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Separation Anxiety Oct 26, 2006
With or Without YouOctober 26, 2006

Does your dog get destructive when you're gone all day? It might be separation anxiety that's fueling her behaviors. Try these steps.

Spend 20 minutes every day ignoring your dog so alone time won't feel so strange. Also, while you are still at home try isolating her for a few minutes each day in her safe zone, be it a crate or a room she hangs out in when you're gone. Start with just a few minutes, but you can work up to an hour or two until she's comfortable being there by herself. When you do leave, give her plenty to do -- chew toys, treat puzzles, and other diversions. Upon your return, don't make a big deal of it. Just go about your business for a few minutes and say hello when your dog is calmer.
SPCA of Martinsville and Henry County © 2010
132 Joseph Martin Highway
Martinsville, VA 24112
Phone: 276-638-PAWS (7297)
Fax: 276-638-0490
office@spcamhc.org