Blog: Pet stress

Tips to help manage your pet in stressful situations When your pet is stressed, it may look like destructive behavior, excessive barking, hyperactivity, or inappropriate elimination. Cats and dogs have triggers that bring on these feelings of stress such as routine changes, unusual sights/people, loud noises, and being left alone. Below are a few tips to help manage your pet's stress in these situations. Make Time For PlayToys can keep your pet busy and help reduce stress. Let your best buddy channel their excess energy and stress into a favorite toy. Toys not only provide stimulation but distract your pet from changes to environment and routine. Keep Them BusyTake your pup out for a strenuous walk or game of fetch. Exercise gives your dog a chance to stretch its legs and burn up excess energy. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behavior, excessive barking, digging or pacing. Use Positive ReinforcementReward good behavior with your pet’s favorite treat. Use positive reinforcement to shape your pet’s behavior and prevent unwanted behavior. Establish a RoutineDoes your pet experience separation anxiety? Keep exits and arrivals low-key to prevent stress when you’re away. Staying calm will help desensitize your cat or dog to your every move Know Your PetManaging stress starts with knowing your cat or dog. Whenever possible, keep them away from anything that may cause stress like loud noises, large crowds or commotion. Create a Safe SpaceProvide your pet with a comfortable and quiet space away from events that may trigger stress like parties, guests, loud music and home repairs. Add a SupplementCalm & Confident supplements from VetriScience are clinically shown to promote calm behavior within 30 minutes, so your pet can feel more relaxed in times of stress. Supplements are not sedatives, so they will not alter the personality of your pet! Consult Your VetThere's no shame in discussing your pet's behavior with a veterinarian. Leave it to a trained professional to properly assess the situation and determine a corrective course of action. How To Get the Most Out of Calm & Confident Choose the right formula for your pet Safe to double or triple the dosage to achieve desired calming effect Plan ahead since many pets won't eat when already stressed If necessary, break up chews or add liquid to pet's bowl Shop Calm & Confident for Dogs and Cats