Last Updated on June 21, 2024 by Dogs Vets

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a companion animal that provides therapeutic benefits to individuals who suffer from a mental or emotional disability. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require any specialized training and are not limited to specific tasks. Instead, they provide comfort, emotional support, and companionship to their owners.

If you have a dog that provides you with emotional support, registering them as an ESA is quite simple; all you have to do is get an official ESA letter through a service like Wellness Wag. With nearly 200,000 animals registered, we’re here to walk you through five of the most essential benefits of having one.

1. Companionship

Just like any pet, ESAs provide valuable companionship to their owners. However, the impact of this is even more profound for those with physical or mental disabilities. For example:

• Individuals with anxiety disorders feel more at ease and secure when they have their ESA by their side.
• People who suffer from depression find comfort in the unconditional love and affection that their ESA provides.
• Older individuals or those with mobility issues may benefit from having a dog to provide physical and emotional support.

Not to mention, having a close bond with an animal can provide a sense of purpose and help individuals feel less lonely and isolated.

2. They positively impact physical and mental health

A recent study led by Dr. Janet Hoy-Gerlach at the University of Toledo provides empirical evidence that emotional support animals (ESAs) can significantly benefit individuals with serious mental illnesses. The study followed participants paired with shelter dogs or cats and found notable reductions in depression, anxiety, and loneliness after a 12-month period.

Researchers also observed increased levels of the bonding hormone oxytocin and decreased levels of the stress hormone cortisol following interactions with the ESAs, suggesting biological benefits alongside emotional ones.

A survey by CertaPet supports these findings, indicating that individuals with ESAs report increased motivation, reduced anxiety, and fewer panic attacks. The survey also highlighted that ESAs can aid those suffering from conditions such as PTSD, phobias, and social anxiety​.

3. Waive expensive housing fees for your pets

If you have an official recommendation for your pet from a licensed medical or mental health professional, you can qualify for exemptions and waivers from pet fees charged in housing situations. This benefit is outlined in the Fair Housing Act (FHA).

To qualify, you’ll have to prove that your ESA provides emotional support and alleviates symptoms of your disability. In this situation, registering your dog can save you a considerable amount of money.

4. They give you a routine

If you’ve been looking for something that can help you stick to a set schedule, a dog can be your new best friend! Dogs need regular walks, feeding times, and play sessions, which can help you structure your days and keep you accountable. Having a routine can help individuals with mental health conditions establish stability and feel more in control of their lives.

5. You only have to do it once

ESA registration lasts for the animal’s entire lifetime. Once you register your dog, they will be recognized as an ESA with no expiration date. However, you should still double-check before traveling or moving with your ESA to a different state, as ESA laws vary from state to state.

Endnote

Overall, registering your dog as an ESA can bring numerous benefits and provide you with a sense of comfort, especially if you suffer from a disability. Whether it’s through companionship, improved mental and physical health, waived pet fees, or a structured routine, having an ESA can greatly improve your quality of life.

Fact Check

We strive to provide the latest valuable information for pet lovers with accuracy and fairness. If you would like to add to this post or advertise with us, don’t hesitate to reach us. If you see something that doesn’t look right, contact us!

Last Updated on June 13, 2024 by Dogs Vets

Dogs are often referred to as a man’s most loyal friend. They bring you joy in ways no one else can. But how do we take care of them? What to feed them? How to calm a restless dog at night? These are some very common questions that dog parents often have. 

Well, there are multiple ways to help your dog overcome its restlessness. These include making it exercise, giving it a little treat, massaging its back, and giving it CBD.

Understanding how to calm your dog down is vital, especially at night. These simple methods can greatly improve your pet’s mental health. 

Why Do Dogs Get Restless?

There can be multiple reasons why your dog might feel this emotion, especially at night. 

Your dog may be feeling some sort of fear. It is very important for a pet to feel that he or she is in a safe environment and can go to sleep without any worries. This generally happens if your dog recently had a scary encounter.

Often, dogs are seen panting only to cool themselves down a bit. So, the temperature at which your pet is located also determines its restlessness. But this painting can sometimes signify something more serious than mere heat.

Another reason your dog might feel restless is boredom or uncomfortable aches. 

