In the past, groomers could offer stressed dogs more than a few kind words, a pat on the head or maybe a tasty treat. Now, there are new methods abound for soothing an edgy customer, from calming herbal treatments to synthetic mother dog hormones.

Stressful situations, such as grooming activities, can cause myriad unwanted behaviors from barking and nipping to inappropriate elimination and destructive digging and chewing. To preserve the peace in your business and ensure all of the animals in your care enjoy their experience, consider adding a few of these supplemental calming therapies.

Dr.’s Foster and Smith Educational Staff have assembled a brief run down of many options for treating anxious dog behaviors. Suggest clients administer oral supplements and treats an hour before their arrival for a grooming appointment. Many therapies require at least that long to take effect.

Air Diffusers
These small, plug-in units usually consist of a liquid held in a small container, which is gently warmed and released into the air. Sometimes, a tiny fan will aid in spreading the substance around the room. Models marketed for use with pets often contain, “soothing pheromones” that mimic hormones released by mothers when animals are puppies and kittens. Odorless to human noses, it is thought that these hormones have a soothing affect on nearby animals.

Room Sprays
Sprays marketed for use in stressful situations often contain the same synthetic “hormones” found in air diffusers. According to manufacturers, these liquids, when sprayed throughout the room, cause the same calming reaction and can be used as frequently as needed, rather than continuously.

Herbal Supplements
Supplements containing calming herbs can be recommended for use before an anxious pet comes in for grooming. Owners can administer tablets in advance, giving them ample time to take affect. Though not evaluated by the FDA, these products often contain herbs, vitamins and minerals with purported calming and soothing properties. Chamomile, passionflower, valerian and other items found in anti-stress remedies for humans are typically found in these products.

Flower Essences
Flower essences, used for many decades to treat human stress disorders, are also available for use with animals. These drops are easily disguised in food and water, making them a great alternative to pills. Administered in advance of a grooming appointment, these extracts of helianthemum, clematis and impatiens claim to soothe without causing sleepiness or fatigue.

Treats
Tasty and calming, these items, marketed as “anti-stress” treats, cloak herbs, vitamins and minerals in tasty beef and chicken flavors. Many contain ingredients thought to boost immune system functions in anticipation of a stressful event, thereby counteracting the harm caused by stress hormones. <HOME>