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Intuitive Energy Healing for Animals and People

Calming Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety

06/26/2024
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What is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a common and often misunderstood problem for many dogs today. A dog with true separation anxiety is having a panic attack (similar to ones humans have) and has no control over it. He is not a bored, grumpy dog seeking revenge on his owners for leaving him alone. Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit symptoms of anxiety or excessive distress when they are left alone including some or all of the following behaviors:

What causes Separation Anxiety?

There is no definitive explanation for why some dogs develop separation anxiety and others don’t. Some breeds may be genetically predisposed to the condition, but environment plays a significant role as well. This anxiety is typically caused by
emotional trauma that a dog has not been able to resolve or release. It can be a major trauma such as past abuse or neglect, loss of a pet or human companion, or being lost or abandoned. It can also be a series of small stresses over time such as changes in routine, moving to a new home, new family members, exposure to loud noises, or an ongoing illness or injury.  Consult your veterinarian for a definite diagnosis. A video of your dog’s behaviors can be helpful, but laboratory testing may also be done to rule out underlying medical issues.

My dog has Separation Anxiety, now what?

Once you are sure your dog has separation anxiety, your goal is to reduce her dependence on you and boost her self-confidence so she can feel safe and relaxed when you are away. Unfortunately, many pet parents make the anxiety worse with excessive pampering, scolding, and their own stress.

Some ways you can help.

How I can help.

In my experience working as a Healing Touch for Animals practitioner in a holistic
veterinarian office and with my current clients, I have seen the following to be very helpful in addition to behavior modification:

With time, patience, and persistence, most dogs with separation anxiety can be relieved of the worst of their symptoms. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise, playtime, mental stimulation, and loving care. The more full and complete her life is when you are around, the calmer she’ll be when you’re not. And that makes all your effort worthwhile!

Testimonials

Healing happens within the context of relationship, and that is right where Beth starts!

Beth has worked with two of my dogs. One was declining from cancer, and the other was suffering from a traumatic fall.  During their treatment sessions, she helped them feel safe and comfortable, and both responded immediately to Healing Touch and Craniosacral therapies, and the healing stayed with them.

Beth has always been readily available when needed, follows up as appropriate, and can be completely relied upon! Her practice is an extension of her mighty heart, and I’m grateful she is here in our community!

- Aimee and John D.

Before her relocation to Durango, Beth was a regular volunteer at the small animal shelter that I work for.  You would not believe the difference in the dogs while she was visiting and providing them with her wonderful Reiki energy.  If you’ve ever been to a shelter, you know how loud it can be.  During and after her visits, the dogs became so much calmer and more relaxed.  The shelter was quiet!  That is the “proof in the pudding”.

Beth has helped countless “failure to thrive” kittens, mostly by distance work after providing her with a picture of the failing baby.  She continues to help remotely with any animal we think could use some extra assistance.  I have seen the difference it makes.  I am so grateful for the valuable assistance that Beth has donated and continues to donate to shelter and rescue animals to help them have the happy, healthy life they deserve.  Thank you, Beth!

- Kathy B. – Teller County Regional Animal Shelter

I took my son to Beth, of Spirit Wolf Energetics, due to chronic muscle and joint pains.  She was incredibly warm and welcoming, which quickly put him at ease.  The Reiki session was calming yet somehow vibrant at the same time.

My son immediately felt less muscle tension and happily stated that his shoulder wasn’t popping as it had been earlier. As an added bonus, he slept much better that night!  A huge thanks to Beth for the wonderful experience!

- Travis H. – Durango, CO

Beth didn’t just support me — she showed up like a soul ally when I needed it most. I had experienced an injury, and in that raw moment, she held space with such grace and strength that it felt like something bigger was at work. Strangely — and beautifully — a couple walking their dog were drawn into our situation and stayed to help until everything settled. It was as if her energy called in what was needed.
I’ve since had a Reiki session with Beth, and the only way I can describe it is: transformational. I left feeling not just relaxed, but rebalanced — as though my body had remembered something it had forgotten.
There’s something magnetic about her — the kind of quiet power that draws people in and creates instant trust. You see it in her eyes. You feel it in the room. And when she works with animals? That connection is almost beyond words. They sense her — and respond.
Beth isn’t just a healer. She’s a force of compassion, calm, and energetic precision. If you’re lucky enough to cross paths with her, don’t hesitate. Say yes.

- Kathleen Carlson

Masha is a big, energetic Lab with loads of enthusiasm for life, but she has some fear issues that cripple her in certain environments.

She quickly calms down when Beth starts her therapy session of Healing Touch and Reiki, and the changes in her are immediately apparent. Masha’s fear lessens after her therapy, which allows her to more comfortably navigate the places that cause her stress and fear.

Thank you, Beth, for loving animals, especially mine! You absolutely make a difference.

- Katie and Don G. – Florissant, CO