Every petowner will likely find it difficult to leave their pet when they travel for the first time. And some pets, especially dogs, suffer more than others. There are ways to help ease dog separation anxiety. Here are our top tips to help you calm your particular pooch in your absence.

How to ease dog separation anxiety when you’re away

Leaving your pup behind when you go on a trip can be difficult, and for some dogs, the separation is even more difficult to manage. Separation anxiety is not uncommon and can make leaving your pup even more challenging. However, with proper preparation and some helpful tips, you can help ease your dog’s anxiety while you are away. 

Prepare your dog for the change

Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to prepare your dog for the change of environment. Introduce them to their pet-sitter in advance so that they have time to get accustomed with one another and explain their likes/dislikes, routines, etc.

Provide familiar items

It’s also a good idea to provide familiar items like their favorite blanket or toy as these items have your scent on them, making the transition easier for your pup.

It may also be helpful to leave something with your scent on it with your pup when you go away. This could be an article of clothing or even just a scarf that has been worn close to the skin so that they can have something familiar with them while you are gone.

Consider CBD as a calming aid

There has been scientific and anecdotal evidence supporting CBD oil for dog anxiety, by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. It may also help to reduce symptoms of restlessness, excessive barking, and destructive behavior. A study by Cornell University found 83% of dogs to show a decrease in stress and anxiety behaviors when administered CBD.

Find a dogsitter to stay in your home

Keeping your dog at home while you are away is a step towards helping them stay more relaxed. Finding a good checked petsitter is a step to helping you feel more relaxed and also and more importantly to relax your pet. Of course there are other tips too that will ensure you guide the dogsitter while you are away.

* Keep a consistent routine

In addition to providing familiar items, it’s important to keep a consistent routine while you are gone. Maintaining regular meal times, exercise routines and bedtime schedules can help your dog better adjust to their new environment. Let your pet-sitter know of any daily activities or special instructions that will make life easier for both you and your pup while apart.

* Keep in touch

It’s also important to stay in touch with your pet-sitter while away. Speak with your dog on a video call or through a phone call so they hear your voice. Knowing that you’re still around can give them a sense of security and comfort. 

Stay positive

Lastly, try to stay positive and calm when interacting with your pet-sitter or speaking on the phone. Your pup is sensitive to your emotions and can pick up on any anxiety or stress that you are feeling. Patience is also key as it may take some time for your pup to adjust to their new surroundings. With proper preparation and understanding, you can help ease your dog’s separation anxiety and make the transition go as smoothly as possible.

How to ease dog separation anxiety in summary

In conclusion, dealing with separation anxiety can be challenging, but with the right preparation and some helpful tips, you can help your dog feel more comfortable while you’re away. By staying in touch, providing familiar items, using additional calming aides, and keeping a consistent routine, you can help your pup feel safe and secure until you return home.

A final note for finding a dog sitter

Having a dogsitter at home can make for an easier more relaxed time for your dog. Keeping a dog old or young at home ensures that they are near their familiar items and smells at home. It relaxes them and helps them be a little more relaxed while you are away.

Click here to learn more about dog sitter services through HousesitMatch.com

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