My dog Luna is a golden retriever, around 11 years old. My boyfriend adopted her from the street 3.5 years ago, and I’ve been living with her for the past 1.5 years. But for the last 6 months, she’s developed separation anxiety. I work 12 hours a day, and when I’m home, I tutor online, so I can’t play with her much. She doesn’t even like toys, and when I leave, she barks, smashes doors, and even pees on my bed. Has anyone been through this? What helped your dog?
I had a similar situation with my dog! It took a while, but medication and a video of me helped a lot. I used to leave a TV on too, just to keep them feeling like I was still around.
Masitsa said:
I had a similar situation with my dog! It took a while, but medication and a video of me helped a lot. I used to leave a TV on too, just to keep them feeling like I was still around.
Wait, you left a video of you? That’s a really cool idea. Does it really help?
@Luchivya
Yeah, it does! It might sound weird, but it comforts them when they can see and hear you, even if you’re not actually there.
My dog had separation anxiety too, and it got worse over time. I ended up using Paroxetine (Paxil) for her, and it really helped calm her down. Maybe talk to your vet about that?
Happy said:
My dog had separation anxiety too, and it got worse over time. I ended up using Paroxetine (Paxil) for her, and it really helped calm her down. Maybe talk to your vet about that?
Thanks for the suggestion! I’m definitely going to talk to the vet about it. It’s been tough, so I hope something helps soon.
Wow, it sounds like Luna has been through a lot. I also read that having a second dog around can help. If Luna and your other dog have been okay before, maybe letting them be together more could help with the anxiety?
@Meryl
Yeah, they used to live together, but they’re separated now. I’m thinking of letting them be together more, but I’m worried it might mess with my other dog’s routine.
@Meryl
It’s a bit of a change, but if they got along well before, it might ease her anxiety. You could try it slowly and see how they both respond!
I’d recommend sticking to the routine as much as possible. Even small changes can cause stress. If you have to be gone longer, try leaving some background noise or a comforting item with Luna. It helps more than you think!
@Brandy
I’ve heard of that, leaving the TV on or something. I might try it and see how she reacts. Thanks for the advice!
You’re not alone in this. I had a dog with similar issues, and it really helped when we started a mix of medication and behavior changes. The key is patience, even though I know it’s tough!
Dexter said:
You’re not alone in this. I had a dog with similar issues, and it really helped when we started a mix of medication and behavior changes. The key is patience, even though I know it’s tough!
Thanks for the encouragement! I’m definitely trying to stay patient with Luna. It’s hard, but I just want her to feel better.