I want to talk about separation anxiety and how to manage it when leaving your pet home alone...
As the founder of Flowerpup and a devoted pet lover, I know how important our furry friends are to us and how difficult it is to leave them alone.
"Any glimpse into the life of an animal quickens our own and makes it so much the larger and better in every way." - John Muir
Leaving Dog Home Alone
The bond between an owner and their fur baby is unique and special. Dogs are social animals and they bond faithfully and unconditionally with their owners.
You've probably noticed that when you're at home, your dog follows you everywhere! And the thought of leaving them alone may make you afraid that they will feel lost and abandoned.
I myself experienced all of this with my beloved Argo, my sweet and affectionate Labrador. And I still remember the day I first saw him, he was a cuddly ball of fur! I knew we would be connected forever.
Argo was always by my side, and I'm sure if he were here with me today, he would keep me company even while I paint my colorful floral paintings. He was my faithful companion, always keeping me company and making me laugh so much.
It was when I had to leave him alone for the first time that I realized how strong our bond was.
It was a hot summer afternoon, I remember it well, I had to leave for a quick errand. I had prepared everything for Argo, leaving food, water, and toys, but despite this, I was worried. When I came back home, I found him at the door with his tail wagging and his teeth showing with his usual smile.
I began to think that our bond was so deep that Argo could feel my presence even when I wasn't physically with him. I started to understand how important it is to take care of our fur babies, especially when we leave them alone.
"Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them." - John Grogan
Every time I paint your pet portrait commissions, I always think of my Argo and all the animals that have had such a significant impact on their owners' lives, and my heart fills up. It is confirmation that love for our pets never fades, even when they are no longer with us.
How to Recognize Pet Separation Anxiety
Before seeing how to manage separation anxiety, it is important to understand how to recognize it. It can manifest itself in many different ways, and even dogs have their own personalities.
Some may start to cry and bark when you leave the house, others may become destructive by ruining furniture or objects in the house. Others may become nervous or restless, pacing or chewing on their paws.
Read also: How to Heal After Grieving for a Lost Pet
How to Deal with Anxiety when You leave Your Pet Home Alone
There are some things you can do to help your puppy overcome separation anxiety, and I'm sure they will make you feel a little more relaxed too.
In addition to making sure they have everything they need, such as food, water, and toys:
- Create a comfortable resting area with some interactive games to distract them, it will help them feel safe and protected even when you're away.
- Avoid sudden shock by gradually getting them used to your absence, starting with short periods of time until you get to the time you need.
- Make separation less stressful by establishing routines that help your puppy understand when you'll be there and when you won't.
Once you've done all of this, you can rest assured and avoid any worries. Just like it happened to me, you'll realize that your puppy feels your presence even when you're not there. Always remember that your bond is unique and that by applying these simple tips, you'll both live better with separation anxiety.
And you, dear reader, how do you manage time with your pet? What strategies do you implement to keep the loneliness away?
Tell me about it in the comments below!
Hug,
Helen
