Pet Wellness – Pet Stress Awareness
Humans aren’t the only ones that can experience stress. Even animals can become stressed because of several factors, such as being frightened, frustrated, anxious, or bored. Stress may even be triggered when pets are in a new, or unfamiliar environment, such as the vet’s office or a Chapel Hill pet boarding facility. Knowing the best practices in pet wellness may help you manage stress in your pets.
Pet wellness encompasses many areas that can help you identify and ensure the happiness of your pet. Knowing those things and eliminating stressful situations could help prolong your pet’s lifespan and enable a healthier and happier life.
Signs that your pet is stressed
Most of the symptoms of pet stress may also be signs of other health problems. It’s important to examine all aspects to efficiently help your pets, and prevent future health issues and hefty vet bills. Here are some of the signs you should look out for:
- Itching
- Lethargy
- Excessive shedding
- Lack of or no appetite
- Aggression
- Passive behavior
- Lack of interest in the things they typically love or like
- Change in bathroom habits
- Body language (i.e., slouching when walking, head hanging low, walking slowly)
- Negative behavior (i.e., digging, chewing, and destructive behaviors)
- The sounds they make (i.e., cats may purr often when sad or stressed, and dogs may growl when agitated or unhappy)
Other pet stressors to know
Part of pet wellness is knowing when your pets are stressed and taking the necessary steps to improve the situation. For instance, if you’re considering Chapel Hill pet boarding, make sure it’s a comfortable and stress-free place that allows your pets to be themselves.
Pets can also get stressed because their human is sad, anxious, or depressed or because of their environment. They can get stressed because of Flashing lights, a poor diet, excessive exercise, untreated injuries, climate and temperature, polluted living conditions, irritating smells, smoke, constant TV, and lack of visual stimuli.
Reputable Chapel Hill pet boarding facilities will take steps to reduce pet stress during their stay. The staff ensures a safe and comfortable environment for cats and dogs while allowing them to have their favorite toys and food around.