Separation anxiety is an issue with some pets. Whose fault is it, theirs or ours? By Patricia Mawyer

Date published: 8/27/2005

H AVE YOU COME HOME to a disaster--your window blinds torn down or your outside grill pulled to pieces, for example--by your animals? Are we as owners to blame?

Dogs and cats have become family members over the years and are no longer treated as animals. We baby-talk them, take them on vacation, and even have Chanel perfume for them. Well, I love my dogs, Squirel Bugs and Nut, and if they cannot go on vacation with me, then I guess I am staying home.

Separation anxiety is a disorder often highlighted by destructiveness, boredom and misbehavior. But you must learn to separate destructiveness from boredom or lack of exercise to separation anxiety. Cats tend to soil outside of their litter pans, exhibit vocalization and excessive grooming, and become little devils. You must first ask your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.

Removing puppies and kittens from their mother can become a nightmare for the receiving owner. These animals become dependent on you as their mother, and can become frenzied. I have experienced this firsthand. Squirel and Nut were raised from 1 day old on a baby bottle and know no other than me, as mom. Returning home from work was no joy for me. They managed to destroy my sofa and a brand-new carpet in which they tore a perfect round hole; they retrieved my clothes from the laundry basket to suck on them, leaving many holes.

We enjoy pets, but have we gone too far, giving them undivided attention and letting them cling to us for every direction, then leaving them alone for hours? You need to find that neutral zone between attention and teaching them independence.

What to do

Do not make a big deal out of your goings and comings. Spend a few minutes with your pets before you leave, then forget them. Walk out the door without that hug and kiss. When you arrive home, ignore them for at least five minutes. Resist petting them.

Step up the exercise time. Make them ready to relax and calm down.

Give your pet a job while you are gone. Nylabones, or bones you stuff with kibble, consume their time.

Practice on your exits, leave for a few minutes and come back, ignoring your pet.

Recognize that medications are now available through your veterinarian, possibly just temporarily to help them through this period. Available medications include antidepressants such as Clomical, Prozac or even Elavil. Consult your veterinarian.

If all else fails, just love them, hug them and kiss their face all over. I would never trade my crazy Squirel Bugs for anything in the world.

PATRICIA MAWYER has been a veterinarian assistant at the Animal Clinic of Caroline for 10 years. Her column is written under the medical advisory of Dr. J.A. Hammett. The column is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. If your pet is ill, contact your veterinarian.

Date published: 8/27/2005