One of the most popular products in The Ralph Site Shop is this natural calming spray, suitable for all pets, from hamsters to horses.
Many of us have anxious pets – whether it is in specific situations such as Bonfire Night, or going to the vet, or as a permanent character trait. Countless owners have reported finding this calming spray to be a helpful addition to their armoury of techniques and products for helping nervous pets deal with everyday situations; the natural ingredients are said to work to calm your pet down gently, without sedating or causing drowsiness.
The spray offers a natural anti-stress solution, with its unique blend of calming Valerian essential oil, Vetivert, Basil Sweet and Sage. It can be sprayed onto your trouser leg when walking with an anxious or jumpy dog, so that his or her nose takes in the scent of the calming essential oils. Or you can spray it on your pet’s bedding, carpets, soft furnishings, or in the car to help your pet feel calmer, naturally.
Nervousness is a trait that is usually inherited from a pet’s parents (both the four and two-legged varieties!).
Pets that are predisposed to anxiety will require extra care when being introduced to new situations and people, and puppy classes are hugely beneficial for young dogs here. Nervous pets will invariably cower or hide when faced with a stressful situation, and may lash out through fear if they are unable to escape.
There are two things to remember when dealing with nervous pets:
- Never force your pet into a situation that he or she clearly finds uncomfortable – they will not ‘get used to it’ in a way that we might, but instead may react aggressively the next time they are presented with that same situation.
- Never punish your pet for this natural reaction; your pet will quickly learn to associate the scary situation and the punishment, which will then actually intensify his or her behaviour in the future.
Patience and calm are the most effective tools – at the first sign that your pet is feeling anxious, move away from the situation; this demonstrates to your pet that you are in control. Distract your pet with a toy or treat, and talk to him or her in a calm, low voice. Gradually move closer, or slowly increase your pet’s exposure, to the source of anxiety – familiarity and your presence will both help to ease your pet’s nervousness over time. Always reward positive behaviour with lots of fuss and treats.
More advice on helping your nervous pets can be found here:
Until next time very best wishes,
Shailen
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support
Please note: The Ralph Site is not affiliated with the third-party organisations in any of the links shared here, and the views, ideas and suggestions expressed in this and other blogs are simply shared with the intention of helping you, our friends, take care of the special animals in your lives.