Understanding Stress in Pets

(Educational Information Only — Not Veterinary Advice)

Stress in pets can arise from many different situations. Changes in the environment—such as moving house, alterations in routine, or the absence of a human or animal companion—may create feelings of uncertainty. Traumatic or unfamiliar events can also contribute to both short-term and longer-term stress, leaving an animal unsettled and in need of reassurance.

Pets often show signs of struggling when they cannot cope with new experiences. Boarding kennels, veterinary visits, the arrival of new pets, or separation from their bonded humans may cause emotional strain. Shelter and rescue animals, in particular, may carry memories of past hardship and benefit from additional comfort and patience.

Stress, fear, and emotional overwhelm can sometimes appear as behaviours that owners mistake for disobedience or aggression. For example, moving to a new home can place significant strain on cats, while dogs that become reactive may be expressing discomfort or uncertainty. Behavioural research notes that otherwise gentle animals may show defensive postures or sudden reactivity when they are unsettled or feeling vulnerable.

Changes in behaviour may also indicate a physical issue. Noise sensitivity, for instance, is sometimes discussed in relation to discomfort in dogs. A sudden shift in temperament—such as a calm animal becoming unexpectedly reactive—should prompt a veterinary examination to rule out underlying causes. Examples that veterinarians may investigate include dental issues, joint discomfort, mobility challenges, or other physical concerns.

Older animals may also become more dependent as their eyesight or hearing begins to change, leaving them feeling less secure. Younger pets, meanwhile, may reflect the emotional energy of their environment and show stress when routines feel unstable. Checking basic wellbeing markers such as teeth, stools, urination, eyesight, and general comfort can help identify when further guidance is needed.

Separation anxiety is another common concern. Dogs are naturally social animals and, in nature, rarely separate from their group. In the home, this instinct can contribute to difficulty coping when left alone. A dog experiencing separation-related stress may howl, pace, chew, or show restlessness when their companions are away. These behaviours are signs that the animal is finding the separation challenging.

Signs of Stress in Pets

Recognising early stress signals can support better wellbeing.

Common signs may include:

• shaking or trembling

• excessive licking or grooming

• hiding or avoidance

• chewing or scratching furniture

• pacing or restlessness

• changes in appetite

• altered toileting habits

• dilated pupils

• sudden reactivity
  
  

In dogs, separation-related stress may show up as vocalising when left alone.

In cats, it may present as overgrooming or inappropriate urination.

SET OF

A Happy Calm Pet Support

This natural, plant-based formula is designed to gently support emotional balance and calm in pets. It may be useful in times of stress, environmental changes, travel, or when a pet feels unsettled.

Supports relaxation and a balanced mood

Helps ease restlessness or mild nervousness

Suitable for ongoing use as part of daily wellbeing

Formulated for cats, dogs, and small animals.

Magnesium & Potassium - minerals

Felines, toy dogs, rabbits: stir in 1 drops or a pinch of powder into 500ml of water or little sprinkle some liquid in meals - food.

Birds: stir in 1 drops or a pinch of powder into 500ml of water or little sprinkle some liquid over seeds -food.

Small dog or animal:  3 drops in water dish  or  1/4 teaspoon of magnesium & potassium powder.

Med to large Canines: 5  drops in water dish  or add 1/2 teaspoon of magnesium & potassium powder    

Practical tools such as Tellington TTouch, developed by Linda Tellington in the USA, can be valuable in helping stressed or anxious animals. This gentle method has been shown to relax both dogs and cats, restoring calmness through touch. Demonstrations and practitioner resources are widely available online.

TTouch Daily Ritual for Dogs and Cats   * For cats can leave out the Body wrap

A daily grounding and connection practice for dogs who pull, bark, or become over-excited.

Morning Routine — Grounding & Connection   (5–10 minutes)

Arrival: Sit quietly with your dog before the walk. Breathe slowly, grounding your energy. Let your

dog meet you in stillness before touch begins.

Clouded Leopard Touch: Begin at the chest and shoulders. Use gentle circular motions, 1¼ turns, just moving the skin. Continue down the sides. Loosens the shoulders and reduces pulling.

Ear Slides: Gently stroke from base to tip of each ear, 4–5 times. Calms and sharpens focus.

Body Wrap (optional ): Wrap a soft bandage in a figure-eight around chest and ribs. Encourages

awareness of balance and reduces lunging.

Balanced Start to the Walk: Hold the leash lightly. If your dog pulls, pause and wait for softness

before continuing. Walk as a moving meditation of connection.

Evening Routine — Release & Reset      (10 minutes)

Full-Body TTouch:    Use Clouded Leopard and Raccoon touches in slow spirals down the body.

Releases tension from the day.

Ear Slides & Muzzle Touches: Repeat ear slides. Add small circular touches around the muzzle

and jawline. Soothes vocal and nervous tension.

Heart & Rib Circles: Place one hand over the chest or ribs and make slow, wide circles.

Encourages deep relaxation.

Stillness: Let your dog rest beside you. Rest one hand lightly on them — no movement, just

presence. End with silent gratitude.

Remember:   This ritual is a conversation in touch, rhythm, and trust.
Keep it soft, brief, and full of presence.

SET OF 1

1. Pet Kalm 4 formula

Contains: 
Avena sativa (Common Oatstraw 30X) has been traditionally associated with supporting the nervous system, offering calm energy and resilience during periods of stress.
Helianthemum canadense (Cistus canadensis 30C) has been traditionally referenced for emotional steadiness, assisting with inner calm and confidence in challenging times.
Humulus lupulus (Hops 30X) has long been linked with relaxation, ease of tension and gentle support for rest.
Ignatia amara (St. Ignatius Bean 30X) has traditionally been connected with emotional balance and easing nervous unrest.
Kali phosphoricum (Phosphate of Potassium 200X) is traditionally associated with vitality, energy restoration and supporting the body during times of mental and physical fatigue.
Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower 12X, 1M) has been traditionally used to encourage relaxation, restful sleep and overall tranquility.
Sumbul (Musk Root 30X) has traditional links with calming and grounding effects, supporting balance and clarity.
Valeriana officinalis (Valerian Root 200X) is traditionally associated with soothing the nerves, promoting relaxation and supporting healthy sleep patterns.
Bach Flower Combination (“Rescue Remedy”) has been traditionally referenced for its use in bringing comfort, composure and balance during stressful or unexpected events.
in 20% USP alc. in purified water.

Need more advice or have more questions? Contact us for a FREE consultation with one of our fully qualified practitioners. 

These statements are for general wellbeing and educational purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Always seek veterinary or professional advice for specific health concerns.

DISCLAIMER
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from your health care practitioners. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.