Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive compulsive behaviors occur in many types of animals, including horses, dogs, cats, exotic birds, pigs and many zoo inhabitants.

Two of the most common behaviors in dogs are obsessive licking which results in acral lick dermatitis (ALD), also known as a lick granuloma, and tail chasing.

Animals with compulsive disorders tend to be relatively anxious and high strung. It isn't common to find OCD-type behavior in laidback animals. An anxious nature may be inherited, however, research indicates a component of 'nurture,' for example, a high conflict situation, is necessary for expression of a compulsive behavior.

In considering treatment for a pet with OCD, according to Veterinary Practice News:

"Environmental enrichment alone will not normally reverse a compulsive disorder, but a stress-free, user-friendly environment can prevent compulsive behavior from developing in the first place and make relapse less likely after successful pharmacological treatment."

Preventing a dog or cat from performing a compulsive behavior by physically restraining the animal in some way only leads to more anxiety, not less.

Suggestions to Prevent, Control or Reduce OCD in Your Pet

•Feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet. Species-appropriate nutrition is the foundation of your pet’s vibrant health and longevity. We are what we eat, and that goes for your companion as well. Feed him what nature designed him to eat.

•Provide for a sound, resilient body – frame and organs – through regular and consistent exercise. Your pet should have good muscle tone … healthy body weight … strong heart, lungs, kidney, liver and other organs … and a clean mouth.

•Insure a balanced, functional immune system. Balance is the key here. Your pet's immune system should be strong enough to protect her from disease, but not over-reactive to the point of creating allergies and autoimmune disease.

If your dog or cat is well-nourished with species-appropriate food, is in good physical condition from plenty of heart-thumping exercise, and is neither over vaccinated nor over medicated, congratulations! You've already built a fantastically solid foundation for excellent physical and mental health in your pet.

Take your dog or cat to the vet for a wellness exam to insure the source of the obsessive behavior is indeed behavioral and not a physical condition, such as thyroid disease, which needs to be addressed.

Most dogs, especially larger breeds, just aren't as physically active as they're designed to be. It can be a challenge to tire out a big dog, especially one of the working or sporting breeds.

If your dog is performing compulsive behaviors, try increasing his exercise. Some suggestions:

•Walks and hikes

•Take your dog for a swim

•Play fetch-the-ball

•Play a game of tug-of-war

•Bike ride with a special dog bike leash

•Play hide-and-seek with treats and toys

•Roller blade or jog alongside your dog

•Get involved in obedience or tracking events, flyball, agility or other sports

I also recommend you help your dog stay mentally stimulated with chew toys and treat-release toys like the Clever K-9. Also place small treats around the house for her to discover, along with other favorite toys.

You might also consider investing in a D.A.P.™ collar or diffuser for your dog. D.A.P.™ is an acronym for Dog Appeasing Pheromone and is designed to have a calming affect on dogs. The collar seems to work well for many dog owners with pups suffering from stress-related behaviors.

Talk with your holistic vet about homeopathic remedies for obsessive behaviors