The most common form of trauma in dogs is posttraumatic stress disorder which may be manifest in the form of depression and or significant change in behavior. Stress develops as a result of the dog going through a major traumatizing event like loss of a partner, their owner or experiencing a disaster. Since dogs cannot communicate, it is therefore important to observe their behavior to reduce their pain and whatever they are going through and seek the proper medical attention.
Causes of PTSD in Dogs
Posttraumatic stress disorder is the most common manifestation of stress in dogs. It is caused by a host of events including Bad interactions with other animals like fighting other dogs which may lower their esteem causing stress and depression, undergoing a serious accident which caused a serious injury or surviving a traumatizing natural disaster like a hurricane. Moreover, dogs may experience due to the loss of their caretaker or owner, loss of a partner or being abandoned in the wild. Physical and emotional abuse and taking part in military combat may also lead to stress in dogs.
Signs of PTSD in Dogs
Signs of PTSD are often confused for anxiety in dogs. For instance, signs like Peeing or pooping in the house, howling, barking, or whining and destructive behaviour are common in PTSD and anxiety. However, the following signs are unique in PTSD only. Clinging to you in fear, sudden aggression, depression and hyper awareness of their surroundings may indicate PTSD. In addition, dogs may manifest trembling, shyness, urination and or defecation when the trigger attempts to interact, pacing, extreme vocalization, and panting. Crouching low to the ground, a tucked tail and pinned back ears.
Treating PTSD
Dog owners need to consult a veterinary officer for professional help. We recommend behavioral training like systematic desensitization is a common remedy for PTSD. It involves exposing your dog to the triggers of stress while treating them simultaneously. This will help your dog to associate the noise with treatment instead of trauma through desensitization and counterconditioning. Other methods include daily exercise, play sessions, and positive reinforcement training. These methods may take weeks or months to be effective.
Conclusion
PTSD in dogs is as common in dogs as human beings. Dog owners need to be on the lookout for such signs and distinguish them with anxiety.
References: PetMD, WebMD, Paws4Udogs
