Latest news with #DogAnxietyAwarenessWeek
Daily Record
05-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Six warning signs your dog is anxious and the best ways to calm them
It can be awful to see your furry friend in distress Many of our pooches suffer from anxiety, whether they're nervous around people, other dogs, or have separation anxiety from their owners. This week beginning Monday, May 5, is Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, where it's more important than ever to start conversations about our pets' mental health. Amid Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, owners are being encouraged to recognise the most common signs of anxiety in their pets, and how to help suffering pooches. And some experts have shared their advice on how to achieve this. Ross Hallifax from Purely Pets says: 'Just like us, our four-legged friends can also experience stress and anxiety. And whether your dog is naturally nervous or suddenly showing signs of distress, it can be a worrying experience for pet owners to see their beloved pet in fear." The experts at Purely Pets have shared the warning signs of an anxious dog, including indicators in their body language. Here is all their advice, including the causes of anxiety in pets, and what you can do to ease the mind of your nervous pooch. What causes anxiety in dogs? The pet experts explain that anxiety in dogs can be brought on for a number of reasons. These include separation from their owners, loud noises, new environments, or being around unfamiliar people. Anxiety in dogs can develop at any time and can unfortunately get worse as they grow older. Signs of anxiety in dogs Some common signs that could indicate your dog is experiencing anxiety include: trembling or shaking drooling or panting changes in appetite excessive whining or barking destructive behaviour restlessness While it can be upsetting to see your furry friend in distress, there are many simple and effective ways for pet owners to help reduce their dog's anxiety. How to ease your dog's anxiety Create a calm, safe space Creating a designated area with their bed, favourite toys, and an item with your scent can offer comfort to some dogs struggling with separation anxiety. It can also help dogs feel more settled in a new environment, for example, if you've recently moved home. Exercise and stimulation Just as physical activity can work wonders for our mental health, it can also significantly alleviate anxiety symptoms in dogs. Daily walks and regular playtime provide the necessary mental and physical stimulation, which can in turn help with symptoms of anxiety. Use distractions and keep dogs entertained It may not always be possible to remove a fear trigger altogether, so boredom busters such as toys, treats or puzzle feeders can help distract your dog and keep them entertained. For dogs suffering with separation anxiety, leaving the TV or radio on for background noise can also help. Always make new things a positive experience Make sure your dog sees new experiences as a positive, by praising them if they react well to them. It can also help to introduce new experiences slowly to build their confidence over time. Contact your vet If your dog is continuing to struggle with anxiety it's important to seek professional help, especially if they have suddenly started showing signs or are suddenly afraid of lots of different things. Your vet may be able to provide medication or recommend products to help. Ross Hallifax concluded: "Dog Anxiety Awareness Week aims to educate dog owners on the signs and symptoms of anxiety, promoting a happier, healthier life for their furry friends. We hope our tips can help those owners struggling with anxious dogs this awareness week and beyond.' Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Daily Mirror
05-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a TV vet and can tell if your dog is stressed - here's how to fix problems'
To mark Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, Matt Jackson-Smith from TV's The Yorkshire Vet has shared his top tips when it comes to dealing with an anxious dog If you've never experienced the racing heart and sense of panic that comes with anxiety, then you are extremely lucky. These feelings can be prevalent in our four legged friends too - so much so, that Monday marks the start of Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, which is supported by animal organisations worldwide. Here, Matt Jackson-Smith from TV's The Yorkshire Vet shares his insight and advice on dealing with an anxious dog: 'Anxiety in dogs is more common than many pet owners realise. I see countless dogs each year whose quality of life and that of their families is deeply affected by stress and anxiety. Whether it's triggered by separation, loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or even changes in routine, anxiety can manifest in many ways: excessive barking, destructive behaviours, trembling, hiding, or even aggression. "A recent survey revealed that around 70 per cent of dogs suffer from bouts of stress and anxiety and the prevalence of doggy depression leads to 41% of owners who say they worry about their pet's mental health. The poll commissioned by Adaptil, which provides calming solutions for pets, also revealed that 56% of owners could tell immediately if their pet was anxious and said the main signs of anxiety in dogs included barking (44%), having a low or tucked tail (42%), pacing (34%) or trembling (29%). "I have even experienced anxiety with my own dog, my Cavapoo, Harry. He has always been a bit of a nervous chap, but when our daughter, Anastasia, came along his entire life was turned upside down so we created safe spaces in our home for him to feel secure. Although it can be very distressing to see man's best friend suddenly struck with anxiety and stress, the good news is with the right knowledge and support, anxious dogs can live happier, calmer lives.' Matt explains the top 10 causes