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09/22/2025
ecallenDogs

Post-Pandemic Canine Separation Anxiety: Clinical Insights for Veterinary Professionals

Based on the continuing education webinar by Steve Dale, CABC* 

As families return to pre-pandemic routines with children heading back to school, veterinary practices are seeing a significant uptick in canine separation anxiety cases. This behavioral condition, which has increased markedly since COVID-19, presents both diagnostic challenges and treatment opportunities for veterinary professionals. 

Clinical Understanding of Canine Separation Anxiety

Canine separation anxiety represents a genuine panic disorder in dogs, not simply behavioral “acting out” or spite-based destruction. When families maintained consistent home presence during pandemic lockdowns, many dogs never developed appropriate coping mechanisms for isolation. 

“These dogs are by and large suffering from a panic attack,” explains certified animal behavior consultant Steve Dale. “Imagine having a panic attack every day when your family leaves.” 

This neurobiological response requires medical intervention alongside behavioral modification, positioning veterinary professionals as essential partners in comprehensive treatment planning. 

Differential Diagnosis: Separation Anxiety vs. Other Behavioral Conditions

Accurate veterinary diagnosis of separation anxiety requires distinguishing it from several other conditions that present with similar symptoms: 

True Separation Anxiety Indicators: 

  • Physiological stress responses: Hypersalivation, tachypnea, hyperthermia 
  • Destructive behavior at exit points: Focused on doors/windows where family departed 
  • Temporal correlation: Behaviors occur within 30 minutes of departure 
  • Self-injurious behaviors: Excessive licking, tail chasing, crate injuries 
  • Elimination in house-trained animals: Stress-induced loss of bladder/bowel control 

Conditions to Rule Out: 

  • Insufficient exercise/enrichment: Random destructive behavior, not exit-focused 
  • Incomplete house training: Elimination without other anxiety indicators 
  • Territorial guarding: Barking/reactivity continues when family is present 
  • Canine cognitive dysfunction: Age-related confusion, circadian rhythm disruption 
  • Medical conditions: Urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal issues, pain 

Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology of Canine Separation Anxiety

Current research indicates: 

  • Peak onset: 57% of cases develop between 1-5 years of age 
  • Comorbid conditions: 80%+ of affected dogs present with additional anxiety disorders 
  • Risk factors: Single-person households, neutered status, working/sporting breed predisposition 
  • Referral rates: 20-40% of veterinary behaviorist caseloads, likely underreported 

The condition rarely presents in isolation—practitioners should screen for noise phobias, travel anxiety, and generalized anxiety disorders when diagnosing separation anxiety in veterinary practice. 

Evidence-Based Treatment Protocols

Psychopharmaceutical therapy serves as first-line treatment for moderate to severe cases: 

  • SSRI/TCA medications: Stabilize serotonin/norepinephrine for long-term management 
  • Anxiolytic support: Short-term benzodiazepines during behavior modification 
  • Combination protocols: Faster-acting medications bridge to long-term solutions 
  • Duration: Minimum 6-12 months, often lifelong management required

Veterinary professionals should emphasize that properly prescribed psychopharmaceuticals do not alter personality but enable learning by reducing panic responses. 

Adjunctive Therapeutic Options

Calmer Canine®  Anxiety Treatment System offers veterinary practices a non-pharmaceutical option using targeted pulsed electromagnetic field (tPEMF™) technology. This clinically proven device provides: 

  • Neurological targeting: Specific frequency protocols for anxiety-related brain regions 
  • No systemic effects: Localized treatment without drug interactions 
  • Complement to behavior modification: Can be used alongside traditional protocols 
  • Client compliance advantage: At-home treatment option for motivated pet owners 

Clinical studies demonstrate efficacy in reducing cortisol levels and anxiety-related behaviors when used as part of comprehensive treatment plans. 

Behavioral Modification Protocols

  • Systematic desensitization: Graduated exposure to departure cues 
  • Counter-conditioning: Positive associations with alone time 
  • Environmental management: Video monitoring for objective assessment 
  • Owner education: Avoiding punishment, maintaining consistency 

Diagnostic Tools and Client Communication

Modern assessment techniques for canine separation anxiety include:

  • Video documentation: Clients can provide objective behavioral evidence 
  • Standardized questionnaires: C-BARQ and other validated assessment tools 
  • Medical workup: Rule out underlying health conditions 
  • Behavioral history: Onset timing, triggers, progression patterns 

Client Education Priorities for Dog Anxiety

  1. Medical nature of condition: This is a neurobiological disorder requiring medical intervention 
  2. Treatment timeline: Improvement typically requires 8-16 weeks of consistent protocol 
  3. Multimodal approach: Medication, behavior modification, and environmental management 
  4. Realistic expectations: Management rather than “cure” is the goal 
  5. Family impact: Address quality of life for both pet and family 

Prognosis and Long-Term Management of Canine Separation Anxiety

With appropriate veterinary intervention, most canine separation anxiety cases show significant improvement. Key success factors include: 

  • Early intervention: Better outcomes when treatment begins promptly 
  • Owner compliance: Consistent medication administration and protocol adherence 
  • Multimodal approach: Combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions 
  • Realistic expectations: Focus on management and quality of life improvement 

The integration of innovative treatments like the Calmer Canine system with traditional veterinary approaches offers new opportunities for comprehensive anxiety management in veterinary practice. 

