Signs Your Dog is Experiencing Anxiety and How to Help
Is your pup feeling the jitters? Relax, this happens commonly and luckily enough, there are some simple ways to calm an anxious dog. The first thing is to know the tell-tale signs of anxiety in dogs. Once you have this figured out, you can have a plan on how to soothe them. This might mean gently holding your pup to reassure them or even offering supplements for dog anxiety relief. This article reveals some of the best tricks to help ease your dog’s nerves.
What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?
Dogs, just like humans, experience anxiety from time to time. Some breeds are more prone to anxiety than others. According to a recent Forbes article, the Havanese is the most anxious dog breed. Other anxiety-prone breeds include the Australian Shepherd, the Doberman Pinscher, and the Beagle. The Labrador Retriever, the Rottweiler, and the German Shepherd featured among the least anxious breeds.
Regardless of the breed, dog anxiety occurs commonly and can be limiting. Here are some of the common causes of anxiety in dogs:
Owner separation: this is one of the most common causes of anxiety in dogs. It happens when the dog is in a new environment and away from the owner.
Loud Noises: loud and unfamiliar noises such as thunderstorms, fireworks, and construction sounds can cause anxiety in dogs.
Vet visits: a visit to the vet, especially when previous visits were associated with pain, is likely to wreck your dog’s nerves.
Social Settings: Dogs that are not well socialized can experience anxiety in social settings where there are many new faces
Being left at home alone: dogs are social creatures and being “abandoned at home” may trigger anxiety
Age related issues: cognitive decline that comes with age may cause anxiety in dogs.
Other causes of dog anxiety include meeting new people, interacting with other dogs, going on a car ride, and being around water among others.
Signs Your Dog May Be Experiencing Anxiety
Now that we’ve looked at some common causes, how can you tell when your dog is experiencing an anxiety attack? Here are some good signs to look for:
1. Excessive Barking or Whining
An anxious dog is likely to alert you by barking or whining continuously. If there’s no clear reason for this, anxiety could be the culprit.
2. Pacing or Being RestlessAnxious dogs are likely to be restless and unable to settle down.
3. Being DestructiveDestructive behavior is a sign of dog anxiety. The dog may be chewing furniture or other household items or throwing things to the floor. This is especially common when the dog has been left alone and hence feels abandoned.
4. Excessive Licking or ChewingAnxious dogs, just like humans, will find a way to redirect their attention from the anxiety. This often includes fidgety behavior such as licking their paws or chewing themselves.
5. Hiding or Trying to Escape
In new settings, dogs with social anxiety are likely to hide behind chairs and curtains. They might take it further and try to bolt out of the door to escape from the situation entirely.
How to Help Your Anxious Dog
It can be distressing to watch your pup go through an anxiety attack. Here are a few things that you can do to make the situation better for both of you:
1. Remove The Trigger
The first thing to do is to remove the trigger, if possible. If the dog feels anxious because of being in a strange place, you can make this better by taking the dog back to familiar territory. During a storm, you can create a “safe zone” in the house where the noise is muffled.
2. Try CBD for Dogs
Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become an increasingly popular supplement for dog anxiety relief. CBD regulates the endocannabinoid system which controls fear and helps keep your pup calm during stressful situations.
3. Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Physical exercise and mental stimulation can reduce your dog’s anxiety by keeping their mind occupied and away from anxious thoughts. This may include morning jogs or evening puzzles in a safe environment.
4. Try Desensitization
If your dog’s anxiety is triggered by stimuli such as thunderstorms or fireworks, desensitization might help. To do this, you need to expose the dog to the trigger at a low level and reward them when they stay calm. Over time, they’ll get used to the trigger and associate braving through it with a reward.
5. Consult with Your Vet
In severe cases of dog anxiety, it’s best to consult with your vet. There may be an underlying issue that requires prescription medication or a more aggressive approach.
Final Thoughts
Dog anxiety is a common issue, but it’s manageable with the right approach. This often includes creating a safe environment, using desensitization techniques, or even consulting a vet. It may also include incorporating supplements for dog anxiety relief such as CBD. Embracing the right approach will ensure your furry friend feels happy, safe, and secure regardless of the situation.
