Pets can suffer from separation anxiety, just like humans can. Signs that your dogs are going through this include scratching at doors, barking, and accidents in the house. This can occur if you have recently begun to board them in a kennel or you have left them alone for longer periods of time. There are ways to help your pups overcome this stress. Below, find tips to help your pets eliminate stress.

4 Ways to Alleviate Separation Anxiety in Dogs

1. Prepare a Routine

Avoid springing a new routine on your dogs. Create a schedule and try to stay close to it every day. Start off slowly with how long your dogs are alone. Begin with a few minutes and increase the duration in small increments so that it isn’t a huge shock for them.

2. Avoid Big Displays

Do not make a big deal out of leaving. Whether you are leaving for work or you are dropping off your dogs at a kennel, make the situation as calm and uneventful as possible. When you return, greet your pet with love and affection, but do not make a big fuss out of it.

3. Provide Distractions

If you are putting your dogs in a crate before you leave, place their favorite stuffed toys or a frozen bone with peanut butter inside. If they roam the house, you can put out a chew toy and leave the television on for white noise to soothe them. Do not let them follow you out and try not to let your own emotions interfere. The more routine it becomes, the less your pet will react when you leave.

4. Ignore Negative Behaviors

If your dogs begin to act out in the kennel or at home, do not feed into the behavior with more attention. The reason many pets start having accidents, chewing furniture, and scratching at doors and walls is that they are seeking your attention, even if it is negative. Not paying it any mind will show them that their tactics aren’t working.

For pet boarding in Churchville, Rochester, and surrounding areas of NY, trust the family-owned Evergreen Kennels. The kennel features heated floors, air conditioning, and a newly remodeled facility to keep your dog and cat happy during their stay. Their certified staff offers every pet attention and care, and each tenant receives fresh air and exercise during their stay. For more information on their boarding and grooming options, contact the kennel at (585) 293-1920. Stop by their website for their pet photo gallery.