Dogs Could Face Major Separation Anxiety When Lockdown Restricions End

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Most dogs are very happy to have their people at home during this time.

Experts think that our canine friends might have a major issue with separation anxiety when lockdown restrictions are relaxed.

A veterinarian behaviorist says, "Dogs thrive on consistency and predictability, as we all do, so any time there’s an abrupt change, it can cause stress.” This will most likely happen when adults go back to work and children go back to school at some point.

A separation anxiety specialist said once you are leaving the house more often, practice with your pup by executing small absences so the dog gets used to you not being there for incremental increases in time.

“Put a webcam on your dog, and you’ll see howling and pacing and other distress signs,” Roger Mugford tells the Times.

They also suggest practicing alone time now even in quarantine together.

“Allow your pet to have some alone time,” says Sueda. “You have your space, and they have theirs.” For those who live in cramped quarters with their canine companions, the ASPCA prescribes training your dog to perform out-of-sight “stays” by an inside door in the home, such as the bathroom.

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