Clinical Takeaways for Managing Canine Separation Anxiety

Post-pandemic canine separation anxiety represents a growing clinical challenge requiring veterinary expertise in both diagnosis and treatment. By understanding the neurobiological basis of this condition and implementing evidence-based protocols, veterinary professionals can significantly improve outcomes for affected dogs and their families. 

For veterinary professionals interested in expanding their behavioral medicine offerings, the Calmer Canine Anxiety Treatment System represents an innovative addition to traditional treatment protocols, providing clients with at-home therapeutic options while maintaining veterinary oversight of comprehensive care plans. 

For more information about integrating the Calmer Canine system into your veterinary practice, visit assisi.zomedica.com/calmer-canine 

Stay in the Loop – follow us on social media! 
instagram.com/assisianimalhealth 
facebook.com/assisianimalhealth 
www.tiktok.com/@assisianimalhealth 

*Steve Dale, CABC (Certified Animal Behavior Consultant), is a nationally recognized expert in pet behavior and welfare, contributing to various media outlets and speaking at veterinary conferences worldwide. Steve Dale was paid by Zomedica, Inc. to provide the webinar. 

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09/22/2025
ecallenDogsPet Owners

Back-to-School Season: Managing Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety

Based on the webinar “School Days: Stress of Back to School for the Dog” by Steve Dale, CABC* 

As children head back to school this fall, many pet parents are discovering an unexpected challenge: their dog’s separation anxiety. What was once a happy household routine has become a source of stress for our four-legged family members. If you’re noticing anxious dog behavior when the family leaves, you’re not alone—and more importantly, there’s help available. 

Understanding Dog Separation Anxiety: More Than Just Missing You

Dog separation anxiety has become increasingly common since the pandemic. When families were home together for extended periods, many dogs never learned to be comfortable when left alone. Now, as routines return to normal with kids going back to school, these dogs are experiencing what can only be described as panic attacks. 

“These dogs are by and large suffering from a panic attack,” explains certified animal behavior consultant Steve Dale. “Imagine having a panic attack every day when your family leaves.” 

This back-to-school dog anxiety affects dogs of all backgrounds, as they struggle with the sudden change in household routines and the absence of family members they’ve grown accustomed to having around. 

How to Help Dog with Separation Anxiety: Recognizing the Signs

Separation anxiety in dogs manifests in various ways, and recognizing these signs of separation anxiety in dogs is crucial for getting your pet the help they need: 

  • Destructive behavior: Chewing furniture, scratching at doors, or destroying household items 
  • Excessive vocalization: Howling, barking, or whining when left unattended 
  • Physical symptoms: Over-panting, hyper-salivation, or self-destructive behaviors 
  • House soiling: Even in well-trained dogs experiencing dog anxiety when left alone 
  • Escape attempts: Trying to break out of crates or rooms 
  • Over-excitement: Extreme reactions when family members return home 

It’s important to note that not all problematic behaviors indicate true dog separation anxiety. Sometimes what appears to be anxious dog behavior is actually boredom, lack of exercise, or inadequate house training—which is why proper diagnosis is essential. 

The Reality of Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Research shows that 57% of dogs with separation anxiety develop symptoms between ages one to five. Even more concerning, dogs with one type of anxiety often develop additional anxieties—whether related to loud noises, travel, or other stressors. 

This isn’t just about missing family members. For many dogs, it’s isolation distress that creates genuine panic when experiencing dog anxiety when left alone. The impact extends beyond the pet to affect the entire family’s quality of life, sometimes leading to fractured human-animal bonds when families feel trapped by their dog’s needs. 

What Doesn't Work: Common Myths About Dog Separation Anxiety

Before exploring how to help dog with separation anxiety effectively, it’s essential to dispel some harmful myths: 

  • Punishment never helps: Scolding a dog only increases their stress and worsens anxious dog behavior 
  • “Getting over it” rarely happens: Without intervention, separation anxiety in dogs typically worsens over time 
  • Crating isn’t always the answer: While some dogs find crates comforting, others feel trapped and become more panicked 
  • Adding another pet often backfires: A second dog may simply learn anxious behaviors from the first 
  • Exercise alone won’t solve it: While helpful, a tired dog with anxiety is still an anxious dog 

Effective & Natural Dog Anxiety Relief

The key to treating dog separation anxiety lies in addressing the underlying panic response. Just as you wouldn’t expect someone having a panic attack to learn new skills, dogs with separation anxiety need their brain chemistry stabilized before behavior modification can be effective. 

