{"id":18842,"date":"2025-11-13T07:50:08","date_gmt":"2025-11-13T12:50:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/?p=18842"},"modified":"2026-02-20T17:42:48","modified_gmt":"2026-02-20T22:42:48","slug":"pet-gets-anxious-when-i-leave-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/pet-gets-anxious-when-i-leave-home\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Does My Pet Get Anxious When I Leave The House?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Many pet parents have faced it: the moment you pick up your keys, your dog whines, your cat hides, or your furry friend follows you anxiously around the house. Understanding why your pet gets anxious when you leave is critical for both their well-being and your peace of mind. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as <strong data-start=\"581\" data-end=\"607\">pet separation anxiety<\/strong>, affects a significant number of dogs and cats and can impact their behavior, health, and your home environment.<!--more--><\/p>\n<p>In this article, we\u2019ll explore the causes of <strong data-start=\"769\" data-end=\"795\">pet separation anxiety<\/strong>, the signs to look for, and practical strategies to help your anxious pet feel safe and secure even when you\u2019re away.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"920\" data-end=\"954\">What Is Pet Separation Anxiety?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"956\" data-end=\"1206\"><strong data-start=\"956\" data-end=\"982\">Pet separation anxiety<\/strong> is a behavioral condition in which a pet experiences intense distress when separated from their owner. While some level of nervousness is normal in animals, pets with separation anxiety may show extreme behaviors such as:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1208\" data-end=\"1376\">\n<li data-start=\"1208\" data-end=\"1240\">\n<p data-start=\"1210\" data-end=\"1240\">Excessive barking or meowing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1241\" data-end=\"1278\">\n<p data-start=\"1243\" data-end=\"1278\">Destructive chewing or scratching<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1279\" data-end=\"1305\">\n<p data-start=\"1281\" data-end=\"1305\">Pacing or restlessness<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1306\" data-end=\"1330\">\n<p data-start=\"1308\" data-end=\"1330\">Drooling or vomiting<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1331\" data-end=\"1376\">\n<p data-start=\"1333\" data-end=\"1376\">Attempting to escape from confined spaces<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1378\" data-end=\"1584\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-7515 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\" alt=\"pet separation anxiety\" width=\"120\" height=\"120\" \/>It\u2019s important to note that <strong data-start=\"1406\" data-end=\"1472\">pet separation anxiety is more than just temporary nervousness<\/strong>. If left unaddressed, it can lead to physical injuries, property damage, or even long-term behavioral issues.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1589\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"1591\" data-end=\"1638\">Common Causes of Pet Anxiety When Left Alone<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1640\" data-end=\"1744\">Understanding why your pet gets anxious can help you address the root causes. Common triggers include:<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"1746\" data-end=\"1784\">1. <strong data-start=\"1753\" data-end=\"1784\">Lack of Early Socialization<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1785\" data-end=\"2010\">Pets that weren\u2019t gradually exposed to being alone during their early developmental stages may be more prone to <strong data-start=\"1897\" data-end=\"1927\">separation anxiety in pets<\/strong>. Dogs, in particular, learn to cope with brief periods of solitude from puppyhood.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"2012\" data-end=\"2056\">2. <strong data-start=\"2019\" data-end=\"2056\">Changes in Routine or Environment<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2057\" data-end=\"2196\">Pets thrive on routine. Moving to a new home, changes in your work schedule, or introducing a new family member or pet can trigger anxiety.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"2198\" data-end=\"2244\">3. <strong data-start=\"2205\" data-end=\"2244\">Trauma or Past Negative Experiences<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2245\" data-end=\"2421\">Pets who were rehomed, abandoned, or experienced trauma may have heightened fears of being left alone. This is especially true for rescue dogs or cats with uncertain histories.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"2423\" data-end=\"2448\">4. <strong data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2448\">Owner Behavior<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2449\" data-end=\"2624\">Sometimes, pet anxiety is unintentionally reinforced. Pets that are overly clingy or punished for anxious behavior may develop more severe <strong data-start=\"2588\" data-end=\"2623\">pet separation anxiety symptoms<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"2626\" data-end=\"2655\">5. <strong data-start=\"2633\" data-end=\"2655\">Medical Conditions<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2656\" data-end=\"2854\">Health issues such as cognitive dysfunction in older pets or pain-related conditions can increase anxiety. Always rule out medical causes with your veterinarian before assuming a behavioral problem.