What can we say about this moment in our history? It’s scary, uncomfortable, and confusing to say the least. Think about how much worse the news would be, however, if we weren’t home with our four-legged best friends. It’s still not easy, but we can be somewhat soothed by Fluffy’s meaningful gaze, or Fido’s tail-wagging devotion.

In fact, the small moments we share with animal kind give us far more than a brief respite from the headlines. Like other people all over the world, it’s time to consider all we’ve learned (so far) from our pets during quarantine. 

It’s Time… To Relax

Most pets are pretty good at chilling out. Even the ones that suffer from separation anxiety have fewer reasons to worry in this present paradigm. The lesson for pet owners? It’s okay to relax. 

Hunker down on the couch together. Binge watch the TV series you’ve been putting off. Cook some slow food together and have a quiet picnic. Take meandering walks, with no destination or time limit in mind. In other words, pets during quarantine can shed a great deal of light on the idea that taking it easy can become a high priority.

Soak Up the Sun

Vitamin D is essential to our health, yet we spend so much time trying to escape direct rays. Check out your pets during quarantine. We bet they’re great at sniffing out special patches of sweet, honey-like sunshine streaming through the window. Spreading out in a warm spot is so good for the physical body, and can really add to your mental health, too. 

The Snooze Button

If you’re curled up with your pet in a patch of golden sunlight, embrace the opportunity to slip into a nice dream. Sleep is one of the best ways to combat stress, a fact not lost on your pet. Take your time, sleep on and off for a day or two (or more) if you can, and take some deep breaths knowing that your best friend is right beside you. 

Look Good, Feel Good

Dogs may not be as invested in their appearance as cats. But the truth is, all pets feel their best when they look their best. Don’t forget to take good care of how you look. We’re not saying anyone should cut their own bangs or anything, but please take extra care to pamper yourself like pets during quarantine. 

Draw a hot bath, get your curling iron out, and put on a face mask (your pet will still be able to recognize you!).

Getting Into the Groove

Perhaps the way we can successfully move through this time at home is to establish and stick to a strict routine. This means that you and your pet should eat and exercise at the same times each day. Even if you cannot take long hikes or go on strenuous bike rides.

Get out for some exercise together whenever possible. Consider picking up yoga, or doga for your pup, and celebrate the chance to slow down, breath deeply, and appreciate all that you do have.

Pets During Quarantine

This period in time is less than ideal but staying home with your pets during quarantine remains part of the solution. If you have any questions about the many ways to support your pet’s mental and physical wellbeing, please let us know. We’re always here for you at Shiloh Mobile Veterinary Hospital. 

The post Pets During Quarantine Have It Figured Out! appeared first on Veterinary Blog for Los Angeles - Shiloh Veterinary Hospital.

It’s that time of year again. Shopping for school supplies, snacks, clothes, and shoes and figuring out new schedules occupy the minds and hours of families with school-aged kids – but how does the family pet feel about the change in routine? 

Pet separation anxiety is real, and it can rear its ugly head as your pet’s small (or tall) summer companions troop back through the school doors for the next 9 months. Fortunately, boredom, depression, and behavioral issues can be prevented, and the team at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital can help.

But Why?

Pets are creatures of habit who depend upon and anticipate meals, playtime, and exercise times. If Fido or Fluffy has been used to extra playtime, playing in the pool, sneaking bites of PB&J under the table, and snuggling on the couch during afternoon movies all summer, the sudden change can come as a shock.

Signs of Pet Separation Anxiety

Behavioral changes are typical of pet separation anxiety, although some are more subtle than others. Careful observation is key when it comes to figuring out what’s going on with your pet.

Unusual vocalization – Barking, whining, howling, or yowling that begins as you prepare to leave for the day or occurs while you’re gone (you may hear about it from neighbors) is a sign that your pet is suffering.

Destructive behaviors – With pet separation anxiety, destructive chewing tends to occur with personal items such as shoes, clothing, pillows, and furniture. It may also be directed at exit points, such as doors and window frames.

House soiling – If your house trained pet is suddenly urinating or defecating in the house when they’ve been left alone, you may have pet separation anxiety on your hands.

Depression – Moping, loss of appetite, hiding, or excessive clinginess can indicate your pet is feeling stressed or depressed.

Kindness and Compassion

Pet separation anxiety is serious, and deserves our careful planning, patience, and veterinary expertise. Our pets are our friends and family members, after all! Try our expert tips to thwart your pet’s back-to-school blues:

• Strive to keep your pet’s scheduled meal and exercise times intact.
• If possible, begin to acclimate your pet to their new normal several weeks prior to the start of school by leaving them alone for longer and longer stretches of time.
• Encourage the kids to spend time with your pet before and after school, either playing, grooming, or just being together. 
• Make sure your pet gets plenty of exercise each day, preferably in the morning and evening. Regular exercise will help to release built-up tension and makes pets tired and happy. 
• If your pet is alone all day, consider scheduling a dog walker, doggie daycare, or even a friendly neighbor to pop in during the day to spend some time with your pet.
• Keep a variety of mentally stimulating toys and activities around the house and switch them up often.

Every pet is unique, and they will all react differently to changes in their routine. If your pet is not responding to your attempts to help, or you are concerned about them for any reason, please don’t hesitate to contact our staff. We are happy to help you come up with a plan to combat pet separation anxiety and help your furry friend get back to normal.

The post Back to School Blues: How to Manage Pet Separation Anxiety appeared first on Veterinary Blog for Los Angeles - Shiloh Veterinary Hospital.