Separation Anxiety Can Send Pets into a Tailspin

Many dogs will bark or whine when owners leave home. But temper tantrums turn into terribly destructive behavior in some animals. Veterinarians say the behavior is caused by separation anxiety.

"In that period of 8 to 12 hours when we're not there, all types of problems can build up in a dog," says Dr. Betsy Sigmon. "They're afraid you're not coming back. They're upset that you're late coming home."

And they express those fears in damaging ways.

Donnie Raines knew her golden retriever Sally had a problem two days after she got her home.

"We were just doing yard work and coming in and out and she had completely chewed off the bed skirt in our master bedroom," Raines says.

Raines has spent the past year treating Sally's disorder. The treatment has involved medication and constant behavior training.

"You start out with possibly, just -- what we did -- picking up your car keys and not leaving, several times a day," Raines says. "Maybe picking up your purse and going to the front door, but not leaving."

Some pet owners try other approaches. For Dennis Lewis's chow Holly, the answer is doggie day care.

"Medications and training didn't seem to really help her and this has," Lewis says.

Veterinarians say dog day care and pet-sitting services are options. But to truly correct separation anxiety, they say, a long-term commitment is key.

For Raines, that commitment is paying off. "She is doing great. We're really pleased with her progress. What we want is just a loving companion and we want her to be happy. And she is."