Anxiety in pets may manifest in a variety of ways, from destructive behavior to restlessness or refusing food. A trip to the veterinary clinic should be your first step to understand the reasons for the anxiety. The staff at Hilton Veterinary Hospital in Monroe County, NY, offer the following tips to ease your pet’s fearful behavior.

5 Ways to Ease Pet Anxiety

1. Natural Soothers

Both dogs and cats can experience anxiety related to noise, strangers, trips to the vet, or separation from you. Before asking a veterinary clinic to prescribe medication, try natural remedies such as:

• Supplements containing Zylkene (a protein found in milk), hemp, or other herbs that naturally calm pets.
• Pheromone diffusers are simple devices that plug into the wall and emit calming pheromones.
• Music, especially classical or ambient styles, can be played at low volume when you are away or during storms or fireworks.

2. Distraction & Play

For anxiety that stems from thunderstorms, visitors, or the presence of other animals, try playing with your pet to distract them. Pets will pick up on the energy you exhibit and, over time, may come to associate the stress with a positive outcome. 

3. Behavior Modification

For dogs, teaching them to obey simple commands such as “sit” or “stay” can help in stressful situations such as going to the vet or exposure to other animals. Rewarding your dog for responding may help them re-associate the stressor with good feelings instead of anxiety. More importantly, training provides consistency for a dog—after completing a command, they will be safe and rewarded. 

4. Safe Spaces

Make sure your pet has a safe space to retreat to during storms, fireworks, or when alone. This can include crates, cat trees or climbing posts, or pet beds. Leave a shirt or something that smells like you to help soothe mild separation anxiety. 

5. Medication

Visit a veterinary clinic if the anxiety is persistent or extreme. Similar to SSRIs prescribed for humans, the anti-anxiety medication will soothe your pets’ fears and can be used before known stressful situations. However, you will need to talk with your vet first and schedule an examination to make sure it’s suitable for them. 

If you have further questions about how to help ease your pet’s anxiety, turn to Hilton Veterinary Hospital, a full-service medical, dental, and surgical veterinary clinic. Visit their website to view a list of their comprehensive services, or call (585) 392-2937 for an appointment. Visit their Facebook page for reviews and updates.