By Chelsea Chan
As a professional pet sitter, one of the most common concerns I hear from pet parents before a trip is, “I’m worried my dog will be anxious while I’m gone.” And honestly, it’s a valid concern. Separation anxiety can be incredibly stressful — not just for pets, but for the families who love them.
Some pets show subtle signs of stress, while others experience full panic when left alone. You may notice barking, pacing, destructive chewing, house accidents, trembling, or refusal to eat. In severe cases, dogs may even try to escape crates, scratch at doors, or injure themselves attempting to find their owners.
The good news is that with preparation, patience, and the right care plan, pets with separation anxiety can absolutely feel safer and more comfortable while you’re away.
As a sitter, I always encourage pet parents to start preparing before the trip begins. Dogs are incredibly observant, and many become anxious from small “departure triggers” like grabbing keys, putting on shoes, or picking up a suitcase. One helpful exercise is practicing those routines without actually leaving the house. For example, put on your coat, sit down, and watch TV for a few minutes. Over time, this helps teach your pet that those actions don’t always mean goodbye.
During our meet-and-greet, I like to learn as much as possible about your pet’s routine and comfort habits. Does your dog have a favorite blanket or toy? Is there a phrase you use when leaving, like “I’ll be right back”? Are there certain times of day when anxiety tends to be worse? The more familiar I can make the experience, the more secure your pet will feel.
For pets with moderate to severe separation anxiety, adding visits or longer visits are often the best option. Anxious pets usually benefit from having more companionship and a calmer, more predictable environment. Sometimes simply having someone present in the home can dramatically reduce stress behaviors.
Exercise and mental stimulation are also essential. One of my favorite tools is a long enrichment walk that combines physical exercise with time to sniff and explore. Mental stimulation helps tire anxious dogs in a healthy way and gives them something positive to focus on. Puzzle toys, treat-filled enrichment toys, and slow feeders can also help redirect nervous energy.
Creating a calming atmosphere inside the home can make a huge difference, too. I often recommend leaving soft music or television on for background noise and limiting access to windows if outside activity tends to trigger barking or overstimulation. Some pets also respond well to calming aids like anxiety wraps or pheromone diffusers designed specifically for dogs and cats.
Most importantly, I want pet parents to know that separation anxiety is not “bad behavior.” Your pet isn’t trying to punish you for leaving — they’re struggling emotionally and looking for reassurance. Compassionate care, consistency, and patience go a long way in helping anxious pets feel safe.
Leaving your pet behind is never easy, especially when anxiety is involved. But working with a professional sitter who understands those behaviors can provide peace of mind for both you and your furry family member. At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to help your pet feel loved, secure, and cared for until you walk back through the door.
