Separation Anxiety

How TikTok helped me and my dog deal with separation anxiety

I never thought I’d say this, but TikTok has become a genuinely useful resource in my life, especially when it comes to my dog, Lola. When my husband and I adopted Lola at 12 weeks old, we didn’t know much about her except that she had some attachment issues. She would try to jump in the shower with me, fiercely resisted crate training, and developed a self-soothing habit of sucking and kneading on her favorite blanket. I’m told this may be a result of being weaned too early from her mom. Eventually these behaviors improved and we chalked them up to puppy habits. But during the pandemic, any concept of separation became laughably nonexistent. So when the lockdown ended and I started to leave the house more, Lola’s old separation anxiety again reared its head. I’d return to puddles on the floor, even though, at four, she’s been house-trained for years, and she wouldn’t touch her food or water until I came back. SEE ALSO: Dog anxiety is real. These products can help calm your anxious pet. How to prepare your pets for the end of working from home The weird and wonderful world of relaxation videos for dogs If you have a dog with separation anxiety defined by the American Kennel Club as “extreme stress from the time you leave them alone until you return” you know how taxing it can be: preparing before you go with Kongs and other distractions to keep your pup busy, crating them to contain destructive behavior, and worrying the entire time you’re gone. Our dogs are at risk for developing separation anxiety when our schedules return to normal. Lola and I aren’t the only ones faced with this renewed challenge. “Now that many of us are sheltering in place or working from home, our dogs are at risk for developing separation anxiety when our schedules return to normal,” said the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in a document from its COVID-19 resource hub. That coupled with the fact that approximately 23 million American households acquired a pet during the pandemic, according to an ASPCA survey, has made separation anxiety a suddenly prevalent issue. So, what do you do about it? On a whim, I turned to TikTok, where hashtags related to animals with separation anxiety have millions of views and then, of course, TikToks about separation anxiety started handily showing up on my For You Page. The surprise was finding out how useful they were. One of the first videos I discovered was about how not to leave the house, from a veterinarian named Dr. Adam Christman. In a dramatic rendition, Christman prolongs his departure from his four dachshunds with frantic assurances, jangling his keys. The message is simple yet effective: Don’t make a big deal about leaving, don’t do things that might put them on edge, don’t give dogs a reason to worry. It’s standard advice but a valuable reminder, and it was delivered to me in an entertaining, actionable amuse-bouche that required zero search effort on my end. Credit: TikTok / @dr.adamchristman52 Credit: TikTok / @dr.adamchristman52 That said, it’s important to call out some caveats to using TikTok for dog training. Christman and other pets experts I talked to for this story are explicit that their videos are not, nor should be, a replacement for working directly with vets or trainers. They provide general tips and resources that should be used with discretion and best judgment. There’s a lot of bad advice out there, and anyone can claim to be an expert. Christman says to look at credentials, other social media profiles, and online presence to see if someone’s legit. Do your due diligence, and trust your gut. You can always run a suggestion by your own vet or another trusted source to double-check legitimacy. Above all, pay attention to how your pet responds. If ever they seem upset or bothered by a training technique, it’s time to try something else. Digestible information at your fingertips When the pandemic hit, Christman, who is chief veterinary officer of MJH Life Sciences, a media company for healthcare professionals, noticed that his fulltime colleagues were being inundated by the rising demand for veterinary services. “I said to myself, ‘Well, let me make some simple, digestible information that might take away the stress of the office reception phones.” That way, vets wouldn’t be overwhelmed by unnecessary or non-urgent visits. In the summer of 2020, Christman started sharing all kinds of veterinary information on TikTok, from how to prevent a reverse sneeze to pet cleaning hacks. Since then, his TikToks have generated more than 18 million likes and 757,000+ followers. “People like me on TikTok because I’m a crazy-ass dog Dad, and yet I’m also a veterinarian,” he says. “They’re like, he’s acting like a deranged lunatic like I am, how cool is that?’ So there’s that connection.” Trainers, veterinarians, and other pet experts have succeeded on TikTok because they’ve figured out how to pack their message into this formula. TikTok is really good at keeping our attention. The music, the captions, the trends, and yes, the highly personalized algorithm it’s all part of a precisely calculated formula that, frankly, works really well. But just because #dogtok videos are easy to consume doesn’t mean they lack substance. To their great credit, trainers, veterinarians, and other pet experts have succeeded on TikTok because they’ve figured out how to pack their message into this formula. The result is an information-dense bite that goes down easy. That’s exactly what drew me to Jennifer Malawey’s TikToks. Malawey, a trainer based in Washington State who specializes in behavioral issues, breaks down underlying concepts behind behavior, like how dogs become fearful, or the threshold spectrum of calm to full-blown panic. Learning what Lola might be thinking or feeling helps me to understand her on a deeper level, which in turn informs my training. Credit: TikTok / @dizzydancingdog Credit: TikTok / @dizzydancingdog Any expert will tell you there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to separation anxiety. But by focusing on the nuances of training, Malawey’s TikToks helped me define what worked for us. Like how to distinguish between separation anxiety and boredom, or why Kongs and food puzzles may work well for some dogs, but others might be too anxious to play with them and develop a negative association with treats. Or that crate training can sometimes make separation anxiety worse, which explains why Lola hated it. Every TikTok from Malawey and others was like adding another layer of paint to the big picture of separation anxiety. And, with TikTok, I can passively gather information instead of carving out time to watch training videos or do a training session. All this takes only the effort to move my thumb and scroll through my phone, which is something I do anyway. SEE ALSO: Wagz Tagz are like AirTags for keeping your dog off the couch Malawey said she used to do livestreams on YouTube, but switched to TikTok for precisely this reason: “I think most people prefer to consume content that is fast-paced in little nuggets, as in ‘I can take this information and apply it.'” Direct connections and conversations “Facebook is where you let people know that people are dead; Instagram is great because we love to showcase how adorable our fur babies are; but then there’s TikTok, that’s where the party’s at,” summarized Christman. For Christman, it’s the ability to interact directly with people all over the world that makes TikTok such a powerful medium. Along with his videos, he goes live every night to answer questions. During these sessions, he’s often asked about behavioral issues like separation anxiety, which gives him the opportunity to respond in a more in-depth manner. “When somebody asks about separation anxiety, there’s more to it than that. I think of the conversation like, ‘tell me about their day, tell me about your day, and how did we get to where we feel that your dog suffers from separation anxiety?'” Credit: TikTok / @dr.adamchristman52 Credit: TikTok / @dr.adamchristman52 Having an online presence is obligatory for any dog trainer these days, but Malawey is also on TikTok for an altruistic reason. “When people either come back and just leave a comment, like ‘this trick worked really great’. or people who joined regularly on live streams, and they come back and they’re like, ‘You’ve helped so much,’ said Malawey. “You don’t get tired of hearing that. Because that’s why I’m there. I’m there to help.” SEE ALSO: Biometric dog collars claim to track your dog’s vitals. But are they fur real? There’s a whole community out there, and they want to help For the trainers on TikTok, there are real stakes involved with getting the right information into the hands of pet owners. Devin O’Donnell, a trainer from Montreal, got his start by training dogs at animal shelters to increase their likelihood of them being adopted and not returned. Of the returns O’Donnell has witnessed, many of them were first-time dog owners. “And those people and I don’t blame them, it’s not their fault but those people were shocked that it’s a lot of work.” Even if it’s just giving them support, it could mean the difference between keeping or surrendering a dog. O’Donnell says a lot of the issues for which dogs are being returned to shelters are just puppy behavior, like biting or jumping. Through his videos and interacting with followers, he feels like he’s really helping people. Even if it’s just giving them support, it could mean the difference between keeping or surrendering a dog. “If you kind of talk to people and encourage them, they’ll feel better about the situation, but if not, they might be overwhelmed,” he says. O’Donnell specializes in puppy training, which means preventative measures like never forcing a puppy into their crate, so they learn to love it as a safe space. If your dog already has separation anxiety, this doesn’t apply, but O’Donnell says teaching boundaries and clear directives from the beginning helps puppies not to develop behavior issues. Credit: TikTok / @cashcommands.dogtraining Credit: TikTok / @cashcommands.dogtraining The encouragement and context he provides is helpful for first-time and established pet owners alike, since knowing how hard it is to raise a dog doesn’t necessarily make it easier. But it’s a comfort to have the resources and broader community at my fingertips. And seeing the hundreds of comments thanking the creators and reinforcing that it works reminds me I’m in the right place. “You can be your authentic self on TikTok. I feel like no one really judges you there,” said Christman. “You see everyone dancing, being silly doing their thing, being creative. And it’s this open dialogue that you’re you don’t feel dumb to ask a question. And you have the ability for people to support you.” It’s incremental, but Lola has definitely made progress, and I’m motivated to reach the point where I don’t feel a twinge of panic when leaving the house. Until then, I’ll scroll with purpose and conviction. (https://mashable.com/article/tiktok-helped-my-dogs-separation-anxiety)

Separation anxiety in dogs can be difficult. Here’s how you can help.

If you have a dog you’re probably familiar with the term separation anxiety. Over 23 million households in the U.S. welcomed a new pet into their home during the pandemic, according to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. With many of us spending way more time at home, it’s no surprise that our dogs may be having a hard time as we start to leave the house more. Separation anxiety can be a serious issue for pets and their owners, but with the right training and resources, it doesn’t have to derail you or your dog’s life. Here’s what you need to know about separation anxiety in dogs. What is separation anxiety? Separation anxiety is a condition where a dog becomes extremely stressed when they are separated from their guardian, other close humans, or sometimes even another pet. In a 2019 study of over 4,000 dogs published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 13 percent were reported to exhibit overt separation anxiety. Dogs are inherently social animals, which is what makes them great pets and prone to separation anxiety, said Joanne Basinger, director of Andrea Arden Dog Training in New York City. “All dogs have the propensity to develop some sort of separation intolerance or separation anxiety, because they don’t want to be left alone,” she said. “A healthy well-balanced dog is going to prefer being with its people versus without.” SEE ALSO: Dog anxiety is real. These products can help calm your anxious pet. How TikTok helped me and my dog deal with separation anxiety I got a dog. My online life changed overnight. The WOpet Sprite automatic feeder is a good low-tech option, with some caveats In a 2014 webinar presentation, Dr. Nicholas Dodman, a renowned veterinary behaviorist and representative of the Humane Society, said separation anxiety stems from a combination of factors, but “by far and away, the most powerful force is environmental.” He goes on to say that just like babies, puppies need to be given lots of love and affection which makes them independent and secure as they grow up. This is why many dogs with separation anxiety tend to have a “shelter or stray background. What causes separation anxiety? Dogs experience separation anxiety when something happens that “disrupts the social bond,” according to Dodman’s webinar. This could be moving homes, children going back to school after vacation, or changing up daily routines. What are some signs of separation anxiety? The most common signs of separation anxiety are vocalization, destructive behavior, inappropriate elimination, and not eating while you’re away. But separation anxiety is not always so straightforward. “The owners aren’t there to observe the behavior in person, and some of the symptoms can seem like problems with housetraining or boredom,” wrote Carly Loyer, PhD, Research Manager on the ASPCA Behavioral Sciences Team, in an email. Dodman’s webinar lists the following as signs of separation anxiety: Following Pre-departure anxiety Vocalization Destructive behavior Inappropriate elimination Pacing Houdini Syndrome Self-destructive behavior Salivation Vomiting Psychogenic anorexia Exuberant greeting Make sure you rule out whether or not it’s just puppy behavior or boredom. Credit: Getty Images What should you do if your dog has separation anxiety 1. Consult with your veterinarian These symptoms could indicate a variety of issues, so just because your dog is behaving a certain way, doesn’t mean it’s definitely separation anxiety. That’s why it’s important to get an official diagnosis for your vet so you can rule out other behavior or medical issues. 2. Consult with a trainer or animal behavioral specialist If a veterinarian has determined that your dog has no underlying health issues and may have separation anxiety, Basinger recommends consulting with a trainer “so that they could have a consultation that’s based on the specifics of their lifestyle, where they live, and their dog’s specific behavior.” There’s a lot of information out there, so rather than having to parse through all of it, she said, “Find a person that they trust to talk through it and come up with a plan. That way, they’re really getting the attention that they need for their particulars.” While the pandemic may have contributed to a rise in separation anxiety, it doesn’t have to inhibit its treatment. “Many professionals are still offering services virtually during this time,” said Loyer, “and luckily separation anxiety is one behavior challenge that lends itself well to virtual coaching.” There’s no legal requirement for dog trainers to be certified, but there are several highly reputable qualifications that can help you parse out the good from the bad. Listing all the different certifications here would be like alphabet soup, but as a rule of thumb, look for a trainer that is certified in canine behavior consulting or has a good track record with testimonials from clients. SEE ALSO: Dog anxiety is real. These products can help calm your anxious pet. Consulting with a behavior specialist can give you a specific plan that works for you and your dog. Credit: Getty Images Helpful tips to prevent or curb separation anxiety There are preventative measures that you can do to prevent separation anxiety in dogs or stop it from getting worse. 1. Practice healthy boundaries Many people are still working from home in some capacity, which means now is a good time to start preparing your dog for a future change in routine. Loyer recommends designating some alone time throughout the day. “Try to leave your home throughout the week go for a stroll outside or do some yardwork without your pet. Practice with short durations initially so you can make sure your pet is comfortable with you being gone, gradually increasing the duration as much as possible to prepare for longer stretches of time,” she wrote. For those in an apartment, Basinger suggests crating your dog or working in a separate room, “so there’s alone time, with you, home.” 2. Set your dog up for success There are a few different approaches to separation anxiety. But for that critical period when you are out of the house, the experts interviewed all emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment where your dog will feel relaxed and comfortable. What exactly this environment looks like is highly situational, but Dodman recommends a confined space with an open crate they can go into if they want. When creating this environment, he also says to think of the five senses. For taste, use food puzzles or toys stuffed with high value treats, like peanut butter, liver, or frozen wet food so that it becomes a dog lollipop. Smell has some overlap with taste, and Dodman and Loyer both suggest hiding treats for them to discover like a scavenger hunt. Another idea from Dodman is to enrich a toy with an engaging smell like anise, vanilla, or deer urine “if you can stomach it.” For vision, turn on the TV and give them access to a window, perhaps adorned with a bird feeder. Sound could be from the TV, or talk radio, as well as music designed specifically for dogs. Lastly, make sure your dog has a cozy bed and soft comforts. The idea, said Dodman, is to try and make it fun for them. “When you leave it’s party time.” There’s also a ton of YouTube videos specifically made for relaxing dogs. Above all, remember the adage, “a tired dog is a good dog.” Try and make sure your dog gets some exercise before you leave so they’re mentally and physically calmer. Make the environment so inviting that they look forward to you leaving. Credit: Getty Images 3. Don’t ignore separation anxiety You may have heard that ignoring your dog or letting them cry it out will teach your dog to self-soothe or learn healthy boundaries, but for a young puppy this probably won’t work and may have the opposite affect. “When you’re in need of an attachment figure, you’ve been separated from your mom, lost your litter mates, your new owners should not be distancing you. Leaving a puppy to cry is precisely the wrong approach because, at this stage, newly adopted pups need all the care and attention you can muster,” said Dodman. “They should be kept as close as possible, spoken to kindly and have all their needs met.” That being said, Dodman continued it’s important to strike a balance between loving them and being matter of fact, especially when it comes to departures. Being overly emotional when you leave will make them feel like it’s a big deal and that they should panic. To help find that balance, Basinger suggests thinking about it as “coaching them on how to learn how to self soothe and self pacify.” If your dog is in their crate or in another room and starts to get upset, get closer to them, allow them to see you and talk to them. The key is to address it, not ignore it, because your dog’s separation anxiety won’t get better on its own. Remember you’re not alone “The most important thing is to get your ducks in a row in terms of who you can lean on,” said Shoshi Parks, a professional dog trainer who specializes in separation anxiety. “Whether that’s a dog care provider you trust that can walk your dog, or a doggy daycare that you can bring them to, or a trusted friend or neighbor that you can drop the dog off when you need to be somewhere.” Having a dog with separation anxiety can be daunting, so look to family and friends for support when you need them. Parks also wants dog owners to know that training can be flexible and tailored to fit particular lifestyles, so getting help for your dog’s separation anxiety doesn’t mean overhauling your entire life. “They can really do it on their own time, and that it really only takes a commitment of about 30 minutes a day.” Resources and products to help with separation anxiety There are tons of great resources and products to arm yourself with when taking on separation anxiety. Interactive toys like Kongs, snuffle mats, or food puzzles can keep your dog engaged for a while. Calming aids like treats with L-Theanine and melatonin or weighted blankets can also help. When in doubt, look to resources like the American Kennel Club, the ASPCA, and the Humane Society for trustworthy information. And be aware that while these suggestions may help, they shouldn’t be substituted for actual training or advice. Related Video: Move over, Boston Dynamics. You can build your own tiny robo-dog now. UPDATE: Mar. 1, 2022, 12:00 p.m. EST This story has been updated to add additional context from Dodman and to reflect Carly Loyer’s complete title. An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported the ASPCA’s statistic 23 million dogs and cats, not just dogs, were acquired during the pandemic. This story has also been updated to correctly spell Nicholas Dodman’s name. (https://mashable.com/article/dog-separation-anxiety-how-to-help)

Cats have separation anxiety, too. Here’s what you need to know.

You might think of your cat as an aloof, independent creature that’s capable of handling anything they do have nine lives, after all. But many owners have learned that cats can develop separation anxiety, just like dogs. Cats may not express separation anxiety as enthusiastically as a squirmy, slobbery dog might, but cats are capable of forming deep attachments with their owners that can leave them feeling panicked when you leave. Cats who are newer to their families likely adjusted to their human’s constant presence during the pandemic. So when people started to venture out more, some cats may have struggled with the abrupt change. Coupled with the fact that 23 million U.S. households acquired a dog or cat during the pandemic, it’s no surprise that separation anxiety has become a big issue for some cat owners. If you think your cat has separation anxiety, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve talked to experts and broken down what you need to know. What is cat separation anxiety? “Separation anxiety is a stress response in an animal observed when they are separated from a person or other animal that they are strongly bonded to,” according to Dr. Erin Katribe, medical director of Best Friends Animal Society. If you’re surprised that cats can have separation anxiety, you’re not alone. “While a belief exists that cats are less social than dogs,” said Katribe in an email exchange, “a newer understanding of feline behavior tells us that cats are, in fact, very social animals, particularly when it comes to pet cats and their owners.” Katribe points to research published in PLOS ONE and the Journal of Veterinary Behavior Clinical Applications and Research that is teaching us more about our cat’s social proclivities. SEE ALSO: Dog anxiety is real. These products can help calm your anxious pet. How TikTok helped me and my dog deal with separation anxiety I got a dog. My online life changed overnight. The WOpet Sprite automatic feeder is a good low-tech option, with some caveats Another study, published in Current Biology, found that when compared to dogs, cats form similar attachment bonds to humans. In fact, 64 percent of cats showed a secure attachment to their owner and showed signs of distress when separated from them. So while your cat may not express their affection as overtly as a dog, they do love you. Probably. Credit: Getty Images What causes separation anxiety? Katribe said the exact cause of separation anxiety is unknown, but it’s likely a combination of “environmental and hereditary” factors. Any cat can develop separation anxiety, but some cats are more prone to it, such as kittens who were orphaned, bottle-fed, or weaned too young, or cats that have spent a lot of time in shelters and are unaccustomed to consistent human interaction. Cat behavior expert Ramona Marek writes about how kittens that didn’t have an opportunity to form secure attachments or build resilience to stress are not as equipped to handle changes. Sudden changes to routines can trigger separation anxiety. Your cat has grown accustomed to you being home all the time, so going back to an office or simply leaving more often might cause an adverse reaction. SEE ALSO: A Death Star for cats: Why this WiFi robot kitty litter may be worth $550 What are some signs of separation anxiety in cats? While many of the signs of separation anxiety for cats are similar to those in dogs, some are specific to felines, said Katribe. “Signs of stressed cats that may not be obvious to those familiar with dog behavior include excessive hiding, feigned sleep, excessive grooming, and inappropriate elimination behavior.” According to Katribe, some common signs of separation anxiety in cats are: Destructive behavior Excessive vocalization Inappropriate elimination habits Not eating or drinking when owners are away Other signs of stress can include excessive grooming If your cat shows any of these signs, talk to your veterinarian; these behaviors could also indicate an underlying medical condition. “Eliminating outside the litter box might be due to urinary tract infection or excessive meowing could be due to hyperthyroidism, as can a ravenous appetite,” said Dr. Bruce Kornreich from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Credit: Getty Images What should you do if your cat has separation anxiety? Once you and your veterinarian have ruled out any medical issues, Kornreich recommends working with them to formulate a plan. “Right from the start, a veterinarian should be involved, and they would likely discuss the sorts of things that you could do to soften the manifestation of separation anxiety.” This might look like trying some tactics on your own or hiring a behavior expert depending on the severity of the separation anxiety. In the case of severe separation anxiety, Kornreich says prescribed anti-anxiety medication can help, but with a caveat: “We always strive to address these issues without medication. But there are some cases where medications can be beneficial.” Helpful tips to prevent or curb separation anxiety Kornreich says preventing or curbing separation anxiety is about preparation. That means learning about cat behavior and how to identify the signs of a problem, understanding that there are tools and resources to minimize the likelihood of separation anxiety, and knowing that talking to a veterinarian can empower you to address the problem. 1. Enrich their environment When it comes to creating the right environment for your cat, a lot of it is about “instilling confidence,” said Kornreich. “Owners should make sure that a cat has a safe place where they can always go, perhaps a perch, a little nook, or something like that, and a cat should feel comfortable going there on their own.” Echoing this, Katribe recommends creating hiding places for your cat to retreat to in times of stress. “Consider providing elevated resting spots and utilizing vertical space,” she said. Cats often feel safer when they are elevated. 2. Provide mental stimulation while you’re home and away “One of the most helpful ways to prevent separation anxiety is to provide your cat with mental stimulation and physical activity, both when you’re at home and when you’re away,” said Katribe. When you leave, providing your cat with mental stimulation keeps them occupied and entertained. Katribe suggests puzzles, a scavenger hunt for treats or other rewards, interactive toys, cat-friendly TV, and access to an enclosed yard or patio. There are even apps available for tablets and smartphones. Yes, there are apps for cats. And when you’re home, both Kornreich and Katribe highlight the importance of dedicated playtime. Play with a cat-approved toy, “where they can exercise and kind of carry out their normal behavior and the prey drive,” said Kornreich. In general, whether it’s playtime or downtime, dedicated time together provides an opportunity to give positive reinforcement for good behavior and strengthen your bond. Credit: Getty Images 3. Address the cues and teach resilience When your cat has separation anxiety, certain actions like picking up your keys or putting on your shoes are cues that tell them it’s time to freak out because you’re leaving. Helping to minimize the cues might help reduce this feeling because your cat isn’t in a triggered state of mind. “Don’t make a big show of leaving, and try to perform obvious cues well ahead of leaving,” said Katribe. Kornreich even suggests scrambling the cues like picking up your keys, but then putting them back down and not leaving. “Then the cat will know that sometimes when the keys get picked up, my owner’s not going anywhere.” As a way of teaching your cat that coming and going is normal, Kornreich also suggests leaving for 30 seconds and then coming back. “By leaving and coming back quickly, that can be really helpful for them to get in their minds that you’re not going to be gone forever and are coming back.” Resources and products to help with separation anxiety As mentioned above, food puzzles are a great way to provide your cat with mental stimulation and keep them engaged while you’re away. Pheromone diffusers have also been reported to help, says Kornreich. They work by emitting a synthetic copy of the facial pheromones your cat uses to mark their territory, thus making them feel more safe and secure. Organizations like the Best Friends Animal Society, Cornell Feline Health Center, the ASPCA, and the Humane Society have a wealth of resources dedicated to cat care and dealing with separation anxiety. Also, PetMD is a site dedicated to healthcare information from vetted veterinary professionals. Credit: Getty Images Don’t worry, you can get through this For cat owners who need to hear it, Kornreich says the vast majority of cases are manageable. “It may take time, it may take perseverance, it may take consultation with the appropriate people, but we know that in most cases, these problems can be dealt with.” Plus, he says, tackling separation anxiety with your cat has the silver lining of deepening your bond. “The cat gets the benefit from your love, and you get the benefit of the cat’s love and having gone through it. Sometimes a little bit of adversity brings people and animals closer.” UPDATE: Feb. 28, 2022, 12:00 p.m. EST This article previously misquoted Dr. Bruce Kornreich the medical issue in question is hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. The correct name of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine has also been updated. (https://mashable.com/article/cat-separation-anxiety-tips-resources)

Missile North Korea Fired Last Week Was Old, Not a New Big One, South Korea Says

South Korea on Tuesday dismissed North Korea’s claim to have launched a newly developed intercontinental ballistic missile last week, accusing the country of firing a less-powerful existing weapon and fabricating data following an earlier failed launch. North Korea said it launched a Hwasong-17 missile, its longest-range developmental ICBM, last Thursday in its biggest weapons test in years. Its state media called the launch a historical event and released a stylized Hollywood-style video showing leader Kim Jong Un, in sunglasses and leather jacket, supervising the launch. But South Korea’s Defense Ministry said Tuesday it has determined that what North Korea fired wasn’t a Hwasong-17 but a Hwasong-15, another ICBM that it successfully tested in 2017. Both missiles are potentially capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. But analysts say the Hwasong-17 has a longer potential range and its huge size suggests that it’s designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads to defeat missile defense systems. Believed to be about 25 meters long, the Hwasong-17 is, by some estimates, the world’s biggest road-mobile ballistic missile system. In a report to a parliamentary committee, the Defense Ministry said details of Thursday’s launch such as the missile’s speed, combustion and stage separation were similar to those of the Hwasong-15, not the Hwasong-17. The report also suggested that the North Korean video wasn’t shot on the actual launch date, citing an analysis of Kim’s shadow and weather conditions seen in the video. The report said the United States agreed with the South Korean assessment and is separately analyzing the launch. Kim Jong Un Mar 25 North Korean TV Broadcasts Latest Missile Test Edited Like a Movie North Korea Mar 20 North Korea Fires Artillery Into Sea Days After Missile Launch Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said Monday that Tokyo’s assessment that North Korea launched a new type of ICBM remained unchanged. Matsuno said the missile poses a greater threat to Japan and the international community than other weapons North Korea has fired. Thursday’s launch was North Korea’s most serious provocation since its Hwasong-15 launch in November 2017. It was also the latest in a slew of missile tests it has conducted this year in an apparent bid to modernize its arsenal and ramp up pressure on the Biden administration amid stalled nuclear talks between the two countries. According to the assessments of both North Korea and its neighbors, the missile fired last Thursday flew higher and longer than any other North Korean weapon tested so far. Some experts say North Korea may have mounted a much lighter payload on the Hwasong-15 to help it fly further than its previous launch in 2017. The South Korean Defense Ministry said the alleged North Korean deception was likely related to a previous failed attempt to launch the Hwasong-17 on March 16. According to South Korean accounts, the missile fired from North Korea’s capital region exploded soon after liftoff and many residents of Pyongyang witnessed the blast. The ministry report said North Korea is believed to have then decided to launch a reliable ICBM which it could successfully fly to prevent possible public anxiety and bolster unity at home. It said it is also likely that North Korea attempted to deceive its rivals into believing it has advanced ICBM technology to cement its image as a military power and increase its leverage in future negotiations. Ha Tae-keung, a member of parliament’s defense committee, told reporters that the ministry said the explosion occurred at an altitude of only several kilometers. He cited the ministry as saying the blast sent debris like rain over Pyongyang though civilian casualties haven’t been independently confirmed. Prior to the failed March 16 launch, the South Korean and U.S. militaries said North Korea tested a Hwasong-17 system twice earlier this year in launches that flew medium distances. Some observers said North Korea was likely testing the first stage of the Hwasong-17, but North Korea said it tested cameras and other systems for a spy satellite. South Korean officials said this week that North Korea may raise tensions further in coming weeks by conducting another ICBM test, a prohibited launch of a rocket to place its first functioning spy satellite into orbit, or even a nuclear test. North Korean state media didn’t immediately respond to the South Korean Defense Ministry report. Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. (https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/national-international/missile-north-korea-fired-last-week-was-old-not-a-new-big-one-south-korea-says/2926950/)

The PetSafe Bolt Laser Cat Toy rules

If you have a cat, you likely experience the terrifying few moments when your little heathen wants to play but you don’t have access to a toy. My cat, Colby Jack, commits crimes every morning with a fervor unseen in times of peace. He pounces, claws out, and attacks my every moving limb, rendering any morning hope of calm completely useless. I’ve tried plenty of tools to combat his vitriol, from Feliway sprays and wall plugs to spending part of my morning routine playing with him with toys. These methods worked well enough, but nothing fully eclipsed his taste for blood. So I tried out the PetSafe Bolt Laser Cat Toy, an automatic laser meant to keep a playful cat occupied. SEE ALSO: Cats have separation anxiety, too. Here’s what you need to know. My take? It depends on the nature of your cat, but for Colby Jack, it was a godsend and fits the criteria for what I think makes a good automatic cat toy: It works reliably, solves a problem, turns off automatically, and is virtually hassle free. He caught it. Credit: Courtesy Brendan McGowen How it works You’re going to need your own batteries for the PetSafe Bolt Laser Cat Toy. The unboxing experience is simple from there: The four AA batteries are the only setup you need. The Bolt Laser is shaped like one of those fancy pepper grinders or an immersion blender. My apartment is small, and my kitchen is mere inches away from my living room, where I keep Colby Jack’s toys, so I’m hyper-aware of how much space my animal takes up not only on his own physically, but also aesthetically. I want guests to have the illusion that two human beings live in this house before the one single cat that runs our lives. There are two play settings for the $21.95 Bolt Laser : automatic mode, in which you click a button and a laser shoots out at random for 15 minutes, and a manual mode, which you can find by pressing and holding that same button for a few seconds. The manual mode is used when you want to be in control of the laser. There’s a mirror inside the toy that will adjust the angle of the laser, so you can aim the random patterns at the floor or a wall or any other surface you’d like your cat to be focused on. I’d recommend making sure you clear around any surface you’re going to let the laser run free on, though, because cats notoriously do not care about breaking your things. The laser vs. the device itself It took Colby Jack and his beautifully soft walnut brain a few days to realize what he was supposed to do with the floating light. For the first day, any time I turned on the automatic laser toy, he would stare exclusively at the toy itself, completely ignoring the laser it projected across the room. But, after getting used to the device, he got comfortable enough to play with the actual laser. My friend’s cat, Frankie, had a similar experience with the toy: uninterested in the laser at first, but encapsulated by the machine itself. After a few plays, though, both cats came around, trying to catch the red dot. If you end up trying out the automatic laser toy, give your cat a few tries to get accustomed to it. Is it the laser or the machine that’s more interesting? Credit: Courtesy Brendan McGowen Since you can change the positioning of the device by moving it onto a table or sliding it down onto the floor, you’ve got a pretty large range of motion. But I found that you don’t want to put it up too high. When I tested out putting the toy on top of my refrigerator, the laser wasn’t quite bright enough for Colby Jack to hunt. Is it worth it? The biggest downside for me is that it is a bit loud. You can hear it running the entire time it’s on, which sounds like a low hum. I don’t have any problem with low-level white noise, but it’s definitely something to consider. Colby Jack, the hunter Credit: Courtesy Brendan McGowen At just over $20, which is about $15 more than your classic toy on a string, I think it’s absolutely worth the price if your cat actually wants to play with it. The toy keeps Colby entertained for the full 15 minutes, but some reviewers note that their pets become disinterested around the 10-minute mark. It depends on your individual cat, but for me and Colby Jack, this toy is absolutely worth it. (https://mashable.com/review/petsafe-bolt-laser-cat-toy-review)

Dog anxiety is real. These products can help calm your anxious pet.

Dogs can be one of the best natural remedies for anxiety in humans. But experienced pup parents know that anxiety can also be just as big of a problem for our four-legged friends, too. Lots of products from supplements to calming beds sell themselves on helping to manage dog anxiety. But there’s also a lot of misinformation and pseudo-science being sold, which is why we asked three veterinary and dog behavioral experts for their advice on which aids and products might actually help tackle the beast of anxiety. Is anxiety common for dogs? “Anxiety is common, and often dogs with it exhibit a wide range of symptoms and severity,” said Dr. Travis Arndt, medical director at the Animal Medical Center of Mid-America in Missouri. The current moment is a particularly hairy time for anxious pups, too, as the pandemic’s disruptions to our schedules and lifestyles now once again threatens to drastically change. “Dogs, being creatures of habit, don’t usually like changes to their routines.” According to Dr. Jennifer Frione, a veterinarian who owns the Lakeside Animal Hospital in Florida, “Our pets have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis just like we have. While we are finding ways to cope with the pandemic stress, pets have anxiety, too. Now that the vaccine is widely available and people and places are going back to normal, prepare for your pet to experience separation anxiety as you return to work or other activities.” But the pervasiveness of dog anxiety goes far beyond current circumstances. “There can be a genetic predisposition or anxiety can be caused by either or both mental or physical trauma,” said Dr. Wailani Sung, the director of behavior and welfare programs at the San Francisco SPCA, an independent nonprofit animal welfare organization and hospital not associated with ASPCA. “Anxiety is the worry that something scary or bad may occur most likely due to a previous negative experience or fear of the unknown.” What are signs a pet might be facing anxiety? There are a host of different types of anxiety. But our veterinary experts said some of the most common symptoms can include: Incessant pacing Panting Upset stomach or more frequent accidents Destroying things around the house Not eating or accepting treats Excessive whining or barking Chewing and licking a hot spot constantly and possibly causing bleeding Shaking Excessive salivation Hiding under the furniture Escape attempts like jumping out of the window Fear-based aggression toward other dogs and people While some products can help manage a dog’s anxiety, none are ever a replacement for the more long-term, fundamental practices like behavioral modification training and lifestyle management, Dr. Sung said. The most important fixes for dog anxiety include: lots of socialization and early exposure to common triggers at 3-12 weeks of age, daily exercise, play and entertainment, good diet, and consistent routines. In some severe cases, prescribed pharmaceutical medications may be necessary. “As with any medical or behavior problem facing our pets, early recognition and intervention are key to successfully managing the issue. Promote calm in your dog’s daily life using professional guidance from your veterinarian and behaviorist to provide behavioral modification, and to select the combination of medication and behavioral support products appropriate for your dog,” said Dr. Arndt. While treatments vary greatly depending on the type of anxiety and triggers, Dr. Sung said one widely applicable behavioral training method for anxiety is, “redirecting the dog whenever he starts to look anxious.” To do that, you must first train a foundation of commands that shifts their attention away from the trigger, like: sit, look, touch, find it, go to mat, leave it, turn around, etc. “They can be redirected to fun activities, such as playing fetch or tug of war. Dogs with noise sensitivities should be provided with a safe space to retreat to.” Behavioral training strategies like this one have been tried and tested through decades of research and practice. But the same can’t be said for many anxiety products. While the ones listed below have other benefits like being easier and more accessible than one-on-one dog training lessons, there’s often not a lot of scientific data or study to prove their efficacy so approach many with a grain of salt. “While these products are widely available, there is not always the level of guidance provided to owners. When people have little guidance from veterinary or behavioral professionals, often they select products based on price or testimony of friends, family, or sales associates. Lastly, if used incorrectly these products and supplements delay pet owners from seeking the professional help their dog needs and risks the anxiety worsening,” said Dr. Arndt. Dr. Sung also advised staying away from new and trendy anxiety reducers with not only no scientific testing but potentially negative impacts, too, like CBD and certain essential oils. “We don’t know what the appropriate doses are to reduce anxiety. We don’t know how CBD can potentially interact with other medications and how it is metabolized. Many products tested do not contain the stated amount of CBD or can be cross-contaminated with THC,” she warned. Ultimately, Dr. Frione said that “Canine anxiety unfortunately does not have one easy fix. It is complex and takes time, patience, and consistency to help your fur-baby overcome it.” Also, the products spotlighted below include only what we were able to get samples of and review for ourselves by testing it on the author’s extremely anxiety-prone rescue pit bull. Any other products referenced and linked are still expert-recommended, but not personally tested. So what’s a pet parent to do? We tried some of the most-recommended dog anxiety products to see if they really worked. (https://mashable.com/roundup/best-dog-anxiety-products)

The best automatic cat feeders to keep your pet fed while you’re away

If there’s one thing cats love, it’s food. Honestly, they probably love food more than they love us, the givers of the food. However, we can’t always be at their side to feed them at meal time, as much as we wish we could be. SEE ALSO: Scoop no more: 10 of the best self-cleaning cat litter boxes But, life goes on and we’ve got places to go and people to see, and our cats’ feeding schedule shouldn’t have to suffer for that. So if your cat has become accustomed to regular meal times throughout the day and your workday doesn’t quite line up with that, an automatic feeder is a smart investment to keep your cat fed without disturbing either one of your schedules. While we can’t guarantee that an automatic feeder will help your cat be cool with you leaving them home alone, at least you can rest assured that they won’t go hungry while they miss your company. What to consider when buying an automatic cat feeder Whether you’re looking for a no-frills, basic gravity feeder, or a full-fledged product to program perfectly timed and portioned meals, we’ve found the best automatic cat feeder options to fit your and your kitty’s needs. Here are some things to keep in mind: Wet or dry food: Which food type does your cat usually eat? Wet dispensers will require daily cleaning and more attention than dry food feeders. Your cat’s needs: While automatic feeders should never be a replacement for human interaction, consider your and your cat’s routines. Would the feeder be useful for days when you’re busy in meetings, or are you planning to go out of the house for a while? If it’s the latter, your feline friend could develop separation anxiety so it’s important to pick one that best suits their needs. Overall functionality : If you’ll be using the feeder often and have a dishwasher, look for dishwasher-safe containers or bowls so you aren’t stuck hand-washing each week. If you’re someone who often mixes up times, pick a programmable feeder that will remember for you. If your cat will continue to snack all day long, opt out of a gravity feeder and go for one that dispenses a specific amount of food. How to train your cat to use an automatic pet feeder The younger a cat is, the easier it will likely be to train them to get used to an automatic cat feeder, but a cat of any age should acclimate relatively well. It’s food, after all, so even if they’re apprehensive of the fancy new robot hanging out in their feeding area, they will eventually eat when they get hungry enough. That said, there are a few tips and tricks to help the process move along smoothly: Remember that cats love routine and familiarity, so don’t be surprised if your cat turns up their nose at the new device. Give them time to get used to the automatic feeder’s presence especially if it makes noise and let them sniff and examine it for as long as they need to get comfortable. If your cat is not already adjusted to a regular feeding schedule, try getting them into that routine first. If they’re used to having a bowl of food available to them at all times, an automatic cat feeder with timed food disbursement will come as quite a shock. Don’t remove your cat’s current food bowl from the area; keep it near the automatic feeder so they can still get some food even if they’re a little skittish around the new device. Leave out both the old cat bowl and the new feeder for a few weeks, decreasing the food in the old bowl while increasing the food in the automatic cat feeder. Keep as close of an eye on your cat’s behavior around the food bowls as you can. When they are eating primarily from the automatic feeder, you can start to take away their old pet food bowl for good. A surefire way to coax your cat to the automatic feeder is by placing some of their favorite treats in it. The most important thing to remember as you train your cat to eat from an automatic cat feeder is that you can’t expect to plop the automatic feeder in front of your cat and immediately run off for a weekend away. This process will take a little time and patience and doubly so if you have multiple cats so be sure to plan ahead and give them lots of reassurance and cuddles. What kind of food can you put in an automatic feeder? Automatic cat feeders are ideal for dry cat food, and are typically sealed pretty well to keep the dry food from getting stale over time. Kibble of just about any size or shape should fit well inside and dispense properly from the feeder without clogging or overflowing. Since the nature of an automatic pet feeder relies on the fact that cat food will be sitting out for a while, most automatic cat feeders are not designed to house wet food or semi-moist food, both of which can spoil easily in a few hours’ time. However, some pet feeders are designed with a cooling mechanism to make wet food delivery possible. Be sure to take note of the type of food your automatic cat feeder is designed for before you make your purchase. So, which automatic cat feeder is best? Imagine being able to sleep in late without cats pawing at your face because they’re hungry, or working overtime without feeling guilty about missing kitty’s mealtime. With an automatic cat feeder, you can make that a reality, and your cat will most certainly thank you for it. To help you figure out which option is right for you, we researched the internet’s favorite models and broke them down based on the features cat owners care about most. Find the best automatic cat feeder for you and your cat in 2022 right here. (https://mashable.com/roundup/best-automatic-cat-feeders)

