by Miranda Miller-Smith

Created on: November 06, 2009   Last Updated: October 18, 2010

Dogs can feel the effects of stress much like humans do. I have a beagle that is extremely sensitive at times. My goal is to provide my pet with a happy and healthy life and this can be a challenge when he is stressed out and the entire family is feeling the effects of his stress.

My cat and my beagle are true friends, they play together, they eat together and they sleep together. Their relationship is quite adorable. However, several months ago the cat felt like playing while the dog did not. As the dog turned around to head to his bed, the cat grabbed his tail. This small movement sent my sweet little dog over the edge. He started to shake, he tucked his tail between his legs and he cowered. As I had witnessed the event, I tried to soothe his nerves. I stroked the dog, I spoke softly to him, I shooed the cat away. The dog was traumatized and very stressed out. I proceeded to baby him for the rest of the day but he was obviously stressed.

The next day, a fire truck went by our home with the sirens wailing. My dog had been behaving strangely as it was, but this routine event was too much for him. He hid behind the sofa and refused to come out. Every day it got worse. I consulted our vet, who recommended some special treatment in the form of treats. That did not work.

I decided that I would do whatever it took to help my dog get over his stress and regain his confidence. I began taking him for special walks, just the two of us. We took long walks around the neighborhood; I gave him lots of special treatments, belly rubs, games of fetch, which he was not at all interested in, new toys, expensive puppy treats, and lots of peace and quiet.

Finally, in a moment of despair, I went to the pet store and consulted with the staff, they recommended Puppy 'sedatives'. We went with a tablet form called Pet Ease. It contains the same chemical as turkey, which helps him to sleep without shaking. After a few hours I noticed a major improvement in my dog. As much as I did not want to drug him, I am at the same time glad I did. These tablets took the edge off for him. In no time he was back to his playful self and he was no longer terrified of the cat. They were buddies again!

Knowing that my dog is prone to stress and issues with his nerves, I pay close attention to his surroundings. If I have reason to worry that a situation might be stressful to him I stroke him, I speak confidently and reassuringly to him, I remove him from the situation if necessary. I try to help him maintain his confidence, reminding him he is a big boy and he will be okay. I am there, he should not worry. I discovered a spot where he feels safe, in a cabinet in the kitchen. I have cleared it out and made it available to him whenever he feels stressed, he goes to the cabinet, crawls inside and lies down and I shut the door and allow him time and space to regroup. When he wants out he can push the door open and rejoin the family. To help your dog deal with stress, you have to be calm, rational and confident. You have to make sacrifices, such as much needed cabinet space and never lose your cool. If the situation is severe it is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian.

All dogs are different. Some are nervous by nature while others are indifferent to a variety of situations. If you can determine what causes your pet to feel stressed out you can either eliminate the stressor from the home or you can teach your pet to adapt to the situation. While not at pet owners feel comfortable offering a “puppy chill pill” this remedy can be what is needed for the animal. 

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