| Getting
a grip on Separation Anxiety
By
Mary Wulff-Tilford
<
Previous Page
Natural
diet and supplements for separation anxiety
Some people may feel they need to resort
to drugs when they are at 12 animal wellness
their wits’ end and dealing with
a dog that has become destructive. In
the holistic realm of caring for animals,
the foundation to treating any problem
– physical or mental – is
a good, home-prepared diet. We have seen
behavior problems lessen and completely
go away, with a simple change in diet.
The animal that is not getting adequate
nutrition and/or essential nutrients to
the brain may act out by growing aggressive,
or may become destructive when no one
is home. Changing the diet to a high-quality,
natural, commercial food may help. Although
a home-prepared diet is best, some people
might not feel comfortable doing this
right away. There are many books on preparing
homemade diets for our companion animals.
 Adequate
essential fatty acids, including Omega
3, are necessary for dogs, even if they
are being fed a commercial diet. Essential
fatty acids help the nervous system function
more smoothly and will help improve skin
and coat, as well.
Some animals may need extra help from
herbs in getting through a particularly
stressful time. Max, a Miniature Schnauzer,
would tear the stuffing out of the sofa
cushions when left alone for only a few
minutes. His caregiver worked with a behavior
specialist and although this helped quite
a bit, Max would still become anxious
on his own. Max’s people used a
specific formula made for dogs that contained
valerian, skullcap, oat flower and passionflower.
They would give it to him before leaving
the house and Max became calmer and did
not tear the furniture apart after just
a few weeks of using the herbs.
Still other animals get quite anxious
in the vicinity of loud noises, whether
or not the caregiver is at home. For this
problem, results are seen in many instances
using the supplement melatonin.
No matter what the reason, it’s
not easy to leave behind your companion
when you know they suffer in your absence.
With a little knowledge and some effort,
you can help make the separation much
easier.
Mary Wulff-Tilford
is a veterinary herbalist. She is co-author
with her husband, Gregory Tilford, of
Herbs for Pets, available from Bowtie
Press. |
