ALL ABouT the Separation Anxiety Treatment Plan

all about

the Separation Anxiety Treatment Plan

In last month’s article we discussed how separation anxiety is presented in canines and felines. As promised in the forementioned article, in this month’s segment we will be discussing a general treatment plan that can be implemented if you feel that your furry companion may be experiencing separation anxiety.

We highly recommend that you consult with your local veterinarian for a more specialized plan towards your specific situation; however, here are some general guidelines to help make this experience more comfortable for you and your pet.

The most common method of treatment is known as Counter-conditioning. This process enables a dog experiencing fear, anxiety or aggression to become more relaxed, calm and happy. This is done by allowing your pet to associate good things that he or she loves with the triggering event that causes them discomfort. Eventually as this method is implemented, your pet begins to feel more at ease with being left alone due to the association of a good thing happening when this event that was previously seen as stressful, occurs. This is done by finding a good association, such as a certain favoured toy or food. Every time you leave your house, make sure that your pet is offered that favourite toy or given food at that time. This will allow your dog or cat to feel comfortable with the idea of your leaving, believing that in doing so they will receive a high valued treat in return. Some owners may prefer to give a treat-based toy, distracting their pet for a long period of time. An example of such would be a treat stuffed KONG toy. Other common, highly favoured treats are cheese, peanut butter, cream cheese, canned dog/cat food or kibble. However, it is important that once you come back home, this favourite treat should be removed right away. This way you are sending the clear message to your pet that this treat is only available when you are not in the house. It is important to note here that if you witness that your dog is refusing to eat while you are not at home, then this may be a sign of a more developed stage of separation anxiety. In this case, a more specific plan for your pet may be warranted by your local veterinarian.

We highly recommend that our clients stay well informed on the different types of anxieties that our pets can face. Being educated on such matters is a very detrimental step towards being able to even start a treatment plan towards helping them feel more at ease. Without having the accurate knowledge of what is required when starting a treatment plan, it is then very hard for the owner to follow through successfully and accurately follow the required steps. Certain anti-anxiety medications are also available in veterinary medicine; however, our primary priority is to assist in helping to solve the root problem at hand, before resorting to medications. Working together with your veterinarian and your pet is the key to finding success in this treatment journey!

disasTer preparedness 101 for peT owners

Since 2020 when the pandemic struck the world, we’ve been living in a lot of uncertainty. With people trying to reach their native places and losing jobs, globally people have been struggling to make ends meet and keep their near and dear ones safe, pet parents alike.

Instead of abandoning their furry friends in the challenging times, they went above and beyond to take care of them. While people were getting back to their normal lives with easing restrictions, another unprecedented tragedy takes over the world, the RussiaUkraine war. The unfolding humanitarian crisis has not only wreaked havoc on lives and livelihoods but also on numerous pet owners.

faizaL isLam, co-founDer, carry my Pet, shares how a Pet owners can PrePare to reLocate with their furry frienDs During emergencies: the Pet DiLemma!

Whether it is from war zones, natural disasters, or otherwise, the basic procedure to relocate pets is similar. However, every country has different sets of rules and policies around it, with some of them being really strict. Life is unpredictable; therefore, one must be prepared for the worst instead of getting nervous and panicking in troubling situations. Several pet relocation companies aid pet parents in safe and easy transportation. However, some basic preparation beforehand will make the process simpler, faster, and more convenient.

keeP aLL reLevant Documents anD emergency contacts reaDy

To begin with, you can keep all necessary documents, ranging from the owners’ passports to the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from an authorized person, in place. The NOC can either be applied by the pet’s owner or the agency they hire. Keeping some emergency contact information handy is beneficial too and can lead to less chaos and confusion when relocating. The pet owners must have contact numbers of supply stores and veterinarians in the country they are residing in. Additionally, having the operational emergency contact of the Embassy of the country they are going to, is crucial. They must also have the address in case communication systems are affected, and there is a need to go and contact the authorities physically.

uPDateD Pets vaccination books are cruciaL

No matter the country, having an updated pet vaccination book is necessary. Therefore, to avoid the last-minute hassles, especially during tough times, it is better to update it regularly. Getting your pets vaccinated on time and keeping the record straight helps pet parents.

check microchiP status

Each pet is identified by a microchip containing 15 digits that should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 11785. There is no other way of identifying a pet. Therefore, make sure that the microchip is in place, and if it is, check if the microchip scanner can read the unique number.

ensure enough fooD suPPLies & meDicines

There is no way of knowing how long unforeseeable events like war or other disasters will last. In such a scenario, it’s imperative to arrange enough food supplies for the pets. In addition to it, the pet parents must have basic medication for them. Why? Because like humans, pets too get anxious in such distraught situations and might behave differently. Therefore, medicines that help them calm down are essential for your emergency kit.