References
Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2021). Review of the Endocannabinoid System. Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging, 6(6), 607–615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.016
Martin, F., Bachert, K. E., Snow, L., Tu, H. W., Belahbib, J., & Lyn, S. A. (2021). Depression, anxiety, and happiness in dog owners and potential dog owners during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. PloS one, 16(12), e0260676. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.026067
Read MoreSimple Dog Room Decorating Ideas to Make Your Pup Happy
Let’s explore some dog room decorating ideas that’ll help you create a dedicated space for the furry member of your family. Getting acquainted with his new home is always a special moment after you buy a puppy, both for the pup and its new family member. We all love dogs feeling as comfortable as we are in our homes, and we want them to feel like an essential member of the home—because they are. That’s why furry friend decor is necessary when designing the home. It offers a fun but practical way to blend pet care with your home’s style. In this article, we’ll go over some basic pet sanctuary ideas that fit seamlessly with the rest of your décor.
Create a Dog Space
The first step in creating and decorating a dog-friendly space in your home is to decide where this specific area will be. You don’t need an entire room to create a dog space, but if you can afford to spare a room, that’s fine. But a corner in your living room or a cozy spot under the stairs will do just fine. If you’re working on a budget, you can also transform a regular cabinet into a dog crate by replacing the cabinet doors with custom-made slatted doors. The important thing is to ensure the space suits your dog’s size and needs while matching your home’s style.
Add some soft bedding and blankets to keep them warm and comfortable, but ensure you choose colors that complement your home’s color scheme. You can also place a stylish basket beside the dog room to store your dog’s toys and keep the area tidy.
Decorate with Personalized Art
Next on our list of dog room decorating ideas is hanging a personalized art piece in the area. The idea is to hang framed photos or illustrations of and with your dog. There's no doubt that customized art featuring your dog displays the personal bond and emotional connection you two share, while blending perfectly with the style of your home.
A framed, custom-made portrait of your dog, like those from Pixels Photo Art, offers these dual benefits. You'll have beautiful, personalized décor for your dog's space, and it displays love and devotion. With so many options available, it’s your decision whether to depict your dog as a king or create a custom painting of yourself in royal attire, seated on a throne with your dog in your lap. In addition to Renaissance-style paintings, you can also find floral-themed portraits, paw portraits, or memorial dog portraits. To keep the art consistent with your home’s decor, you can choose frames that match the materials in your home. For example, wooden frames would be better if you have wooden furniture.
Another benefit of personalized portraits is that you can order them in different canvas sizes, so you can select a canvas size that fits your dog's room without overwhelming the space. Additionally, it serves as a wonderful conversation starter whenever you have guests in your home.
Create a Food Corner
Your canine-themed room also needs a designated food corner. That way, you keep things organized and don’t have to clutter other areas of the house with food bowls. You can create a food corner next to the dog crate and store the dog’s food in containers placed in a corner in your kitchen or pantry (if you have one). The food containers or jars should match the kitchen’s overall aesthetic. It’s a simple touch, but it makes the space look more organized and thoughtful.
There are many options for the food bowl, ranging from sleek stainless steel bowls to ceramic dishes in various patterns and colors. Here, as well, aim for bowls that match the theme of your home’s décor. For example, if your home has a rustic vibe, wooden or stone-like bowls would help you achieve that natural feel. You can add a feeding mat under the bowls to keep the food corner neat. This helps protect the floor from spills while also contributing to the room’s style.
Add a Dog Door
You can also add a dog door to your dog-inspired home design if you have an outdoor space or a yard where your dog can roam freely. This will allow your dog to move in and out of the house without the stress of having to open and close the door all the time. Dog doors are one of those additions that you need to pay extra attention to ensure they blend in with your home’s design. This is because you’ll likely have to modify your existing door to create it, and you don’t want it to stand out too much or look like an afterthought.
The Most Important Dog Room Decorating Idea: Blend It All In
The most important factor when figuring out dog room decorating ideas that blend with your home’s style is ensuring everything feels cohesive. Your dog nook design should look and feel like a part of your home’s overall aesthetic rather than just an afterthought. This comes into play when choosing the materials and colors you use to create the pet room setup, including the dog bowls, the dog crate, the dog bedding, and so on. With thoughtful planning and a focus on blending the décor, you can create a pet-friendly decor that both you and your furry friend will love. What other simple dog room decorating ideas have you implemented?