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-6834 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png\" alt=\"pet separation anxiety\" width=\"704\" height=\"131\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png 704w, https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243-300x56.png 300w, https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243-640x119.png 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 704px) 100vw, 704px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 3 []\"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><em><strong>Are you finding this article useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"color: #000080; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/request_quote\">over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"color: #000080; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/join\">Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free Petworks account, and we&#8217;ll email you a\u00a0 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on Petworks!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"2861\" data-end=\"2901\">Signs Your Pet Has Separation Anxiety<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2903\" data-end=\"2994\">Recognizing <strong data-start=\"2915\" data-end=\"2945\">separation anxiety in pets<\/strong> early is key to intervention. Signs may include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2996\" data-end=\"3366\">\n<li data-start=\"2996\" data-end=\"3076\">\n<p data-start=\"2998\" data-end=\"3076\">Vocalizations such as barking, howling, or meowing when you prepare to leave<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3077\" data-end=\"3145\">\n<p data-start=\"3079\" data-end=\"3145\">Destructive behaviors like chewing furniture or scratching doors<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3146\" data-end=\"3202\">\n<p data-start=\"3148\" data-end=\"3202\">Excessive pacing or following you around obsessively<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3203\" data-end=\"3241\">\n<p data-start=\"3205\" data-end=\"3241\">Loss of appetite or refusal to eat<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3242\" data-end=\"3299\">\n<p data-start=\"3244\" data-end=\"3299\">Attempting to escape confinement, leading to injuries<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3300\" data-end=\"3366\">\n<p data-start=\"3302\" data-end=\"3366\">Excessive grooming in cats (sometimes resulting in bald spots)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3368\" data-end=\"3496\">If you notice multiple signs consistently when you leave the house, your pet may be struggling with <strong data-start=\"3468\" data-end=\"3495\">anxiety when left alone<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3368\" data-end=\"3496\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-7515 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\" alt=\"pet separation anxiety\" width=\"120\" height=\"120\" \/>Separation anxiety (SA) can be a serious problem and dogs who suffer from it may panic when left home alone: they may soil the house, destroy window molding, howl for hours on end, pant, shake, or drool entire lakes of saliva when you leave.\u201d &#8211; <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.patriciamcconnell.com\/lets-talk-treating-separation-anxiety\/\">Patricia McConnell\u202fPh.D. (Applied\u202fAnimal\u202fBehaviorist)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"3503\" data-end=\"3559\">Effective Strategies to Reduce Pet Separation Anxiety<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3561\" data-end=\"3671\">Helping a pet manage separation anxiety requires patience and consistency. Here are some effective strategies:<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3673\" data-end=\"3707\">1. <strong data-start=\"3680\" data-end=\"3707\">Gradual Desensitization<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3708\" data-end=\"3926\">Start by leaving your pet alone for very short periods and gradually increase the duration. Pair these departures with positive reinforcement, like treats or a favorite toy, so your pet learns that being alone is safe.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3928\" data-end=\"3958\">2. <strong data-start=\"3935\" data-end=\"3958\">Create a Safe Space<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3959\" data-end=\"4131\">Designate a comfortable, secure area for your pet, such as a crate, small room, or pet-friendly corner. Include bedding, toys, and familiar scents to make them feel secure.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4133\" data-end=\"4176\">3. <strong data-start=\"4140\" data-end=\"4176\">Use Interactive Toys and Puzzles<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4177\" data-end=\"4352\">Engage your pet\u2019s mind while you\u2019re away with food-dispensing toys or puzzle games. Mental stimulation helps reduce anxiety and prevents boredom-related destructive behaviors.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4354\" data-end=\"4395\">4. <strong data-start=\"4361\" data-end=\"4395\">Maintain a Predictable Routine<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4396\" data-end=\"4529\">Pets feel calmer when their schedule is predictable. Feeding, walks, and playtime should happen at consistent times to reduce stress.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4531\" data-end=\"4577\">5. <strong data-start=\"4538\" data-end=\"4577\">Training and Positive Reinforcement<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4578\" data-end=\"4730\">Reward calm behavior and ignore anxious behavior to avoid unintentionally reinforcing anxiety. Commands like \u201cstay\u201d and \u201crelax\u201d can be taught gradually.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4732\" data-end=\"4764\">6. <strong data-start=\"4739\" data-end=\"4764\">Consider Calming Aids<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4765\" data-end=\"4949\">Products such as pheromone diffusers, anxiety vests, or natural calming supplements can provide additional support. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new supplements.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4951\" data-end=\"4979\">7. <strong data-start=\"4958\" data-end=\"4979\">Professional Help<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4980\" data-end=\"5201\">If your pet\u2019s anxiety is severe, a <strong data-start=\"5015\" data-end=\"5047\">certified <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/animal-behavior\">animal behaviorist<\/a><\/span><\/strong> or veterinarian can provide personalized strategies. In some cases, anti-anxiety medications may be recommended to help pets adjust to their environment.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5203\" data-end=\"5206\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"5208\" data-end=\"5245\">Breeds Prone to Separation Anxiety<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5247\" data-end=\"5338\">While any pet can develop separation anxiety, certain breeds and species may be more prone:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5340\" data-end=\"5621\">\n<li data-start=\"5340\" data-end=\"5444\">\n<p data-start=\"5342\" data-end=\"5444\"><strong data-start=\"5342\" data-end=\"5351\">Dogs:<\/strong> Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Border Collies, and other companion-oriented breeds<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5445\" data-end=\"5542\">\n<p data-start=\"5447\" data-end=\"5542\"><strong data-start=\"5447\" data-end=\"5456\">Cats:<\/strong> Certain social breeds, like Ragdolls and Siamese, may show higher attachment levels<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5543\" data-end=\"5621\">\n<p data-start=\"5545\" data-end=\"5621\"><strong data-start=\"5545\" data-end=\"5557\">Rescues:<\/strong> Pets with unknown or traumatic pasts are often at higher risk<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5623\" data-end=\"5762\">Understanding breed tendencies can help pet parents anticipate and prevent <strong data-start=\"5698\" data-end=\"5728\">separation anxiety in pets<\/strong> before it becomes a severe issue.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5764\" data-end=\"5767\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"5769\" data-end=\"5802\">When to Seek Professional Help<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5804\" data-end=\"5917\">Severe separation anxiety can have long-term consequences for your pet\u2019s well-being. Seek professional advice if:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5919\" data-end=\"6184\">\n<li data-start=\"5919\" data-end=\"5975\">\n<p data-start=\"5921\" data-end=\"5975\">Your pet shows destructive or self-harming behaviors<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5976\" data-end=\"6026\">\n<p data-start=\"5978\" data-end=\"6026\">Anxiety persists despite at-home interventions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6027\" data-end=\"6112\">\n<p data-start=\"6029\" data-end=\"6112\">Your pet\u2019s health is affected (loss of appetite, weight loss, excessive drooling)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6113\" data-end=\"6184\">\n<p data-start=\"6115\" data-end=\"6184\">You struggle to leave the house without your pet reacting extremely<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"6186\" data-end=\"6316\">Veterinarians and animal behaviorists can provide tailored plans and, if needed, recommend behavioral therapy or safe medications.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"6318\" data-end=\"6321\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"6323\" data-end=\"6376\">Preventing Pet Separation Anxiety Before It Starts<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6378\" data-end=\"6484\">Prevention is often easier than treatment. Pet parents can reduce the likelihood of separation anxiety by:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6486\" data-end=\"6805\">\n<li data-start=\"6486\" data-end=\"6560\">\n<p data-start=\"6488\" data-end=\"6560\">Gradually training pets to enjoy brief periods alone from an early age<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6561\" data-end=\"6630\">\n<p data-start=\"6563\" data-end=\"6630\">Exposing pets to new environments, people, and experiences safely<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6631\" data-end=\"6706\">\n<p data-start=\"6633\" data-end=\"6706\">Avoiding reinforcing clingy behaviors while rewarding calm independence<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6707\" data-end=\"6805\">\n<p data-start=\"6709\" data-end=\"6805\">Establishing a consistent daily routine that includes physical exercise and mental stimulation<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"6807\" data-end=\"6939\">By focusing on prevention, pet owners can help their pets develop confidence and independence, reducing <strong data-start=\"6911\" data-end=\"6938\">anxiety when left alone<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"123\" data-end=\"158\"><strong data-start=\"127\" data-end=\"158\">FAQ: Pet Separation Anxiety<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"160\" data-end=\"377\"><strong data-start=\"160\" data-end=\"199\">Q1: What is pet separation anxiety?<\/strong><br data-start=\"199\" data-end=\"202\" \/>A: Pet separation anxiety is a behavioral condition where dogs or cats become extremely anxious when left alone, showing signs like barking, pacing, or destructive behavior.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"572\"><strong data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"426\">Q2: What causes separation anxiety in pets?<\/strong><br data-start=\"426\" data-end=\"429\" \/>A: Common causes include lack of early socialization, changes in routine, traumatic past experiences, certain breeds, and medical conditions.