Calming your dog down cannot always be easy. Are you not sure how to calm a restless dog at night? Don’t worry; we have you covered!

CBD for pets by Weedness offers high-quality CBD oils to enhance your pet’s well-being. Benefits include reduced stress, improved joint function, and overall health. Suitable for dogs and cats, these oils are easy to administer and can be mixed with food. Consult a vet for proper dosage.

There are other ways to tackle this issue; let’s discuss them: 

Give a Treat

Treats are always a dog’s best friend. A bedtime snack is always a good option. These small chunks are what make them happy and wiggle their tail.

Your pet will look forward to a snack before bed every night. But don’t try to overcompensate with these treats. Make sure to give them a limit. Your pet should continue valuing those snacks.

Safe Sleeping Environment

Your dog might get anxious at night because it feels unsafe in bed. Your dog must have a fixed place to sleep every night, and a change of bed or room all the time can lead to anxiety for pets. 

Be around your dog as they sleep; this makes them feel safe. It also affects their sleeping pattern, which has a direct impact on their restlessness.

Exercise

Being physically active and exercising is as important for dogs as it is for any other human. Your dog must be active during the day to drain their energy and be tired and lazy by the night. 

Take them for regular walks, play with them, and make them play with their toys!

Be Around Your Pet

As pet parents, you must ensure your dog is not alone for too long at a stretch. This way, they end up feeling lonely and might develop separation anxiety. 

When you are around them, they feel safe; they know that no harm can be caused. Be around them as they sleep at night. You can simply set their bed up in the same room as yours, making them feel comfortable and safe. 

Massage

Do you love massages? Are they hug stress relievers for you? Well, dogs have more similarities to humans than you can imagine. They love getting massages as much as you do. Massages play a major role in helping them get over their restless emotions. 

Even a ten-minute massage before bed can do wonders for them. Start with the neck and then find your way down.

Make sure to remember that ling strokes are their favorite!

Bathroom Before Bed

A dog might feel extremely anxious if it doesn’t go to the bathroom before bed. Hence, before it starts feeling like it has to go out, you should ensure it already does that before bed. 

This helps them sleep faster and avoid bad dreams.

Same Routine

A regular change in your dog’s routine can be a huge reason for his or her restlessness. Try to keep the dog’s meal timing, bathroom time, and playtime the same every day. Regularly changing the dog’s schedule makes each day unpredictable.

Sticking to the same routine will help them get used to it and know what’s to come next. They should also know their sleep time in advance to avoid nighttime restlessness.

Medication

If none of these methods work well for your dog, you might want to consult a vet. Dogs can sometimes develop anxiety issues like humans, which might have to be treated medically. 

Your vet might prescribe the pet a medication that has to be given every night before bed. 

But, this is generally for older dogs or dogs with specially-abled dogs. Or, it could be because your dog is feeling some physical pain, for which, again, you might have to consult the vet and start your pet’s medication.

FAQs

Why is my dog restless at night all of a sudden?

There can be multiple reasons why your dog might be feeling restless at night. They could be scared of something, have had a bad dream, or be sick. 

How do I get my dog to stop pacing at night?

The best way to do this is to have a similar routine for the dog every day. Get them used to it so they know what’s next. They should know when they are up for a walk or bedtime.

Why is my dog not comfortable at night?

The most common reasons why a dog might not feel comfortable at night are anxiety, restlessness, dementia, joint pain, etc.

What time should dogs go to bed?

There is no hard and fast rule about when a dog should go to bed. However, it has a similar day pattern, which is more important. Generally, pet owners get their dogs to sleep between 9 p.m. and midnight.

Conclusion

Dogs are as much living creatures as humans are. They face similar emotions as you do. It is very common for dogs to get restless during the night time. Hence, learning to calm a restless dog at night is vital for pet parents. It can be done easily by simply giving them extra time during the night. 

However, they might only need medical aid to control their restless behavior under certain special circumstances. It is usually nothing to worry about, but it is always good to take precautions.

Fact Check

We strive to provide the latest valuable information for pet lovers with accuracy and fairness. If you would like to add to this post or advertise with us, don’t hesitate to reach us. If you see something that doesn’t look right, contact us!

