NEW YORK — Arielle Carey had a neutered, 7-year-old male American pit bull terrier named Odin who was as sweet as pie at home in Atlanta — that is… until Odin scared some people and dogs he didn’t know.
When Carey’s former community in South Carolina didn’t allow for privacy fences, he returned to Georgia. It was not a cheap trip: the move and additional training cost thousands of dollars.
The effort is worth it, however. “He’s calmer and more relaxed now,” Carey said.
Odin was no exception, he was the norm. In fact, 57% of dog owners say their furry family members are anxious, according to a new dog anxiety survey conducted by research firm Kantar Group for CEVA Animal Health.
And that can come with a hefty price tag. Worried dog owners report spending $400 more a year on grooming — on issues as varied as vet visits and Puppy Prozac.
Animal anxiety seems to have increased since the pandemic, especially when people return to work and routines are broken, said pet expert Kristen Levine, creator of the “Pet Living” blog (kristenlevine. com) and co-author of the book “Pampered Pets on a Budget.”
At a time when many people are living paycheck to paycheck and inflation is driving up costs, increasing pet care bills can feel like a punch in the gut.
The percentage of dog owners who reported using some type of calming product for their pet – such as a toy, medicine or collar – has more than doubled in two years, to 51% of 2020, according to National Pet Owners. American Pet Products Association Survey.
The most common stressors for dogs? Noise (40%), separation anxiety (33%) and so-called “reactivity”, such as seeing one in the yard or meeting another dog (15%).
According to North American Pet Health Insurance Association spokeswoman Samantha Bell, some of the most commonly claimed illnesses for pets include stomach problems, diarrhea, skin conditions and vomiting, which “can all be cured by anxiety”.
A variety of interventions can help – some behavioral, some medication. Here are ways to manage the costs associated with anxiety:
Catch them early
If you know the triggers (fireworks, doorbell, or missing you leaving the house), taking early action will not only improve your dog’s quality of life, but also save you money in the long run.
If the condition progresses to something ‘serious’, which is reported by 21% of dog owners, it is likely to be more expensive, including property damage.
Consider the medicine
In some cases, medication may be an appropriate response. When Levine’s former dog, a Dalmatian mix named Chilly, developed a phobia of thunderstorms, an oral gel called SILEO, which costs about $40 a month, helped. And another dog, suffering from severe separation anxiety, was helped by Trazodone at the same monthly cost.
Nineteen percent of owners even consider CBD products as a possible solution for relaxing their dogs, according to the National Pet Owners Survey.
Behavioral change
Sometimes small patches do the trick. Consider an “anti-anxiety wrap,” a comforting vest that applies pressure like weighted blankets on people.
Experts also recommend pheromone diffusers, which sell online for around $25. Pheromone diffusers work like plug-in air fresheners, releasing chemicals into the air known to soothe pets.
Many pet owners use a crate to keep dogs safe and calm – just like Arielle Carey did with Odin. Or if dogs are stressed by something like thunder, playing recorded sounds at low volume while doing something fun – like playing or getting treats – can change the negative. associations.
Cover up
Pet insurance can help with some costs. As with people, policies can be cheaper if you buy them at a younger age.
Do your due diligence on what a policy addresses and what it doesn’t. The costs of training dogs may not be covered, although behavioral interventions prescribed by veterinarians likely are, Levine said. An expert consultation usually costs between $250 and $300.
Above all, don’t expect your dog’s anxiety issues to go away.
“If the animal acts in a way that harms itself or its environment, something must be done,” said Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinarian of the American Kennel Club. “The cost of veterinary care, the replacement of damaged items and any disputed concerns are reasonable enough to ask your veterinarian for recommendations tailored to your budget and your family.