fresh water and warm bedding for you dog. Leave your dog a blanket or piece of clothing that has your scent on it. This may comfort a distressed dog - make sure it is something you don't mind being torn up though. A toy is also great to keep him distracted.

Are you leaving me?!? It’s OK!

3. Make sure that your dog has plenty of exercise when you are around: a run at the park with other dogs and some training will ensure your dog is happy and stimulated. It can also mean your dog will rest while you are out, instead of tearing up the house or garden.

4. Try feeding your dog his main meal just as you are leaving the house. You can also hide part of his meal around the yard or house, which will give him/her something to do while you are away.

5. If you often listen to the radio or television when you are at home, leave it on while you are away. This can be soothing and comforting in mild cases of separation anxiety in dogs.

6. Leave your dog in a safe and secure crate. This provides a comfortable "den like" area where your dog will feel comfortable, and it means your dog won't be able to act out while you are away. However, first be sure that your dog is happy and comfortable in the crate before you leave for any length of time.

7. Don't let your dog become too clingy when you are at home. Little by little teach your dog to be on his own when you are home. Prove to him that it's not a bad thing to be separated from you, give him his favorite treat in another room and leave him there for a while. When he is quiet and calm, give him some praise and make it clear you are happy with him.

8. This one is a hard one… pay little or no attention to your dog when you are preparing to leave the house. Ignore him for five minutes and then slip out the door with no fuss.

While it is hard to leave your dog, it will make you and your pet happier in the long run if you can go out and feel comfortable doing so. And, just think, reuniting will be that much more special! 
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