Last Updated on June 11, 2024 by Dogs Vets

When people choose to take their dogs on a vacation, it can be a joyful experience but remember, it needs good planning. As the number of pet parents who bring along their furry buddies for travel keeps increasing, it is crucial to comprehend the rules and factors regarding flying with dogs. 

This blog post will present a detailed guide that guarantees an effortless and secure trip for both you and your furry friend, from handling airline policies to preparing your dog for the flight and looking after them on the flight.

By following these steps carefully, you can make a wonderful travel experience that is free from tension for you and your pet dog.

Pre-Flight Prep: Get Ready Before Take-Off

For many travelers, the true joy of a trip lies not just in the final destination, but in the journey itself. This sentiment holds especially true when you have your beloved pet accompanying you. However, to ensure your journey is a positive and seamless experience for both you and your furry friend, some advance preparation is essential. 

First off, make sure you book your flight promptly. While there isn’t a best day to book flights it’s still important to consider how certain flight times align with your timetable and may affect your dog’s state.

If you can, select direct flights because they cut down on stress for both of you by decreasing travel duration and exposure to new surroundings. 

Usually, fewer people travel during the weekdays, which makes it more peaceful for dogs who might be sensitive or anxious around crowded situations. Also, consider the heat. You should not plan flights for your dog in the cargo hold during very hot summer or extremely cold winter months because conditions there can be harsh.

By employing a well-considered approach to booking flights, significant cost savings can be achieved. These financial advantages can then be allocated to support your travel budget, thereby enriching your overall experience at the chosen destination.

Check Policies on Pets

Know that each airline has its own way of allowing pets to fly. Learn about the fees they charge for pets, how big or heavy a pet can be for in-cabin or cargo hold travel, and what documents are required. Also, look at the rules about bringing pets into the country you are going to.

Before you start your travel, make sure your dog sees their vet first. Schedule a visit to the vet, ideally one month before traveling, to update all required vaccinations and discuss concerns related to flying on an airplane. When everything checks out, think of the carrier options. 

Choose a carrier that’s comfortable and safe for your pet, as well as promotes airflow during the flight. Also, look for one that adheres to the size regulations of the airline and allows your dog to stand up, move around comfortably, and lie down. Consider placing some familiar bedding or a loved toy inside so it feels secure when traveling.

Navigating Airline Size and Weight Restrictions

When it comes to bringing your dog on a flight, the key factor to consider is whether they can fit comfortably in an airline-approved carrier that can be stored under the seat in front of you.

Most airlines have a general weight limit of around 20 pounds for in-cabin pet travel. However, it’s important to note that the exact dimensions of the under-seat space can vary depending on the aircraft type. 

Airport Day Essentials: A Stress-Free Departure

Often, airport security lines and pet check-in procedures can take quite some time. Make sure to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight starts so you have a relaxed and hassle-free experience.

• Hydration is important: Keep away food from four to six hours before the flight, but give small amounts of water so your doggo doesn’t get dehydrated. Airlines usually have water bowls inside the pet section in the cargo area, but still think about using a no-spill travel dish for pets when flying in-cabin.
• Smells and comforting things: Put an old shirt or familiar blanket that has your smell in the carrier to induce relaxation during the flight. Do not add new toys or snacks because they can upset the stomach.
• Pre-board with ease: You can ask for early boarding, which lets you prepare your dog in the carrier before more people come. It could assist in reducing stress when boarding.
• Stay relaxed and confident: Animals can sense nervousness, so make sure you stay calm and confident. Take deep breaths, feeling comfortable yourself while focusing on providing comfort to your pet.

The Wrap-Up

Dogs can become weary from traveling. Give your dog plenty of rest and allow time for them to get used to the fresh surroundings. Keep their routine similar, especially with meals and walks. Now that you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s time for you and your pooch to create lasting memories.

When you apply these suggestions and arrange things in advance, a safe and pleasant flying journey is possible for your dog and yourself. 

Fact Check

We strive to provide the latest valuable information for pet lovers with accuracy and fairness. If you would like to add to this post or advertise with us, don’t hesitate to reach us. If you see something that doesn’t look right, contact us!