Professional Treatment Options

Veterinary behaviorists may recommend: 

  • Medications: Properly prescribed treatments can provide essential relief for anxious dog behavior 
  • Behavior modification programs: Gradual desensitization techniques tailored to your dog’s specific triggers 
  • Environmental management: Strategic use of cameras to monitor progress and identify patterns 

The Calmer Canine® Solution: Natural Dog Anxiety Relief

For pet parents seeking natural dog anxiety relief without medication, the Calmer Canine® Anxiety Treatment System offers a revolutionary approach. This innovative treatment uses targeted pulsed electromagnetic field (tPEMF™) technology to help calm the anxiety centers in your dog’s brain naturally. 

Unlike traditional medications that may take weeks to show effect, the Calmer Canine system can provide natural dog anxiety relief without side effects or the need for prescription drugs. It’s designed to address the root neurological causes of dog separation anxiety, making it an ideal complement to behavior modification techniques. 

Immediate Steps for Managing Dog Anxiety When Left Alone

While working with professionals to address your dog’s separation anxiety: 

  1. Use monitoring technology: Set up cameras to understand your dog’s behavior and identify specific signs of separation anxiety in dogs 
  1. Avoid punishment: Never scold your dog for anxiety-related behaviors 
  2. Create positive alone-time associations: Use food-dispensing toys to make solo time enjoyable 
  3. Maintain consistent routines: Predictability helps reduce back to school dog anxiety and other triggers 
  4. Consider professional help: Experts can properly diagnose separation anxiety in dogs versus other behavioral issues 

Prevention Strategies for New Pet Parents

For new pet parents or those with puppies looking to prevent future dog separation anxiety: 

  • Gradually introduce alone time from the beginning 
  • Use enrichment toys to create positive associations with solitude 
  • Establish routines that don’t revolve entirely around human presence 
  • Start early training to prevent anxious dog behavior from developing 

Hope for Dogs with Separation Anxiety and Their Families

The most important message for families dealing with dog separation anxiety is this: it’s treatable. With proper diagnosis, appropriate intervention, and innovative tools like the Calmer Canine system, even severe cases of anxious dog behavior can be successfully managed. 

“If it were not treatable, I would not be here talking about it,” Dale emphasizes. “It takes a bit of effort and time, but it’s absolutely treatable.” 

As we navigate the back-to-school transition, remember that your dog’s anxiety is not your fault, and with the right approach, both you and your furry family member can find relief. The key is taking action early and working with professionals who understand that dog separation anxiety is a medical condition deserving of proper treatment. 

For more information about natural dog anxiety relief and how to help dog with separation anxiety, explore how the Calmer Canine Anxiety Treatment System can help your dog find peace when the family is away. 

Your pet deserves to feel their best—and we’re here to help you make that happen. Reach out to our team anytime: info@assisianimalhealth.com 

Stay in the Loop – follow us on social media! 
instagram.com/assisianimalhealth 
facebook.com/assisianimalhealth 
www.tiktok.com/@assisianimalhealth 

*Steve Dale, CABC (Certified Animal Behavior Consultant), is a nationally recognized expert in pet behavior and welfare, contributing to various media outlets and speaking at veterinary conferences worldwide. Steve Dale was paid by Zomedica, Inc. to provide the webinar. 

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09/22/2025
ecallenDogs

Dog Limping and Joint Pain: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry

Is your dog limping, struggling to get up, or avoiding their favorite activities? You’re not alone—millions of dogs suffer from joint pain and arthritis. The good news is that modern treatments like shock wave therapy and PEMF therapy can help restore your dog’s comfort and mobility. 

When Dog Limping is an Emergency

Some situations require immediate veterinary attention and cannot wait for a regular appointment. 

Get Help Immediately if Your Dog Shows:

Get Help Immediately If Your Dog Shows: 

  • Sudden inability to bear weight on any leg
  • Visible bone or open wounds with limping 
  • Extreme pain with crying or aggression when touched 
  • Dragging back legs or complete paralysis 
  • Swollen, hot joints that appeared suddenly 
  • Limping with fever (warm nose, lethargy, loss of appetite) 

While Getting Veterinary Care: Keep your dog calm and still to prevent further injury. Never give human pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. You can apply ice wrapped in a towel to swollen areas for 10-15 minutes and call ahead to describe symptoms. 

Why is My Dog Limping?

Understanding the signs of joint problems helps you recognize when your dog needs veterinary attention. Many dogs hide pain well, so even subtle changes can indicate discomfort. 

