Top 5 Surprising Stress Triggers for Your Pets

We all want our pets to be happy and safe, but it’s inevitable that they’ll face some stressful situations. Here are some practical steps you can take to help minimize your pet’s stress:

**Home Alone for Long Periods**
Pets, especially social animals, love interacting with people, especially their owners. If left alone for too long, your pet might get very stressed, waiting anxiously for you to come back. If possible, try adjusting your schedule or consider taking your pet to a daycare occasionally so they’re not left alone for extended periods.

**Lack of Exercise**
Many pets have lots of energy and need regular exercise. In the wild, they’d be running, playing, and exploring. Regular exercise helps them stay close to their natural state and reduces stress. Even if your pet isn’t very enthusiastic about exercise, establishing a consistent routine can be very beneficial. Follow up their workout with a special treat to further reduce stress.

**New Home**
Moving can be very stressful for pets since it separates them from the familiar environment they knew. To help ease their anxiety, keep their routine for feeding, sleeping, and exercising the same as it was before the move, and then gradually adjust it to fit your new schedule as they get more comfortable.

**Outside Noises**
Pets often love looking out the window and observing their surroundings. However, unusual noises like fireworks or other animals can make them very anxious. Closing the blinds or curtains can help if you know there will be a lot of noise.

**Inconsistent Rules**
Inconsistent rules can confuse and stress out your pets. For example, if you scold your dog for getting on the couch one day but allow it the next, this inconsistency can be misleading and confusing. Be clear and consistent with your rules so your pet knows what to expect, which will help reduce their stress.

By taking these steps, you can help make life a little less stressful for your furry friends.