Read MoreSpiritual Meanings of Animals That Reflect Our Inner Selves
Pets have entered our lives and become entrenched in it. They became something important, without which we cannot imagine our day. They meet us at the door after a hard day, poke their noses in our ears, inspire us, and see us for real. Living with us for a long time, they copy our behavior and become our spiritual mirrors, reflecting back the inner chaos and joy of our souls.
Dogs
Now it is difficult to imagine what our world would be like if thousands of years ago someone who liked to take risks did not invite the wolf to their hearth. Thanks to these brave people, now dogs meet us at home, bring us their toys and stick their cold noses in our faces.
They love us no matter what. Dogs are there, wagging their tails as if you were the greatest thing ever, whether you've had the worst day at work or been dumped for the third time this year. Taking a look at a Nebula site, you'll discover that spiritually, dogs represent endless love and devotion.
Dogs also represent our protective nature. While going crazy at the postman, they remind us that trust takes time and that it's normal to be afraid to let people in. It's also okay to lose our minds and show sincere emotions when someone important appears on the doorstep of our lives. Dogs don't have time to act cool, and we shouldn't either.
Cats
Cats, mystical and often emotionally unavailable to anyone but the owner, are also close to us. They like to play hot and cold with us, one minute purring in your lap, the next, staring into the void as if they've just spotted a ghost. Looking for their spiritual meaning at https://asknebula.com/meaning/spiritual, you'll notice cats are all about independence, intuition, and the art of not caring.
Cats are masters of boundaries and teach us that love and affection must be earned. They show us how to protect our energy and say no when we need to. Some will call them selfish animals, but healthy selfishness will not hurt anyone. It's a skill that helps weed out those who aren't willing to put in the effort to earn love. It is their gift to teach us how to take care of ourselves and put ourselves first when the situation calls for it.
Guinea Pigs
Being social animals, guinea pigs want to live with their pack to be happy. They understand that spending time with others, even if it's simply to eat lettuce in a corner, makes life better.
Guinea pigs remind us of the power of connection, of being seen, and of squeaking up when we need a bit of support. They show us how important it is to find those who will be there for us no matter what. These small animals rely on one another for protection and comfort, demonstrating to us that it's acceptable to seek help on a psychic chat online and rely on family, friends, and partners. Being a fluffy creature amid a community of fluffy creatures feels great; you don't necessarily need to be the only one.
Hamsters
If hamsters were people, they would be delighted with exercise bikes and endless scrolling of social networks. These little furballs are the existentialists of the pet world. Their obsession with those tiny wheels reminds us of the patterns and rituals we adopt trying to get somewhere but failing.
Hamsters serve as a spiritual reminder that life might occasionally be like a wheel. They show us that while it's tempting to stick to well-known patterns, it's also okay to take a break and go in a different direction if you want to. This skill learned from your little pets can come in handy when it seems like it's easier to keep running than to turn around.
Rabbits
Rabbits may seem sweet and shy children's favorites, but their owners know they are not that simple. When they are in a fighting mood, they're hopping over fences and escaping enclosures with ease. Rabbits are a spiritual paradox: they can be bold and adventurous at the same time as being friendly and sensitive. They are here to teach us the importance of balance in life. As rabbits, we need to find a sweet spot between safety and spontaneity. Sometimes, you have to jump over the fence, and other times, you have to dig your burrow.
Spiritually, rabbits represent wealth, kindness, and sensitivity. They remind people it's fine to nurture the small joys. However, they are also fearless and curious, guiding us to follow our gut feelings and take a good chance. Staying in your burrow forever could make life safer, but isn't it a boring life?
Conclusion
As you can see, animals not only need constant care and look at us with beautiful eyes, but they also guide us. They serve as spiritual mirrors of who we are and where we're going. Most importantly, they remind us to have fun, even if it's only at a hamster pacing in circles.
Read MoreHow to Choose the Perfect Cat Enclosure for Your Space
As a cat mom or dad, you’ll no doubt make little Charlie or Bella’s well-being a top priority.
