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From Nervous to Zen: Must-Try Solutions for Pet Anxiety on the Go

theretreatforpets



At THE Retreat for Pets, we have a lot of "Retreaters" who experience some form of anxiety when they first arrive, especially if it is their first time staying away from their families. We use several techniques to get them feeling comfortable and able to enjoy their staycation, as soon as possible. However, we know that when they are at home and their families leave the house each day or if they hear scary noises, they may also experience fear and anxiety. We would like to share some products and DIY techniques you can try to calm them at home:


Commercial Products:

  1. Thundershirt or Anxiety Wrap:

    • These are snug-fitting garments that apply gentle, consistent pressure to calm animals. They work similarly to swaddling a baby.

    • You can buy them from pet stores or online.

  2. Calming Sprays and Diffusers:

    • Pheromone-based products like Feliway (for cats) and Adaptil (for dogs) release calming scents similar to natural pheromones, helping reduce stress.

    • These can be sprayed in the car, in a crate, or used as plug-in diffusers at home.

  3. Calming Treats:

    • Treats infused with ingredients like L-theanine, CBD, or Valerian root can help reduce anxiety. Some popular brands include Zesty Paws Calming Bites or Pet Naturals of Vermont.

  4. Pet Carriers with Visual Barriers:

    • For cats or small dogs, a carrier with a towel or blanket draped over it can help block visual stimuli during car rides, creating a more secure space.

  5. White Noise or Music:

    • Music designed for pets (e.g., classical music or pet-specific calming soundtracks) can drown out external loud noises and help reduce stress.

DIY Techniques:

  1. Homemade Calming Spray:

    • Ingredients:

      1. 1 cup water

      2. 10 drops of lavender essential oil (safe for dogs, but not recommended for cats)

      3. 10 drops of chamomile essential oil (safe for both cats and dogs)

    • Instructions:

      1. Mix water and essential oils in a spray bottle.

      2. Shake well before use.

      3. Lightly mist their bedding, the car seat, or their carrier to promote calmness. Avoid spraying directly on pets.

  2. DIY Calming Wrap (Thundershirt Alternative):

    • Materials:

      1. An elastic bandage or a soft cloth that is long enough to wrap around your pet.

    • Instructions:

      1. For dogs: Start at their chest, wrap the bandage across their back, then around their abdomen. Cross it over again and tie it securely but not too tightly.

      2. For cats: The same wrap can be used, but with a more gentle and snug fit around their body.

      3. This technique applies gentle pressure to help them feel secure.

  3. DIY Anti-Anxiety Crate/Carrier Cover:

    • Materials:

      1. A soft towel or blanket.

    • Instructions:

      1. For car rides, drape a towel or blanket over the crate or carrier to create a den-like environment.

      2. Make sure there is still proper ventilation, but blocking out visual stimuli can help calm anxious pets.

  4. DIY Calming Pet Bed:

    • Materials:

      1. A soft fabric (like fleece) and a calming herb like dried lavender or chamomile (safe for dogs but avoid lavender for cats).

    • Instructions:

      1. Sew a small pocket into the pet bed or pillow.

      2. Fill the pocket with calming herbs.

      3. This will provide a mild, soothing scent to relax your pet.

  5. Frozen Lick Mat:

    • Lick mats keep dogs and cats occupied and reduce anxiety by engaging them in licking, which is naturally calming.

    • Instructions:

      1. Spread some peanut butter (ensure it is xylitol-free), yogurt, or a favorite wet treat on the mat.

      2. Freeze it for 30 minutes before offering it to your pet. This will help them focus on the treat and not the noise or anxiety of travel.

Each pet responds differently, so trying various combinations of these methods may help you identify what works best for a specific dog or cat.


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