Take your canine companion on regular walks and play sessions to help them release some energy, stay mentally stimulated, and bond with you. ExerciseĮxercise is beneficial for dogs in many ways, but is especially important for those recovering from trauma. Additionally, avoid interactions with people that cause your dog to become anxious. This can be in the form of a bed or crate that is placed away from loud noises and busy areas of your home. Create a Safe Spaceĭogs that experience trauma may become more sensitive and fearful, making it important for them to have their own safe space. Make sure to focus on the positives and not draw attention to the negatives. Rewards could be treats, verbal praise, petting, or playing with toys. This type of training encourages good behaviors by rewarding desirable actions and ignoring unwanted ones. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool when it comes to helping your pup recover from trauma. Additionally, as a pet owner you should remain consistent with commands and expectations for your pup to ensure that it becomes a natural response. Making sure they have regular meal times, potty breaks and playtime can help keep their mind off of the trauma. Develop RoutineĮstablishing a consistent daily routine for your pup can provide comfort and structure during difficult times. Additionally, providing your pup with a distraction can help redirect their attention away from the triggers and towards something more calming. For example, if loud noises are a trigger, try to keep them in an area of the house that is more sound proof. If possible, it is important to avoid situations that may be triggers for your pup’s traumatic memory. These professionals can assess the situation and develop a customized plan for helping your pup cope with their trauma. If your pup has experienced a traumatic event, it is important to seek professional help from a veterinarian or certified animal behaviorist. Additionally, there are a few general tips you can use to help your pup cope with their trauma. When it comes to managing the effects of trauma, it is important to remember that each dog responds differently and what works for one pup may not work for another. Managing the Effects of Trauma on Dog Behavior
If you notice any changes in your pup’s behavior that are out of the ordinary, it is important to consider the possibility of trauma. □ Refusal to eat and/or drinking less than usual □ Showing signs of aggression towards people or other animals □ Barking for long periods without responding to owner’s commands Often due to an earlier experience or a traumatic event, dogs may display symptoms that alert us to the fact something is not right. How long does it take for a dog to get over trauma?.Managing the Effects of Trauma on Dog Behavior.Recognizing the Signs of Trauma in Dogs.