When you bid your pup adieu and walk out the door, do you feel a twinge of guilt as you lock up? Even if you’re providing the best pet care, your dog may still be anxious while you’re gone. To make it easier to leave your buddy behind, here are four ideas Almost Home Pet Resort in Ft. Mitchell, KY, recommends to reduce your dog’s separation anxiety.

Pet Care: 4 Ways to Reduce Your Canine’s Separation Anxiety

1. Try Training

Crate training can ease anxiety, as these small, cozy spaces provide an area for your dog to relax and rest while you’re out. You can also help them get used to your absence by leaving for small amounts of time. Start by going out for 10 minutes and then coming back. Over the course of a few weeks, increase the time you’re gone to several hours and even all day. That way, your dog can become accustomed to your absence but understand you will return every time.

2. Give Them Exercise

Some pet owners find exercising their dogs before they leave helps mitigate that nervous energy. Spend half an hour at the dog park, go for a run together, or play some fetch to start the day. A happy, tired pup will be more likely to snooze the day away than spend it being upset.

3. Provide Entertainment

Create entertainment for your pup by stashing treats or peanut butter in a toy, hiding treats around the house, or leaving the radio on. If those tricks don’t work, hire a walker or bring your dog to day care to occupy them while you’re gone.

4. Reduce Anxiety Triggers

You know that weekday routine you follow while getting ready for work? Completely rewrite it. Set your alarm for the weekend, and then ignore it. Pack a lunch, but eat it outside at the park. The triggers that normally signal your exit will soon lose their meaning if you do them randomly, thus reducing your dog’s anxiety.

If you need quality pet care services in and around Ft. Mitchell, turn to Almost Home Pet Resort. They offer boarding, grooming, and training for your best friend. Visit their website or call (859) 356-8181 to set up an appointment.