You’ll know full well that cats crave the freedom to explore. But you’ll also be aware that the neighbourhood, away from the sanctity of your home, can be rife with hazardous traffic, predators, or dangerous plants at every corner.
That is why cat enclosures can be a real godsend. Not only do they enable your feline to enjoy the benefits of fresh air and exercise, but they can also do it in a way that gives you the peace of mind that they are safe when doing so.
Ultimately, it doesn’t matter if you live in a small apartment on the 16th floor of a high rise or in a two up two down with a big garden space. There is a perfect cat enclosure to meet your pet's needs and fit your living space.
Here is how to go about choosing the right one for you.
1. Assess Your Space
Before you start your search, it is important to take stock of the space you have available. Doing this will enable you to make an informed decision as to which type of cat enclosure can best fit into your property.
Obviously, if you do not have any, or limited outdoor space, you will need a design that is compact and flexible. However, if you have the luxury of a backyard or patio, or better still, a big yard or garden, you will be able to accommodate large and even fixed structures that might have features like multi-level designs with different tunnels and sections that can keep your cat entertained for hours.
Essentially, once you know what kind of space you’re working with, you can narrow down your enclosure options accordingly.
2. Understand Your Cat’s Personality and Needs
Just like people, every cat has a unique personality. So, the more you understand what makes your pet tick, the more appropriate and enjoyable an enclosure you can provide for them.
For instance, adventurous Cats who like to climb and explore should really enjoy multiple levels enclosures with tunnels and platforms that will keep them mentally stimulated and entertained.
By contrast, shy cats might prefer something with covered spaces that enable them to hide and feel safe when outside, while more laid-back cats might want nothing more than a simple, cosy enclosure with ample shaded areas where they can nap.
3. Types of Cat Enclosures
Once you’ve identified the area in your living space where you’ll put the enclosure and really thought about what type would best suit your feline, you can start to look for one.
You’ll soon find there are plenty of options on the market, which range from window enclosures that are perfect for apartments or smaller homes to a freestanding Catio that gives your kitty the freedom to roam, climb, and enjoy the outdoors in a safe environment.
If your residence can easily accommodate them, it is a good idea to choose high quality cat enclosures that are well-made, safe and easy to install/put together.
4. Consider its materials
However, no matter how big or small your cat’s enclosure is, you will want to buy something that will keep them safe and last the test of time.
All the materials they are made with should be durable, so look for frames and fabrics that are strong and well put together.
Additionally, if you plan to have the enclosure outside, you’ll need something that is rust-resistant, like steel or heavy-duty plastic, because this will ensure the enclosure withstands the rigours of the weather.
It will also prevent your cat from breaking out or insects, birds, and other potential threats like snakes from entering it.
5. Think About How Accessible It Will Be for You
Your cat isn’t the only one who will need access to the enclosure. You will need to maintain it, too.
Subsequently, you should look for designs that have doors, removable panels and top openings that allow you to easily get into it for things like cleaning, feeding, and simply health checking your cat.
6. Ability to Add More Fun Features
Cat enclosures aren’t just designed to keep your cat safe but also provide them with plenty of fun and entertainment.
Therefore, it is a good idea to find a structure that allows you to add more features to it such as climbing posts, perches, scratching surfaces, toys and even plants.
Doing this will create a much more interesting and enriching environment for them to explore and enjoy.
7. Budget
Cat enclosures can vary widely in price, so you will want to find something that you can afford and provides you with good value for money.
Typically, pop-up and window options are cheaper than Catios or larger tunnel systems. But as they are often made of cheaper materials, they don’t tend to last as long, particularly if your cat can be ‘high-spirited’.
For this reason, if you can afford it, you should consider spending a bit more to find a sturdy, well-built structure that make your cats life better for many years to come.
Read MoreCats for Students: The Best Cat Breeds for Busy Students
Even though having a pet while you're in college can be hard, it can also be very rewarding and give you joy and company. Getting a cat as a pet can be a good idea for busy college students. Cats usually live alone, don't need much care, and don't mind living in small areas like apartments or dorm rooms. But not every cat is the same! There are some breeds that are especially good for the life of a student. Let's talk about the best cat types for students and why they make such great study partners.
