How to Recognize Anxiety and Panic Attacks in Dogs

For many pet owners, the idea that dogs can experience panic attacks or anxiety might seem unusual. However, just like humans, our canine companions are susceptible to overwhelming emotions such as fear and distress. 

Panic attacks in dogs are sudden, intense episodes of fear or anxiety that result in noticeable physical and behavioral changes. These can be triggered by loud noises, unfamiliar settings, or past traumatic events. 

Anxiety, in contrast, tends to be a more persistent state of worry or unease that affects a dog’s overall well-being and behavior. Both conditions demand our attention and understanding to help our furry friends live happier, more fulfilling lives.

Symptoms of Panic Attacks in Dogs

Physical Symptoms:

• Rapid breathing or panting
• Trembling or shaking
• Dilated pupils
• Increased heart rate
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of bowel control

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Pacing or restlessness
• Excessive barking or whining
• Attempts to escape or hide
• Freezing or immobility
• Destructive behavior
• Clinginess or seeking comfort

Symptoms can vary from dog to dog. Remaining calm and comforting your pet during these episodes can go a long way in helping them recover.

Common Triggers of Canine Panic Attacks

Understanding the root causes of your dog’s panic attacks is crucial. Some triggers include:

• Loud noises: Fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction sounds.
• Unfamiliar environments: Sudden exposure to new places or situations.
• Trauma: Past abuse, accidents, or neglect.
• Separation anxiety: Fear of being left alone.
• Medical conditions: Disorders like thyroid issues or neurological problems.
• Genetics: Some breeds are predisposed to anxiety.

How Can You Help a Dog Having a Panic Attack?

As the American Kennel Club says: ‘First, try to stay calm. Your energy can impact how your dog feels too. “Help your dog by remaining calm and present,” Dr. Simon says. She also recommends using stress relief items like anxiety vests, calming supplements, and pheromone plug-ins like Adaptil.

Askeland also suggests practicing basic cues that the dog knows well, playing with a favorite toy, or moving them to a new location, such as a room in the house, the yard, or even going on a walk. Dogs who are not able to be calmed may need a quiet place to recover with calming music (such as classical or jazz) or have major stimuli removed (such as noises, bright light, many people, other animals, or lots of activity).

If It’s Not a Panic Attack, Then What Is It?

The panicked reaction could also be fear with a specific trigger, a phobia, anxiety, or stress. If you can rule out a panic attack, but your dog is still exhibiting worrisome behaviors, it may be a sign of physical pain or illness—like seizures and epileptic conditions. So, definitely consult your vet if you can’t connect the behavior to any obvious stressor like a storm or new people coming into the home.’

Training and Therapy for Dogs with Anxiety

Training and therapy can make a significant difference:

• Desensitization and counterconditioning: Gradually expose your dog to triggers while rewarding calm behavior.
• Behavior modification: Work with a certified trainer to implement strategies tailored to your dog’s needs.
• Group anxiety classes: Learn coping techniques alongside other pet owners.
• Animal-assisted therapy: Introduce trained therapy animals to reduce stress.
• Veterinary support: Medication or supplements might complement other methods.

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Needs a Treatment?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating a dog’s veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

Reimbursement

This method is the most common for pet insurance companies. You pay out of pocket for the veterinarian bill, and then the insurance company reimburses you for what’s covered under the insurance plan. The steps look like this.

• You pay the vet bill after your dog’s visit.
• You fill out the pet insurance claim form.
• Submit the claim form and other required documentation to the insurer. 
• After the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses. 

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• Veterinary exams and consultations
• Diagnostics (e.g., X-rays, lab tests)
• Prescribed medications
• Surgeries and hospitalization
• Rehabilitation, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments
• Medically necessary supplies
• Euthanasia and cremation

The Wellness Plan

The Wellness Plan is a monthly membership that focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services.

• Provides reimbursements for routine care items such as wellness visits (exams and vaccines), testing and parasite prevention, dental cleanings and at-home dental care, vitamins, supplements, and more.
• Through Odie’s partnership with Petivity, a leader in smart pet products and proactive care, Wellness Plan members can also receive reimbursements for Petivity devices and health kits, as well as eligible Purina food and supplements.
• Total reimbursement up to $700 per year.