Dog Stress

The Waldo Canyon wildfire has made the past week extremely difficult for all of us here in Colorado Springs, and that includes our dogs. In addition to the physical discomfort due to the high heat and smoke-filled air, we have experienced uncertainty and an emotional roller coaster due to the fire and evacuations. So this month I would like to discuss how to recognize and treat signs of stress in our dogs.

Some signs of stress you may notice in your dog include:

• Disinterest in play

• Increase or decrease in appetite, or diarrhea developing

• Increase or decrease in normal activity level

• Increased shedding

• Sweaty paws

• Pacing

• Drooling

• Panting (without the lip curling, smiling look of heat related panting)

• Tension in the body and facial muscles

• Displacement behaviors such as scratching or yawning

• Increase in whining, barking, chewing, or digging (self-soothing behaviors)
Things you can do to minimize the effects of stress for your dog:

• Keep to as normal a schedule as possible, with meal times, daily walks, etc.

• Make sure your dog is getting enough physical exercise, weather and air quality permitting.

• When physical exercise is not an option, give your dog extra mental stimulation with project toys (i.e. stuffed Kongs), indoor games, and fun training sessions
Products available to help treat stress in dogs:

• Homeopathic supplements (e.g. Rescue Remedy – Bach Flower Essences)

• Essential Oils

• Compression wraps, (e.g. Thundershirt or Anxiety Wrap)

• Pheromone Calming Collars or infusers (e.g. Comfort Zone)

• Through a Dog’s Ear (CD containing music clinically demonstrated to calm dogs)

I hope everyone is now home and safe, and recovering from the trauma of the past week. These symptoms and solutions may also help you recognize and treat other common forms of stress in your dog, like thunderstorm phobias, noise phobias, or separation anxiety. If you still have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me!

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