Assessing rescue animal stress

 

By Melanie Dziengo

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Rescued animals, particularly those at animal shelters, move from place to place more often than necessary. This nomadic lifestyle can take a particular toll on these creatures, especially on their mental health. Unlike humans, the mental health of animals is seldom discussed. Dorothy Litwin, an animal behaviourist in Toronto, treats canine and feline aggression and behaviour. 

 

What kind of toll does moving to a new environment take on animals?

Change can be stressful for animals and humans too. Moves can be especially hard for cats, as they typically do not experience much change in their day-to-day routes. That being said, change (as in a move) can affect different animals differently. Nervous/shy dogs might have a bit more difficulty than outgoing dogs, but all animals will experience some level of stress due to a move.

 

How can owners make the transition to a new environment easier for the animal?

Introduce your pet to the new space ahead of time, if possible. Once at the new home, introduce them to the space slowly and gradually, room by room. Show them where to find their food, resting places, elimination areas (e.g. litter box location). For cats specifically, it is best to keep them in one single room with all their comforts (e.g. litter box, food, water, toys, comfy beds, etc.). When kitty is ready to venture out of the room, he will let you know and you can allow him to explore at his own speed and pace. Always allow a safe place to hide out, if necessary. You can also limit access for your dog if they seem anxious. Allow them time to decide that they would like to explore further.

 

What signs should owners look for to determine if their pet is stressed?

Inactivity is a big one. Excessive sleep, lack of appetite, postures that indicate fear or anxiousness such as crouch body posture, tail between the legs, furrowed brow, yawning excessively when should not be sleepy, lip licking when no food present, excessive panting when not hot and not been exercising; vigilant; jumpy (easily startled) when not usually that way.

 

When should an animal come in for observation/treatment?

Not eating or drinking for an extended period of time for sure, but really if the animals is just not behaving normally after a few days.

 

How long should an animal be observed for by an animal behaviourist?

This would depend on the issue the animal is being seen for, as well as the particular animal, as each will vary in how much treatment they may need.

 

How is it determined if symptoms are mental rather than physical?

When in doubt, it is always advised to seek the advice of your vet to rule out a medical/physical condition, which may be responsible for the symptoms you observe. Also, stressful events can sometimes bring on a medical problem. If the vet gives you a clean bill of health but the pet is still not back to their normal behaviours, it may indicated a psychological problem and behaviour therapy may be a good option.