From Zoomies to Zen: Stress-Relief Tips for Your Furry Friend

It’s a big world out there, and sometimes life can get pretty overwhelming for our furry family members. Whether it’s the 4th of July fireworks display, a summer thunderstorm rolling in, or just a regular Friday night when you’re out of the house (how dare you!?), what seems fun and exciting to you could be downright stressful for your pet. If your pet reacts unfavorably to certain situations—barking, hiding, pacing, or even acting out—it could be a sign of emotional stress.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to help ease your pet’s worries, whether you’re at home or on the go. If stressful situations are getting in the way of your pet living their happiest, healthiest life, try these tips!

Because Pets Have Feelings Too—Here’s How to Help Them Stay Chill

1. Tune into Your Pet

First and foremost, pay close attention to your pet’s body language, and behavior. Are they acting differently than usual? Sometimes what we think of as “bad” behavior is actually a sign of stress.

For dogs, signs of stress can include excessive barking, whining, shaking, pacing, or destructive chewing. Some dogs might even freeze up, tuck their tail, or avoid eye contact. Cats, on the other hand, might exhibit stress through excessive grooming, hiding, hissing, or scratching furniture more than usual.

One way to tell if your pet is struggling is by recognizing the five stages of fear: fighting, fleeing, fainting, freezing, and fiddling. If your pet exhibits any of these, they’re trying to tell you something isn’t right. Identifying stress early can help you step in before it escalates.

In addition to observing their body language, take note of any environmental factors that might be causing stress. Is there loud construction outside? A new pet in the neighborhood? A recent change in your schedule? Even small disruptions can have a big impact on sensitive pets. By identifying triggers, you can better address and minimize your pet’s anxiety.

2. Provide a Safe Haven at Home

Your home should be a place of comfort and security for your pet, especially during stressful moments. If your pet has a favorite spot in the house, try turning it into a cozy retreat where they can feel safe. When my dog Reilly was stressed, I would find her hiding in the shower. This was her safe space. Dogs often find comfort in crates (as long as they are introduced properly and not used as punishment), while cats prefer elevated spaces or quiet corners.

Create a little oasis for them by adding a soft bed, their favorite blanket, or a toy that brings them comfort. For cats, consider a covered hideaway or a high perch where they can observe from a safe distance. You can even include an item of clothing with your scent, so they feel close to you even when you’re not home. This dedicated space will help them feel loved and protected when things get overwhelming.

3. Be Prepared

Just like you wouldn’t leave the house without your phone, keys, or wallet, don’t forget to pack a bag for your pet when heading out! Whether it’s a quick car ride to the park or a longer trip across town for a vet visit, having their essentials on hand can make a huge difference.

Pack food, water, a familiar toy, and a high-value treat to offer them a sense of comfort and normalcy in unfamiliar settings. For cats, a secure carrier lined with a cozy blanket (and maybe a little catnip) can make travel more manageable.

If your pet is particularly anxious when traveling, try practicing short car rides and rewarding them afterward. This helps them associate car rides with positive experiences. For extreme cases, consult with your vet about safe calming supplements or anti-anxiety medication to make trips less stressful.

4. Exercise Body and Mind

We all know that exercise is a great stress reliever for humans, but did you know it’s just as important for pets? Keeping your pet active can help literally burn off nervous energy and reduce stress levels.

For dogs, this could mean a long walk, a fun game of fetch, or even agility training. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, so puzzle toys and treat-dispensing games can keep their minds engaged. If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, practicing short departures and gradually increasing the time away can help them feel more secure.

Cats may not need long walks, but they still need physical and mental enrichment. Try interactive toys, feather wands, or even a DIY obstacle course using cardboard boxes. Scratching posts and climbing trees also help them release built-up tension and feel more in control of their space.

Incorporating scent-based activities can also be beneficial for both dogs and cats. Scatter treats around the house for a fun scavenger hunt, introduce new scents like catnip or lavender (pet-safe, of course), or rotate toys to keep things interesting. My dogs will spend hours trying to get a treat out of a Kong chew toy. I’m always amazed by how they manage to get the treat out! These activities help pets feel more engaged and confident in their environment.

5. Be a Calm Role Model

Did you know that pets can pick up on your emotions? If you’re feeling anxious or stressed, your furry friend might mirror those feelings. Studies show that dogs, in particular, can absorb and reflect their owner’s stress levels. That means if you’re pacing the house or feeling frazzled, your pet may be on edge too!

One of the best things you can do for your pet is to remain calm and collected, even in stressful situations. If they see you handling things with ease, they’re more likely to follow your lead. You can also help them relax with calming techniques like gentle petting, soothing music, or even aromatherapy (just be sure any essential oils used are pet-safe!).

Bonus Tip: When to Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your pet’s stress may not improve. If your pet continues to show signs of extreme anxiety—such as excessive licking, destructive behavior, or aggression—it might be time to consult a veterinarian or a professional pet behaviorist. They can help determine if your pet needs additional support, such as behavioral training or even medication in severe cases.

A Lifetime of Love: Nurturing Your Pet’s Emotional Health

At the end of the day, every pet is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. The key is to be patient, understanding, and proactive in helping your furry friend feel secure. By creating a safe environment, providing enrichment, and being a calm role model, you can make a world of difference in your pet’s emotional well-being.

Remember, a happy pet makes for a happy home. So, take a deep breath, give your pet a reassuring belly rub (or a chin scratch for the cat lovers out there), and know that you’re doing a great job as their parent.

Here’s to stress-free snuggles, tail wags, and purrs ahead!

By Denise Eaton, BFRP, BFRAP, Education Manager, Nelsons USA

‘When my dogs are having a particularly overwhelming time, like when we host a dinner party at the house, I put a couple drops of Rescue Remedy® Pet calming flower essence drops in their water bowl.’