Calming Anxious Rescued Pets

One of the most common issues that new adoptive pet parents have to overcome is pet anxiety. Animals that have been in rescue for any length of time are often dealing with issues such as abandonment, overcrowding, and instability.

This anxiety can often lead to behavioral problems, which more often than not, can result in the pet being sent back to the shelter. It doesn’t have to be this way. There are a number of ways to deal with anxiety and help your pet feel comfortable in their new home.

[heading style=”2″ color=”#ff9933″ style_color=”#ff9933″]Pheromones[/heading]

 

Like humans, dogs and cats release natural pheromones that, depending on the situation, can either excite or calm an animal. Luckily, modern science has found a way to recreate these pheromones. There are several products on the market now, but the two most popular remain the Comfort Zone plug-ins for both cats and dogs. Dog-appeasing pheromones (DAP) is designed to mimic a canine mother’s natural pheromones.

[heading style=”2″ color=”#ff9933″ style_color=”#ff9933″]Wraps[/heading]

If your pet is highly sensitive to noises or acts fearful in certain situations (such as travel anxiety, fear of thunder, hyperactivity, etc.), ThunderShirt uses gentle, consistent pressure to help your pet stay calm during any stressful situation.

[heading style=”2″ color=”#ff9933″ style_color=”#ff9933″]Herbal[/heading]

Many types of flower and herbal essences act as a natural relaxant for pets, and can help calm your pet without making them sleepy. These drops can be placed directly in the pet’s mouth, or disguised in food or water. Be certain that you purchase species-specific herbal remedies as many of the essences that are safe for dogs, are not safe for cats.

[heading style=”2″ color=”#ff9933″ style_color=”#ff9933″]Treats[/heading]

There are a number of calming treats on the market that include herbs such as chamomile and valerian extract. These treats can be given to the pets during times of stress or to help pets sleep easier.

 

[heading style=”2″ color=”#ff9933″ style_color=”#ff9933″]Prescription[/heading]

If none of the natural options appear to work for your pet, it may be time to visit your veterinarian. S(he) will be able to provide some suggestions and prescriptive remedies that will help your pet more easily adjust to a situation.

Remember that not one solution will fit every animal, and some will require a combination of efforts. Patience will be your strongest weapon as pets adjust to, and learn to trust, their new environment. Never give up on a pet – we have yet to see a case that can’t be resolved with some ingenuity and hard work.

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