Recognizing when our animals are feeling stress and having a hard time coping may not always be easy. There are varying degrees of stress. What seems minor at first may become more serious over time unless identified and resolved early. Here are some key signs that your dog may be feeling stress. Pacing or shaking. Some dogs "shake off" tension like they shake off water. Others may pace around and around when feeling stressed. Whining or barking. Dogs that are afraid or tense may whine or bark to get your attention, or to self soothe. If your dog is barking more than usual, your dog may be feeling stress. Whining can also be a sign of pain. Yawning, drooling, and licking. A stressful yawn is more prolonged and intense than a sleepy yawn. Dogs may also drool and lick excessively when nervous. Changes in eyes and ears. Are your dog's pupils dilated? Is your dog blinking rapidly? Can you see more of the white than usual? Are your dog's ears pinned back against her head? Changes in body posture. When a healthy dog with no structural problems shifts his weight to his rear legs or cowers, he may be exhibiting stress. When afraid, dogs may tuck their tails or become quite rigid. Excessive shedding. It's spring, and your dog has probably begun to shed, but excessive shedding all of a sudden can be a sign of stress. Panting. Dogs pant when hot, excited, in severe pain, or stressed. If your dog is panting even though she has not exercised, she may be experiencing stress. Changes in bodily functions. Dogs under stress may refuse to eat and/or may lose bowel function. Avoidance or displacement behavior. When faced with an unwelcome situation, dogs may “escape” by focusing on something else. They may sniff the ground, lick their genitals, or simply turn away. Aggressive behavior. When highly stressed, or when having been in a series of stressful situations in the past that caused severe emotional trauma, dogs may become aggressive without warning. This includes times when your dog may be in physical pain. Even if your dog is on pain medications, the amount of medication and the schedule for giving it may need adjusting to assist your animal to feel less pain and to experience less stress. Hiding or escape behavior. Some dogs will hide to escape from a situation in which they feel stressed, retreating to another part of your home.
Animal Communication is a good first step to understanding your dog's perspective and helping him or her to feel more comfortable and confident.
Don't wait until stress manifests as illness or conflict in your animal's life.
Use this link to buy an Animal Communication session.
First-time clients, be sure to complete the Intake Form available at the same link.
I look forward to assisting you and your animals through these stressful times.
Nedda | 