Common Signs of Arthritis in Dogs

  • Morning stiffness that improves with movement 
  • Hesitation before jumping into cars or onto furniture 
  • Slower walks or wanting to turn around early 
  • Difficulty getting up from lying down 
  • Limping after exercise 
  • Avoiding stairs or needing help 

What Causes Joint Pain in Dogs?

Osteoarthritis affects at least one in four dogs and develops when cartilage breaks down over time. Hip dysplasia is common in larger breeds like German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, while torn ACLs cause sudden limping in back legs. 

Age-related muscle loss naturally occurs as dogs get older and makes joint problems worse. Obesity significantly accelerates joint damage because extra weight puts additional stress on vulnerable joints. 

Treatment Options for Dog Joint Pain

You have several options ranging from traditional medications to advanced therapies when your dog is diagnosed with joint problems. 

Traditional Treatments

  • Pain medications: NSAIDs like Carprofen ($30-80/month) 
  • Joint supplements: Glucosamine and fish oil ($25-60/month) 
  • Weight management: Most important factor for joint health 
  • Exercise modification: Swimming and gentle walks 

Advanced Treatment: PulseVet® Shock Wave Therapy

PulseVet Shock Wave Therapy uses focused sound waves to reduce pain and promote healing in damaged joints. 

  • 5-10 minute treatments, typically 2-3 sessions total 
  • Studies show 60-80% of dogs experience significant improvement 
  • Available at veterinary clinics offering advanced rehabilitation 

Advanced Treatment: Assisi LOOP® Therapy

Assisi LOOP therapy utilizes clinically-proven targeted Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (tPEMF™) technology to safely reduce pain and inflammation.  

  • 15-minute sessions, right at home 
  • Backed by extensive research in both human and animal medicine 
  • Safe, gentle, drug-free therapy with no side effects 
  • Available for purchase by pet owner and veterinary professionals 

Healing Your Dog At Home

Simple modifications can make a significant difference in your dog’s daily comfort. 

Making Your Dog's Life Easier

  • Non-slip rugs on smooth floors for better traction 
  • Ramps instead of stairs where possible 
  • Orthopedic beds with memory foam support 
  • Raised food bowls to reduce strain while eating 

Safe Exercise and Weight Management

Exercise remains important but needs modification. Short, frequent walks on soft surfaces are gentler than long walks on concrete. Swimming provides excellent low-impact exercise. 

Weight management is crucial: Every extra pound puts 4x more stress on joints. Even modest weight loss can reduce limping by 30-50%. 

When to See Your Veterinarian

Knowing when to seek professional help prevents minor issues from becoming major problems. 

Schedule an Appointment If:

  • Limping persists for more than 24 hours
  • Getting progressively worse rather than improving
  • Affecting daily activities like eating or sleeping
  • Multiple symptoms (limping + appetite loss + lethargy)

Questions to Ask Your Vet:

  • “What’s causing my dog’s limping and how severe is it?” 
  • “Do you offer shockwave or PEMF therapy?” 
  • “What can I expect for improvement timeline?” 
  • “How can I make my dog more comfortable at home?” 

To learn more, talk to your veterinarian about whether Assisi Loop® therapy is right for your pet. You can also explore our website to peruse our products, read clinical insights, and dive into helpful blog content. 

Your pet deserves to feel their best—and we’re here to help you make that happen. Reach out to our team anytime: info@assisianimalhealth.com 

Stay in the Loop – follow us on social media! 
instagram.com/assisianimalhealth 
facebook.com/assisianimalhealth 
www.tiktok.com/@assisianimalhealth 

Success Stories

Max, 11-year-old Golden Retriever: Severe hip arthritis made morning walks impossible. After PulseVet shock wave therapy and weight management, Max returned to enjoying beach walks and playing fetch with grandchildren. 

Bella, 9-year-old German Shepherd: Elbow problems prevented stairs access. With  tPEMF therapy using the Assisi LOOP device and modified exercise, Bella regained confidence and returned to sleeping upstairs with her family. 

Take Action Today

Don’t let joint pain rob your dog of their golden years. Modern treatments can restore comfort and activity levels even in senior dogs. 

Simple Steps You Can Take: 

  1. Document symptoms – note when limping is worst 
  2. Schedule vet appointment – request orthopedic examination 
  3. Ask about advanced options – shockwave and PEMF therapy 
  4. Make home modifications – add ramps and non-slip surfaces 

Find Veterinarians Offering PulseVet Shock Wave Treatments →Vet Finder Results – PulseVet

Explore Assisi LOOP Products → assisi.zomedica.com 

Your dog deserves to live comfortably. With proper veterinary care and modern treatment options, many dogs with arthritis continue to enjoy active, happy lives for years. 

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