Depression In Dogs: Prevention And Treatment

Depression in dogs exists. Just like us humans, dogs can get depressed too. And sadly, depression is a very common ailment nowadays. Naturally, research on the phenomenon is developing more and more and, thanks to this, today we can provide you with interesting information and data on the subject.

Curiously, depression in dogs is not that different from that in humans. Man’s best friend, being the animal he best empathizes with, suffers in a very similar way.

Prevention of Depression in Dogs

Preventing this type of mental illness in your pet is perfectly possible. Experts say it is best to encourage the animal to develop good behavioral habits. This is the best way to prevent ailments, such as anxiety and depression. A dog can be compared to a child in certain attitudes. His emotional and physical needs must always be taken into account.

It is always advisable to start with the simplest things. The dog ‘s living conditions should be optimal. This means:

• proper nutrition (good food and adequate portions)
• plenty of fresh water (but outside meals)
• physical activity appropriate to age and size
• high socialization with other animals.

Little information to guarantee your four-legged friend a peaceful and happy existence. In fact, depression in dogs is an evil that you can avoid in a very simple way.

Free time

Physical activity and socialization are key factors for your pet. Depending on their size, the dog will need to be taken for a walk once or three times a day. Not just to meet his needs. During the walk, the dog can eliminate toxins, socialize, have fun and train their senses.

The psychological factor plays a role of primary importance. The dog needs constant emotional stimulation. Play with him, talk to him, show him attention. Likewise, the animal must feel loved and valued in the family environment. Don’t forget that most dogs live surrounded by humans. Sometimes it can become difficult to adapt to the life of another species.

The danger is loneliness. Avoid spending too much time alone and thus avoid the classic anxiety and depression disorders. Dogs are very social animals, more so than humans. Being without company for a long time will make them feel useless, unimportant. The first causes of an easily avoidable psychological decay .

Treatment of depression in dogs

When depression is already present in the animal, action must be taken quickly. This disease affects animals and people alike, but in dogs it can have worse consequences. They are very sensitive living beings and intensely live every different emotional state (fear, aggression, sadness, euphoria …).

The treatment of canine depression involves some behavior modification techniques. The ethologist will visit and study the environment in which the animal lives. In practice, it will give you a clearer picture of the situation. With time and patience, your dog will regain self-esteem and emotional balance.

Positive reinforcement

This is the best way to promote any therapy, not just the anti-depressant one. By offering rewards for good behavior, you will help the dog choose positive actions, guiding him towards recovery. In fact, even if it is the ethologist who establishes the cure, you will be the owner who takes responsibility for the therapy. With the right techniques and your love, depression can be defeated for good.

Among the other techniques available today, we cite multimodal therapy, for example, which includes the administration of antidepressant and anxiolytic drugs. But it is always preferable to adopt this type of solution in extreme cases or as a last resort. The first choice is always to work on the behavioral habits of the animal.

Other alternative therapies

Other types of therapies are also being considered, more in line with the new era. Homeopathy, Bach flowers and acupuncture are the ones that are gaining momentum. In any case, it will always be necessary for the veterinarian to check your pet first.

Unlike humans, in general, dogs respond optimally to behavioral therapies. The fact that the animal is more sensitive and intuitive makes it easier to treat emotional disorders. There are very few cases of canine depression with fatal consequences. There are simply two tips: pay attention to your pet and deal with the problem promptly.