Protecting Your Pet: Separation Anxiety

WSVN--A perturbed miniature pinscher is home alone...A lonely labrador acts out his frustration - destroying things. Classic cases of separation anxiety.

Veterinarian Dr. Mike Fusco:"Most of these symptoms will peak out in the first 20-30 minutes of separation."

Jessie's Owner Shirley Pardon:"She knows if I just brush my hair.. or get my purse she knows that I'm going out.She'll sit right by the door."

All kinds of things can trigger behavior problems.... Leaving pets home alone - lack of attention, time or exercise. The good news - there are lots of things you can do to help pets overcome separation anxiety.

Try doggie day care...Your guilt-free while Fido hangs out all day.

Another option - a dog walker

A little mid-day exercise while you're gone works wonders four our four legged friends.

Shirley Pardon: Jessie's having real bad problems..."

A last resort - in severe cases like Jessie's...Medication may be necessary.

Dr.Mike Fusco: "If you come home to a to a house that has some feces or urine scattered around, and things are destroyed that is a clinical problem that needs to be treated."

It's kind of like doggie or kitty-Prozac.

Dr Fusco:"These are in the form of anti-depressants, similar to human anti-depressants."

Shirley Pardon:"What am I doing...."

Before leaving talk to them in a reassuring voice.... You'd be suprised what they understand.

More than any thing else - usually what our 4-legged friends desperately need and deserve is TLC.

Shirley Pardon:"This is how she is when everything is fine, when I'm here"

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Contact:mmitzel@wsvn.com

Dr. Michael Fusco
Adams Vet Clinic
305-757-7309