Some people believe that wanting an ARISTOPET is enough to have one. However, true ARISTOPARENTS know that sharing our lives with a pet means more than feeding it properly, taking it to the veterinarian, and meeting its basic needs… Our lifestyle, our decisions, our emotional state… There are countless factors that influence not only our relationship with them, but also their own well-being. An ARISTOPET gives us everything selflessly… which is why we must always strive to give them the very best.
The problem is that this does not always happen. And the consequences are not long in coming. According to Asistencia Para Animales Domésticos (ASPAD), a national network of centers specializing in providing comprehensive care for pets, in the year we have just left behind, demand for psychological therapy for dogs and cats tripled. A very significant increase that inevitably leads us to ask ourselves some questions…
What is happening?
In the words of Soledad Soler, one of the veterinarians in this network, behavioral problems are becoming increasingly common among ARISTOPETS. Especially those living in urban areas. In fact, 10% of the consultations they receive concern inappropriate or unexpected behaviors and how to resolve them.
Why is this happening?
First of all, 90% of psychological problems in ARISTODOGS are directly related to socialization during puppyhood. Secondly, the imprinting period also has a decisive influence, since unfortunately, in many cases, puppies are separated from their mothers before they are two months old (the minimum recommended period). According to the latest research, this also explains the bad temper of ARISTOCATS, as we explained here a few days ago.
It therefore seems necessary to work on improving both areas, since it is clear that what they experience during their first months of life has decisive consequences for the development of their personality and the creation of possible traumas or disorders.
Thirdly, another clear cause has to do with separation anxiety. In this regard, there is no doubt that our marathon workdays do not facilitate the relationship between us and our dogs (hence the greater need for therapy among city pets). The lack of quality time spent together has serious consequences for the behavior of our ARISTOPETS.
In the case of dogs, this may mean destroying things while we are away from home, biting, urinating when they see us come through the door, or attempting to «mount» people or objects. Uncomfortable and unpleasant situations for everyone.
As for cats, disorders are usually caused by changes in their home or surroundings. Moving house; other ARISTOPETS arriving at home… or new human members joining the family; changes to their belongings, exposure to the outdoors… All of this stresses them and causes unpredictable behavior.
Who can help us?
Feline and canine ethologists are the most suitable specialists for treating any behavioral or attitude problem in our pets. Ethology is a science that studies human and animal behavior and has a long tradition (despite not being firmly 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, about whom we have already told you on several occasions.
When should a pet undergo therapy?
Every pet is different, of course. But there are certain symptoms and signs that our cat or dog needs help. When we notice changes in character, not necessarily bad behavior or aggression, but also listlessness (which may indicate possible depression), loss of appetite… And, of course, any unusual behavior we observe in them.
Timely help from a professional can change everything… for the better. So if you have noticed something unusual in your pet, do not waste another minute. And if you think everything is fine, do not let your guard down! Strive to improve. Your pet will always thank you for it.