How Can a Student Find Time for a Cat?
Balancing a busy student life with taking care of a cat can feel overwhelming at times, especially when academic deadlines are piling up. One way to free up some time is by seeking help with your assignments. If you’re feeling overloaded, you can find a professional writing service online by searching for the term "do my essay." This service PapersOwl can take care of your most time-consuming tasks, allowing you to focus on your cat and personal well-being without compromising your academic performance. By lightening your workload this way, you'll have more opportunities to bond with your furry friend, reduce stress, and create a better study-life balance.
Why cats make great pets for college students
In general, cats are great for students. Let's talk about why before we get into the best breeds. One of the best things about having a cat is that they are independent. Cats don't need to be pet all the time, taken for long walks, or groomed a lot like dogs do. Because of this, they are great for people who have a lot going on, like classes, studying, and social events. Just be sure to use a natural, long-lasting litter like okocat to save money and cut back on odors!
Another great way to relax is to pet a cat. Petting a cat can help you feel less stressed, boost your mood, and even help you concentrate better. So, if you're stressed out about that big project or studying hard for exams, your cat friend might help you calm down.
Top 5 Cat Breeds for Busy College Students
Now that we know why cats are great pets for college students, let's take a look at the types that work best for busy people. People like these types because they don't need much care, are calm, and can live in a variety of settings.
1. Short British Hair
The British Shorthair is a very chill cat breed. You can leave them alone while you're in class without worrying about them because they are calm and friendly. British Shorthairs don't need a lot of care or time, so they won't bother you too much. Plus, their short coat doesn't need much cleaning, so they're easy to take care of.
2. A rag doll
Ragdoll cats are known for being friendly and loving. They usually just like to lounge around and are happy with a quiet, home life. These cats are friendly and like being around people, but they don't need a lot of attention. The way they act makes them very relaxed, so they'll be content to sit on your lap or watch you study. Their long fur needs to be brushed every once in a while, but they are usually calm cats that don't need to be entertained all the time.
3. The color blue
Russian Blues are great for students because they are independent and loving at the same time. Even though this breed is known for being shy and quiet, it still loves to connect with people. Russian Blues don't have a lot of energy and can keep themselves busy when you're not around. You won't have to worry about cat hair getting all over your study tools because cats have short, dense coats that don't shed much. Also, because they are calm, they make great places to study in peace.
4. A Siamese
People say that Siamese cats are loud and friendly, but they also get along well with their owners' schedules. A Siamese might be the best pet for you if you're a student who likes having a pet that talks and plays with you. They get very close to their owners and can be very interesting, but they can also have fun on their own when you're not around. They have a smooth, short coat that is easy to take care of and clean.
5. Fold in Scotland
The Scottish Fold is known for having beautiful, folded ears and a sweet, gentle nature. They like to be petted a lot, but they don't mind being left alone during the day. Scottish Folds like to chill out in cozy places and aren't very active, which is great for students who are always on the go. They are both playful and calm, which makes them a good choice for people who want a pet that doesn't need much care.
Things to Think About When Picking a Cat Breed
It's not enough to just pick the cutest baby when picking the right cat breed. You should think about a number of things that will affect how well you can take care of your new pet and keep them happy.
1. Level of Activity
Some cats like to play and be busy, while others are happy to just hang out all day. If you are busy and don't have much free time, a breed that is less active will be better for you. If you want a pet that can play with you while you study, on the other hand, a more active breed might be better.
2. Needs for Grooming
Some types of cats need more grooming than others, even though most cats are good at keeping themselves clean. Ragdolls and other long-haired types need to be brushed often to keep their fur from matting. British Shorthairs and Russian Blues, on the other hand, have short hair that is much easier to care for. When picking a cat, think about how much time you can spend grooming it.
In conclusion
Student life can be very hard if you don't pick the right cat breed. Some dog breeds, like the British Shorthair, Ragdoll, Russian Blue, Siamese, and Scottish Fold, are great for people who are busy because they are independent, low-maintenance, and friendly. Not only do these cats make people feel better and reduce stress, but they also fit in well with a student's schedule and don't need much care.
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