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"763\"><strong data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"630\">Q3: How can I tell if my pet has separation anxiety?<\/strong><br data-start=\"630\" data-end=\"633\" \/>A: Signs include excessive vocalizations, pacing, destructive behavior, loss of appetite, or attempts to escape when left alone.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"1020\"><strong data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"815\">Q4: Can separation anxiety in pets be treated?<\/strong><br data-start=\"815\" data-end=\"818\" \/>A: Yes. Effective strategies include gradual desensitization, creating a safe space, mental stimulation, consistent routines, and, in severe cases, professional help or veterinary-approved medication.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1022\" data-end=\"1273\"><strong data-start=\"1022\" data-end=\"1080\">Q5: Are certain pets more prone to separation anxiety?<\/strong><br data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1083\" \/>A: Dogs with high attachment tendencies (like Labradors or Border Collies) and some social cat breeds may be more susceptible. Rescue pets with uncertain histories are also at higher risk.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6946\" data-end=\"6959\"><strong data-start=\"6961\" data-end=\"6987\">Pet separation anxiety<\/strong> is a common but manageable condition. Understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and implementing practical strategies can make a significant difference in your pet\u2019s life. With patience, training, and, when necessary, professional guidance, you can help your furry friend feel safe and secure even when you\u2019re not home.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"6946\" data-end=\"6959\"><strong>Let&#8217;s Help You Help Your Pet&#8217;s Anxiety<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"7316\" data-end=\"7548\">Addressing <strong data-start=\"7327\" data-end=\"7358\">pet anxiety when left alone<\/strong> not only improves your pet\u2019s quality of life but also strengthens the bond you share. Remember: calm, consistent support is key. And your pet will thank you with a happier, healthier life.<\/p>\n<!--[if lt IE 9]><script>document.createElement('audio');<\/script><![endif]-->\n<audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-18842-1\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a?_=1\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a\">https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a<\/a><\/audio>\n<h3 data-start=\"7576\" data-end=\"7805\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/infos\/about\">About Petworks<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-7722\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Dr-Marty-Goldstein-Natures-Blend-Petworks-Nutrition.png\" alt=\"Dr Marty Goldstein Nature's Blend - Petworks Nutrition\" width=\"111\" height=\"109\" \/>In 2021, Dr. <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/dr-marty-goldstein-of-petworks\/\">Marty Goldstein DVM<\/a><\/span> joined the pet care platform Petworks as an advisor in its <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/animal-nutritionist\">Animal Nutrition<\/a><\/span>\u00a0care division. Dr Marty Nature&#8217;s Blend is\u00a0on a mission to help your pets live their healthiest lives possible.\u00a0Dr. Marty\u2019s pet nutrition expertise and guidance has helped Petworks evolve and become the preeminent animal and pet nutrition consultation service for pet\u00a0parents in North America.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-8658\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/William-Bishop-Jr-Petworks-Pet-Nutrition.png\" alt=\"Bill Bishop Blue Buffalo Pet Nutrition\" width=\"96\" height=\"99\" \/>In 2022, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/blue-buffalo-dog-food\/\">Blue Buffalo<\/a><\/span> Founder Bill Bishop Jr. joined Petworks as Senior Advisor in our Animal Nutrition Care Division. Bill brings his extensive expertise in pet food innovation and business leadership. His guidance helps Petworks enhance our pet nutrition service offerings, helping to ensure that pet parents throughout the world receive trusted, science-backed nutritional support for their dogs, cats, and animals.<\/p>\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">About The Author<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-10642\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Kevin-Kinyon-2025.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"91\" height=\"108\" \/><\/em>Petworks<\/span><\/a> Co-Founder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kinyonkevin\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Kevin Kinyon<\/span><\/a> is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Many pet parents have faced it: the moment you pick up your keys, your dog whines, your cat hides, or your furry friend follows you anxiously around the house. Understanding why your pet gets anxious when you leave is critical for both their well-being and your peace of mind. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/pet-gets-anxious-when-i-leave-home\/\" class=\"more-link\">Read More<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;Why Does My Pet Get Anxious When I Leave The House?&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":18845,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[115,4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18842","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-animal-behavior-help","category-animal-wellness"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.3.1 (Yoast SEO v25.3.1) - 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