Ask Dr. Wayman in our pet health forum . Also, don't forget you can search this column's archive . Read the Disclaimer . Last week in this space I discussed canine cognitive dysfunction , a common behavioral disorder of older dogs. Today the behavior theme continues with a look at separation anxiety, and a newly approved drug therapy for this condition.
Separation anxiety is a complex and frequently profound behavioral disorder of dogs.
It can be seen in any age dog, but is frequently a problem of older dogs. Generally speaking, separation anxiety can be defined as inappropriate behaviors exhibited only in the absence of the owner. The behaviors most frequently seen are destruction, elimination, and excessive vocalization. It is important to keep in mind that there are many possible reasons for the above behavior patterns. Inappropriate elimination may simply be a function of poor housetraining, or may be an indicator of a medical problem such as urinary incontinence, diabetes, or kidney failure.