Pet Behaviour

Dogs are social animals and often prefer the company of people or other animals to solitude. Even dogs that appear independent might base their independence on the fact that their owners are not far away. Some dogs are deeply indifferent to human comings and goings, whilst others might resign themselves to the inevitable and manage to settle. The problem arises when dogs left alone are significantly distressed.

Separation anxiety is a collection of behaviours that a dog may display usually when they are left without their owners.

This anxiety can present in behaviours such as:

• destructive chewing and digging, often at windows, doors and other exit points
• urination and defecation
• persistent vocalisation.

Unless evidence is left behind, or a neighbour tells you, owners might be completely unaware of their pets’ distress. Videoing your dog while you are away from them can help you identify whether they are not settling at all, they do settle after a short time, or are settled until disturbed by something.

The following can be beneficial for dogs with separation anxiety:

• ruling out any medical problems 
• behavioural modification – teach your dog how to to settle and stay settled when you are absent for short periods of time
• creating a safe space for them
• creating emotional stability 
• altering expectations of interaction 
• leaving predictable signals 
• never punishing

To find out more watch this video about the Calm programme.

Some dogs will also benefit from pheromones and / or anti-anxiety medications but these should always be used in conjunction with a behavioural modification programme. Medications can usually be slowly withdrawn once your dog has developed the skills to settle in your absence. Occasionally, more anxious dogs might need lifelong medication.

There is often no quick fix and training can take 4-6 months or more. Often the training will need to be regularly reinforced throughout your dog’s life. If you would like help and support with separation anxiety or separation related problems please contact the surgery.

Bringing treats or toys to the vet can be a great way to help your pet feel more comfortable and reduce anxiety during their visit.

Here are some tips:

Favourite Toys: Bringing along your pet’s favourite toy can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort. For smaller pets, you can place the toy inside their carrier.

Treats: If your pet is allowed to eat before the visit, bringing their favourite treats can be helpful. Treats can be used to reward calm behaviour and make the experience more positive. We always have plenty of treats available, but not all pets can have our treats, or some may just prefer their own.  If your pet is having a procedure, please check with us before giving them treats as they may need to starve beforehand. It’s useful if owners of rabbits and guinea pigs bring a small amount of their pet’s usual food, and their pet’s favourite veggies, along with them at admit – to help aid their post operative recovery whilst with us.

Comfort Items: Items like a favourite blanket or something that smells like home can help ease your pet’s anxiety.

Carrier Familiarity: For pets that need to be in a carrier, make sure they are comfortable with it beforehand. You can leave the carrier out with treats, toys, or blankets inside to help your pet see it as a safe space.

Calm Environment: Scheduling the appointment at a quieter time can reduce stress. Early morning or late afternoon appointments might be less crowded.

Why might my dog need to wear a muzzle?

All dogs should be comfortable wearing a muzzle. There is no stigma to your dog wearing a muzzle. It is a life skill they should have. It means that if a situation arises where you might need to use a muzzle, they are used to it and comfortable wearing it.

Such situations include:

• For your safety when your dog is unwell, injured or in pain. Like us, dogs may react differently if they are stressed or in pain. If you can place a muzzle this can ensure your safety and the safety of anyone trying to treat your dog, for instance, the vet.

• To prevent dogs from eating things they shouldn’t or that might be harmful to them. This might be because your dog is on a strict diet or because they are a scavenger on walks or might like to chase and catch things.

• For the safety of other dogs or members of the public. Unfortunately, there might be certain situations where your dog might feel uncomfortable and has learnt to use aggressive techniques to try and repel another dog or person. In this situation the muzzle is there to keep everyone safe.

• Requirement of law (XL Bully or other dangerous breeds or individuals).

Why is muzzle training important?

Muzzle training is about getting your dog used to wearing a muzzle. All dogs should have the skill of wearing a muzzle in the same way they are used to wearing a collar or lead. Like most things if it becomes part of their normal routine, it is not a stressful thing, however, if the only time your dog is asked to or required to wear a muzzle is at the vets they will quickly associate the muzzle with a bad situation and can soon become fearful of it. It might then be difficult to place a muzzle when you need to, or cause your dog more stress.

Please get in touch on 01858 462 839 or enquiries@ashtreevets.co.uk if you would like a support pack emailed to you.

What is the best type of muzzle?

Nowadays muzzles come in all shapes and sizes, so it is possible to find one that fits and is comfortable for your dog to wear. You should choose a muzzle that your dog can eat, drink and pant through therefore we would usually recommend one of the basket type muzzles. Muzzles are not a one size fits all accessory. Some companies now make muzzles that fit the varying shapes and size of heads and faces of the different breeds. A muzzle should fit comfortably and not obscure their vision, dig into the face or restrict their mouth movements.

We love the muzzles from the The Muzzle Movement because they have different muzzles for different shapes and sizes. They also have a handy guide for fitting and there is a local fitter near Melton Mowbray if you wish to get your muzzle professionally fitted.

As a client of Ash Tree Vets you can also receive a 10% discount for these muzzles using the code ASHTREEVETS at the checkout.

• The Muzzle Movement Sizing for a Muzzle

• All you need to know about what makes a well fitted muzzle!

When should I start muzzle training my dog?

If your dog has is anxious if you touch their ears or head, then we would advice that you seek professional advice from a behaviourist before starting muzzle training. If this is not the case, then you can start muzzle training as soon as possible. If you dog has been newly introduced into your home, then we would just ask that you wait a few weeks until they are completely settled before attempting to fit a muzzle. This allows you time to get to know your dog and hopefully read their body language a bit more, so you know when to stop if they are looking anxious or worried.

The first step is just getting your dog used to being around a muzzle. To start, this can just be on the floor in the room where they are. You can use treats around the muzzle to encourage them to approach the muzzle and engage with it just as a ‘thing’ and nothing more.

Need more help?

Please feel free to contact us at the surgery on 01858 462 839 if you have any concerns or questions and we will be happy to help.