Recovery from Stress or Trauma

As a dog behavior professional specializing in sensitive dogs, I understand the profound impact that stress can have on our canine companions. Whether it's a singular traumatic event or the cumulative effect of multiple stressors—also known as trigger stacking—it's essential to provide our dogs with the support and time they need to recover and thrive. Here are some evidence-based strategies to assist you and your dog in navigating after stressful experiences.

In our house things have been especially stressful over the last month or so for both human and canine. We will focus on Rodger the dog for now. We said goodbye to Moxie, our nearly 13 year old dog in early December and have been focusing on helping Rodger transition to being a single dog in the home and learning to feel safe being home alone. Then about 3 weeks ago my husband suffered a heart attack in the kitchen and Rodger was right by his side. This resulted in several hours of immediate chaos with paramedics, unplanned confinement for Rodger and being alone for a bit while I rushed to the hospital. All to say he has been through a lot. We are still wading through it all, watching for signs of trauma and seeing some interesting side effects. I’m confident that by following the steps below we will come out of it ok - but it will take time to truly know how and where he is most affected.

Here is how I am tackling Rodger’s recovery first, and if needed we will ask for more help!

1. Prioritize Rest and Decompression

After a stressful event, it's crucial to offer your dog a calm, safe environment where they can relax. Aim for this space to be free from additional stressors to allow them to decompress fully. Provide a designated quiet area that can help your dog feel secure, promoting recovery.

Depending on the nature of the event you may consider suspending walks or if the event was one that involved other dogs or people and your dog just needs some time away from the public looking for space that can accommodate quiet sniffy walks free from triggers. Where your dog can move their body freely, ideally off leash or on a long line leash and non restrictive harness. Freedom of movement is essential for recovery from stressful events. The ability to move one's body without restriction helps the nervous system reset.

Consider renting out a SniffSpot if you have the resources - If you’re new to Sniffspot - use this link for $5 off your first visit!

2. Meet Your Dogs Needs, Engage in Play and Foster Connection

Interactive activities not only strengthen the bond between you and your dog but also serve as a valuable outlet for relieving stress for many dogs. For most this should come second, after the opportunity to rest and decompress. Invite your dog into a mild game such a “find it” searching for food or toys, an opportunity to use their nose is a wonderful stress relieving tool, or other puzzle games that can redirect your dog's focus from the stressful event and provide species specific mental stimulation outlets. If your dog is more energetic try some tug, shredding, digging or other enrichment activity.

Engaging in these activities can help your dog release tension and give your dog the chance to self sooth. They can work to rebuild lost confidence and promote a sense of normalcy for those who may be feeling uneasy if stressful events have thrown off their daily lives, such as the loss of a companion pet or human or move to a new home.

3. Meet Your Dog Where They Are

Every dog is unique, and their responses to stress can vary. It's essential to observe your dog's behavior and provide support tailored to their specific needs in the moment. This might mean offering more space, engaging in gentle play, or simply being present with them. By attuning to your dog's current state, you can offer the most effective support. Their needs will change day to day just like yours! Just because it seems like they are adapting doesn’t mean they won’t have a regression and feel high levels of stress a couple of days later. Traumatic events live in the body and can be triggered unexpectedly.

4. Implement Positive Reinforcement Lifestyle

Utilizing positive reinforcement based learning to help you pair potentially stressful situations with positive experiences day to day is a lifestyle choice!  Use clear cues and signals to guide your dog, and consistently reward desired responses. This clarity helps your dog understand expectations and reduces confusion.

Understand that learning and adapting to new behaviors takes time. Observe your dog's responses and adjust your approach as needed to ensure they feel safe and supported. By focusing on rewarding desirable behaviors, unwanted behaviors often diminish naturally without the need for punishment. And punishment is never necessary in dog training, it is only convenient for us to stop behaviors we don’t like.

By integrating positive reinforcement into every aspect of your relationship with your dog, you create an environment where they feel valued, understood, and motivated to engage in desired behaviors. This holistic approach not only enhances training outcomes but also enriches the bond you share with your dog, and results are lasting.

5. Holistic Assessment of Your Dog's Needs

Addressing your dog's recovery from a holistic perspective involves considering their physical, mental, behavioral, and emotional well-being. Ensure they receive appropriate exercise, mental enrichment, and social interaction. Additionally, consult with your veterinarian as needed to rule out any underlying health issues that could contribute to stress and to discuss potential interventions that can aid in their recovery. Examples could include probiotics for GI upset from stressful events, short/long term behavior medication that might reduce overall stress and help recovery time in the future to assist in day to day and training progress.

Remember, patience and consistency are key. By providing a supportive environment and utilizing these strategies, you can help your dog navigate and recover from stressful events, leading to a happier and more resilient companion.

For more insights and personalized guidance, feel free to explore the resources available at A Canine Affinity.

Be well.

Melissa Dallier

A Canine Affinity Dog Training - Separation Anxiety Expert