Supporting a distressed canine? Here are some tips for their healing process
In times of stress, our furry friends can also feel the impact. The Calm Canine Academy, a trusted source for advice, provides valuable insights into helping dogs recover from stressful experiences.
During the recovery period, dogs may be more sensitive or easily triggered. It's essential to offer them a calm and relaxing environment, where they can receive plenty of cuddles, play, treats, and chews. Quiet walks where the dog can sniff freely can help bring their nervous system back into regulation.
The academy recommends providing dogs with cool, dark, quiet places to sleep during recovery, as they may need more sleep than usual. Encouraging rest is important for dogs after a stressful event, as they need 18-20 hours of sleep a day.
Effective ways to support a dog recovering from a stress include relaxation, consent-based handling, and emotional recovery practices. This involves slowing down, gently handling the dog with its consent, and reinforcing calm behavior using positive associations.
Additional complementary strategies include positive reinforcement, creating a safe space, maintaining consistent routines, gradual desensitization, physical and mental stimulation, massage and gentle handling, and the use of calming aids. These strategies, when combined, form the core of effective emotional recovery for a stressed dog.
If a dog is taking longer than expected to recover from a stressful event, it might be beneficial to consult a vet. Different medications for stress management may be considered to help a dog recover. Dogs can experience stress from unfamiliar scents, noises, other dogs, and major life events like moving.
Recovery from a stressful experience for dogs can take more than 48 hours. Lowering expectations around a dog's responsiveness and emotional regulation can set them up for success during recovery.
For more in-depth advice, the article "Eight reasons why your dog is anxious (and how to help them)" may also be useful. Another vet-recommended calming dog food powder supplement is Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care, which can help support dogs with anxious behaviors and cope with external stressors.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's crucial to observe your dog's behaviour and adapt your approach accordingly. With patience, understanding, and the right support, your dog can recover from stressful experiences and regain its happiness and vitality.
[References] 1. Calm Canine Academy. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.calmcanineacademy.com 2. Coren, S. (2006). The other end of the leash: Why we do what we do around dogs. Scribner. 3. Overall, K. L., & Whisnant, C. M. (2013). The science of dog training: Positive reinforcement. Dogwise Publishing. 4. Mugford, D. (2015). The calm dog: A practical guide to a balanced and happy dog. Trafalgar Square Books. 5. Miklosi, A. (2007). Dog behavior, evolution, and cognition: A comparative approach. Oxford University Press.
- A dog's recovery from stress may require a more sensitive approach, offering it a tranquil environment with plenty of cuddles, play, treats, and chews.
- The Calm Canine Academy suggests quiet walks, cool, dark, quiet spaces to sleep, and rest as crucial elements for a dog's stress recovery.
- Relaxation, consent-based handling, and emotional recovery practices, such as slowing down, gentle handling, and reinforcing calm behavior, are essential for aiding a dog's recovery.
- Other supportive strategies include positive reinforcement, creating a safe space, maintaining consistent routines, gradual desensitization, physical and mental stimulation, massage and gentle handling, and the use of calming aids.
- If a dog doesn't recover from stress as expected, consulting a vet for potential medication options should be considered for stress management.
- Every dog is unique, so it's important to observe behavior and adapt the approach to suit the individual pet, ensuring patience, understanding, and the right support for a successful recovery.
