Despite all of our differences, our pets have similar emotional triggers to us. Sometimes their anxieties may be soothed by having a close friend around. Other times, they want nothing more than to stay as far away from members of their species as possible.
There’s no clear answer to whether getting a second pet will improve life for your anxious animal, but there are plenty of details to consider that may help you make a decision on whether your pet needs their own emotional support companion.
Common Stress Symptoms in Pets
Signs of stress or anxiety differ depending on not only species but your specific pet. Sometimes what looks like stress in one dog is excitement in another, so it’s important to evaluate the entire situation your pet is in before deciding they’re anxious.
For example, minor stress symptoms in dogs may include:
- Yawning
- Licking lips
- Turning away from the stimulus
- Avoiding eye contact
Cats might not exhibit any signs, or they may insist on hiding when they’re stressed out. Signs of stress in turtles or birds may be even more difficult to pick up on. Overall, anxious responses can range from neutral to scared to aggressive, and they’re all worth a trip to the vet to rule out underlying medical issues.
Still, if your pet shows regular signs of stress or anxiety at home, you may need to consider getting them a companion.
Signs Your Pet May Benefit from a Companion
Not every pet is suited for companionship, even within their own species or breed, but there are some signs your pet is open to the idea.
Despite their emotional issues, they may get along fine with other animals or have a good socialization background. You don’t want to bring another animal in the home if they’re keen to cross the street if there’s another dog while you’re out walking, but maybe they like to play with your neighbor’s dog from time to time.
Your pet may also show signs that they desire more companionship. They might be following you or other household members around more. Maybe they’re trying to socialize with another animal in the home who is tolerant but has no interest in giving them what they need.
If they seem as open to the idea as you are, it’s time to consider the pros and cons.
Pros of Getting a Companion for Your Anxious Pet
There are plenty of potential advantages to getting a companion for your pet, anxiety or no.
Sometimes, it’s nice for our household members to have friends of their own species. Nothing will break your bond with your pet, but this can give them the chance to connect on a more authentic level and not have to worry about crossing as many communication barriers.
With the right match, a companion can boost their confidence both in and out of the home. They can encourage them to be more social and active, taking a greater interest in not only their daily life but the world around them.
This is also a great way to take some of the pressure off of you for play and exercise. Does it mean you’re completely off the hook for daily walks or bonding time? Absolutely not, but it may give your pet more opportunities to burn through their energy throughout the day.
Cons of Getting a Companion for Your Anxious Pet
As much as we would love for this to solve all of your issues, the reality is introducing a second cat, dog, or other animal to your household can cause more issues.
Even if both animals are well socialized angels on their own, there’s always a chance they don’t click in the same household. Having multiple animals means having a plan for how you will keep them both safe if things go south.
Introducing a second pet can also have the opposite effect, increasing your primary companion’s anxiety, so it’s not great to have this as your only reason for getting another animal. Proper introductions and management can minimize this risk, but they don’t eradicate it.
Getting a second animal also costs more in the long run, not only financially but mentally and emotionally as well. Having two pets may mean double the medical issues, including the potential for euthanasia down the line.
Your responsibilities double, as do your chances of running into issues, so you need to make sure you’re equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.
Alternatives to Getting a Companion for Your Anxious Pet
Of course, this isn’t the only solution. There are plenty of other ways to calm an anxious dog, cat, or other companion.
It’s important you have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian before trying to solve behavioral issues. Your veterinarian can rule out any medical issues that may be affecting their mood or energy, and a behavioral trainer will be better at targeting specific issues than bringing home a new friend ever will.
If you can adjust your lifestyle to include your pet more, they may just be looking for a little extra time with you. Maybe introducing a walk in the morning as well as the evening or taking them out to your weekly brewery get together may be all it takes to fulfill that desire for connection.
You can also try creating a more soothing environment at home. Give them a safe space to retreat to, like a crate, when things get a big loud or charged. Consider using pet-safe pheromone diffusers or hire a pet-sitter to check in on them while you’re at work.
If you do decide to get a companion for your pet, make sure you give them plenty of time to get to know each other and you have a plan in place in case things go south.
