Zen and the Art of Dog

Separation Anxiety

Let me set the stage for you. You were separated from your family at an early age, perhaps too early. You spent time living on the streets and then thrown directly into a cage surrounded by others who screamed all day long. And you had to live this way for months.

Is it any wonder so many of our rescued dogs are basket cases? In fact, the real mystery are the dogs who make it through that hell without significant anxiety.

I’ve dealt with my fair share of issues from my three rescues. Denver ate a few blankets when we’d leave. If I left the room, Benji would pee on the floor. Chloe liked to eat pens and even chewed up a $100 Apple pencil.

These are really difficult behaviors to manage, but my point is that it really shouldn’t be a mystery how our dogs arrive this way. They deserve compassion and patience- just as I’m sure we would pray to receive if we suffered the same.

If you’re struggling with a pup that gets anxious when you leave, definitely check out this really cool post about separation anxiety. I found it helpful. I think you might, too. Also, if you need a crate for your anxious pup, you can check out my list of the best crates for separation anxiety here.

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