Happy New Year, Dallas Voice readers! Can you believe it is 2025 already? I remember that when I was younger, 2025 seemed so far in the future, but it is here now.
A new year symbolically brings new opportunities and new challenges for all of us, but some of our issues from the past can still come with us into the new year, like anxiety. Let’s see how anxiety affects our dogs and cats.
We all hear — maybe even experience — the sad stories and situations of dogs trembling during thunderstorms, cats hiding when visitors come over and even pets who refuse to eat or play after their parents leave for work. Believe it or not, pet anxiety is real, and it is more common than many people realize.
The good news? With a little understanding and effort in identifying the root cause of the anxiety, we can help our kiddos feel safe, calm and happy.
Just like humans, our pets experience anxiety for various reasons. It is important to note that certain diseases, pain or discomfort can lead to anxiety, so it is important to have your veterinarian examine your kiddo and potentially perform wellness diagnostic tests to make sure that the potential anxiety observed is a behavioral issue and not secondary to disease or to pain/discomfort.
Changes in routine, loud noises, unfamiliar environments or even boredom can trigger stress and anxiety.
For dogs, separation anxiety is a big one, as many dogs hate being left alone and may chew furniture or bark excessively to cope.
Cats, on the other hand, are really good at hiding their feelings. They might stop eating, overgroom or hide when stressed.
Believe it or not, even our mood can affect our pets. Dogs and cats are very intuitive and often pick up on our stress or anxiety. If you’re having a rough day, take a few moments to try to relax before loving on your kiddo.
Some of the most common signs of anxiety in dogs include excessive barking or whining, destructive chewing or digging, and pacing or trembling. Cats show anxiety differently, often by hiding more than usual, urinating/defecating outside the litter box, and even showing aggression or sudden mood changes. If any of these are noticed, it is important to take a step back and assess what might be triggering their behavior.
Needless to say, different triggers and types of anxiety may be approached differently depending on the cause. One thing to always keep in mind is to make sure your kiddo has a “safe place” where they can retreat and feel secure. This might be a crate or a quiet room or a high perch (for cats).
Pets usually like routines as well, so try to keep meal times, walks and play sessions consistent to give them a sense of stability. Environmental enrichment and keeping them mentally and physically active can also help control stress and anxiety.
Dogs can benefit from long walks or play time, while cats can benefit from playing with interactive toys among other activities.
Desensitizing can also be an important tool. If your pet is afraid of something specific, like the vacuum cleaner, gradual exposure can help. For example, you can play recordings of the vacuum cleaner sound at a low volume while giving healthy treats to your kiddo to slowly — and over time hopefully — create a positive association.
Additionally, there are some over-the-counter supplements and products that could help with calming your kiddos, from pheromone diffusers to supplements added to the food. Please consult with your veterinarian regarding the different options available in the market.
I truly believe in counseling and therapy for us humans. Did you know that we have veterinary behaviorists who can create a tailored plan for your pet?
Unfortunately, some kiddos can be so stressed out or anxious that it may even be detrimental to their physical health. In these more extreme cases, we usually need to consider the use of a medication while we work with the veterinary behaviorist.
Again, please discuss these options with your veterinarian to ensure the best plan of action for your pet.
During these challenges, it is important that we are very patient, consistent and understanding. Many of us in the LGBTQ community can empathize with our anxious kiddos based on our own personal struggles, so please hang in there. There is nothing like seeing a once-terrified dog or cat start acting with confidence and feeling happy.
I want to wish everyone the absolute best in this new year, and I hope we can face challenges in a smart and thoughtful way.
Let us try to stay optimistic as much as possible, even when the world tries to scare us. Remember to always help each other out and that we are one community. Let us show the world our best qualities, and let us continue standing up for our rights.
Happy 2025, everyone! ¡Y abrazos muy fuertes!
Dr. Josh owns Isla Veterinary Boutique Hospital at 14380 Marsh Lane, Ste. 110 in Addison. Call him at 972-738-1111 or visit IslaVet.com.