arrange a Pet crate

If the pet parents are contacting a relocation agency, there is a high possibility that they will have their own pet crates. However, it will be better for the owners to have an IATA-certified pet crate of their own to avoid last-minute issues and safe relocation.

notify the embassy

As mentioned, it is crucial for The Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS) helps the pet owners to get an advanced NOC from government authorities, without which the airline wouldn’t lift the pets (dogs & cats). The pet parents must have the department’s contact details, inform them at the earliest about the situation and give them the pet details.

finD the best way to exit the country

pet parents to have the contact details of the Embassy of your home country in the country they are residing in. As soon as the situation demands evacuation, they must contact the Embassy and stay in constant touch with them for a smoother process. It will help them remain calm as there will be other challenges too.

Inform the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (ACQS) office in India

The NOC is one of the most documents when it comes to relocating to any country.

Depending on the distance and the worsening situation, the pet owners must figure out alternate options to exit the country, except the obvious ones. Knowing the route and mode of transport will aid them in preparing themselves better. The least they would want to do in an already distressing situation is get anxious even more.

For pet parents, their fourlegged friends are family. While there are protocols in place, it’s always better to have your own to-do list and keep checking every task, especially for circumstances that can change overnight.

By: N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Top destinations for the best mood-boosting activities

Taking a vacation is the ultimate way to feel good, with 85 per cent of global travellers stating that their motivation for travelling is to improve their mood. Travel can lift spirits and boost happiness levels for weeks after returning home.

Booking.com has chosen five of the top destinations in india with the best mood-boosting activities based on traveller reviews. From scuba diving in the Andamans to yoga on the beach in Varkala, adventure sports to wellness therapies and delectable food, include a mood-boosting activity in your next vacation to make it the most joyful yet.

outDoor activities in neiL isLanD

Neil Island is a perfect gem of the Andaman Islands, blessed with magnificent biodiversity, unexplored coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and tropical woodlands. Officially known as ‘Shaheed Dweep,’ it is one of the platforms travellers’ toprecommended outdoor activity destinations. It’s the ideal place to find happiness, with activities ranging from surfing to scuba diving and paddle boarding. Explore the easy cycling trails immersed in nature inland, or head to the beach to sunbathe, read, or simply lie down.

weLLness in auroviLLe, tamiL naDu

Auroville is a quiet town in Tamil Nadu that is an experimental township. It’s well-known for hosting weekly workshops, therapies, and community yoga, making it the ideal vacation for rest and relaxation - and one of the top destinations for wellness, which is a key factor in feeling content. Visitors can de-stress and relax in its wet and dry tropical climate, as well as take walks on its open roads to instill inner peace. The township’s community is very close-knit, and the atmosphere is very welcoming. Matrimandir is a secular gathering place in town where people can meditate and experience tranquillity in peaceful silence. This lovely town has become synonymous with community healing and is a haven for those seeking inner peace.

yoga in varkaLa, keraLa

Varkala, a coastal town in southern Kerala, is a hipster’s paradise, with palm-covered red cliffs, pristine golden beaches, and pilgrimage sites. Varkala is more of a state of mind than a location, but it is one of the top recommended yoga destinations on the travel site, according to travellers. Head to Papanasam Beach, ten kilometres from Varkala, where visitors can enjoy sunset sun salutations by a natural spring, or sunrise for early risers. Whether you practise Vinyasa or Bikram, a yogi novice or a yogi master will find a relaxing retreat.

waterfaLLs in shiLLong, meghaLaya

Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East,” is home to several scenic waterfalls and has been named one of the best waterfall destinations by the travellers. Meghalaya has 16 major waterfalls, one of which, Nohkalikai Falls, at 1,115 feet, is said to be India’s tallest plunge waterfall. This waterfall is fed by rainwater that collects on the top, making the once-in-a-lifetime

Top destinations for the best mood-boosting activities

sound of water plunging to the earth difficult to forget. The city is also notable for its towering pine conifers, pineapple shrubs, and undulating terrain. Along with the breathtaking waterfalls, visitors can stroll through Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village known for its wood carvings and traditional craftsmanship.

nature in munnar, keraLa

Munnar, located 1,600 metres above sea level and a few hours from Alleppey, is one of Kerala’s most scenic areas. With its vast tea plantations, beautiful cottages, and vibrant hiking trails, it’s no surprise that the city is one of the top destinations for nature walks. Few people visit the lush green mountains, eat authentic food, or indulge in an ayurvedic spa while still embracing the sheer magnificence and raw natural beauty of this town.

By:IANSlife

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