As a pet owner in Augusta, there are numerous pet care tips that you should be aware of. This includes how to recognize the signs of stress in your pet and what to do when these signs present themselves. Believe it or not, pets get stressed out just like we do, resulting in a change in their behavior. Our veterinarian at Westside Animal Hospital would like to share some helpful information regarding pets and stress.

Common Signs of Stress in Pets

Many pet behaviors suggest stress and anxiety in your pet. Here is a look at some of the most common:

Growling – This is one of the most obvious warning signs that your pet will give when he is uncomfortable. Generally, this growling is not aggressive, but rather it is a warning.

Whining/Barking – Whining and barking are both automatic responses, but they may be more vocalized when the pet is stressed, tense, afraid, etc. It is a way to grab your attention and self-soothe.

Pacing/Shaking – When pets become scared and anxious, they will often start pacing back and forth or shaking. You may have noticed this with your pet when you take him to the veterinarian.

Avoidance/Hiding Behavior – When a pet starts to hide or avoid certain situations, this is a sign that he is anxious. While this isn’t the politest action, it is better than him being aggressive. Some pets will hide behind their owner or a tree, while others may focus on something else like circling or digging.

Are You Worried About Your Pet Being Stressed?

Aside from trying to alleviate your pet’s stress yourself, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hawkins at Westside Animal Hospital in Augusta, GA. We can make sure that your pet’s behavior isn’t the result of an underlying disease and help identify the best course of treatment moving forward. Call our team today at (706) 738-4589 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.