of anxiety in dogs: Separation anxiety Is a behavioural disorder where dogs experience distress and anxiety when separated from their owners. This was widespread following the Covid-19 lockdown when many people got puppies while working from home but as soon as they went back to the office this caused issues for their dogs who were used to being with them constantly. Separation anxiety can manifest in various ways including barking or howling, destructive behaviour including chewing, scratching at doors and windows and soiling in the house. Other signs include panting and drooling, trembling, pacing. It can also cause clingy behaviour like following owners from room to room. Loud noises Thunderstorms, fireworks and other loud noises can be triggers for anxiety in dogs. This is especially more noticeable around Guy Fawkes night when many pet owners dread this time of year as it causes such stress for their pet. This fear can manifest as panic, destructive behaviour and even aggression. Unfamiliar environments New environments present a flood of new smells, sounds and sights that can overwhelm a dog's senses leading to anxiety - dogs are used to familiar scents and routine to feel secure. A new environment disrupts these cues leaving them feeling often lost and anxious. This can manifest with the dog trying to avoid the new environment or social interactions or withdrawal or hiding. Changes in routine Sudden changes to a dog's daily routine, like a new work schedule or a move to a new house can cause anxiety. New people or animals Dogs may become anxious when encountering new people, including a new partner or baby, or if the household gets a new pet - especially if they have had limited socialisation. With a new addition to the household, anxiety can manifest in many ways, including jealousy and resource guarding such as food and toys. Medical conditions Illness or pain can contribute to anxiety as dogs may become more sensitive to their environment. Ageing As dogs age, they may develop new fears and anxieties due to cognitive decline or age-related health conditions. Previous trauma Dogs who have experienced traumatic events like abandonment or abuse may develop anxiety as a result. Lack of socialisation If a dog isn't properly socialised during their puppyhood, they may become anxious in new situations or around other dogs and people, especially when out on dog walks. Lack of exercise A dog's behaviour can be dramatically impacted by how much exercise they receive. Dogs are naturally energetic creatures that need frequent exercise to maintain both their physical and emotional well-being. A dog may grow bored, anxious or even destructive if they don't get enough exercise. Matt's advice for managing dog anxiety Routine is reassuring Dogs thrive on predictability, try to keep feeding, walking, and playtimes consistent, especially during periods of change. Create a safe space A quiet area with your dog's favourite bed or blanket can provide a comforting retreat during stressful events like fireworks or thunderstorms. We have created space spaces in every room in our home for Harry. One tip is to cut a square of carpet, which can be used as the safe space at home and then it can be taken out with you so your dog has a portable safe space. The familiar scent of the carpet or a piece of material will really help. Use positive reinforcement Reward calm behaviours with treats or affection. This teaches your dog that relaxation brings good things. Exercise and mental stimulation: Physical activity and brain games help burn off nervous energy and promote a more balanced mindset. Consider calming aids There are many options available—pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or vet-approved supplements. For more severe cases, prescription medication may be necessary. Music Dogs can find music calming; it can help during firework season or to help with separation anxiety. There have been some studies that have found that classical music with a low Bpm of 50 to 60 is proven to reduce stress, so try your dog on some Beethoven or Bach. Don't punish anxious behaviour Fear-based responses to bad behaviours with punishment can worsen anxiety and erode trust. Look to address the root cause. Certified behavioural experts There may be some dogs that need a more intensive approach and for this visiting a dog behaviourist may be the right thing to do. They specialise in understanding dog behaviour and reading their body language to help the dog overcome whatever issues they may have. There are even behavioural camps where you can send your dog for intensive training. Stay calm Although it might seem difficult if you can stay calm it will help as your dog will likely pick up on your anxiety, so try to remain calm during stressful situations. Speak to your vet Every dog is different. A tailored approach that fits your dog's specific needs is always the most effective and it could be that the anxiety is due to an underlying health condition. During Dog Anxiety Awareness Week take time to observe your furry friend's emotional well-being. With compassion and care, we can all help our dogs feel safe, secure, and truly part of the family 'Doggy camp has helped reduce my pooch's anxiety - he's a huge part of our family' Oscar is a rescue dog who was rehomed by The Dog's Trust and went to live with Stephanie Noble and her husband Harry in South London. Stephanie said: "Oscar has always been very anxious, he was a lockdown dog and he came to us at 10-months-old after his previous owners were unable to cope with him. He immediately became part of our family and we have tried various ways to reduce his anxiety, including a behaviourist, a doggy camp, medication and methods such as rewarding with treats. 'He is still a little anxious but has improved over time. The key is to accept the anxiety and then find ways to address it rather than punishing the dog, Oscar is a real character, is much loved and even has his own Instagram page.'
