Dog Separation Anxiety Awareness Day
Navigating canine unease when alone, understanding their emotions, and creating a supportive environment for tranquility.
Position your pet training, veterinary, or pet product brand as a trusted partner in solving dog separation anxiety through education, products, and community events.
- 5 signs your dog has separation anxiety and what to do about it
- Pet-friendly shopping guide: stores where your dog can tag along
- Expert trainer tips: gradual desensitization techniques for anxious dogs
- September event spotlight: local dog training workshops and vet consultations
In honor of all of those dogs (some say up to half!) who get stressed out and anxious from being left alone, Dog Separation Anxiety Awareness Day was founded to draw attention to this common problem. This event was established by Jo Sellers, an accredited dog trainer in the UK who believes that good behavior from dogs comes from a combination of training and understanding.
According to Sellers and other pet trainers, an important factor in dog training is the awareness of dog separation anxiety. While many pet owners may believe that their dogs are simply being naughty when their humans are away, the truth is that a large number of dogs are simply anxious and distressed from being left alone.
Signs of dogs that are experiencing separation anxiety may include excessive barking or howling, trembling or shaking, pacing, whining, drooling, digging, and urinating or defecating inside the house. Other compulsive behaviors may even cause harm to themselves, such as nipping or chewing on a leg or tail, or aggressive behavior toward others.
Host a Dog Separation Anxiety Awareness Day Event
Dog trainers, veterinarians, and groups of concerned dog owners can get together to host events to make a difference in honor of Dog Separation Anxiety Awareness Day. Consider holding a pet-friendly educational event in the park or at a local event space, where dog trainers and vendors can offer opportunities for community members to come together, learn more and get access to resources.
Work to Prevent Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Pet owners can do a number of things that may help reduce the stress dogs feel on a regular basis. This might include leaving the house and returning quietly instead of making a big deal out of it. Owners who are able can try bringing their dogs with them when running errands, as long as they aren’t left in the car for too long or in severe temperatures. Also, try shopping at stores or attending events that are pet-friendly so Rover can come along!