Thanks for joining me as we explore the ways we can help our favorite pets get over their fears and anxieties. So far we've covered how to help your pup over those rough spots and to remain calm in the face of fear. Whether you were able to sooth his frayed nerves with just a simple change of attitude or something stronger was required, the only way to maintain the calm is to make some lifestyle choices. In short, your pup needs some supportive friends.
Dogs are social creatures. In the wild, they live in packs, but a lot of domesticated dogs have little in the way of social interaction. Sure, you're their best friend, but you're at work all day, leaving puppy isolated, lonely, and bored. That can be a recipe for an anxiety attack.
For a pooch who suffers from separation anxiety, doggy day care might just be the answer. Rather than leaving your pup home alone, drop him off at a day camp where he can run and play with other dogs, hang out with animal-loving staff, and - most importantly - return home tired and happy at the end of the day.
Doggie day care doesn't have to be an expensive boutique experience - although it can be if that's what you and your dog prefer. You can also trade dog-sitting duties with friends. Who ever doesn't have to work that day gets to host a party.
And you don't have to drag your dog to camp every day to see the effect, either. Just a couple of days a week can make a huge difference in the life of a socially isolated dog, so check around and see what facilities are available where you live, or pair up with a friend or two to help keep all your dogs happy and healthy.
An important note: Dogs who are anxious can sometimes be aggressive towards other dogs, so never leave strange dogs alone together. If your dog just can't tolerate the company of others, all is not lost. Check out the next email for ideas about keeping an anti-social pup happier.
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