Ways You Can Reduce Your Pet's Stress

PetSmart - Banfield, The Pet Hospital®

Just like we humans, our pets experience stress too. They just express it in different ways like chewing on our shoes or ripping up the sofa cushions.

But what causes stress in our pets and how can we help reduce it?

According to her blog post on banfield.net, Karen Johnson, DVM, at Banfield, The Pet Hospital, confinement is large source of stress especially for young pets and those left alone for long periods of time. She suggests the following tips to help relieve stress in your pets:

• Supply them with toys they can play with on their own. Squeaky toys, catnip and food-releasing toys are ideal time-spenders. If your pet is a heavy chewer, Johnson advises Pet Parents to be careful of toys made of hard plastics and rubber – they can cause bleeding of the gums and can be harmful if ingested.
• Let them have some TV time. If you’re heading to work or out for the evening, turn on the TV or pop in a DVD for your pet, especially one that features animals like “Jurassic Park” or “101 Dalmations.” There are even videos and DVDs available made especially for dogs and cats. The sounds and imagery can be fascinating for them to watch and help alleviate boredom.
• Provide your pet with some companionship. If one is the loneliest number in your pet household, consider adopting another a pet. Cats and dogs are pack animals and thrive on companionship, as long as both pets are compatible. If adoption isn’t an option for you, consider having a friend’s pet over at your house while you’re both at work or away.
• Spend time with your pet while you are home. Human interaction is the best way to enrich your pets’ life, Johnson states in her blog. Take them to the dog park, play fetch with them and give them lots of pats and scritches.
• Exercise your pet. According to Johnson’s blog, Pet Parents should be less regimented about their daily walks with their pets and allow them to sniff and snort about. Just remember to keep your pet on a leash for their safety and the safety of other pets. And yes, walking your pet does include cats! You can train a cat to walk on a leash – read this article to find out how.

• Read more of Johnson's blog and others at banfield.net.

   

   

   

   

   

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