Daily Mirror
03-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
10 things your pets hates and trigger anxiety explained by TV's Yorkshire Vet
Our four-legged friends feel stress and panic too. Matt Jackson-Smith from TV's The Yorkshire Vet shares his insight and advice on dealing with an anxious dog for Dog Anxiety Awareness Week. Anxiety in dogs is a lot more common than many pet owners realise. I see countless animals each year whose quality of life and that of their families is deeply affected by stress and anxiety. Whether it's triggered by separation, loud noises, unfamiliar environments or even changes in routine, anxiety can manifest in many ways: excessive barking, destructive behaviours, trembling, hiding or aggression. A recent survey revealed that around 70% of dogs suffer from bouts of stress and anxiety and the prevalence of doggy depression leads 41% of owners to admit that they worry about their pet's mental health. The poll, commissioned by Adaptil – which provides calming solutions for pets – also revealed that 56% of owners could tell immediately if their pet was anxious and said the main signs in dogs included barking (44%), having a low or tucked tail (42%), pacing (34%) or trembling (29%). I have even experienced anxiety with my own dog, Cavapoo Harry. He has always been a bit of a nervous chap, but when our daughter Anastasia came along, his entire life was turned upside down. As a result, we decide to created some safe spaces in our home where he could feel secure. Although it can be very distressing to see man's best friend suddenly suffer with anxiety and stress, the good news is that with the right knowledge and support, anxious dogs can live happier, calmer lives. Here, we look into the top 10 causes of anxiety in dogs and how to manage it… Top ten pet hates 1. Routine is reassuring Dogs thrive on routine so try to keep their feeding, walking and playtimes consistent, especially during periods of change. 2. Create a safe space A quiet area with your dog's favourite bed or blanket can provide a comforting retreat during stressful events like fireworks or thunderstorms. One tip is to cut a square of carpet or material that can be used as the safe space at home, then taken out and about with you so your dog has a portable safe space. The carpet's familiar scent will help. 3. Use positive reinforcement Reward calm behaviour with treats and affection so your dog learns that relaxation brings good things. 4. Exercise and mental stimulation Physical activity and brain games help burn off nervous energy and promote a balanced mindset. 5. Consider calming aids There are many options to choose from, including pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps and vet-approved supplements. In severe cases, prescription medication may be needed. 6. Music Dogs find music calming and it can help during firework season or to help with separation anxiety. Some studies that have found that classical music is proven to cut stress. Try some Beethoven or Bach. 7. Don't punish anxious behaviour Fear-based responses to bad behaviours with punishment can worsen anxiety and erode trust. Look to address the root cause. 8. Certified behavioural experts Some dogs need a more intensive approach so visiting a dog behaviourist may be a good idea. 9. Stay calm It may seem difficult but if you can stay calm, it will help as your dog is likely to pick up on your anxiety. 10. Speak to your vet Every dog is different. A tailored approach that fits your dog's needs is the most effective. The anxiety could be due to an underlying health condition. How to manage anxiety 1. Separation anxiety Dogs experience distress and anxiety when separated from their owners. This was widespread following the Covid-19 lockdown when many people got puppies while working from home but as soon as they went back to the office, it caused issues for their dogs who were used to being with them constantly. Separation anxiety can manifest in various ways including barking or howling, destructive behaviour including chewing, scratching at doors and windows and soiling in the house. Other signs include panting, trembling, pacing and drooling. It can also cause clingy behaviour. 2. Loud noises Thunderstorms, fireworks and other loud noises can all trigger anxiety in dogs. This is especially noticeable around Guy Fawkes Night on November 5 – a time dreaded by many pet owners as it causes such stress for them. This fear can manifest as panic, destructive behaviour and even aggression. 3. Unfamiliar environments New environments present a flood of different smells, sights and sounds that can overwhelm a dog's senses and make them anxious as they need familiar scents and routine to feel secure. A new environment disrupts these cues, often leaving them feeling lost and anxious. This can manifest with the dog trying to avoid the new environment and social interactions or withdrawal or hiding. 4. Changes in routine Sudden changes to daily routine, like a new work schedule or a move to a new house, can cause anxiety. 5. New people and animals Dogs may become anxious when meeting new people, like a new partner or baby, or if the household welcomes another pet. Anxiety can manifest in jealousy and guarding resources, such as food or toys. 6. Medical conditions Illness and pain can often contribute to anxiety as dogs may become more sensitive to their environment and less tolerant as they feel unwell. 7. Ageing As dogs grow older, they may develop new fears due to cognitive decline or health conditions. 8. Previous trauma Dogs who have experienced traumatic events like abandonment or abuse may develop anxiety. 9. Lack of socialisation If a dog isn't properly socialised as a puppy, they may become anxious in new situations or around other dogs and people – especially while walking. 10. Lack of exercise A dog's behaviour can be dramatically impacted by how much exercise they do. Dogs are naturally energetic creatures that need to stay active to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. A dog may grow bored, anxious or destructive without enough exercise. Case Study: Oscar, German Shepherd, aged four Oscar is a rescue dog who was rehomed by the Dog's Trust and went to live with Stephanie Noble and husband Harry in South London. Stephanie said: 'Oscar has always been very anxious. He was a lockdown dog and he came to us at 10 months old after his old owners could not cope with him. 'We have tried various ways to reduce his anxiety, like a behaviourist, a doggy camp, medication and rewarding him with treats. He still gets a little anxious now but has really improved. 'The key is to accept the anxiety then find ways to address it, rather than punishing him. Oscar is a real character, is much loved and even has an Instagram page.' During Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, take time to observe your furry friend's emotional well-being. With compassion and care, we can all help our dogs feel safe, secure, and part of the family. Matt is an ambassador for Butcher's nourishing food for dogs:
