Some believe that simply wanting an ARISTOPET is enough to have one. However, true ARISTOPARENTS know that sharing our lives with a pet is more than just feeding them properly, taking them to the vet, and meeting their basic needs… Our lifestyle, our decisions, our mood… There are a multitude of aspects that influence not only our relationship with them, but also their own well-being. An ARISTOPET gives us everything selflessly… that's why we must push ourselves to always give them the best.
What happens is that this is not always the case. And the consequences are not long in coming. According to Asistencia Para Animales Domésticos (ASPAD), a national network of specialized centers that provide comprehensive assistance to pets, in the year that just passed, the demand for psychological therapies for dogs and cats has tripled. A very severe increase that inevitably makes us ask some questions…
What's happening?
In the words of Soledad Soler, one of the veterinarians in this network, behavioral problems are becoming increasingly common in ARISTOPETS. Especially in those living in urban areas. In fact, 10% of the consultations she receives are related to inappropriate or unexpected behaviors and how to resolve them.
Why is this happening?
Firstly, 90% of psychological problems in ARISTODOGS are directly related to socialization when they were puppies. Secondly, the imprinting period also plays a decisive role, as unfortunately in many cases, many puppies are separated from their mothers before two months (which is the minimum recommended period). This, according to the latest research, also explains the bad temper of ARISTOCATS, as we explained here a few days ago.
Therefore, it seems necessary to work on improving both points, as it is clear that what they experience during their first months of life has decisive consequences on the formation of their personality and the creation of possible traumas or disorders.
Thirdly, another clear cause has to do with separation anxiety. In this sense, there is no doubt that our marathon workdays do not facilitate the relationship between us and our dogs (hence the greater need for therapy in city pets). And the lack of quality time shared has serious consequences on the attitude of our ARISTOPETS.
In the case of dogs, this can mean they destroy things when we are not home, bite, urinate when they see us enter the house, or attempt to "mount" people or objects. Uncomfortable and unpleasant situations for everyone.
As for cats, disorders usually occur due to changes in their home or environment. Moving; the arrival of other ARISTOPETS at home… or new human family members; changes in their belongings, exposure to the outdoors… All of this stresses them and causes unpredictable behaviors.
Who can help us?
Feline and canine ethologists are the most suitable specialists to treat any behavioral or attitude problem on the part of our pets. Ethology is a science that studies human and animal behavior with a long tradition (despite not being well established in our country). In fact, it was founded by Konrad Lorenz and Nikolaas Tinbergen, winners of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1973, whom we have already mentioned on several occasions.
When should a pet be taken to therapy?
Each one is unique, of course. But there are some symptoms, as well as certain evidence that our cat or dog needs help. When we observe changes in character, not necessarily bad behavior or aggression, but also listlessness (which can give clues of possible depression), loss of appetite… And, of course, any anomalous behavior we observe in them.
Timely help from a professional can change everything… for the better. So if you've noticed anything unusual in your pet, don't waste another minute. And if you think everything is fine, don't let your guard down! Strive to improve. Your pet will always thank you.