Dog Anxiety Awareness Week: Expert Vet Tips to Calm Your Pet

Admin Team

Dog Anxiety Awareness Week is a reminder for all pet owners to pay attention to the mental and emotional wellbeing of their furry friends. Dogs, just like humans, can experience stress and anxiety, which can affect their behaviour, health, and quality of life. As veterinarians, we often see pets struggling with anxiety, and the good news is that there are steps you can take to help your dog feel calmer and more secure. 


Common Signs of Anxiety in Dogs 

Dogs can show anxiety in many ways, and recognising the signs early is key to effective management. Some common symptoms include: 

  • Excessive barking or whining 
  • Pacing, restlessness, or destructive behaviour 
  • Panting or drooling more than usual 
  • Avoidant behaviours or hiding 
  • Aggression or irritability 
  • Changes in appetite or bathroom habits 

If you notice any of these behaviours, it’s important to consult our veterinary team to rule out medical causes and discuss appropriate management strategies. 


Causes of Anxiety in Dogs 

Anxiety can stem from a variety of sources: 

  • Separation anxiety: Stress when left alone 
  • Noise sensitivity: Fear of thunderstorms, fireworks, or loud environments 
  • Changes in routine or environment: Moving house, new pets, or visitors 
  • Past trauma or lack of socialisation 
  • Medical issues: Pain, illness, or neurological conditions 

Understanding the root cause is the first step in helping your dog feel safe and relaxed. 


Tips to Help Anxious Dogs 

Create a safe space: Provide a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can retreat when feeling stressed. Include their favourite bed, toys, and a calming blanket. 

Stick to a routine: Dogs thrive on predictability. Feeding, walking, and playtime at consistent times can reduce anxiety. 

Gradual desensitisation and counter-conditioning: Slowly expose your dog to anxiety triggers in a controlled way while rewarding calm behaviour. This is best done with guidance from your vet or a certified animal behaviourist. 

Exercise and mental stimulation: Physical activity and puzzle toys can reduce stress and provide a healthy outlet for nervous energy. 

Calming aids: We can recommend safe options such as pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or in some cases, medications for short-term or chronic anxiety. 

Training and positive reinforcement: Reward-based training helps build confidence and reduces fearful behaviour over time. 


When to See a Vet 

If your dog’s anxiety is severe, persistent, or affecting their health or your household, it’s time to schedule a consultation. Early intervention can prevent worsening behaviours and improve your dog’s overall wellbeing. 

During Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, take the time to observe your pet, note any changes, and ask your vet for tailored strategies. Every dog is different, and a personalised approach ensures the best results. 


Final Thoughts 

Anxiety in dogs is common but manageable. With understanding, patience, and the right support, you can help your dog live a calmer, happier life. Remember, your pet’s mental health is just as important as physical health, and our team is here to help every step of the way. 

Heartworm Awareness Month: Protect Your Dog from This Silent Threat

By Admin Team • March 18, 2026
Our vets share expert advice for Heartworm Awareness Month, including symptoms, prevention, and how to protect your dog from heartworm disease.

Important YVV Update

By Admin Team • February 17, 2026
Sadly, we have had some staff changes recently at Yass Valley Veterinary. After 3 years, Dr Issy Card has taken a small animal position in Canberra. Our recently married Dr Anne Cusack is relocating to Wagga for her husband’s work, and Dr Natalie Flew is also leaving us to work in an emergency afterhours clinic in Canberra with more suitable hours for her new family. We will all miss these three amiable, dedicated and competent veterinarians and wish them well in their future pursuits. Dr Stuart Williams, after almost 33 years at Yass Valley Veterinary (15 years as a partner with Dr Peter Gibbs and 15 years as sole principal), is resigning from his full-time position at the end of February. He is looking forward to having a break away from afterhours on call and managing a large staff across two hospitals. Working as a volunteer veterinarian in Australia and overseas, travelling with his wife Cath and spending some much needed time at home and in the garden, is on the agenda for Stuart in the short term. Dr Tamara Butler, who has been with the business for 17 years, will be promoted to the Lead Vet role when Stuart resigns. Dr Nicole McKenzie will take on the Tamara’s Veterinary Manager role, while Ms Carrie Luckie will retain the Practice Manager role. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and care that each of our departing veterinarians has given to our clients and patients, and their departures will mean a temporary change to our service availability. Be assured that we are actively and enthusiastically recruiting veterinarians to join our team. We’d like to introduce Dr Josh Tannen, a small animal veterinarian & surgeon, who will be with us until April. This experienced and easy-going locum will be very welcome by the team. However, in the short term, we will be operating with a smaller team, so there may be occasions where we are unable to provide the full range of services that are currently provided. What does this mean for you? • At times, we may need to rotate Saturday clinic closures. • There will be evenings or weekends when we do not have an after-hours veterinarian available. We will always do our best to keep you informed. Any changes to opening hours or services will be communicated via our social media pages and through notifications on the Yass Vet App. As always, if you require after-hours assistance when a veterinarian is not available, please call us on 6226 4444. Your call will be answered by a team of qualified nurses who will triage your situation and direct you to the closest appropriate emergency hospital if needed. We truly appreciate your understanding, patience, and ongoing support during this period of transition. Our commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care for your animals remains at the heart of everything we do.
Dog playing with a puzzle feeder at home while owner is at work.

6 Ways to Keep Your Pet Entertained While You’re at Work

By Admin Team • January 20, 2026
Back to work after the holidays? Learn simple ways to keep your pet entertained, relaxed, and mentally stimulated while you’re out. Expert tips from Yass Valley Veterinary.