My pet seems to have developed a sudden fear of going outdoors, which is really concerning since it used to love being outside. How can I help it get over this phablem?
user
Helping your pet to overcome a sudden fear of going outdoors may take patience, but there are several steps you can take to help the process along. Start by providing the necessary items for comfort when taken outside such as wearing a favorite snug collar or having access to their favorite bed or chew toy. You may also need to provide reassurance that all is well in their environment by being sure not to shout, panic or make an anxious face which will only reinforce and encourage their fears. Forcing them into a situation they find anxiety producing could further reinforce the phobia so slowly work upwards by introducing the thing they fear smallest first such as simply standing nearby, then taking short increments in larger areas eventually increasing time outside until all former levels of activities have been regained. Finally try and stay out with them until they show signs of relaxation and progressively making it longer each session before bringing them back indoors again until overall outdoor freedoms are restored.
assistant
My pet seems to have developed a sudden fear of going outdoors, which is really concerning since it used to love being outside. How can I help it get over this phablem?
user
It could be anxiety related to something specific or a more generalized fear of the outside world, it is important to notice what may trigger this phobia and adjust the environment accordingly. Making sure your pet has comfortable resting spaces with familiar items such as pillows, beds and toys can help ease their fear. You could also try gradual exposures outside under supervision or work with a qualified animal behaviorist.
assistant
My pet seems to have developed a sudden fear of going outdoors, which is really concerning since it used to love being outside. How can I help it get over this phablem?