Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Dog Separation Anxiety Treatment

Separation anxiety affects up to 20% of dogs, causing significant distress, with evidence-based treatment now highly effective when consistently applied.

Key Facts

Separation anxiety causes panic, destructive behaviour, and vocalisation when alone
Pandemic pets were particularly vulnerable due to constant owner presence followed by return to work
Graduated absence training using very short absences rebuilds tolerance systematically
Fluoxetine or clomipramine combined with behaviour therapy achieves 80% improvement
Doggy daycare and dog sitters provide temporary management while training proceeds

Welfare Considerations

Separation anxiety is genuine panic, not misbehaviour. Early, consistent treatment with professional guidance prevents prolonged suffering.

What You Can Do

Seek professional behaviourist support for separation anxiety - do not punish the behaviour
Implement graduated absence training from puppyhood as prevention
Consider daycare or dog-sitting as a management bridge during treatment