Deb D’Andrea, Nederland. Now that many are returning to work after the Covid-19 shut down, our pets will more than likely experience some form of separation anxiety as they’ve grown accustomed to their humans being around. It is a sad time for some dogs as they watch their humans return to the regular work routine; while others find it relaxing, enjoying their quiet time. The pups stand by and watch as lunches are packed, laptops are slipped into their sleeves, and out the door their humans scurry, returning to work, and leaving them home alone.  

Some dogs adjust just fine to being left alone and this change in their routine is no biggie. They know their people will return at some point and are comfortable in the quietness of the house. Then, like clockwork, every day their people return and an eager pup is home, ready to greet their favorite humans and play into the evening hours.

Other pups don’t adjust so well and experience separation anxiety, not wanting to be alone without their family pack, their people. There are several signs your pup has separation anxiety. They can become destructive, de-stuffing furniture, tearing apart shoes, clothes or other items belonging to their people. One pup I worked with destroyed the sheet rock and wood trim in trying to get out when their people left. Others will bark and bark, a mournful bark or howl till they are exhausted.

To help your pup adjust, try to stick to a regular schedule with a good, fun walk or hike in the morning and evening to help them release some energy and relax their brain. You’ll find it surprising how good you feel after each walk too! There are several great problem solving toys to keep your dogs brain entertained throughout the day; or you can stuff a Kong with peanut butter mixed with their food, freeze it and hand it over before heading out. There is even a Dog TV, a channel to keep your dog engaged while you’re away too.  

Along with walks, dogs enjoy playtime and mental stimulation with their people. Get in a good game of fetch; take up agility, tracking or fly ball, all fun things for you to do together. If your days are long, hire a dog walker to come in mid day to play with, walk and engage your dog to help break up their day. You’ll find a combination of these things can help your dog through their separation anxiety; and if it is more serious, contact an animal behaviorist to help work through extreme cases.

Your dog really does want to please you, some just really hate being alone!  

Till next time. Deb D’Andrea, founder 4TheLuvOfDogz, Making Tails Wag Better since 2007; www.4theluvofdogz.com

(Originally published in the May 21, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)