Keeping Your Pet Calm at Home
Have you ever known or even have an overly anxious dog? It is not unusual that our pets can have emotional issues just like humans do. For those nervous dogs, it can be difficult to keep them calm even when they are within the comfort of their own homes. A pet sitting service can not only send someone to spend time with your dog and keep them relaxed, but they can also help train your pet to be at ease even when they are alone. Here are a few benefits of having a pet sitter for your uneasy pooch:
Pet Sitting Companionship
Whether you are at work, at the grocery store, out with friends and family, or on vacation, your dog is going to experience some alone time. For nervous dogs, especially if he or she is a new addition to your family, this can be extremely stressful. A pet sitter can be there to hang out with your friend when you can’t. Not only can they make sure meals are on time and regular walks are taken, but they can play with your pet and just be around for a comforting petting or grooming session.
For new pets, this is a great way to ease them into getting to know their new home and their surroundings. Pet sitters can also be helpful in getting your pet used to new people. Working together, you can introduce your pet sitter while you are present. The sitter will know how to approach your dog and will help you get him or her used to the new presence. Once your dog is comfortable with your pet sitter, they can begin to introduce your dog to other people on their own.
Training
For the times when you have no choice but to leave your dog alone, your pet sitting service can provide someone equipped with training techniques to help your pet deal with those situations. A regular routine can keep your pet focused and comfortable. Your pet sitter can perform the same tasks (such as going up and down the stairs) over and over, with positive reinforcement at the end once your dog completes the task on his own. Helping your pet get more comfortable doing unfamiliar things while someone is acting guide can help them to do it alone later. Your pet sitter can even try this without leaving your house. They can go to another part of a house away from your dog for a short period of time (a few minutes at first) and then return with a reward. Gradually the time away can be increased with the same reward system after. This training technique can teach your pet that alone time is a good thing and that behaving during it can be rewarding.
Tools
Anxiety-reducing tools are a great way to keep your pet calm. Anxiety wraps are very popular and can help your dog deal with the stress from loud noises such as construction or the lawn mower or even walks to the park. Try the Thundershirt, a very popular calming vest. Music can help as well. Classical music has a soothing effect, but you can try out any music that your dog seems to enjoy. Play it while you are home and when your dog is with the pet sitter. Then, while you are away, play that same music to comfort your pet with the reminder of the positive stimulation associated with his human counterparts. Remember to use what best suits your particular dog because you do not want to scare them further with the wrong tool.
Having a nervous dog shouldn’t have to limit your or your dog’s lifestyle. With the proper in-home pet sitter, you can help your dog deal with and even reduce his anxiety. Are you looking for more tips on how to work with your pet sitter to calm your nervous dog? You can find more easy methods for a healthy, happy, and calmer pooch here. Help your dog start enjoying a stress-free life today!