Written by Ruff Diamonds (Leave It partner)
Imagine being at home and your partner is leaving for work.
Imagine that every time the front door shuts behind them, you have a complete meltdown. You start shaking uncontrollably, running around the house in a mad panic and yelling and screaming for them to come back … to no avail.
This is what it feels like for dogs with Separation Anxiety. Every time their guardians walk out the door they fly into a state of panic and will try anything to bring them back.
Their symptoms can include, but are not limited to, barking, howling, whining, crying, shaking, panting, pacing, drooling and destruction of household items (especially near exit points or windows). It’s different for every dog but be assured that your dog is in such a heightened state of anxiety they can no longer think straight.
And sadly, the repercussions are many. Former good relationships with neighbours deteriorate as they put up with your dog barking for hours, there may be letters of complaint from council, your personal belongings are shredded or there are holes in the walls when you get home. The tension between you and your partner also escalates as you argue about the best solution and can’t seem to agree on what to do. Your friends and family scoff at you when you tell them you can’t leave the house because you can’t leave your dog alone, and any outings have to be carefully planned well in advance so there’s always someone with Fido. Spontaneity and get-togethers with friends are a thing of the past.
Not just that, it’s so hard not to feel incredibly guilty when you do leave knowing your dog is in such a debilitating state of panic.
The situation is even more dire now since the onset of COVID-19. Ruff Diamonds Dog Services has been inundated with cries for help as dogs, struggling with their owners starting to return to normal daily life, find themselves home alone for extended periods of time … they simply can’t cope because they have been used to having someone with them 24/7. However, with the right training, your dog can learn to be home alone without freaking out. The right training gives the dog the confidence to be more independent when the owner is on the other side of the door. And not just that, it gives you your life back.
Need help? Have a look at Ruff Diamonds for your separation anxiety training needs.