When your pet struggles to adjust to a new situation or simply can’t relax at home, you might be witnessing common dog anxiety symptoms. Only a trusted veterinarian in Tampa, FL, can properly evaluate the situation and recommend options to alleviate the animal’s stress.
Signs of Serious Anxiety and Stress
Some animals may show only one sign of severe stress before developing further symptoms. Do not ignore the following signs when they appear, especially if you’ve never noticed them before:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Setback in training progress
- Destructive behavior
- Urination in the house
- Pacing or restlessness
- Trembling or shaking
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite
By visiting a veterinarian sooner rather than later, you’ll have a better chance at a successful outcome.
Treatments for Severe Stress in Pets
Some of the treatments veterinarians may suggest to deal with dog anxiety symptoms include medications. Natural products like vitamins or probiotics represent another option, although you should discuss them with your veterinarian before going down that route.
For some animals, an environmental change might be more helpful. Create a space where the animal can go and be comfortable and safe, where other pets and people won’t interfere. By the same token, if the animal is showing signs of hiding or avoidance behavior, the safe area should be in a part of the home with normal traffic patterns to encourage relaxed socialization.
Increased physical activity might be beneficial for some animals, providing an outlet for stress.
Early Signs a Dog Might Be Developing Anxiety
Some dogs exhibit aggressive behavior when they’re just starting to deal with anxiety. Putting the ears down, growling at other pets, or tucking the tail are early signs to watch for. Some dogs may refuse to take a treat or may excessively lick paws and other parts of the body.
How a Veterinarian in Tampa, FL, Helps With Managing Pet Wellness
Signs of anxiety in a puppy or adult canine can lead to other health problems. An animal that constantly feels stressed might not sleep enough hours or may have a poor appetite, leading to weakness and lethargy. If going for walks along a city street or visiting a dog park causes anxious moments, the animal might not receive enough exercise.
A trusted veterinarian in Tampa, FL, will listen to your description of the pet’s behaviors. The doctor can then perform a physical examination to determine whether the stress is affecting the animal’s physical health.
As an expert in overall animal health, a veterinarian can suggest treatments that help the animal’s mental and physical well-being.
Don’t Let Your Dog’s Stress Go Unchecked: Contact Harbourside Animal Hospital for Help
If you believe you’re seeing dog anxiety symptoms, it can be stressful for the animal, other pets in the house, and your family. To help manage these symptoms, your pet needs a vet.
At Harbourside Animal Hospital, we know that stress and anxiety can negatively affect your canine’s health. We work hard to find the source of the problem and then suggest helpful treatments and behavior modifications. For an appointment, contact us today at (813) 560-0567.
