PHOENIXVILLE, Pa. - Pandemic pets are facing new challenges as their owners head back to work.
Christine Pazdalski is a certified pet counselor with Puppy Love in Phoenixville. She says one way to reduce separation anxiety in pets is to practice an exercise she calls “You’re O.K. Alone.”
“This literally can mean turning around from the dog and coming right back and treating,” Pazdalski says, “It’s a very, very simple exercise.”
She’s also a fan of aromatherapy, which she says works for both cats and dogs.
“They have lavender, chamomile, the same things that are relaxing to us are relaxing for our pets,” Pazdalski says, “They come in diffusers, or you can get collars and sprays.”
Pazdalski says pheromones can also be put in diffusers. She says they mimic what happens in nature and signal safety.
She also recommends keeping the TV or radio on when nobody’s home.
“Try using simple sound, which is music without a lot of instrumentation. Think of a Celtic harp,” says Pazdalski.
Pet owners, she says, should start preparing their pets for new routines as soon as possible.
“I would start some of these things while you’re still there,” Pazdalski says, “They have to make the association with the relaxation, which usually means being with you in a relaxed state.”
If a pet is showing signs of anxiety, Pazdalski says it’s important to speak with a veterinarian.