Save 24 on the DNA My Dog breed test

TL;DR: The DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test is on sale for 24 off as of March 8 get it for $59.99 instead of $79. While it’s always important to shop at women-owned businesses, it’s particularly encouraged on International Women’s Day and throughout the month of March, which celebrates Women’s History Month. There are plenty of women-owned businesses to choose from, but we’re highlighting one in particular to help you kick off your shopping spree: Mindy Tenenbaum, the founder of DNA My Dog. A lover of animals, Tenenbaum recognized the value of doggie DNA testing for pet parents and rescues, in particular. She founded DNA My Dog in 2008, with the desire to help dog shelters and rescues raise money by offering DNA testing to their adopters. Today, any pet parent can get in on the testing action with the DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test, on sale for just $59.99. Tenenbaum is actively involved in canine rescue in the Greater Toronto Area and holds a master’s degree in veterinary science with a specialization in veterinary forensics. She even serves as an expert witness in animal abuse cases. So, you can bet that the DNA My Dog testing kit is gently designed with a dog’s best interests in mind. Pet parents can easily and quickly swab the inside of their pup’s cheek and ship out the sample in the return envelope. Within a few weeks, you’ll get an email with your results, including a custom photo certificate of the breeds found in your dog’s genetic composition, a percentage breakdown of the levels found in your dog’s unique DNA, and a report on dominant breeds, personality traits, and health concerns. Get a better picture of the pet you know and love. For a limited time, the DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test is on sale for 24 off. Support a woman-owned business and show your dog some love for just $59.99. Prices subject to change. Credit: DNA My Dog DNA My Dog Breed Identification Test $59.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal (https://mashable.com/deals/march-8-dna-my-dog-breed)

Get your cat a friendly robot to play with for only $30

TL;DR: As of Feb. 10, this Automated Cat Robot Toy with LED & Feathers is just $29.99 that’s 14 off from its regular price of $35. As much as you wish you could, you can’t keep your cat entertained 24/7. You’ve got a life too, you know. For all those moments you’re feeling guilty for leaving your feline friend alone, this Automated Robot Toy from UGR Light can help you out. This adorable, entertaining gadget is on sale for just $29.99 for a limited time and can fill in the gaps when you’re not around to keep your pet company. Interactive and smart, this toy stands just under four inches tall and can start up with the touch of your cat’s paw. It’s designed to keep them entertained and active with all different kinds of movements, from irregular running and jumping to 360-degree rotation and more. There’s three speed options fast, slow, or random and an elastic feather wand that lets you adjust the height to suit your cat. With a tap of a paw, the toy will run for five minutes or until your cat stops playing. It will automatically go to sleep when left alone, but as soon as your cat touches it again, it restarts. After four hours of no activity, it’ll automatically shut down to preserve battery life. Just be sure to charge it up via USB before you leave the house, so your cat will have a robot friend to keep him company. This toy’s rolling feature is designed to work on almost all floors, including thick carpets, tile, and wood. Just set it up in any room in your home maybe near your pet camera, so you can watch him chase, jump, catch, hunt, and get some playful exercise. Give your cat a new robot friend while it’s on sale for 14 off. Usually $35, you can grab it for only $29.99 for a limited time. Prices subject to change. Credit: UGR Light Automated Cat Robot Toy with LED & Feathers $29.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal (https://mashable.com/deals/feb-10-automated-cat-robot-toy)

42 of parents returning to work will miss their pandemic dog more than their kids

A new survey from dog walking app Wag. has revealed some uncomfortable truths about our household loyalties. In a wide-ranging survey of people’s feelings about being away from the dogs they acquired during the pandemic, Wag. also pitted dogs against children, and it looks like dogs won. Sixty percent of participants switching to an in-office or hybrid work environment are also parents. When asked what they would miss most from a list of options, 42 percent said they would miss their dog the most. The deep bond between humankind and dog is a sentiment that is overwhelmingly reflected throughout the survey, which thankfully didn’t pose a Sophie’s Choice dilemma, in which one had to go. It’s also worth noting that among those who are returning to in-person work, 76 percent are nervous about ” pet care challenges ” ahead. The findings are a preview of blog posts that Wag. says it will publish in honor of National Puppy Day on March 23. Conducted by DKC Analytics, it consisted of 1,001 adults from the U.S. who have adopted, purchased, or been given at least one dog within the past two years. Participants were asked questions related to their experience as new dog parents, particularly as many return to in-person work. Data for this survey was “procured using the Pollfish survey delivery platform,” according to Wag. Other findings reveal that many “pet parents” are surprised by the responsibilities of having a dog. A majority were surprised by the “amount of time, money, and effort required for eight different aspects of care,” the highest being medical care and food/nutrition. And several statistics point to pet insurance being a major challenge. Across a few different categories, pet parents seemed to express a desire for more information prior to getting a dog. According to the survey, “Three-quarters say they would have valued more information about food and nutrition, dog training, and pet wellness prior to their first parenting experience,” and 87 percent say they would have benefitted from “better education” about the monetary cost of dog parenting. Despite some of the challenges, the benefits of having a dog are clear. 88 percent of people who adopted dogs are “satisfied with their last adoption experience,” 93 percent say their dog has provided them with “mental health support,” and 48 percent say the dog in their life has “decreased their level of anxiety.” (https://mashable.com/article/survey-people-returning-to-work-miss-dogs-more-than-kids-spouse)