Novel setting

Animal Anxiety By Dr. Matt Encinosa, DVM

Anxiety is a common complaint amongst pet owners. The most common forms include separation anxiety, firework or thunderstorm anxiety, and travel related anxiety. Owners tend to notice their pet has separation anxiety when they see signs in their house such as damage to furnishings or the interior of the house, accidents, or get noise complaints from neighbors. Firework and thunderstorm anxiety is very common as well. These are usually very seasonal anxieties around rainy seasons and times of celebration. Typically, owners will notice damage to their household after being away, or visibly see their pet shaking, reacting to the loud noises, or trying to hide. If you have brought your pet on vacation, odds are you have experienced travel anxiety. Many will show signs of nausea (vomiting or drooling), have diarrhea, or shake and pant. There are a few ways to approach these issues with your pets such as those listed below. • Conditioning – Sometimes, exposing your pet to similar scenarios can be helpful to allow them to become more familiar with that experience. This is most true with travel. Dogs that go on more frequent car trips tend to do better with travel. • Avoidance – We all would love for our pets to go with us everywhere, but its not always the best choice for their well-being. If you are going to an event where there are loud noises and you have this problem, it may be best to leave them behind. If you live in an area where fireworks are common, you may consider letting your pet stay somewhere they are not. Some pets were not meant to travel. Assess the risks and benefits of bringing your friend along. Is it worth it? • Medications – There are medications that can help with all these circumstances, but each pet should be assessed specifically. There are sedatives that can be given to help alleviate your pets stress and anti-nausea medications that can make them feel more comfortable along the way. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if you are experiencing any of these issues. Dr. Matt Encinosa – DVM – Boyette Animal Hospital

Boyette Animal Hospital is proud to provide your pets with the highest quality of treatment and care from twelve veterinarians and a devoted staff. To make an appointment, please call (813) 671-3400.

CUTEST PET CONTEST

“ Mac ,” submitted by Carol Chichester of Venice

This is Mac, my fur grand dog. He was born the runt of the litter 11 years ago in Orange County, New York. Mac moved to Florida 3 years ago and lives with his family in Sarasota. When Mac visits this Grammy in Venice, it’s pure joy. He eagerly wags his tail the moment he enters the open door. I eagerly shout “here comes my beautiful boy!” I just love this dog! Mac is with us on every family vacation. This photo is of Mac enjoying a pontoon boat.

CREATIVE CORNER

“Spiritual Agreement”

by Alan Fisher

A certain hormone makes men aggressive Fine as cavemen, but now it’s regressive Murders, rape, road rage and war All that fighting and anger, what’s it all for

Women are nurturers, that’s their natural state They’re gentle and loving, not filled with hate Women can usually make a house a home Give birth and raise children, but not just alone

There needs to be balance, if we’re to survive It’s time to awaken to why we’re alive Divine life is within each human being But self-active thinking prevents us agreeing

For submissions: Send your poem (150 words or less) to editor@ lifestylesafter50.com with the words “Creative Corner” in the subject line.