May 5, 2025 (AUSTIN, Texas) – Dog owners often recognize anxiety in their pets as emotional distress, but anxiety could also be quietly impacting their dogs’ physical health. During Dog Anxiety Awareness Week (May 5-11), Thrive Pet Healthcare emphasizes that anxiety isn’t just a behavioral issue; it can also lead to serious physical health conditions.
How Dog Anxiety Shows Up Physically
“Many dog owners don’t realize that short-term stress or chronic anxiety can cause a recurrent presence of gastrointestinal signs, such as diarrhea, stomach cramping, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite, said
Board Certified Veterinary Internist Dr. Kasey Mabry at
South Carolina Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Care in Columbia, South Carolina. “Pro-active treatment with diet, supplements, medications, or behavioral modification techniques can improve the dog’s quality of life and reduce the frequency and severity of these episodes.”
How to Spot the Signs and Why Your Vet Should Be Your First Call
Thrive Pet Healthcare recommends taking action at the first signs of dog anxiety, which may include:
Pacing or restlessness
Excessive barking or whining
Destructive behavior
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
Repeated grooming behaviors (licking, chewing, scratching)
Before assuming your dog’s anxiety is solely a behavioral issue, consult your veterinarian. A comprehensive examination can help eliminate any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to your dog's anxiety.
Managing Anxiety: A Whole-Health Approach
If anxiety is diagnosed, your veterinarian may recommend a mix of treatments, such as:
Behavioral modification techniques
Environmental adjustments at home
Daily physical exercise and interactive play
Consistent routines and mental stimulation
Prescription medication (in more severe cases)
Visit
thrivepetcare.com to find a location near you that offers primary, specialty, emergency, and urgent veterinary care services, as well as participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals.
