Does your dog misbehave when left alone?  Although some people believe that the dog is angry or resentful of being left alone, veterinarians know that such behaviors are often signs of a common disorder called "separation anxiety".

Some signs of separation anxiety include destructive behavior (chewing or digging), soiling (urinating and defecating), and vocalization (barking and whining).  When a family dog that is usually calm and well-behaved begins acting like this, he may follow you from room to room, become upset when you get ready to leave, and greet you over-enthusiastically when you return.

Unfortunately, the signs of separation anxiety may also be due to some medical problems, so if you suspect that your dog is experiencing this, you should contact one of our veterinarians.  Together, we can determine the possible cause of your dog's unwelcome behavior.  Left untreated, separation anxiety can become progressively more severe, increasing your dog's suffering and alienating him from his family.  This rapidly becomes a "downward spiral" as you react to his bad behavior and distance yourself from him, or punish him, increasing his anxiety.

If we determine that separation anxiety is the problem, there is a simple series of steps and medication that can help reduce your pet's anxiety.  Research reports indicate that changes in behavior can occur rapidly, sometimes within a month of beginning treatment.  The medication CLOMICALM (Clomipramine) is neither a sedative nor a tranquilizer, and has been extensively tested and proven to be well-tolerated by dogs. There is also a new medication called RECONCILE, fluoxetine hydrochloride.
It is important to use the medication in conjuction with behavior modification.

If your dog shows increased destructive behavior, soiling and vocalization, contact us for an appointment and together we can seek answers to his behavior.