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Dogs and Divorce

© Ann Downing

Divorce affects the entire family, extended family, friends, associates, and even the family dog. According to the article "Divorce - Will Your Dog Come Off Worse?" by Canine Behaviorist David Klien, "human problems can cause stress to dogs." Klien describes a dog as "a social animal bonded to a family routine and a way of life." He says that shouting and arguing between a couple will affect their dog.

Destructive and annoying dog behaviors may be caused by divorce, death, or a separation. Some of the behaviors Klien mentions are howling, barking, digging, and soiling the house. He also says that "dogs are creatures of habit," having a time to wake-up, eat, sleep, and play, which is determined by their caregiver. Some dogs, according to Klien, may have a harder time adjusting to change, especially if they are older dogs. He recommends keeping children and dogs together, if possible, which can have a positive effect on the child. For more details on this subject, access Klien's article Divorce - Will Your Dog Come Off Worse?

"Extra Sensory Perception For Your Pets," by Lyn Danninger, addresses how divorce can cause undesirable behavior in pets. Danninger's animal expert, Debra Harrison, an animal communicator, mentions dogs exhibiting many of the same negative behaviors described by Klien. Harrison says that "animals just want their humans to be happy and in many ways are here to teach us." For more information related to this subject, access Lyn Danninger's article Extra Sensory Perception For Your Pets.

With divorce come legal concerns that involve your pet. Owners may want visitation rights if they are not granted custody of their pets. For information about ownership rights and other legal concerns, Pet Custody and Visitation can help you with some of these concerns.

Divorce may mean a change of residence for both owner and dog. Animal Control Section Site gives some tips that can make the move easier for the dog. Some of the tips include thoroughly cleaning the house if another dog lived there before, showing the dog where his food, water, and bed will be, and providing regular exercise. For a detailed explanation and more tips, access Animal Control Section.

Dogs are sensitive to their owner's emotions. What affects us, affects our dogs. Owners faced with divorce can help their dogs if they understand this is a shared issue. Focusing on your dog's adjustment and not just on yours is a "win, win." Your dog's therapy will be your therapy.

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