Times That Deserve Extra Love!
Your canine pal is your best friend! You would essentially love to take your dog or your puppy with you everywhere you go. Whether it is a party, a gathering or a simple get together, dog owners would love to have their little canine pal with them. However, during these parties, you may neglect the effects that it has on your pet dog.
As responsible dog owners, it is your duty to understand the changes and the emotional ride that your dog may have to go through at each change of scenery. While dogs love to play around and engage with your lifestyle, they too need a break from the constant interactions and loud environments.
As much as we enjoy these celebrations, it may be overwhelming for your dog. From birthdays to New Year's, Christmas or earlier the holiday, dogs may consider this to be a lot to digest. Everything from loud music to new environments, new people and fresh routines can leave them puzzled, stressed or unsettled. Therefore it is your responsibility to help your canine pal regain their strength by being a part of a normal routine that they are used to.
In this blog, our experts at Petbites Australia highlight the importance of helping your canine pals settle down after celebrations. Without giving them the rush of anxiety or leaving them bored, it is your call to make sure that they feel normal again! Read along to find out what we have for you.
1. Recognise the Signs of Stress in Dogs
Stress in dogs can often be denoted by emotional or physical changes. This can be everything from shaking to hiding excessive painting or extra clinginess. Have to compare your dog's behaviour to their previous behaviours and understand the possible changes you see in them. You can also experience a change in appetite or sleep patterns as your dog feels quite unsettled. Or unusual behaviours like barking or chewing for longer hours can be a sign of stress!
2. Create a Calm, Safe Space
The calmer your dog feels the quicker the recovery rate. Make sure that you designate a quiet area with their favourite toys, a comfy blanket, a dog pat and water. You can also feed them their favourite dog treats or dog food according to their regular routine to keep them intact and remind them of the normal days. Use soft lighting around the house or around your dog's environment and calm scents such as lavender or chamomile in pet-safe diffusers. Make sure the noise is controlled surrounding your dog leaving them with calm music or white noise to relax.
3. Maintain a Familiar Routine
To get your dog back to their routine, we suggest that you follow the same routine that you were used to a long time ago. If not, you can always create a new routine and train your dog to adhere to that. Feed them and walk them at their usual time to create a connection in their mind. Avoid overstimulation with outside visitors and loud noises for a while. Include gentle play or cuddles that can bring comfort and relaxation to their minds and give them a sense of belongingness as they used to have. Remind them to offer good times that you had together and comfort them with love!
4. Use Calming Products if Needed
The use of additional dog products such as dog toys and dog treats can be beneficial in calming your canine pal. Some such products that have been quite helpful to dog owners over the years are calming chews, anxiety vests or dog safe CBD products that are recommended by your vet. A few soothing sprays and herbal treats are also designed for relaxation for your dog to calm down during an anxious moment.
5. Monitor for Any Lingering Effects
Now that you are aware that your dog is undergoing an anxious state, it is your responsibility to pay attention to their behaviours. Make sure to keep an eye out for an ongoing science of anxiety during their day to day routine. If you consider any anxious behaviour persisting, consult a wetter professional dog trained to assist you further. Medical attention may or may not be needed and must be taken immediately without any delays. You may also have to consider other injuries or health concerns caused during celebrations to your dog in your absence. Remember that dogs cannot communicate their feelings to us and hence it is our close observance that can help us identify their struggles.
6. Show Extra Love & Patience
Showing extra love with lots of patience is important while regaining your dog's trust and loyalty. Reassure them that their life is back to normal and is as calm as it used to be. Celebrations do not have to be avoided entirely but must be halted until your dog is back on its feet. Spend quality time with your dog by involving extra walks or playtime to have them understand that you are showing adequate attention to them. Gently brushing their fur can let them calm down as they sleep or cuddle next to you. Let them take the lead and give them the time they need to bounce back. Some dogs may take a little longer than others. Meanwhile, positive reinforcements such as dog treats can help them feel secure again training them to do good!
A Helping Hand of Support!
Dogs are precious animals that have always been with us during times of need. They've been man's best friend for a reason over centuries. As they have constantly given us support and love, we must pay our love back to them when they truly need us. Celebrations can be so much for dogs; therefore, to support them during these anxious times, all responsible dog owners must take immediate action to introduce comforting routines and bring back a safe environment for their dogs.
Apart from routines and environments, dogs must be fed well with great dog treats and must be occupied with safe dog toys. While you can find them troubled or unsettled during these times, a dog treat or a dog toy can support them in remembering their past as it used to be. At Petbites Australia, we have a range of dog treats and dog toys for you to choose from for your canine pal. Showing a little extra love, patience, and mindful care, you can help your canine pal feel safe and loved post-party.
Take your time to involve in post-celebratory recovery so your little canine pal can be their best, wagging their tail just like they used to! If you are looking for safe dog products, visit Petbites Australia today and uncover a delightful collection of dog essentials in Australia!