PET OWNERS have been warned that their pets may develop separation anxiety when they begin to return to work.

Now that the lockdown restrictions are beginning to be eased and people are starting to return to work, research by animal healthcare product manufacturer, Nutravet, has showed that pets may develop separation anxiety as normal routines start to return.

This is particularly common in dogs, which can be shown by trembling, whining, destruction of property, hiding under a table, and sometimes aggression.

This can occur when they are left alone during the day, even for short periods of time, because pets have become used to being around their owners all day every day.

Korina Stephens, from nutravet said: “We all love spending time with our pets and during lockdown has been no different. However, when we return to normal our pets may not be able to cope with us not being around so much, especially if your pet is new to the family.

“Preparing in advance is a great way to get your pet used to when you return to work and eventually the family returns to their normal routine. Training them and allowing for time apart during the day will help to ease any anxiety that they may have.”

To help prepare your pet for life after lockdown, Nutravet have released some things that owners can do in advance including, preparing in advance by having time away from your pet before you return to work, starting a routine, giving your pet distractions and reducing external noise to limit the stress your pet goes through when you're out.

Pet owners have also been urged not to punish their pets if they return home to mess or destruction, as this could lead to pets worrying about your return from work.

For more information and tips visit www.nutravet.co.uk.