by Mardella Berg

Created on: November 03, 2011

Just as people get stressed out, so do pets. After all, they are able to sense emotions-both good and bad- in the environment around them. However, it is not just their surroundings that can cause stress; additional pet stressors are illness, travel, breeding, separation from their owner, and the addition (or loss) of a family member (either human or animal). Of course, another big stressor for many animals is going to the vet. So, what can pet owners do to reduce pet stress? Well, before addressing how to reduce pet stress, it will help if you are able to recognize the signs. To get you started, here are some of the physical indicators of pet stress or anxiety.

Eyes
Dilated pupils
Glazed look
Squinting
Shifty eyes
Whale eye, white showing
Blinking
Red pigment around eyes (also inner ears)
Avoids eye contact (turns head away)
Looks to handler frequently for directions

Body posture
Body tense, stiff
Body droopy, tired appearance
Body lowered, not cowering but slinkier than usual
Stretching
Skin twitching
Change in pace

Mouth
Panting, too wide or too narrow
Licking lips or nose
Yawning
Jaw clomping
Drooling
Velvet tongue

Face
Furrowed brow
Mouth corners back
Ears back or uneven
Veins prominent under eyes

Vocalizing
Whining
Barking

Other
Starts to chew on self, scratch
Just sits or lays down
Comes to you in an attention getting manner
Paws sweating
Tail held lower than normal
Sniffing
Digging
Circling, returning to you in arc path
Out of context behaviors-destructiveness, restlessness, moving things in and around the house

Developing ulcers

Eating or drinking excessively

There are numerous indicators of pet stress, but sometimes we miss them (perhaps due to dealing with our stresses?) and our pets continue to suffer. Once you have learned how to recognize pet stress, you will be better able to help prevent it. Here are some tips and potential remedies for reducing pet anxiety and stress.

Ways to Keep Your Pet Stress Free Be sure your pet gets plenty of exercise each day. Have toys that provide plenty of stimuli so that your pet doesn’t laze around while you are at work. Variety is the spice of life. When you take your pet for a walk, vary the route and the pace. Don’t discipline your pet with yelling or hitting as this causes fear and anxiety. Despite the prevalent belief that getting a companion pet for your current pet, sometimes this can actually trigger more pet stress, especially if your pet has a more laidback personality. How to Help Your Pet

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>