Not every dog knows the joy of a comfortable bed, a full food bowl, or a loving owner. Some dogs live with owners who mistreat them and show no respect for animals. These dogs experience pain and suffering every day, enduring unacceptable behavior from unfit owners. Even when they are rescued and placed in a good home, these dogs may still experience distress when left alone. Their anxious minds can lead to destructive behavior, often leading them back to the shelter without hope of being re-homed.
Signs a Dog is Distressed
Dogs bring both joy and sadness to our lives. Watching them play brings a smile to our faces, but when they are sick or distressed, we feel their pain. If you’ve recently adopted a rescue dog, you’ve done a wonderful thing by giving hope to a deserving creature. Some rescue dogs adjust well, while others need time and patience to recover from their troubled pasts. Dogs have the cognitive age of a 2-3-year-old, so their past experiences can leave scars. When you leave for work, your rescue dog may become anxious and show signs of distress, such as trembling or crying. It’s important to understand that it’s not their fault; they are simply scared of being alone.
The Destructive Behavior of Dogs in Distress
When you leave your rescue dog alone, you may worry about what you’ll come back to. Meanwhile, your dog may start destroying things in the house out of fear and anxiety. They may dig at the floors, chew on furniture, or tear up objects. They may even bark and howl, causing disturbances in the neighborhood. These behaviors are not their fault; they are a result of separation anxiety and the distress they feel when left alone.
Signs of Distress in Dogs
Dogs show signs of distress in various ways, including barking, shaking, cowering, chewing, pacing, sweating paws, whimpering, and spinning. These behaviors indicate that they are feeling anxious and fearful. Other signs of distress include separation anxiety, destructive behavior, urinating on the floor, and attempting to escape.
History of Humans Helping Dogs in Distress
Throughout history, dogs have had a close relationship with humans. They were valued as companions and sometimes even worshipped as gods. However, humans have not always treated dogs with the respect and care they deserve. Laws protecting the welfare of dogs have been slow to develop, but organizations like the RSPCA and ASPCA have emerged to advocate for their rights. These organizations rely on donations and compassionate individuals to support their work, as government funding is often lacking. Thanks to the efforts of these organizations, many dogs have been rescued from abusive situations and given a second chance at a loving home.
The Science of a Dog’s Anguish
Science has shown that dogs can feel emotions and be affected by mistreatment. Dogs can experience verbal and physical harm, and injuries can be accidental or deliberate. In some cases, injuries sustained by dogs can be indicators of domestic violence in the home. Veterinary professionals have developed forensic tools to help identify signs of abuse in dogs, which can be used as evidence in legal proceedings. While studies have shed light on the emotional well-being of dogs, there are still many who mistreat these animals.
Training Dogs in Anguish
Dogs that have experienced abuse or abandonment can have lasting psychological effects, such as separation anxiety. Rea Dodd, a pet behaviorist and separation anxiety expert, has helped many dogs overcome their fear of being left alone. Changing leaving routines and using positive reinforcement techniques can help dogs feel more secure and reduce destructive behavior. However, some dogs may require more intensive treatment and medication to manage their anxiety. It’s important to be patient and understanding with dogs that have experienced trauma, as healing can take time.
Not all dogs that have suffered abuse are able to recover fully
Some dogs may have their spirits broken and struggle to trust humans again. They may exhibit fear aggression as a defense mechanism, which can be dangerous if they bite. Unlike humans, dogs cannot communicate their reasons for feeling angry or afraid, making it difficult to understand and address their needs.
“The scars of their past haunt them, but with patience and love, we can heal their hearts.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Recognize the signs of distress in your rescue dog: Pay attention to behaviors such as barking, shaking, cowering, chewing, pacing, sweaty paws, whimpering, and spinning. These signs indicate that your dog may be feeling anxious or in anguish.
2️⃣ Understand the history of humans helping dogs in anguish: Dogs have a long history of being companions and important beings in different cultures. However, laws supporting their welfare have been implemented relatively recently. Organizations like the RSPCA and ASPCA play a crucial role in rescuing and caring for dogs in need.
3️⃣ Seek professional help for training dogs in anguish: Dogs that have been mistreated or experienced trauma may exhibit separation anxiety or destructive behavior. It is important to consult with a pet behaviorist or separation anxiety expert to develop a treatment program and potentially use medication to help your dog relax. Changing your leaving the house routine and providing puzzle toys can also be beneficial. However, it’s important to note that not all dogs may fully recover from abuse, and some may exhibit fear aggression.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. What are some signs that a dog is distressed or anxious?
– Barking, shaking, cowering, chewing, pacing, sweaty paws, whimpering, spinning.
2. What are some signs that a dog feels anguish?
– Separation anxiety, destructive behavior, urinating on the floor, trying to escape.
3. How has history shown that humans have helped dogs in anguish?
– Dogs have been companions since ancient times, worshiped by civilizations like the Aztecs and used for hunting in Egypt. Organizations like the RSPCA and ASPCA have worked to protect and care for dogs in need.
4. How has science proven that dogs can feel anguish?
– Studies have shown that dogs can feel verbal and physical harm, and injuries presented by dogs can be indicators of human abuse. Veterinarians have created forensic tools to help differentiate accidental injuries from deliberate abuse.
5. How can dogs that have experienced abuse or neglect be trained to overcome their anguish?
– Training programs, behavioral exercises, medication, and changing leaving routines can help dogs with separation anxiety and other psychological issues. However, some dogs may have lasting effects from abuse and may need more time and specialized care.
