How Dog Walks Save the HoliDAYS!

It's officially fall! The holiday season is approaching and, with it, endless commitments, invitations, and responsibilities. Many dogs experience increased separation anxiety as families face repeated professional and personal demands this time of year. Changes in household dynamics can be stressful for our canine companions, especially those accustomed to consistent companionship and routines. Fortunately, there are several ways pet parents can ease their dog's separation anxiety. Today, we're focusing specifically on how dog walks save the holiDAYS!

Understanding Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Walking outdoors can ease separation anxiety symptoms

Separation anxiety is a common condition with approximately 20-50% of dogs displaying separation anxiety symptoms at some point in their lives. It involves anxiety when a dog is separated from their primary caregiver.

In dogs, separation anxiety often manifests through behaviors like whining, barking, destructive chewing, indoor accidents, and visible distress when left alone. It's crucial to recognize these signs early and take proactive steps to address them.

Strategies for Easing Separation Anxiety in Dogs

1. Use Gradual Desensitization

Dogs love to be outdoors!

Experts recommend desensitization for dogs with mild separation anxiety. By leaving your dog alone for short periods and gradually increasing the duration, you're letting your dog know that they are safe alone and helping them get accustomed to your departure. Being left alone for short periods helps dogs build confidence and understand that your absence is temporary, but it can backfire if not done correctly. For this reason, it's best to begin by leaving for just a minute or two and slowly work up to longer intervals. For more severe separation anxiety or potentially dangerous behaviors, we recommend you contact Clever Critters to help you. They have the expertise to ensure your dog's comfort during this important training.

2. Create a Positive Association

Many pet professionals recommend making departures and arrivals low-key to avoid reinforcing anxious behavior. It's also smart to provide a special toy or treat when you leave to create positive associations with your absence.

3. Establish a Routine

Dogs of all ages can suffer from separation anxiety

Dogs thrive on predictability. Maintain a consistent schedule for walks, meals, and alone time to help your pet feel more secure.

4. Prioritize Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Ensure your pet gets plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation before you leave. This can include a brisk walk, a game of fetch, or engaging puzzle toys.

5. Create a Safe Space

Create a comfortable, secure area for your dog when you're away. This could be a crate, a specific room, or a cozy corner with their favorite bed and toys.

Adjusting to Holiday Schedules

Dogs love to walk, especially when they are left alone for long periods

As fall and winter schedules start to fill up, it's important to prepare your dog for increased alone time:

1. Maintain consistency: Try to keep your dog's feeding and walking times consistent, even as other aspects of the household schedule change.

2. Provide enrichment: Provide puzzle toys or hidden treats to keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated while alone. We shared a KONG recipe in our latest newsletter

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3. Using calming aids: Consider using pheromone diffusers, calming music, or calming treats and supplements to help soothe your pet in your absence.

How Dog Walks Save the HoliDAYS

Sunshine, dirt, and movement are key to overall dog health

One effective way to alleviate your dog's separation anxiety is by utilizing professional dog walking services like ours to provide much-needed exercise and stress relief. Hearts at Home Pet Sitting offers reliable and caring dog walking services that can significantly impact your pet's well-being.

Regular walks provide:

- Much-needed exercise and mental stimulation

- A break in the day to relieve boredom and anxiety

- Social interaction with a friendly, familiar face

By booking daily or weekly visits with Hearts at Home Pet Sitting, you can ensure your dog receives attention, exercise, and companionship even when your family's schedule is hectic. This consistent care can help reduce anxiety and keep your pet happy and healthy.

The Importance of Professional Help

For severe cases of separation anxiety, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist. They can provide tailored advice and, if necessary, recommend appropriate medications to help manage your dog's anxiety.

Addressing separation anxiety takes time and patience. With consistent effort and the right support, including professional dog walking services, you can help your beloved dog feel more secure and content, even when you're away.

Hearts at Home Pet Sitting offers in-home dog walking and pet sitting services in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, Virginia. To register your pet(s) or home with us, please complete a new client questionnaire here. Existing clients may request services here. Those outside our service area are encouraged to find a pet sitter near you at the Pet Sitters International or National Association of Professional Pet Sitters websites.

Please visit our website or contact us by email at Hello@HeartsAtHomePetSitting.com or by phone at 757-745-9868 to learn more.

Don't let your dog sit at home bored and on edge this holiday season. Book your daily or weekly dog walking visits with Hearts at Home Pet Sitting today and give your pet the care and attention they deserve!